WA Grower Magazine Spring 2020 by vegetablesWA

VOL. 55 NO 3. SPRING 2020 $25.00 (inc GST)

grower WORKING FOR WA GROWERS SINCE 1948

Virus diseases of capsicums in WA

Wondering what successful businesses do?

We reveal insights on how to succeed from 11 agribusiness case studies

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

Will there or won’t there be enough labour? s n o ti p o r u o y u o y w o We sh

Customised refrigeration expertise to suit your operation We plan each cool room project out so it will operate at maximum efficiency from the moment itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s installed right through to future growth over many seasons. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about getting the application right. Ensuring you have the power supply to run at maximum efficiency. Making sure you comply with future government HFC regulations. Our quality work is focused on preventing breakdown to reduce operational costs and increase the life expectancy of the equipment. For an obligation-free, expert opinion contact us. Phone 08 9923 9486 or email info@frigtech.com.au www.frigtech.com.au

When it comes to specialist cool rooms for horticulture our track record speaks for itself.

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inside Your vegetablesWA magazine

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Queensland fruit fly eradication

vegetablesWA CEO’s Report

Fair Farms Certification

National Fruit Fly Strategy

vegetablesWA President’s Report

Requesting an audit

Horticulture Liaison Officer

Horticulture Career Pathways

Grower profile — Robert Giumelli

VegNET RDO Update

Looking for labour

YOUR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION

YOUR PRODUCTION Precision systems technology

7 8

WA POTATOES

STONEFRUIT WA

YOUR BUSINESS

Precision ag pays off

Carnarvon sweet corn trial

Executive Officer’s Report

Staff and visitor biosecurity

Social media snapshot

Lifelong learning

Water and fertiliser use efficiency

Buy West Eat Best Campaign

Assistance for WA growers

Spring is the time for travel bugs

Patane Produce

Loans to help your business

Powdery scab in potatoes

Labour short market

Transmission of COVID-19

Management of six-spotted mite

Western Australian research on TPP 20 Native flies as pollinators

Postharvest disease management

Virus diseases of capsicums

Soil mapping

Permits 116 TOOL TIME

Innovative bacteria treatment

Online training and tools

POMEWEST Pomewest Executive Manager

Chair’s chat

Predicting lenticel damage

Collins Bros Orchard

T. pyri for European red mite control 74 WA CITRUS

From the industry

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Industry Liaison Training

Frankie Galati

Citrus gall wasp model

Buy local message

Horticulture Biosecurity Advisory Committee 80 WA R&D trials

Crisis management seminar

Communicating with webinars

100

Will there be enough labour?

102

Teaching kids about agriculture

104

YOUR MARKET

105

Is your business suitable for export? 106 Patterns of Success

108

Export Facilitators Project update

112

VIETNAMESE TRANSLATIONS

113

WA Grower SPRING 2020

VOL. 55 NO 3. SPRING 2020

WORKING FOR WA GROWERS SINCE 1948

YOUR CONTACTS

contacts vegetablesWA

Management Committee

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

President Dan Kuzmicich m: 0408 910 761

Chief Executive Officer John Shannon m: 0488 111 526 e: john.shannon@vegetableswa.com.au Editor Amber Atkinson t: (08) 9486 7515 e: amber.atkinson@vegetableswa.com.au COVER IMAGE: Matthew Rose at his family farm in Myalup.

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

Operations Manager Karen Raybould t: (08) 9486 7515 e: karen.raybould@vegetableswa.com.au Regional Development Officer Truyen Vo m: 0457 457 559 e: truyen.vo@vegetableswa.com.au Regional Development Officer Sam Grubiša m: 0427 373 037 e: sam.grubisa@vegetableswa.com.au Benchmark Lead Bryn Edwards m: 0417 409 821 e: bryn.edwards@vegetableswa.com.au Quality Assurance Coordinator Joel Dinsdale m: 0417 857 675 e: joel.dinsdale@vegetableswa.com.au

© 2020 All articles and other material published in this magazine is vegetablesWA copyright (unless otherwise stated) and may not be reproduced in part or full without the written permission of the authors and publisher. DISCLAIMER: vegetablesWA make no representations and expressly disclaims all warranties (to the extent permitted by law) about the accuracy, completeness, or currency of information in WA Grower. Reliance on any information provided by vegetablesWA is entirely at your own risk. vegetablesWA is not responsible for, and will not be liable for, any loss, damage, claim, expense, cost (including legal costs) or other liability arising in any way, including from any vegetablesWA or other person’s negligence or otherwise from your use or non-use of WA Grower, or from reliance on information contained in the material or that vegetablesWA provide to you by any other means.

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Export Development Project Lead Manus Stockdale m: 0448 897 652 e: manus.stockdale@vegetableswa.com.au Labour Scheme Facilitator Melissa Denning m: 0477 477 044 e: melissa.denning@vegetableswa.com.au

Life Members

A.J. Anderson*, D.J. Arbuckle, J. Arbuckle Snr*, J.H. Arbuckle* (M.B.E.J.P), H.R. Ashby*, S. Calameri, M. Dobra, A. Harris*, A. Ingrilli, G. Kiriros*, R.G. Leach*, F. Natoli, S. Sawle*, R.M. Schultz, C.P. Stevens, W.R. Stevens* (M.B.E.J.P) and J. Turley. * Deceased

Carnarvon

Vice President Maurice Grubiša m: 0413 050 182 Metro North Committee Peter Dobra m: 0408 616 515 Gingin Lauren East m: 0419 047 371 Manjimup Paul Glavocich m: 0413 922 287 Gingin Peter Ivankovich m: 0428 919 211 Myalup Anthony Lieu m: 0401 558 886 Metro North Duc Nguyen t: (08) 9941 8376 Carnarvon Paul Shain m: 0419 041 045 Carnarvon

Agricultural Produce Commission APC Manager Ingrid Behr t: (08) 9368 3127 e: APCManager@dpird.wa.gov.au

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

YOUR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION

your

industry association

Your industry association

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vegetablesWA

CEO’s Report 3 RECENTLY the team recorded two webinars covering labour issues and food safety.

BY JOHN SHANNON CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, VEGETABLESWA

ommunicating with growers is extremely important, now more than ever due to the pandemic, and finding a way to deliver key messaging is something that vegetablesWA is taking very seriously. Recently the team recorded two webinars covering labour issues and food safety. Industry bodies within horticulture are seriously concerned that labour sources are going to be an issue in the near future. With even stricter regimes being put in place and restricted movements across our borders due to COVID-19, we feel this discussion is critically important to ensure production and business continuity. Our Labour Scheme Facilitator, Melissa Denning, was joined by growers and industry to have a candid conversation about the current situation, discuss the issues and look for workable solutions. We had around 45 people jump on this webinar and

ask some really valuable questions. If you’re a grower concerned about getting workers, there are resources available like the Studium website that are free and available to connect you with the workers you need. The other webinar we delivered looked at melon safety. Any grower that washes and packs fresh produce for market is recommended to take a look at this webinar on the vegetablesWA YouTube channel. We had growers from all over Australia, and as far as New Zealand, contribute to this webinar and the feedback has been extremely positive. I am pleased to report that vegetablesWA was granted funding by the Agricultural Produce Commission and Vegetable Producers Committee to offer its members support with Business Extension, Human Resources and Industrial Relations.

Melon/Food safety webinar www.youtube.com/ watch?v=zf3j2Zyh6Ao

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The analysis of data collated from the vegetablesWA Benchmarking project identified a gap in accessible specialist knowledge available to growers to help them identify risks and resource gaps to their businesses. This project was developed to fill this gap and provide members with access to resources and advice that was identified from the Benchmarking project.

I am extremely pleased to announce that Stephen Farrell has been appointed to this position. Stephen has extensive experience representing clients in both the Fair Work and Western Australian industrial commissions, before both single commissioners and full benches. Stephen will be able to provide the following services to growers: • HR Consultancy • Mediation of employee conflict • Representation in tribunals and commissions • Workplace Investigations • Review and drafting of employment contracts • Workplace compliance audits • Facilitation of Training Courses • Mentoring managers • General Industrial Relations advice • Occupational Health and Safety. We’re in the process of building an information page on our website where you’ll find a host of great resources put together by Stephen. MORE INFORMATION John Shannon, phone 0488 111 526 or email john.shannon@vegetableswa.com.au

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vegetablesWA

President’s Report I

BY DAN KUZMICICH PRESIDENT, VEGETABLESWA

n the growing game we are no strangers to the constant succession of challenges. If it is not pests, it’s disease, if it’s not the weather, it’s the prices. Now, it seems that it is our workforce that is under threat. This subject should be at the forefront of our growers’ minds, as this situation emerges as our number one issue. It looks pretty certain there will be shortages of Working Holiday Makers (WHM) in WA due to border closures. All Hort industries will be in same boat here and potentially will be competing for workers. It would be great to see a collaborative approach in navigating through this issue.

With our business, I am now actively utilising Jobs in WA Food and Ag, via the Studium website, which is providing a service to match employers with willing workers. Studium is one of the State Government funded platforms, which has been specially formulated to assist industry at this time. Facebook and Gumtree are the other traditional channels we usually use to find people. This active form of searching for workers is new for us in Carnarvon, for at this time of year I usually have an abundance of backpackers dropping into the farm searching for work.

Noticeably, these enquiries are few and far between. Hort industries did identify this as an issue earlier in the COVID-19 pandemic, but we were fortunate that there were backpackers still in WA — now they have moved on or gone home. Growers in the south will be harder hit if this issue is not addressed urgently. If you have any concerns about your labour for the coming season, you need to be registering on the online platforms or getting in contact with vegetablesWA Labour Services Liaison Melissa Denning on 0477 477 044, as soon as possible for assistance. You should be well-aware of the situation as vegetablesWA have been very active in highlighting the issue and sending out constant information via newsletters to your email. vegetablesWA have had little feedback from vegetable growers so far; I urge you to prioritise labour as a discussion item in your business and register so we can understand your requirements and push towards getting you solutions.

To the good news (I guess because of the COVID-19 scenario of border control), is that prices of produce have been good, in fact exceptionally good across the board. We can all appreciate this type of news is excellent, as we all need to have a win from time to time. In speaking to a good cross-section of growers from our sector — they are all saying the same thing. That will always give us a pep in our step!

If you have any concerns about your labour for the coming season, contact Melissa Denning on 0477 477 044.

On the local social scene, the Gascoyne Food Festival has begun. The first event was ‘Canapes on the Gascoyne’ on August 7. This was set in the heart of the lush, subtropical aspect of Bentwaters Plantation — a beautiful spot. This was a stand-up cocktail style event, and hosted a swag of local growers and residents, including our Ag Minister Alannah MacTiernan. It was an opportunity to showcase our local produce and enabled growers to network with the Minister in an informal setting. It was another huge success for our region.

3 ALL Hort industries will be competing for workers. It would be great to see a collaborative approach in navigating through this issue.

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The other major event that is planned is the ‘Long Table Twilight Dinner’, which will be held on the September 11. This has been moved from a lunch to a dinner between 5pm and 9pm. Judging on the success of the Canapes evening, I am very much looking forward to attending this new-look event, for as a dinner it will be a welcome change and should add some excitement and elegance to the occasion. I look forward to sharing the success of the evening in my next report.

Fall Army Worm is still relevant in the Carnarvon growing area. In chatting with Annie Van Bloomstein — officer in the DPIRD research centre — the update is that it seems the worm is loving Carnarvon corn. Traps have been placed in both the town’s production and residential areas to give an idea of the incursion data. So far, the trapping system data shows that this pest is comfortable around corn and not venturing on to any other crops

WA Grower SPRING 2020

for now. It also seems that numbers are fluctuating slightly since the worm first came to town. It is a worry because this pest is doing some serious damage to corn crops and quickly. It will be interesting to see the next crop target once the corn harvest is over. The Queensland fruit fly (Qfly) is still a problem in Perth’s Western suburbs. DPIRD have contained this pest and are doing their very best to eradicate it, with a substantial program in place to prevent the spread of this pest. This includes surveillance and baiting activities, and establishment of a Quarantine Area. Residents and businesses within the Quarantine Area MUST comply with host fruit movement and management requirements. I believe the residents in this Quarantine Area do have a huge part to play in protecting the Horticultural Industry, as we do not want this pest spreading into our production areas as it will certainly affect our market access status. I hope

to have more news on this situation in my next report. In finishing, I have to say the weather up here in the North is fantastic. There has been a little bit of rain (not too much), a little wind, and slightly cool in the mornings. Great for growing and visiting. You cannot help but notice the amount of people travelling in caravans everywhere — it’s great to see them enjoying the weather and is great for our economy in the region!

The Queensland fruit fly is still a problem in Perth’s Western suburbs.

Until we meet again, stay safe and continued luck for the season — may the upward trend in prices continue!

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

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production Your production WA Grower SPRING 2020

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Adoption of precision systems technology AgTech is predicted to be a $100 billion industry in Australia by 2030.

3 THE project sought to engage producers and commercial providers in order to develop underlying spatial management approaches and evidence of crop variability.

gTech (agricultural technology) is a rapidly developing sector. Predicted to be a $100 billion industry in Australia by 2030, this sector is a vital element in meeting demands for future food and agricultural production. AgTech covers a group of digital technologies that provide data, information and tools to agricultural producers. It assists with more informed and timely management decisions and ultimately improves productivity and sustainability.

Precision agriculture (PA) technologies in vegetables PA uses AgTech to collect detailed field and crop data, mainly using sensing technologies combined with geo-referencing. Adopting precision agriculture technologies could improve your vegetable production and profitability for a variety of crops.

WA Grower SPRING 2020

Worldwide, agricultural management and production is likely to be increasingly associated with AgTech areas such as Internet of Things (IoT), SMART technologies, drones, robotics and automation.

With precision spatial technologies underpinning these AgTech areas, the Australian vegetable industry will need to increase adoption to remain competitive and viable. Recently, Hort Innovation released the findings of its project, ‘Adoption of precision systems technology for vegetable production’, which generated significant evidence for precision agriculture (PA) implementation in vegetable systems. Given the relatively low adoption and knowledge base of precision agriculture in vegetable production systems, the project sought to engage producers and commercial providers in order to develop underlying spatial management approaches and evidence of crop variability.

This involved establishment of key grower-led case study sites across Australia for increased adoption of a broad range of PA technology and approaches. The project significantly increased knowledge and awareness of how PA approaches can be applied to vegetable system using a broad suite of communication products including 12 case studies, eight factsheets, four ‘YouTube’ style videos, two webinars and 15 industry magazine articles. It also connected over 900 vegetable industry representatives with the latest application of PA approaches in vegetable systems through 23 face-toface extension activities. The project achieved the development of accurate and reliable yield prediction capabilities from remotely sensed satellite imagery in carrots and sweet corn across the country. Overall accuracy of the forecasted yield was 82 per cent (Tasmania) and 91 per cent (Western Australia) and ranged from 74 to 99 per cent accuracy.

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The project facilitated increased adoption through a collaborative approach to implement a range of PA technologies and practices across a range of vegetable productions systems. These include: crop sensing imagery, yield forecasting from remotely sensed crop imagery, yield and profit/loss mapping, a range of soil mapping technologies, variable rate application, precision drainage technologies and various drone applications.

Over 90 per cent of grower co-operators indicated continued use of PA approaches implemented through the project, with 72 per cent expanding to other precision technologies. All project co-operators indicated that involvement in the project accelerated PA adoption, some by more than two years.

Key learnings from the project include

• There is a ready cohort of growers across Australia that are primed for PA adoption with support through future investment. • Building capacity in PA service providers and regional support networks would help address current limitations in this area that have been identified as a key barrier for PA adoption in vegetables across the country.

Commercially available PA technologies which you can implement in vegetable crops Soil mapping Soil sensing technologies can be used to measure how soil characteristics vary across a field or farm. Use soil mapping to identify soil type, pH variability and salinity/nutrient constraints. Technologies include:

Soil sensing technologies can be used to measure how soil characteristics vary across a field or farm.

Spatial variability in vegetable production systems is sufficient to have significant impacts on crop productivity and profitability and warrant precision approaches to manage this and PA technology and management options were successfully implemented. • PA adoption in vegetables needs to be targeted at addressing particular issues rather than focused on technologies alone.

•

Electromagnetic soil mapping (EM38)

•

Soil pH mapping (e.g. Veris® technologies)

Mapping of soil and physical characteristics (e.g. Soil Information SystemsTM) •

• Gamma radiometric analysis • Grid sampling and analysis. Crop-sensing imagery and analytics Crop variability maps are used to direct field sampling locations (ground truthing) to identify causes of field variability and to direct crop scouting. Use crop-sensing imagery to identify crop variability using:

• Low- and high-resolution satellite imagery • Drone-captured imagery. Increasing options in online platforms provide growers access to freely available low-resolution satellite crop sensing imagery, with higher resolutions available at a cost. Applying drone imagery to vegetable systems The type of drone imagery is dependent on the sensor used. Drone imagery of vegetable crops are predominantly: • Multispectral (to assess crop vigour through vegetation indices) • RGB (digital images). Commercial crop imagery analytics can generate a range of crop vegetation indices from multispectral reflectance data, develop 3-dimensional crop models or automate plant counts from drone RGB imagery in brassicas, lettuce and other hand-harvested crops. Variable rate application technology Use technology for variable rate applications of soil amendments (e.g. lime/gypsum) and fertilisers to amend variable soil pH and nutrient distribution. Drainage modelling for land planning Accurate elevation data forms the basis for precision drainage modelling. Precision drainage technologies can be used for land planning to optimise surface water flow, for example, TerraCuttaTM is a GPS-enabled in-cab software package for land forming operations (e.g. levelling) and iGradeTM which automates movement of the landplane (grading and plane generation). Yield mapping and monitoring Use harvester-based yield mapping for machine-harvested crops such as carrots, potatoes and sweet potatoes.

MORE INFORMATION For more information visit: www.business. qld.gov.au/industries/farms-fishingforestry/agriculture/agribusiness/agtechvegetables

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P recision ag

pays off in bumper celery crop Key findings Improved uniformity of nutrient availability through variable rate spreading

BY DIMI KYRIAKOU AND CARL LARSEN RMCG

Victorian vegetable farm is reaping the benefits from a trial of precision agriculture technologies to improve soil and crop health. In this edition, the Soil Wealth ICP team delve into some of the key findings from the project’s demonstration site. Soil Wealth ICP Phase 2 (VG16078) is a strategic levy investment under the Hort Innovation Vegetable Fund. Since 2018, vegetable growing operation Schreurs & Sons has explored the application of precision agriculture in celery, leek and baby leaf production systems at its Koo Wee Rup farm, about 80km south-east of Melbourne. A range of technologies were trialled at the site, including drones, EM38 mapping, gridded soil sampling, variable rate fertiliser spreading and remote monitoring of pests and beneficial insects. These technologies were put to the test to find out how they could deliver greater production efficiencies and better returns, which will ultimately support the sustainability of the farm and the business.

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This process allows fertiliser to be applied at different rates depending on the changes in soil chemistry across the block, which can achieve a more consistent and high-quality cash crop through more precise application of nutrients. Large areas of the trial site showed an increase in pH to desirable levels, more consistent levels of potassium, phosphorus and magnesium, and lower average levels of sodium. Reduced soil-borne disease risk and severity This occurred over time at the site and was more pronounced in the trial area compared to the control. The most significant reductions were in Pythium spp. (to moderate levels) and Rhizoctonia spp. (low levels) in the trial area. This may be due to the precision agriculture activities at the trial site as well as other factors such as soil moisture, temperature and variation in planting times. Faster in-field monitoring of plant nutrient uptake to inform decisions More precise nutrition and drainage management corresponded to improvements and consistency in the celery nutrient uptake during

the summer growing season. A comparison of field and lab sap testing showed the value in faster in-field monitoring across a number of sample points in the trial area. Digital insect scout monitored crops around the clock as a ‘back up’ From October to December 2019, the project team more actively used and calibrated the remote monitoring insect trap for early detection of relative pest pressure and indication of the reliability of flights (timing and duration), which has been changing in the region over the years. However, it was still important to have conventional scouting to correctly identify pest species and inform control options at the farm. More consistent marketable yield from treated areas Yield assessment data showed a significant improvement in the consistency of the 2020 crop, where the degree of variability was between four to 12 per cent. This compared to the 2019 crop, where the degree of variability was between 45 to 53 per cent across multiple samples within the trial block. This meant easier grading and packing of celery and the ability to supply customers with a product that better met their specifications.

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Soil biology and cover crops: Take a closer look beneath the surface Soil biology is a complex, dynamic and broad field. A recent webinar recording from the Soil Wealth ICP team delves into the impact of cover crops on soil biology using DNA sequencing technology. This process provides information on soil bacteria, fungi and eukaryote communities to see what changes occur in vegetable soils following cover crops. Join Dr Kelvin Montagu from the Soil Wealth ICP team and microbial ecologist Dr Shane Powell from the University of Tasmania as they consider the questions:

Yield assessment data showed an improvement in the consistency of the 2020 crop. Schreurs & Sons Director of Field Operations Adam Schreurs said the trial highlighted the problem areas of the farm that were affecting yield and needed targeted action.

“The trial has turned the worst performing part of my farm into the best performing part of my farm. It’s a massive turnaround in two years,” he said. “The harvest from the demonstration site this year (2020) was so uniform. It was really noticeable when it was coming off the block. It was a fantastic result — it beat the best crop off the farm.” To access a case study and podcast which further explore the key findings and lessons learned at the Koo Wee Rup demonstration site, visit: www.soilwealth.com.au/resources/ case-studies/precision-ag-pays-offin-bumper-celery-crop-koo-wee-rupdemonstration-site-case-study/

• How diverse are biological communities in vegetable soils? • Do cover crops impact microbial communities? 3 A trial of precision agriculture technologies at a Victorian vegetable farm highlighted the problem areas of the farm that were affecting yield and needed targeted action.

Soil Wealth ICP would like to thank our project partners Schreurs & Sons, Stuart Grigg Ag-Hort Consulting, Brown’s Fertilisers, Precision Agriculture, OneHarvest and Metos — Australia & NZ. MORE INFORMATION Optimising cover cropping project for the Australian vegetable industry has been funded by Hort Innovation using the vegetable research and development levy and contributions from the Australian Government. For more information, please contact project leaders Dr Gordon Rogers on (02) 8627 1040 or gordon@ahr.com.au and Dr Anne-Maree Boland on (03) 9882 2670 or anne-mareeb@ rmcg.com.au.

• How do soil properties and management impact the microbial community? • What impact do biofumigants have on the soil microbial community? You can also find out what has been learnt from four sites that have been studied across Queensland to Tasmania. To watch the webinar recording, visit www.soilwealth.com.au/ resources/webinar-recordings/ cover-crops-and-soil-biology-invegetable-soils

This project has been funded by Hort Innovation using the vegetable research and development levy and contributions from the Australian Government. Project Number: VG16078 For more information on the fund and strategic levy investment visit horticulture.com.au

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PHOTO © ASH TELFORD, GASCOYNE DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION

Carnarvon sweet corn trial contributes to student skills

BY ANNIE VAN BLOMMESTEIN DEVELOPMENT OFFICER, DPIRD

t’s all systems go at the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s (DPIRD) Carnarvon Research Facility, with science facility upgrades underway, new horticulture researcher recruitments being finalised, existing trials revamped and fresh trial research being conducted.

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Interactions have begun with Year 11 Carnarvon Community College students. 3 CARNARVON Community College student Jake Kuzmicich, who is undertaking qualification in Rural Operations, and Plant Productions Systems at Central Regional TAFE, assists with the pest monitoring trial in a sweet corn crop at DPIRD’s Carnarvon Research Facility.

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Fall armyworm, which was first confirmed in Western Australia in early April 2020, was detected in a sweet corn crop in Carnarvon in late April. Researchers proposed a multi-purpose sweet corn trial at the facility to ‘feed two birds with one seed’ and examine bio-mineral versus conventional fertiliser systems, and pest monitoring focused on the new insect pest.

3 THE pest monitoring will focus on establishment, thresholds, beneficial insect interactions and damage.

Corn is among the more favoured host plants for fall armyworm, as is sorghum, which has been planted as a windbreak in the trial. The pest monitoring will focus on establishment, thresholds, beneficial insect interactions and damage, which will be assessed on the sweet corn and sorghum under the four fertiliser treatments which have been randomised in the paddock. The simple fertiliser trial will allow some preliminary work to be conducted on the benefits of bio-mineral fertilisers on plant health and look into potassium usage rates in horticultural production. Research staff will compare the treatments by measuring yield, leaf nutrient ratios, cob quality and resistance to pests. The team at Carnarvon invited senior school and TAFE students to participate in the trial and work beside DPIRD staff to gain first-hand knowledge of horticultural production systems and areas of research that benefit local and State-wide food production industries.

The broader aim under the PRIMED initiative is to engage school students to expand their knowledge about careers in primary industries and encourage students to consider career-path options in primary production. Careers in the primary industries are varied and cover areas such as production, design and communications, technology, business management, mechanics, science, marketing and sales, accounting, compliance and machinery operation, among others. Interactions have begun with Year 11 Carnarvon Community College students studying Plant Production Systems and Central Regional TAFE students undertaking Rural Operations. The students have been out in the paddock gaining experience in phenological documentation, weed and insect monitoring and identification, and crop nutrition monitoring, as well as comparative assessment of the different treatments.

In coming weeks, the students will be introduced to horticultural auditing systems, such as Freshcare and Worksafe, selective herbicide options, crop harvesting and the collation of research data and results. They have also been asked to investigate mass trapping options/ prototypes for fall armyworm, which could include light and pheromone attractants. The sweet corn trial was seeded in early June 2020 and is expected to be harvested during September. MORE INFORMATION Annie van Blommestein, (08) 9956 3336, anastasia.vanblommestein@agric.wa.gov.au, or go to dpird.wa.gov.au.

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Management of six-spotted mite s d r a h c r o o d a c o v a in WA's BY ALISON MATHEWS RESEARCH SCIENTIST, DPIRD

estern Australia’s growing avocado industry is being supported to confidently protect its orchards by managing the pest sixspotted mite (Eotetranychus sexmaculatus) through the provision of science, advice and protocols. A new three-year project, Management of six-spotted mite in WA avocado orchards — Phase 2, commenced late last year to identify and develop effective six-spotted mite management options for avocado orchards incorporating cultural, biological and chemical practices. It is building on the work of the previous six-spotted mite project that finished in 2019.

Knowledge gained from the current, six-spotted mite project will lead to the development of integrated pest management guidelines for the WA avocado industry intended to improve marketable yield, promote the uptake of established on-farm best practice, and help ensure increased competitiveness in the global marketplace. The guidelines will include information on when and how to monitor for pest and predatory mites, and the role of both natural and mass reared predatory mites in six-spotted mite management. The relationship between tree health, mite numbers and leaf fall, and miticide application recommendations incorporating resistance management, the impact of chemical control on beneficial species, and the effect of timing and application method on control, will also be covered.

Avocado industry stakeholders will be advised of field walks and workshops to be held during the project.

Current and future activities Monitoring of six-spotted mite in avocado orchards commenced in January 2020 and for the past six months, the project team has visited 12 trial orchards every fortnight to survey six-spotted mite, predatory mites and other beneficial insects.

This surveillance program helps confirm seasonal trends, identify sites suitable for coming trials, and determine the impact of various management strategies on pest and predatory mite populations. Mite numbers are generally low in summer and winter, with the most rapid increase and highest numbers experienced in spring, when trees are under stress from holding near mature fruit and supporting new vegetative growth, flowers and newly setting fruit. Spring is therefore the most critical time for mite monitoring and management, and leaf fall resulting from mite damage. Planned activities for the first spring season of the project include:

Monitoring of sixspotted mite in avocado orchards commenced in January 2020. 14

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• Releasing mass reared predatory mites that are yet to be tested in a field situation and measuring their impact on pest mite numbers; • Applying prey/pollen treatments in an effort to increase the number of predatory mites already present in orchards and measuring their impact on pest mite numbers;

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Background Six-spotted mite is native to central America and was first recorded in WA in 1986 on avocado seedlings from eastern Australia. The pest has particularly affected avocado orchards located in the Pemberton/Manjimup area of the South West region, causing economically significant damage. While present in eastern Australia, it is not considered a pest of avocado there. It is, however, a pest of avocado in New Zealand and California, United States.

3 HIGH numbers of six-spotted mite can lead to severe defoliation of avocado trees.

Even low numbers of the mite in avocado orchards can lead to defoliation of trees, which has flow on impacts including exposure of fruit or sunburn and a subsequent downgrade in quality and price received, or earlier than scheduled picking of fruit to prevent sunburn. When many trees are defoliated and fruit is harvested, the result is a potential glut of fruit on the market instead of the preferred steady supply that meets grower needs and market demand.

3 SIX-SPOTTED mite are found on the lower leaf surface where they feed however, symptoms of feeding damage can be seen on both the upper and lower leaf surfaces.

Avocado industry in Western Australia

• Testing leaf nitrogen levels of trees with varied levels of defoliation to determine if there is a link and if nutrition can play a role in pest mite management; and • More intensive leaf sampling to determine the best monitoring strategy for growers that is reliable and easy to use.

Project partners Managed by DPIRD, with partners Biological Services, Queensland Museum, and the New Zealand Institute of Plant and Food Research, the project is funded by Hort Innovation with in-kind support. The research will see DPIRD undertake on-farm monitoring, and field studies and trials across a number of orchards in the Manjimup/Pemberton area. Staff from Biological Services and the New Zealand Institute of Plant and Food Research will assist with this work, bringing with them knowledge and experience in mite monitoring, the commercial use of predatory

mites, management of six-spotted mite in avocados and development of integrated pest management programs. The combined experience of monitoring from the preceding project, current practices employed by growers and local mite monitors, such as Biological Services, and overseas methods, with input from the New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research, will be reviewed for use in the development of a monitoring and sampling protocol. A mite specialist from Queensland Museum, who is part of the project team, is tasked with identifying predatory mites collected from commercial orchards and confirming the species of pest mite in WA currently regarded as six-spotted mite through morphological and molecular data. Confirmed identification of the local pest species will help in determining management options, particularly the use of predatory mites, as they can be species specific.

Growth in avocado production and a jump in prices in recent years underpinned a 780 per cent increase in the value of this sector in WA, which is now valued at about $200 million annually and represents about 40 per cent of WA’s total fruit crop by value.

The volume of the avocado crop is now comparable with apple production, which is the State’s largest fruit crop by quantity. The bulk of the value in the avocado sector remains in the Australian domestic market, with export sales making up just 4 per cent of WA’s total overseas fruit sales value. MORE INFORMATION Alison Mathews, alison.mathews@dpird. wa.gov.au, dpird.wa.gov.au, (08) 9777 0122. Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

ADVOCADO FUND This project has been funded by Hort Innovation using the avocado 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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Improving water and fertiliser use efficiency Swan Coastal Plain BY VO THE TRUYEN REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT OFFICER, VEGETABLESWA

3 UNIFORMITY assessment on water distribution in a vegetables field in North Perth in 2019 by DPIRD.

he main vegetable production region in Western Australia is the South West, including the Swan Coastal Plain from Gingin (100km north of Perth) to Myalup (100km south of Perth). Within this area, about 67 per cent of the total value1 of the State’s vegetables are produced.

There are opportunities for vegetables growers to improve their profitability.

1 3-years report on benchmarking of WA vegetables production business efficiency

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TABLE 1. PRACTICE GAPS IN FERTILISER APPLICATION BY TOMATO GROWERS IN NORTH PERTH AS COMPARED TO RECOMMENDATION.

Problem The three main soil types of the Swan Coastal Plain include Spearwood sand, Karrakatta sand and Bassendean sand, which are some of the most infertile soils in the world2. Adding to the hardships of the region, is a state government proposal of a 10 per cent reduction to groundwater allocations for growers in the North Wanneroo area from 20283, which makes growing conditions in this region significantly more difficult. In addition, vegetable growers in the area showed a lack of knowledge in soil types, water and fertiliser management. A survey on water and fertiliser use in this growing region4 showed high variation in water and fertiliser use efficiency. The water application was from 7.8ML/ha/crop to 26.9ML/ha/ crop producing almost the same yield. Similarly, the fertiliser cost was from $6,700/ha/crop to $22,300/ha/crop.

Growers 1

1429

347

14,149

1111

234

1186

16,998

800

544

541

9,589

777

253

1000

9,443

753

997

8,680

717

741

6,654

1992

235

1552

22,275

686

231

616

6,693

625

125

950

6,397

TABLE 2. PRACTICE GAPS IN WATER APPLICATION AND VALUES OF FREE NITROGEN IN IRRIGATION WATER.

Growers

Nitrogen in irrigation water (mg/l)

ML/ha/crop

15.0

13.6

Free Nitrogen supply to crop from water (kg/ha/crop)

Value of free Nitrogen supply to crop from water ($/ha/crop)

204

163.2

29.0

25.2

730

584.0

6.1

18.9

115

92.0

21.0

8.3

174

139.2

8.1

7.8

50.4

4.5

11.9

43.2

32.0

9.4

297

237.6

0.1

29.6

DPIRD recommendation

This event will be organised by DPIRD in collaboration with DWER, vegetablesWA and several private companies such as Irrigation 37% of growers have Australia.

the opportunity to save from 3–10ML/ha/crop

2 www.agric.wa.gov.au/soil-productivity/ vegetable-crop-nutrition-sandy-soils-swancoastal-plain?page=0%2C1 3 www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Pages/ McGowan/2019/01/Delivering-certainty-forWanneroo-growers.aspx 4 Report on water and fertiliser use by vegetable grower in North Perth. Neil Lantzke and Truyen Vo, 2016, funded by Natural Resources management. 5 www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Pages/ McGowan/2019/01/Delivering-certainty-forWanneroo-growers.aspx

There are opportunities for vegetables growers to improve their profitability while continuing to produce under such a hostile growing condition.

An independent irrigation system efficiency assessment was completed earlier this year. A workshop to present the results, in combination with best practice demonstrations and modern irrigation technology, is scheduled for October at a commercial growing property.

Yield (kg/plant)

DPIRD recommendation

Opportunities

In terms of governmental support, the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) are working with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) to assist North Wanneroo growers by piloting independent water use assessments and developing best practice irrigation demonstration sites5.

Nitrogen Phosphorous Potassium Approximate (kg/ha/crop) (kg/ha/crop) (kg/ha/crop) cost ($/ha)

10.5–15

In conjunction, the state’s peak vegetables industry body — vegetablesWA — is implementing a project to assist vegetable growers to bring down their production costs by making the most of their limited water resources and increase the competency of their fertiliser applications. This elementary project is a part of a larger VegNET project funded by Hort Innovation Australia (HIA), using national vegetables levies to support WA vegetable growers.

Analysing the practice gap A survey on water and fertiliser use in 20166 showed that compared to the $6,500 fertiliser cost per hectare for a tomato crop, suggested by DPIRD, 75 per cent of the participating growers had the ability to save from between $1,000 to $15,000/ha while achieving the same level of yield, if good practice was implemented (Table 1). Similarly, 37 per cent of the surveyed growers had the ability to save 3ML/ha/crop to 10ML/ha/crop. Also, earlier research showed a significant amount of nutritional content in the irrigation water, which could result in a financial benefit to growers when included in irrigation and fertigation programs7 (Table 2). 6 Report on water and fertiliser use by vegetable grower in North Perth. Neil Lantzke and Truyen Vo, 2016, funded by Natural Resources management. 7 Report on water and fertiliser use by vegetable grower in North Perth. Neil Lantzke and Truyen Vo, 2016, funded by Natural Resources management.

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vegetablesWA project on improving water and fertiliser use efficiency There is a great source of available knowledge that can be introduced to vegetable growers to induce practice changes in terms of improving water and fertiliser use efficiency. This knowledge could enhance grower understanding of soil characteristics, the regional soil map, how water filters through the soil profile, nutritional demands of different crop types and growth stages and irrigation techniques. While high initial investment costs of irrigation systems hardware or technology may place barriers on adoption of irrigation innovations, the assessment of irrigation system efficiency carried out by DPIRD, in collaboration with vegetablesWA and a private consultant in 2019, showed all participating farm properties achieved acceptable to good levels of efficiency. It’s believed that the improvement of irrigation and fertiliser application practices and technology could bring significantly positive outcomes, including higher yield and elevated profitability, to growers. In line with the enhanced focus on productivity improvement, environmental sustainability and business profitability, the central objective of the project is ‘more profitable and productive use of water and fertiliser’. The key indicator of success is a 10 per cent reduction in net fertiliser costs and a 10–25 per cent reduction in irrigation volumes for participating growers. Benefits of bridging the practice gap The three-year benchmarking report, produced by vegetablesWA in partnership with PlanFarm, shows average fertiliser, irrigation and power costs are $3,999, $218 and $1,530 respectively; with a large portion being used for irrigation pumping. A 10 per cent reduction of fertiliser and irrigation costs would result in a benefit of $570/ha/crop. This is a significant improvement to grower profits, since the average profit before tax for the WA vegetables industry is $6,200/ha/year.

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3 IRRIGATION system efficiency assessment in Carabooda in 2019 by Truyen Vo.

Project strategy The project is designed to help grower participants go through a 5-stage process that includes: 1. Knowledge (expose growers to water and fertiliser use efficiency concepts and assist them in understanding the benefits). 2. Persuasion (the forming of a favourable attitude to it). 3. Decision (commitment to its adoption). 4. Implementation (putting it to use). 5. Confirmation (reinforcement based on positive outcomes from it).

Enhancing grower decision making in relation to water and fertiliser application practices Over a series of workshops the project will introduce growers to knowledge and information relative to soil types, water demand pattern of crops and soil water movement by using tools as local soil maps, soil dye test images, content of ‘free fertiliser’ in bore water analysis and crop nutrition demands etc. A core group of four to six growers will then be encouraged to try changes in water and fertiliser application using this recently introduced knowledge.

Improved irrigation scheduling and management Trials will be conducted with a 10 per cent reduction in fertiliser and water applications, based on soil type, crop type and growth stage in anticipation of providing benefit cost analysis case studies for growers. Information sessions on the aspects of improving scheduling and management of irrigation, including the benefits from the trials, will be discussed with growers in regard to the advantages and disadvantages, with the aim of gaining ‘lessons learned’ in support of wider adoption of on farm best practice.

Benchmarking the benefit of practice change Grower participants will be assisted in fine tuning any changed practices to see the relative advantages (the degree to which it is perceived to be better than what it supersedes); compatibility (consistency with existing values, past experiences and needs) and; observability (the visibility of results) that have resulted. Work that will support Growers in this stage will include: • Developing hand-out materials to visually illustrate the established knowledge, such as posters of root zones growing over time and the dynamics of water movement in soil over time in drip irrigation etc. • Continue assessing data on yield and/or return improvements and working with growers to highlight the ‘relative advantage’ by comparing old and new data. • Disseminating results from demonstrations and organising field days to encourage growers to learn from results of research. • Workshops to inform growers about the achievements.

Evaluation and success This strategy is designed to capture the learnings and impacts of intensive practice-change in relation to new and improved irrigation/fertigation systems choices and improved scheduling of irrigation/fertigation management to optimise water and fertiliser use and general business profitability. MORE INFORMATION For more information or to offer your assistance with this project, please contact vegetablesWA Regional Development Officer, Vo The Truyen on 0457 457 559 or email truyen.vo@vegetableswa.com.au

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DPIRD is asking growers to become their eyes on the ground.

e m i t g n i r Sp

is the time for travel bugs

espite the impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on overseas and interstate travel, pathways are still open for the world’s most invasive pests to hitch a ride to Western Australia.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is reminding growers that pests capable of wiping out entire food crops and environments, such as invasive ants, beetles, bugs, moths, snails and fruit flies, are common stowaways on cargo vessels and imported machinery, and in shipping containers and packages. It may seem like a long road from Europe or remote Queensland, but these pests are expert hitchhikers, hiding in plain sight! Annually, over 18,000 vessels, 1.8 million sea cargo consignments, 41 million air cargo consignments, and 152 million international mail items arrive in Australia from overseas, and numbers are growing every year.

While Australia and WA both have strong biosecurity border controls to intercept pests, checking every ship, container and package is not practical. DPIRD is asking growers to become their eyes on the ground. Spring time is a critical time to be on the lookout if receiving imports from the Northern Hemisphere. This is when pests from that part of the world seek shelter from the cold weather, often on ships and in cargo.

If you are in receipt of machinery, equipment, boxes, pallets and packages from overseas or interstate, we need you to look for pests or signs of pests. Pests not established in WA that are of greatest concern include: red imported fire ant, brown marmorated stink bug, codling moth, khapra beetle, citrus longicorn beetle, gypsy moth, giant African snail, and Queensland fruit fly. But this list is not definitive! Be on the lookout and report any live animal or insect, egg masses and timber with holes, or plant matter, soil, or plants with signs of disease. It is not uncommon for exotic pests to arrive and be intercepted at the border, which are immediately investigated and managed by DPIRD and/or federal agencies. But once those rare few slip through the cracks, industry and public

3 PESTS not established in WA that are of greatest concern include the Queensland fruit fly.

IMPORTANT NOTE If you find something, don’t move the machinery/ container/box/package. Reseal, collect and contain any dead or live specimens, and contact DPIRD immediately. You can send a photo using the MyPestGuideTM Reporter app or email DPIRD’s Pest and Disease Information Service (PaDIS) padis@dpird.wa.gov.au. You can also make an online report at www.agric.wa.gov.au/pestsweeds-diseases/mypestguide or call PaDIS on (08) 9368 3080.

vigilance is critical to early detection, and being able to act quickly to prevent pests from gaining a permanent foothold in WA. Become an important member of the DPIRD surveillance team by getting to know pests of biosecurity concern, and actively looking and reporting anything suspicious or unusual.

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

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3 ADULTS and nymphs of tomato potato psyllid (Bactericera cockerelli).

BY DR SONYA BROUGHTON, DR VINEETA BILGI, EMMA MANSFIELD, DR FRANCIS DE LIMA AND ROHAN PRINCE DEPARTMENT OF PRIMARY INDUSTRIES AND REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT

he tomato potato psyllid (Bactericera cockerelli) was first found in New Zealand in 2006 and on the Australian territory of Norfolk Island in 2015. The first detection of tomato potato psyllid (TPP) on the Australian mainland occurred in the Perth metropolitan region in February, 2017.

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The first detection of TPP on the Australian mainland occurred in February, 2017. The pest is native to central and North America where it infests a wide range of plants. TPP is an insect pest of plants belonging to the Solanaceae family including capsicum, chilli, eggplant, tomato and tamarillo, and some to the Convolvulaceae family such as sweet potato. Several annual and evergreen weed plants, such as nightshade, are also hosts of the pest. Damage is caused to plants when adults and immature stages (nymphs) feed on the plant through their long sucking mouth parts, causing yellowing of the foliage. As they feed, TPP secrete sugars, which appear as white sugar-like granules that can promote development of black sooty moulds and reduce photosynthesis. TPP can also damage tomatoes and potatoes by infecting plants with a bacterial disease, Candidatus liberibacter solanacearum (CLso), also known as zebra chip. Fortunately, this

disease has not been found to date in Western Australia. Industry stakeholders in the Eastern States and territories are concerned about the impact of TPP if it were to spread to their jurisdictions.

The current strategy is to confine TPP to the areas it is present, prevent its spread, monitor for TPP in other jurisdictions, and minimise its impact on domestic and international trade. The project, ‘Alternative disinfestation for market access for crops affected by tomato potato psyllid’ (VG17015), was initiated in 2019 by DPIRD in collaboration with vegetablesWA and Hort Innovation. The project has been funded by Hort Innovation using the vegetable research and development levy and funds from the Australian Government.

PHOTO © PIA SCANLON, DPIRD

Western Australian research on TPP develops treatments for market access of affected crops

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The project is developing postharvest disinfestation treatment methods, including fumigation with low dose methyl bromide, ethyl formate and ionising radiation002E. The research methods developed by the project are designed to satisfy interstate and international quarantine treatment standards.

Current findings Comparative survival of TPP on host fruit and foliage Research on the comparative survival of TPP on host fruit and foliage shows that TPP does not lay eggs as well on host fruits as it does on foliage. Survival on foliage is good but on fruits it is poor. Therefore, the likelihood of significant numbers of TPP eggs surviving and being carried in trade via fruit hosts is low. However, nymphs and adults have greater potential of being transported in foliage.

disinfestation of more tolerant stages are required. Eggs are usually found to be more tolerant to fumigants than nymphs and adults. When eggs are not present, there is a potential to apply lower post-harvest disinfestation doses to exported fruit hosts. Ethyl formate (EF), an alternative fumigant to MB, has been shown to be very effective against pests that may be present on external parts of fruits. Low dose methyl bromide fumigation To minimise environmental impacts of using MB, low doses requiring longer exposure time have been developed. Treatments developed against the Mediterranean fruit fly successfully trialled on a laboratory and commercial scale are considered to be applicable to TPP. Verification of these doses will be conducted when facilities are available later in 2020 or in 2021.

For more info visit agric.wa.gov.au and search for ‘tpp’.

Toxicity of fumigants to TPP Methyl bromide (MB) is a standard treatment for disinfestation of pests in horticultural produce. In general, dosages of fumigants are higher when

at ≥0.3 per cent or 10mg/L at both 1-hour and 2-hour exposure times. Eggs were found to be most tolerant to EF. Combining carbon dioxide with EF reduced doses of EF and yielded total mortality of eggs. EF doses tested were not phytotoxic to truss tomato. Future research Physical removal methods, such as the use of high-pressure air or water washing to remove TPP carried on fruits intended for sale and export, could be explored. MORE INFORMATION For more information on TPP and the department’s surveillance activities, visit agric.wa.gov.au and search for ‘tpp’.

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

Ethyl formate Ethyl formate treatments have been found effective against all stages of TPP in laboratory studies. Results indicated that when adults and nymphs were exposed to varying concentrations of EF, 100 per cent mortality was achieved

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

Planted Passion Agriculture Operating with a broad perspective and multi layered approach to improving plant health, soil life and crop return. Planted Passion Agriculture specialise in sustainable, natural products and agronomy services. We service each region of WA, whilst simultaneously

Offering a wide range of fertilisers in granular, liquid and powder formats including:

1 2

focusing on each individual agricultural sector.

Professionals in diagnostics for problem areas, we create

action plans for increasing yield and improving quality.

Plant growth promoters + bio stimulants e.g Marine-based fertiliser Micronised + mineral-based fertiliser e.g Guano, gypsum Macro Elements e.g NPK, calcium, magnesium, sulfur Trace Elements e.g Manganese, zinc, iron Humates + fulvates

NEIL MILES

neil@plantedpassion.com.au 0429 599 977 www.plantedpassionagriculture.com.au WA Grower SPRING 2020

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g n i h c r a e s Re s e i l f e v i t a n

A national five-year, $5.74 million project.

PHOTO © DR SUE JAGGAR, DPIRD

as pollinators of horticulture crops

DR DAVID COOK RESEARCH SCIENTIST, DEPARTMENT OF PRIMARY INDUSTRIES AND REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT

national $5.74 million five-year project examining the potential for native flies to supplement bees as pollinators of horticulture crops is being led from Western Australia by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD).

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3 A project examining the potential for native flies to supplement bees as pollinators of horticulture crops is investigating the performance of the western blue-bodied fly (Calliphora dubia) on avocado and blueberry crops.

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Funded by Hort Innovation and co-participants from across Australia, the research in WA is focused on examining the performance of native flies as pollinators in avocado orchards and blueberry crops to improve horticultural production. Other national collaborators are investigating avocados, mangoes, seed crops and strawberries.

3 WHILE bees are the most widely-used and well-known crop pollinators for crops, a range of insects are natural crop pollinators.

Pollination is vital to the success of many fruit and vegetable crops, with pollination-dependant crops in Australia worth almost $6 billion per year, and in WA around $700 million per year. While bees are the most widely-used and well-known crop pollinators for crops, a range of insects are natural crop pollinators. Flies offer multiple benefits as pollinators in that different species are present year-round, they regularly visit flowers for nectar where their hairy bodies collect and move pollen, they can be mass-reared, and they don’t sting workers. The western golden-haired fly (Calliphora albifrontalis), endemic to the South West of WA, performed well in blueberry glasshouse trials in 2018. However, another native species found around Australia produced even better results in 2019 at DPIRD’s South Perth quarantine glasshouse and in avocado orchards at Busselton. Avocado pollination using the western blue-bodied fly (Calliphora dubia) was three times better than Calliphora albifrontalis, and nearly two-thirds of what bees and all other insects can achieve. This was confirmed by studies that showed that C.dubia fed on avocado flowers three times more often than the western golden-haired fly. When used on blueberries, pollination by C. dubia increased yield by more than one-third compared with C. albifrontalis, as well as producing bigger berries. This comparison between the two fly species is being repeated in 2020 to authenticate the results and provide increased confidence in the findings.

Next steps The next research effort will be to determine how long flies remain in avocado orchards and examine the effectiveness of measures such as protein lures to encourage flies to remain in the orchard as well as attract other flies in surrounding bushland into the crop.

Flies that visit avocado flowers in orchards north at Gingin will also be monitored this year to gauge whether there is value in examining other fly species as potential pollinators to assist bees. The second year of insect surveys at two avocado orchards near Busselton in 2019 found two species of hoverflies were most prevalent, followed by two species of bibionids, or love bugs, and the blowfly, C. vicina, which is found worldwide. The trials on avocados will this year be expanded to enclose up to 24 trees under netting to compare the western blue-bodied fly with the global blowfly C. vicina and bees. Three large enclosures will be set up on avocado orchards in Busselton and Pemberton, with a small bee hive placed in one enclosure along with about 5,000 flies of both C. dubia and C. vicina in the other two enclosures.

mass production of each species so they can be available commercially in the horticulture sector as a pollination service.

This will involve determining the dose of x-ray radiation required to render the flies sterile, to ensure they don’t alter the balance of the natural, local fly populations. The research will confirm the potential of native flies to complement bees as pollinators for horticulture, and equip growers with a pollination package that could contribute to ensuring the productivity and sustainability of Australian horticulture.

Pollination is vital to the success of many fruit and vegetable crops.

Commercialisation The project is investigating the use of native flies in the pollination of horticultural crops as a pollination service package — from identifying suitable flies for pollination to suitability for commercial rearing, with the aim of identifying a native fly that is a good pollinator and can be mass produced on a commercial scale. The final two years of the project will develop rearing techniques for

MORE INFORMATION

The ‘Managing flies for crop pollination’ project is funded by the Hort Frontiers Pollination Fund, part of the Hort Frontiers strategic partnership initiative developed by Hort Innovation, with co-investment from Western Sydney University, The University of New England, The University of Western Australia, Seed Purity Pty Ltd and Biological Services and contributions from the Australian Government. Contact David Cook, david.cook3@dpird. wa.gov.au, dpird.wa.gov.au, (08) 9368 3084 or go to agric.wa.gov.au and search for ‘flies pollination’.

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

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Breaking the mould

New options for postharvest disease management

lobally, 30 per cent of all food is lost or wasted. A large proportion of this is due to pests and diseases. If we could reduce this waste by 25 per cent there would be enough food available to feed 870 million people. At Murdoch University, we have developed a method to treat postharvest pathogens and insect pests, using the most abundant form of matter in the universe â&#x20AC;&#x201D; plasma.

implications from a food safety perspective. A major advantage is that it also does not leave any chemical residues on the product. At Murdoch University, we are using cold plasma to treat the moulds that grow on fruit, vegetables and grain. To date we have trialled cold plasma for treating anthracnose (Colletotrichum spp.) on avocados (see Figure 1), Botrytis cinerea on strawberries, blueberries and raspberries, and also reduced mould growth on truffles. We have a grain project that is focussed on reducing the fungal pathogen Fusarium graminearum, which is associated with the production of mycotoxins. Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites produced by some fungi, that can cause many health issues and in some instances are carcinogenic.

One of the first activities that we undertake when beginning cold plasma trials is to Cold plasma can be test the impact of cold applied in the form of plasma on the product being treated. a flame or glow, air, or

Plasma is an ionised gas, and is produced naturally by lightning during a storm. Plasma technology is commonly used in television screens and neon lights and is also used in medicine and dentistry to treat wounds, so it is safe for human use. When we create plasma artificially it is at room temperature and is referred to as cold plasma. This low temperature avoids damage to the product being treated.

treated water.

Cold plasma has unique antimicrobial properties that can be used to reduce infection by bacteria, fungi (moulds) and viruses. Studies have shown that bacteria such as E. coli, Listeria and Salmonella are all dramatically reduced on food products following plasma treatment. This has obvious

WA Grower SPRING 2020

This includes measurements on the colour, size and weight of the product, to ensure that the plasma treatment is not phytotoxic. Once this has been demonstrated, we look at the common pathogens that are associated with that product. Strawberries for example, are commonly associated with three key postharvest fungal pathogens, Botrytis cinerea, Phytophthora cactorum, and Rhizopus stolonifer. It is important to identify the main pathogens, so we can optimise the cold plasma treatment conditions for their treatment.

PHOTO ÂŠ MURDOCH UNIVERSITY

BY DR KIRSTY BAYLISS PLANT SCIENTIST, MURDOCH UNIVERSITY

FIGURE 1. AVOCADO BEING TREATED WITH COLD PLASMA. Cold plasma can be applied using different methods. We can apply it in the form of a plasma flame or glow, as shown in Figure 1. Alternatively, we can use plasma air, which is blown across the product or pumped into a package. A third option is plasma treated water, which is created by treating water with cold plasma, which draws the antimicrobial components into the water for application as a wash or spray. Treatment needs to be optimised for each product and pathogen being treated. In conjunction with the Strawberry Growers Association of WA, and the Agriculture Produce Commission, we are currently investigating the best method for application to punnets of strawberries, and will select the best treatment for larger trials.

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When assessing the impact of cold plasma on the pathogens, we measure changes in fungal growth and also spore germination. If the spores can’t germinate, then they are unlikely to infect and cause any damage. If they have already infected a product, then we need to be able to slow or reduce their growth and development.

Scanning electron microscopy studies have shown that the cold plasma treatment destroys the structure of the spores, as shown in Figure 2, which appears to be the reason for the decrease in germination.

PHOTOS © MURDOCH UNIVERSITY

(A)

(B)

FIGURE 2. SCANNING ELECTRON MICROSCOPE IMAGE OF UNTREATED SPORES (A), AND COLD PLASMA TREATED SPORES (B).

In addition to treating fungi, our lab has also demonstrated that treatment with cold plasma can increase germination in seeds. We currently have a field trial in progress to determine if this also increases the growth and yield of the crop, or improves resistance to disease. Insects can also be treated with cold plasma, removing the need for chemical fumigation. Studies in

other laboratories have shown that treatment of insects with cold plasma can interrupt metamorphosis. In conclusion, if cold plasma can be used to reduce pest and disease issues, food shelf life is increased. This also significantly reduces food waste. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS We would like to acknowledge the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development and the Agriculture Produce Commission for supporting our current projects on grain and strawberries, respectively. MORE INFORMATION For further information please contact Dr Kirsty Bayliss at Murdoch University. Email K.Bayliss@murdoch.edu.au or phone (08) 9360 2814.

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Virus diseases of capsicums in Wes tern Aus tralia

BY DR CRAIG WEBSTER DEVELOPMENT OFFICER, DPIRD

everal viruses can affect capsicum production in all regions of Western Australia. It can be difficult to tell the difference between the three viruses by the symptoms alone. Most importantly, the best way to control of each viruses differs so accurate identification is important.

3 TSWV is spread by thrips and they need to be born and feed for a long time on an infected plant to spread the virus.

WA Grower SPRING 2020

The three main viruses detected in capsicum include Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) (see Figure 1), Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) (see Figure 2) and Pepper mild mottle virus (PMMoV) (see Figure 3). A fourth disease that is occasionally seen is a phytoplasma (see Figure 4), which is a type of bacteria. When infected by each virus, the symptoms in capsicum are very similar, and can often not be distinguished by eye alone. The symptoms of a plant being infected differ with the variety of capsicum but they usually cause the leaves to become pale in colour (chlorotic) and can be reduced in size or distorted in shape. These will first appear on the newest leaves and often cause the plant to stop growing or grow only very slowly. The size of the fruit can be affected and ripen unevenly. Necrosis in spots or rings may also be observed on the fruit.

Once a plant is infected, all the remaining fruit will continue to show the same symptoms, and nothing can be done once the plant has become infected.

Each virus is spread in a different way so knowing which virus is causing the disease will help focus on the best approach to control the disease. 1. TSWV is spread by thrips and they need to be born and feed for a long time on an infected plant to spread the virus. This means the disease moves relatively slowly. It is not spread by seed but it is spread by thrips moving from volunteers, weeds and adjacent infected crops with thrips can cause virus to be continually spread into the crop.

Each virus can also be found in weeds, volunteers or adjacent crops.

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FIGURE 3. PEPPER MILD MOTTLE VIRUS

FIGURE 1. TOMATO SPOTTED WILT VIRUS

a. Young leaves of a capsicum showing yellowing and necrosis caused by TSWV; b. Capsicum fruit with necrosis caused by TSWV; c. Capsicum fruit with uneven ripening caused by TSWV.

Blistering of capsicum fruit infected with PMMoV.

FIGURE 4. PHYTOPLASMA

Pale yellow leaves and very bushy appearance of a capsicum infected with a phytoplasma.

Each virus can also be found in weeds, volunteers or adjacent crops. These plants often do not show obvious signs of being infected but insects feeding on them can spread the virus.

FIGURE 2. CUCUMBER MOSAIC VIRUS

a. Pale yellow and distorted leaves of a capsicum infected with CMV; b. Distorted shape and uneven ripening caused by CMV; c. Distorted fruit with necrotic spots caused by CMV.

2. CMV is spread by several types of aphids including green peach aphid and melon aphid. Aphids only need to feed for several seconds to spread the virus and it can be spread by aphids, which don’t live on capsicum but just fly through the crop-like melon aphids. This virus can also spread by seed, so it is important to use seeds from a reputable source.

3. The last virus, PMMoV, is different in that it doesn’t need an insect to spread; instead it is very stable and can survive for long periods of time in plant material and spread by contact of infected plants with healthy plants. It can also be seed borne and move longer distances through contaminated tools or machinery.

Control options Methods of control are different for each virus but resistant varieties can be used to control each disease. 1. Rogue out infected/sick plants immediately. When plants are seen with symptoms it is important to remove them and discard them away from production areas to stop them allowing disease to spread to more plants. Wearing gloves or washing your hands after handling diseased plants will help stop spread. WA Grower SPRING 2020

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2. Remove weeds near to crops, which can be infected and host insects. These may not be obviously sick so controlling all is the best option. 3. Controlling insect populations can help but is not enough on its own. CMV can be spread by aphids before insecticides can kill them, and thrips have several life stages, which don’t feed on plants and hide on the ground so aren’t killed. Monitoring crops, including with yellow sticky traps, so sprays are only used when insects are present.

This growth is pale yellow in colour but doesn’t have the blistering or necrosis sometimes seen when capsicums are infected by a virus. They are spread by leaf hoppers, which have to feed for a long time to spread the disease. Usually only a small number of plants become infected and it does not spread enough to cause large losses. Removing them and discarding them away from production areas will prevent the spread to other plants. Weeds such as nightshade can also be a source of phytoplasmas.

Controlling insect populations can help.

4. Best Practice Option: Use all three listed above to help control virus diseases in your crops.

Phytoplasmas The phytoplasmas are very different in appearance and cause plants to grow very bushy, which leads to the name Witches’ Broom Disease. The fruit and flowers will not develop properly.

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MORE INFORMATION This project has been funded by Hort Innovation using vegetable industry levies and contributions from the Australian Government, with co-investment from the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries; Victorian Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources; the Northern Territory Department of Primary Industry and Resources; Western Australia’s

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development; and the University of Tasmania. It is supported by a second smaller project led by the New South Wales Department of Primary Industries and similarly-funded by Hort Innovation using vegetable industry levies and contributions from the Australian Government and the NSW Department of Primary Industries. • C ontact Craig Webster on 0499 997 563 or email craig.webster@dpird.wa.gov.au • h ttps://ausveg.com.au/infoveg/infovegsearch/management-of-thrips-andtomato-spotted-wilt-virus/ • w ww.agric.wa.gov.au/capsicumsand-chillies/cucumber-mosaic-viruscapsicum • w ww.agric.wa.gov.au/viruses-virus/ pepper-mild-mottle-virus-pmmov

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

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3 DR Ramiz Boulos, Verigrow Company founder and Managing Director.

From humble beginnings in a university laboratory, Dr Boulos has come to discover a way of turning wool, a natural and sustainable source, into a bioavailable and biodegradable amino acid-rich product. Independent studies have shown that Verigrow is significantly better than a market leading brand in improving various plant health parameters, including biomass, plant height, root mass and NDVI (a measure of ‘greeness’). The study found Verigrow was two to five times better than the market leading brand in every parameter measured. The company, Veratin, launched the product in October last year and has been overwhelmed by the response from customers. Dr Boulos says, “We are pleased with the results customers are getting from using our product and hope that even more market gardens and farms can use our product in the future”.

The company produces Verigrow in a range of sizes from 20L and 200L, up to 1000L. The company also produces small 1L and 5L bottles for home gardens. The liquid product provides farms with flexibility in how it’s applied and can be fertigated, foliar sprayed or applied using a boom-spray. MORE INFORMATION Call us now on 0431 150 538, email us at info@veratin.com.au, or visit our website at www.veratin.com.au

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Soil mapping for farm development and infrastructure Capel Farms, Western Australia BY RACHEL LANCASTER 1 AND JULIE O’HALLORAN 2 1 ENVIRONMENTAL AND AGRICULTURAL TESTING 2 QUEENSLAND DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES

Key outcomes • Soil mapping is useful for determining soil variability across a farm, allowing different soil type areas to be treated as separate production zones. • Soil mapping helps to inform decisions about drainage options on farm.

PERTH

CAPEL

Grower Capel Farms (pictured is David Blakers, co-owner) Location Capel, Western Australia Enterprises Broccolini, English spinach, kale and chard Soil Sandy surface with silty clay soil at depth Topography Flat Average 860mm annual rainfall Precision EM38 soil mapping, drone technologies crop sensing imagery implemented

• NDVI imagery should be used on crops that have a low weed burden as excessive weeds can cause an incorrect estimation of crop biomass. • A difference in crop vigour can be determined using NDVI imagery, however detailed assessment of the imagery and field sampling is required soon after capture to provide early information for crop management decisions.

Background Precision agriculture techniques on Capel Farms had not previously been used. David Blakers, from Capel Farms was interested in using precision agriculture techniques to investigate soil properties on a new area of land being developed for vegetable production. The new development area of land was sand mined about 20 years previously and had been rehabilitated after mining to allow farming to recommence. Grazing was the predominant land use after rehabilitation.

“The EM imagery was really useful for whole farm planning for future cropping.” — David Blakers

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The surface soil in the area is mainly sand, however the mining operations had left some silty clay layers from deep in the soil profile on the soil surface. These silty clay areas did not mix well into the surrounding sandy soil and set very hard when dry. Identification and removal of the clay areas was required prior to vegetable production on the new farm. In existing vegetable cropping areas, assessing variability in soils and crop growth was of interest, to see if improvements in the existing cropping area could be made.

Activities Electromagnetic (EM38), elevation and radiometric soil mapping data was collected to identify and understand variability in soil characteristics across both the new development area and current cropping area (see Figure 1). The soil mapping activity was carried out at 14m swaths. After processing this data the resulting maps were used to locate sample points within each zone (based on both ECa and radiometric data). Soil samples were collected at each of these sample points to a depth of 60cm and analysed for soil texture, electrical conductivity, soil pH and nutrients (see Figure 2). Drone imagery was also captured across two commercial broccolini crops. This imagery included crop sensing for NDVI, a measure of crop biomass/vigour (see Figure 3).

New development soil mapping Ground-truthing of the soil maps indicated the EM38 data had accurately identified the location of clay areas, providing a guide for their removal (see Figure 4).

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FIGURE 1. EM38 SOIL MAPPING.

FIGURE 2. LEFT: SOIL TYPE AREAS IDENTIFIED FROM EM38 SOIL MAPPING. DARK BLUE AREAS INDICATE HIGHER EC AND CONTAINED CLAY, RED AREAS WERE LOWER EC AND WERE PREDOMINANTLY SAND. RIGHT: SOIL CORES SHOWING SOIL CORES FROM GROUND-TRUTHING.

Drone imagery was captured across two commercial broccolini crops.

FIGURE 3. DRONE TAKING OFF FOR PLANT COUNTS AND CROP SENSING. WA Grower SPRING 2020

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FIGURE 4. CLAY REMOVED FROM FUTURE VEGETABLE CROP AREA AFTER LOCATION USING EM38 SOIL ANALYSIS. The dark blue colour on the maps indicates a substantial amount of clay in that location, with the lighter colour areas indicating less clay was present. During removal operations, it was found that although the location of the clay areas was accurately identified, the depth of the clay layer was not accurately determined.

Elevation and depression data was also used to determine the potential flow of surface water (Figure 5), which assisted with decisions for the installation of drainage lines in the new development areas.

Soil mapping of cropped areas The EM38, elevation and radiometric mapping layers were also used to understand soil type differences in the cropped areas and formed the basis for modelling drainage across the farm. This data was used to map the location of a new drain across cropping areas that are occasionally excessively wet for vegetable production, providing better drainage of existing centre pivots (see Figure 6).

The ability to harvest plants earlier is a significant finding.

The clay layers were stratified through the soil profile to varying depths, which may have caused a false indication of the quantity of clay present in an area. However, the depth of clay to be removed was not considered to be a major concern as it was the spread of the clay across the entire paddock that was important to locate.

“The ability to harvest plants earlier is a significant finding with potential cost savings as less inputs such as water, fertiliser and pest control may be required.” — David Blakers.

Drone imagery Of the two broccolini crops where drone imagery was taken, only one had usable data. In one field the high weed burden confounded the crop vigour data as the image analysis for NDVI does not distinguish between weeds and crop. The second broccolini crop, which had a very low weed burden, provided imagery where it was possible to use NDVI to distinguish between areas of high and low crop vigour (see Figure 7). In this case: • The crop yield between the high and low areas was similar although there was a difference in the time to harvest. • The high area had a greater percentage (over 60 per cent) of the crop ready for harvest in the first six days of the harvest period compared with just 25 per cent for the low crop vigour area.

FIGURE 5. ACCUMULATED WATER FLOWS (LEFT) AND BREACH FLOW PATHS (RIGHT) MODELLED FROM ELEVATION DATA IN THE NEW DEVELOPMENT AREA. ACCUMULATED FLOW IS THE DIRECTION THE WATER COULD POTENTIALLY FLOW IF THE SOIL PROFILE IS AT FIELD CAPACITY. THE ACCUMULATED FLOW IS MODELLED BASED ON THE ELEVATION AND DEPRESSION DATA CAPTURED DURING THE EM38 MAPPING.

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• The low area had the majority (over 70 per cent) of the crop ready for harvest from days 8–13 of the harvest period, with only 35 per cent of the harvest in the high crop vigour areas remaining at 8–13 days.

Cost benefit analysis EM38 soil mapping costs were $40/ha. Soil sampling and analysis was additional and included soil texture, electrical conductivity, soil pH and exchangeable cations. This mapping proved extremely valuable for both clay removal on new development areas and understanding soil type differences in existing vegetable production areas.

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PERCENT HARVESTED (%)

FIGURE 6. USING ELEVATION DATA CAPTURED WITH EM38 SOIL MAPPING (TOP LEFT) COMBINED WITH DEPRESSION DATA (TOP RIGHT) AND LANDSCAPE CHANGE (THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN ELEVATION AND DEPRESSION LAYERS) (BOTTOM LEFT) HAS ALLOWED CAPEL FARMS TO IDENTIFY LOCATIONS TO INSTALL FARM DRAINS (BOTTOM RIGHT).

80.0 70.0 60.0 50.0 40.0 30.0 20.0 10.0 0.0

1–6 days Low (average) High (average)

8–13 days

HARVEST DAY

FIGURE 7. HAND HARVEST MATURITY DATA FROM HIGH AND LOW BIOMASS AREAS (LEFT) AND THE HARVEST SAMPLE AREA IN THE HIGH BIOMASS ZONE IDENTIFIED USING NDVI IMAGERY. WA Grower SPRING 2020

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Drone crop sensing imagery was captured over two existing centre pivots. The costs for this imagery were $500 for drone imagery capture, $300 for associated data processing, and $550 for travel. Travel costs would vary with location, and data capture and processing costs are dependent on the area of crop to be mapped.

Challenges and considerations with crop sensing using drones While crop sensing imagery can provide an indication of how crop health and vigour varies it is not without some challenges. These include: • Differentiation of weeds from crops to provide an accurate estimation of crop biomass. It is important when using NDVI imagery to consider the weed burden in the crop and if this

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is likely to cause false results for biomass determination. • Timing of crop sensing operations is critical. Too late in the crop and crop biomass may be too high so that NDVI ‘saturates’ and the variability is not evident in the bulk of the biomass. Similarly, too early in a crop and the plants may be too small to properly sense or complete different image analyses.

Mention of a particular product or brand name does not imply endorsement in preference to other products that are capable of offering similar performance or service. Costs presented in this document were accurate as of October 2019. These will change over time and between data processing service providers.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS DAF acknowledges the assistance and contribution of the participating landholder, David Blakers, in undertaking this case study. DISCLAIMER The information contained herein is subject to change without notice. The Queensland Government shall not be liable for technical or other errors or omissions contained herein. The reader/user accepts all risks and responsibility for losses, damages, costs and other consequences resulting directly or indirectly from using this information.

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Sustainable agriculture for a sustainable future IN THE SUMMER of 1982, a research scientist took a well-earned holiday in the sunny Caribbean. While touring the local sights with his wife, he visited an abandoned rum distillery on a tiny tropical island. Quietly wandering through the old buildings, he was struck by the ghostly, eerie silence. In a climate where the incessant buzz of insect life droned 24 hours a day, the sudden quiet was deafening. Intrigued, he took some soil samples and transported them back to the United States for testing. What he and his team discovered was a unique soil bacterium that produces active metabolites (spinosyns) that gave excellent control of certain insect pests. Years of development and exhaustive testing followed, culminating in the release of Entrust® Organic, a product characterised by its efficacy equivalent to synthetic insecticides, but with the safety and environmental profile of a biological.

Entrust® Organic received regulatory approval by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) in July 2020, and will be available this October. Naturally derived, highly effective and fast-acting, Entrust Organic has long been anticipated by the Australian agricultural market. Its organic certification, favourable environmental profile and selectivity to key beneficial insects make it ideally suited to many Integrated Pest Management (IPM) systems. Entrust Organic belongs to a unique insecticide group known as the ‘Spinosyns’. A group 5 insecticide for resistance management, shared only by one other product, Success® Neo.

WA Grower SPRING 2020

The introduction of Entrust Organic offers organic growers a new resistance management tool for the selective control of some of Australia’s most damaging pests. As with all insecticides, it is beholden on users to rotate between different chemical Modes of Action (MoA) in accordance with label directions to prevent the onset of resistance. The broad label covers more than 80 registered crops, including a wide range of fruit and vegetables, making it extremely versatile for farmers with mixed enterprises. Entrust Organic offers growers effective control of several damaging Lepidoptera species including Diamondback moth, Heliothis, Cluster caterpillar, Light brown apple moth and many other caterpillar pests including loopers. It also controls Western flower thrip, leaf miner and Cherry slugs (Diptera). The recent arrival of Fall Army Worm (FAW) in Northern Australia earlier this year presented significant challenges for organic producers. Subsequently, the APVMA approved an emergency use permit (PER89870) for the use of Entrust Organic which is welcome news for growers struggling to control FAW.

Corteva Agriscience Marketing manager Nick Koch said: “Biological products are often associated with lower levels of performance compared to that of synthetic insecticides.” Contrary to belief, this could not be further from the truth when assessing the performance of Entrust Organic. “Growers will be delighted with the speed of control and activity across multiple life stages”. “It’s hard to imagine a product that is so effective at controlling pests being environmentally sustainable, but this is certainly the case,” said Mr Koch. “Organic and conventional producers of fruit and vegetables now have a pest control option that ticks all the boxes. They can rest assured knowing that their crop protection choices will provide them with a sustainable future for this generation into the next.” MORE INFORMATION Entrust® Organic will be available in limited supply from October. To register your interest, visit entrust-organic.corteva.com. au or call Corteva Agriscience toll free on 1800 700 096.

TOOL TIME

TOOL

TIME

your

production WA Grower SPRING 2020

TOOL TIME

Innovative treatment prevents spread of bacteria across metal surfaces BY CHRIS ADAM

TOOL

A TREATMENT THAT KILLS BACTERIA

WHAT DOES IT DO

THE TECHNOLOGY APPLIES PRIMARILY TO FOOD PROCESSING AND CUTTING SURFACES, WHICH CAN BE ESPECIALLY VULNERABLE TO BACTERIA GROWTH 3RESEARCHERS at Purdue University have developed technology to create a hard metal surface that kills bacteria that try to attach to the surface.

WHO WOULD USE IT

FOOD PROCESSING BUSINESSES 3 THIS image shows a peptide release test, with the increased purple colour showing more peptides being released.

THE COST

CONTACT PURDUE RESEARCH FOUNDATION OFFICE

MORE INFORMATION

CONTACT OTCIP@PRF.ORG OR CLADAM@PRF.ORG

WA Grower SPRING 2020

RESEARCHERS AT PURDUE University have developed a treatment to infuse a hardened metal surface with naturally occurring antimicrobial peptides. The Purdue team’s technology creates a hard metal surface that kills bacteria that try to attach to the surface.

“When we create an oxidised metal surface with nanometre-wide and micrometre-deep cracks, peptides can be infused in these microscopic cracks with a simple wet process,” said David Bahr, head and professor of materials engineering at Purdue, who leads the team.

TOOL TIME

“As an additional benefit, the process can colour several metals, providing a visual indication of when the surface is no longer antimicrobial.” Bahr said this technology applies primarily to food processing and cutting surfaces, which can be especially vulnerable to bacteria growth and attachment given the materials and surface designs. “Our technology can help ensure that if a food processing facility was chopping salad greens, bacteria would not transfer from a contaminated surface to a cutting tool, thereby contaminating many more parts,” Bahr said.

The material stored in the cracks releases over time, leading to extended times of antimicrobial resistance. The oxidation process creates an optically coloured material, which provides a simple visual indicator of wear or degradation in antimicrobial performance.

The process has been demonstrated on stainless steel and Reducing the risk titanium and is of foodborne illness applicable to a wide outbreaks. range of commercial metal alloys.

“When used in conjunction with food washing and other safe handling, this should allow fewer outbreaks of foodborne illness.” Preliminary testing verified that the treated surfaces provide antibacterial properties in excess of the untreated surfaces.

The team worked with the Purdue Research Foundation Office of Technology Commercialisation to patent the technology. The creators are looking for partners to commercialise their technology. For more information on licensing this innovation, contact Dipak Narula of OTC at dnarula@prf.org and reference track code 2017-BAHR-67842.

About Purdue Research Foundation Office of Technology Commercialization The Purdue Research Foundation Office of Technology Commercialisation operates one of the most comprehensive technology transfer programs among leading research universities in the US.

MORE INFORMATION See how Purdue never stops in the persistent pursuit of the next giant leap at purdue.edu. Contact otcip@prf.org or cladam@prf.org for more information.

Why more WA farmers are switching to Achmea When you choose Achmea, you choose a direct and specialist farm insurer that always gets to know your farm-first hand. Backed by over 200 years’ farm insurance expertise, Achmea is committed to keeping farmers farming. Find out why more local farmers are switching, get a quote today. Dianna Janett Risk Specialist South West region 0408 816 464

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Call our WA team today on 1800 724 214, visit achmea.com.au or email info@achmea.com.au Insurance issued by Achmea Schadeverzekeringen N.V. (Achmea) ABN 86 158 237 702 AFSL 433984. This information is general advice only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or personal circumstances. Before using this information to decide whether to purchase the insurance policy, you should consider your personal circumstances and the relevant PDS available from the ‘Downloads’ section of achmea.com.au. Achmea Schadeverzekeringen N.V. ABN 86 158 237 702 AFSL 433984.

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WA Grower SPRING 2020

TOOL TIME

Blockbuster online training and tools to assist your farming enterprise BY JOEL DINSDALE | QUALITY ASSURANCE COORDINATOR, VEGETABLESWA

TIMES HAVE CHANGED — we need only look at businesses such as Kodak or Blockbuster Video to get an indication as to how markets shift. This is known as “The Blockbuster Effect”. Farming is not immune from this phenomenon. External pressures are such that farming enterprises have had to adjust with the times and the training/tools space is one such area where the Blockbuster Effect is taking shape. There is a clear shift towards online training/tools to facilitate more training and increase efficiencies.

With Blockbuster Video firmly in mind…I reminisced about the good-old-days when I used to rent videos and DVDs. My friend Todd owned and ran my local store, so I spent many a weekend hiring videos to pass the cold winters in Margaret River. After hiring what seemed like all the videos in the store, I began to look at the recommendation tags that used to sit below on the shelves so I could pick the best with ease. With that, I said to myself “wouldn’t it be great if there was recommended list of Blockbuster Online Training/Tools that could assist our WA Growers?”. Such a list does not exist (I checked), so I thought I’d give it a crack and create one (with the help of the vegetablesWA team).

So, here’s a list of tools that the team can’t live without: Joel’s top pick: I’d like to recommend Plant Health Australia’s Biosecurity Online Training. Does it get anymore important than protecting your industry by implementing biosecurity on farm? www.planthealthaustralia.com.au/resources/ training/biosecurity-online-training/

Sam’s top pick: Sam is often asked about chemicals when engaging growers. Sam recommends the APVMA’s Pubcris to determine if a chemical is appropriate for use on your crop(s). https://portal.apvma.gov.au/ pubcris

Truyen’s top pick:

Truyen has been busy assisting growers with water. Given that water is a critical resource required in production horticulture, he recommends using the DPIRD Irrigate WA app. www.agric.wa.gov.au/apps/irrigate-wa

Amber’s top pick: Amber is our Communications genius in charge of our vegetablesWA’s communications. Her recommendation for DIY graphic design is Canva.

Melissa’s top pick: Studium is an online website that connects employer with jobseeker. WA Grower SPRING 2020

www.studium.work

Manus’ top pick: For those businesses that are thinking about exporting produce, vegetablesWA has a link to a free Export Checklist. https://vegetableswa.com.au/wp-content/ uploads/2018/12/EFP-Checklist_LR.pdf

John’s top pick: John recommends the MyPestGuide Reporter App for help identifying those tricky pests and diseases that aren’t always straight forward to identify.

Online training/tools to facilitate more training and increase efficiencies.

www.canva.com/en_au/

Check it out to fulfill your labour requirements (for free).

www.agric.wa.gov.au/apps/ mypestguide-reporter

Bryn’s top pick: While engaging with DPIRD, Bryn has identified a neat fertiliser tool that’s a must for growers.

www.agric.wa.gov.au/fertiliser-calculator

Karen’s top pick: Karen recommends the Harvest to Home website. This neat website provides details on vegetable consumer insights that can assist growers when making decisions in the crop space. www.harvesttohome.net.au MORE INFORMATION Have you got a favourite Online Training and/ or Tool that you’d like to share with other WA Growers? We’d love to hear about it! Contact us at comms@vegetableswa.com.au

YOUR INDUSTRY

your

industry Your industry WA Grower SPRING 2020

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Frankie Galati o t a t o p a n o g Carryin growing legacy

The increasing costs of production keeps us focused on innovation.

LANCELIN

PERTH

MYALUP

PARKFIELD MANJIMUP

3 FRANKIE Galati (right) with his brother, Sebastian Galati.

Name Frankie Galati Business Galati Group Age 30 Location Manjimup, Myalup, Parkfield and Lancelin Size 650 hectares Enterprises Potatoes, carrots, onions, broccoli Q How did you first become involved in the potato industry? I was born into the industry. The Galati Group of Companies was birthed out of a family business that started two generations before me. There is a long history of fighting for the rights of potato farmers to be able to grow sufficient produce to service the expanding market.

WA Grower SPRING 2020

Q Your family opened the first Spudshed in Western Australia over 20 years ago. What does Spudshed provide to consumers over in the west in terms of fresh produce? We provide quality fruit and vegetables directly from our farm at an affordable price and value for our customers, and also continue to supply sustainable and profitable produce industry for the future.

Q What does your role as the CEO involve, and what are your responsibilities? I have a lot of responsibilities. I work across the business operationally, financially and culturally. I like to take a ‘hands-on’ approach and get involved in all aspects of the business.

Q What do you enjoy most about working in the potato industry, and how do you maintain your enthusiasm? Eating potatoes! And I am grateful for all the opportunities that the industry provides for our company and the community. I enjoy the whole idea of growing vegetables as it is a requirement for every person everyone needs to eat.

Q What are the biggest challenges you face working in the industry, and how do you overcome them? Finding good water availability, and also land that is suitable and feasible to grow on. The increasing costs of production keeps us focused on innovation as well as being environmentally conscious.

YOUR INDUSTRY

Currently we are facing major labour shortages in the industry due to the COVID-19 crisis this has now led to an increase in labour costs as farmer and producers are all trying to hold onto their employees and poach others.

Q Where do you receive your practical advice and information from? A whole range of resources, economists, growers and my own research. I also rely heavily on agronomists, and other agricultural specialists who keep us on the cutting edge of crop protection and efficiency of resource uptake.

Q You pursued a modelling career, which led you to places around the world, including Sydney, Paris, Milan and New York. Why did you decide to return to the family business? Because I wanted to study business and chose to work with my family. I also wanted to return home for my girlfriend now wife if I’m really honest.

Q You also completed a commerce degree at Notre Dame University in Western Australia. How has this assisted you in your current role within the Spudshed business? This degree has given me the foundation I require to oversee the financial aspects of the business, as well as the ability to manage it more

effectively. It has given me the professional tools to secure the future of the family business.

Q Where do you see opportunities for growth in the Australian potato industry? I see opportunities for export and pushing the local market to pursue those avenues. I would also like to see the health benefits of potatoes being publicised more.

Q Where do you see both yourself and Spudshed in five years’ time? I see Spudshed continuing to be a sustainable business and continuing to be strong retail player. We would like to continue to provide consumers with fruit and vegetables that are of a high standard. Being sustainable and environmentallyconscious is at the core and heart of the business both now and into the future.

Q How do you think more young people could be encouraged to study and take up jobs in the potato industry? I think my father, Tony Galati, put the Western Australian potato industry on the map and if there were more people like him, it would help bring more focus to this industry. I also think schools need to provide options for students to learn more about the industry so that interest can be sparked at a much earlier age. Most people today would not have any idea on how their food is produced and what is required to get it to the shelves, if people did understand this, I believe more younger people would be brought into the industry.

Being sustainable and environmentally-conscious is at the core and heart of the business.

Q What is your vision for both the Western Australian and the national potato industry in the future? A continual growth and availability of potatoes with a growth in the export market, as well as varietal selection to give people a wider selection to choose from at retailers.

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Buy local message to support WA businesses BY MELISSA WORTHINGTON PROGRAM MANAGER, BUY WEST EAT BEST

estern Australians are reminded to ‘buy local’ and support the State’s important agriculture, fisheries, food and beverage industries — a message even more important as businesses reset from the impacts of COVID-19.

The next stage of the State Government’s Good Choice, WA marketing campaign delivered through the Buy West Eat Best (BWEB) program, has been brought forward to support businesses and champion the ‘buy local’ message.

The awareness campaign, first introduced to consumers in 2017, is a call to action to encourage shoppers to think local, buy local and dine out locally.

“The campaign provides a platform to celebrate the fresh, seasonal worldclass premium food being produced across Western Australia,” Ms Pett said. “This is particularly important as consumers are placing increased importance on knowing where their food is originating from. WA Grower SPRING 2020

Independent consumer research undertaken in April this year showed seven out of 10 shoppers recalled the Good Choice, WA campaign. Ms Pett said more than 70 per cent of all research respondents felt the campaign was important to support the WA economy and encouraged them to buy local. “The campaign messaging helps consumers to feel connected and

Seven out of 10 shoppers recall the Good Choice, WA campaign.

Department Food Industry Development manager Deborah Pett said consumers will once again be hearing and seeing, the Good Choice, WA message in supermarkets, online and across television and radio.

“Good Choice, WA is helping to get people thinking again about buying local to support our farmers, food and beverage producers and processors as part of the recovery from COVID19 impacts.”

informed about the WA food and beverage industry, and reinforces their decisions to buy local,” she said. The WA Stonefruit Industry, first time partners in the Good Choice, WA campaign have found it invaluable to be involved to promote the fantastic stonefruit produced across the State. “The work done through the Buy West Eat Best program provides terrific support to Western Australia’s food and beverage industries, particularly though the successful Good Choice, WA campaign,” said Stonefruit SubCommitte Chairman Danny Di Marco.

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3THE campaign messaging helps consumers to feel connected and informed about the WA food and beverage industry, and reinforces their decisions to buy local.

“Being a partner in the Good choice, WA campaign has added value to our industry-driven marketing program, with invitations to participate in a range of media activities and strengthen our retailer relationships.”

The Buy West Eat Best program is administered through the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. BWEB has been supporting its 178 members from across the state, including producers, processors, retailers, restaurants, chefs and distributors, as they have had to adapt and change their business models over the past few months.

About Buy West Eat Best • West Australian businesses that display the Buy West Eat Best logo must meet stringent criteria for local content and quality. The program is administrated by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development in Western Australia. • The distinctive bite mark logo of Buy West Eat Best enables Western Australian shoppers to clearly identify food and beverage products which have been grown, farmed, fished and processed right here in WA. • Three quarters of all WA shoppers now say they recall the Buy West Eat Best brand. • Over the past 12 years, program membership has grown from 38 founding members to 178 members state-wide (94 regional and 84 metro based). Members include major and independent retailers, small growers, artisan producers,

For fresh products the products must be 100% grown, fished or farmed in Western Australia.

large-scale processors, restaurants, chefs and food service providers. • The voluntary food labelling program navigates the complexity of servicing a vast and diverse base of business and industry from across the supply chain. • For fresh products, such as fruit, vegetables, meat, and seafood, the products must be 100 per cent grown, fished or farmed in Western Australia. For grocery items, food such as sauces, yoghurts, cheese, bread or pies, the main ingredients must be grown, fished or farmed in Western Australia and the product must be processed and transformed in Western Australia. • The team at Buy West Eat Best works across the state engaging with top chefs, caterers and retailers to bring member produce into the hearts, minds and mouths of Western Australian foodies.

MORE INFORMATION If you would like further information regarding the Good choice, WA campaign or would like to join the Buy West Eat Best program email feedback@buywesteatbest. wa.gov.au www.buywesteatbest.org.au

For more information contact the Buy West Eat Best team on 1800 132 422 or by email feedback@buywesteatbest.wa.gov.au @buywesteatbest

@buywesteatbest

Buy West Eat Best

Show us how you support local by tagging #buywesteatbest

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A range of measures are being implemented to strengthen eradication activities.

3 DPIRD has been working since March to eradicate Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worst fruit pest following the detection of five male Qfly in the Perth suburb of Dalkeith.

r o f s t r o f f e p u g n i p p e St

Queensland fruit fly eradication

WA Grower SPRING 2020

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he Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is stepping up its Queensland fruit fly (Qfly) eradication program, with a range of measures being implemented to strengthen eradication activities.

3 DPIRD has developed an expansive and integrated eradication program incorporating a number of initiatives, many of which have not been used in recent Qfly responses.

Baiting and trapping activities not used in recent Qfly responses in WA have been central to the expansive and integrated program. This is aimed at maximising the opportunity for eradication in the shortest timeframe possible. DPIRD has been working since March to eradicate Australia’s worst fruit pest following the detection of five male Qfly in the Perth suburb of Dalkeith. The approximately 1,100 hectare Quarantine Area (QA) declared in early April was expanded in July, increasing the QA to about 2050 hectares and about 15,000 individual premises.

The QA was increased due to detections close to its border. The QA now includes all or parts of the Perth suburbs of Dalkeith, Claremont, Nedlands, Crawley, Mount Claremont, Cottesloe, Peppermint Grove and Shenton Park. The expanded QA will enable surveillance and baiting activities, fruit management and movement requirements to be introduced over a larger area to prevent spread and ensure eradication. DPIRD Chief Plant Biosecurity Officer Sonya Broughton said Western Australia was now facing its largest Qfly outbreak since WA’s very first Qfly incursion in 1989. “DPIRD is committing significant resources to this response, including close to 200 personnel (as of August 2020) to manage eradication activities, to carry out baiting, trapping and surveillance, and to staff a dedicated call centre to facilitate property access,” Dr Broughton said.

“At the start of the program, eradication activities were focused only on premises close to points of detection, which has since grown to some 5000 premises. The program is now changing focus, to target the nearly 15,000 premises within the recently expanded Quarantine Area to deliver an array of initiatives.” Dr Broughton said this was a mammoth undertaking, the biggest since the 1989 Qfly eradication program, and is heavily reliant on community support for ongoing property visits and ensuring compliance with the QA requirements.

“Additionally, for everyone within the Quarantine Area, Qfly would severely impact home-grown fruit and fruiting vegetables. “If Qfly were to become established in WA, we would be the only Australian state to have populations of both Qfly and Mediterranean fruit fly, which is already endemic throughout the state.”

DPIRD’s eradication program at a glance

DPIRD is committing significant resources to this response, including close to 200 personnel.

“It is an enormous challenge to generate this support in eight suburbs across six local government areas, but DPIRD is committed to pursuing every possible option to protect our horticulture industries by eradicating this serious pest from WA,” she said. Dr Broughton said Qfly was the most important economic pest of the Australian horticultural industries. “A DPIRD cost benefit analysis has shown that loss of area freedom from Qfly will cost WA $38 million per year. If eradication is not successful, WA may lose access to national and international markets, such as the exports of avocados to Japan.

DPIRD has developed an expansive and integrated eradication program incorporating a number of initiatives, many of which have not been used in recent Qfly responses.

The goal is to prevent spread by prohibiting the movement of host fruit without treatment, and prevent the laying of eggs and pupation through the regular removal of ripe and ripening host fruit. Other initiatives are aimed at reducing the Qfly population to a level where the opportunity for breeding is minimised, and eventually eliminated.

Quarantine Area Notice A Quarantine Area Notice (QAN) came into effect on 3 April 2020, which applied to the Perth suburbs of Dalkeith, Claremont and Nedlands.

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The new QAN came into effect on 10 July 2020, expanding the QA requirements to Mount Claremont, Shenton Park, Cottesloe, Peppermint Grove and Crawley. The QAN stipulates that Qfly host fruit must not be taken out of the QA unless treated, that ripe and ripening host fruit must be removed from plants and picked up from the ground every three days, and that host fruit must be either eaten, or treated and bagged before being put into general waste bins (not into the green waste bin or compost bins).

Treatment includes cooking, freezing for 24 hours, or solarising in a sealed, heavyduty black plastic bag by placing in direct sunlight on a hard surface for a minimum of seven days. A decision was taken early in the eradication program to issue Pest Control Notices (PCN) if property access was not granted to confirm compliance with the QAN. The PCN requires that all fruit, regardless of ripeness, be removed from plants on the property and, if not complied with, will result in remedial action by DPIRD.

To counter the reduced baiting capacity, an intensive baiting program will commence in early September (read on for more).

Surveillance In addition to baiting, property visits are required to inspect host fruit for possible Qfly damage, collect samples to determine if they contain Qfly larvae and to inspection of any Qfly lure traps that are present. As part of its surveillance program, DPIRD has also introduced the use of intelligence teams to investigate host spot areas with the aim of locating any breeding populations of Qfly. Surveillance has also provided DPIRD the opportunity to ensure that QAN requirements are being complied with.

Trapping Qfly was first detected in March 2020 in DPIRD’s permanent grid of about 3000 Lynfield Qfly lure traps, which are located throughout the Perth metropolitan area, Bunbury/ Busselton, Gingin, Manjimup, and in the Ord River Irrigation Area at Kununurra. Following detection, supplementary traps continue to be installed around each Qfly detection to better determine numbers and spread. As of August 2020, there were more than 1700 Lynfield traps within the QA.

Qfly host fruit must not be taken out of the QA unless treated.

Baiting Since March 2020, DPIRD has been regularly visiting premises close to the detection points, known as the Outbreak Zone (encompassing close to 5000 premises), to apply insecticide bait to host trees. The bait used is a registered organic insecticide called Naturalure®. A small amount is applied to the trunk or foliage of Qfly host trees or shade trees (where no host trees are present) as a spot, and Qfly die on ingestion. Street trees within these areas have also been regularly baited. While the intention was to bait these properties at least weekly, baiting has been delayed by rain, COVID-19 Pandemic considerations, and capacity to schedule property visits to an ever-growing number of properties in the Outbreak Zone (which continues to increase in response to increased detections).

WA Grower SPRING 2020

To enhance eradication activities, DPIRD commenced mass trapping (50 traps per hectare) using BioLure traps in ‘hotspot’ areas within the Outbreak Zone. These traps are a supplementary measure that attract and kill both male and female Qfly, whereas Lynfield lure traps only attract male Qfly.

Amulet® Cue-Lure fruit fly stations (Male Annihilation Technique — MIT) DPIRD has started deploying Amulet® Cue-Lure (ACL) fruit fly stations on all properties within the QA. These lures are cardboard wafers, which attract and kill male Qfly, reducing numbers to such a low level that successful mating does not occur. The ACL are impregnated with the parapheromone Cue-Lure and a minute amount of fipronil, a broadspectrum nonsystemic insecticide.

MIT is not a stand-alone technique, which means it must be carried out in conjunction with baiting and trapping.

Spring baiting program An intensive baiting program will commence in early September 2020. Three areas will be targeted within the QA — the Double Baiting Area, the Extended Area and the Remaining Area. Double Baiting Qfly response personnel will need to access properties twice per week during this two-week period (four visits in total) to carry out intensive baiting activities, with a return to weekly baiting for 12 weeks thereafter. Extended Area Qfly response personnel will visit these properties to check whether host plants are present and if any fruit is infested. The properties will be visited once a week for 12 weeks to bait Qfly host and other shady plants. Remaining Area Response personnel will visit properties in this area once a week for 12 weeks to bait Qfly host and other shady plants. Ongoing street baiting will also be undertaken. On conclusion of the Spring Baiting Program, DPIRD plans to introduce sterile Qfly to the QA, using the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT), early in 2021.

Community education An important aspect of the eradication program has been building awareness of the QAN requirements, and building trust with the community to facilitate ongoing property access to carry out eradication activities. This has included dedicated efforts to build relationships with local government, businesses/retailers in the QA, schools and community groups to assist with communications and QAN compliance. MORE INFORMATION More information is available at: agric.wa.gov.au/qflyupdate

Fair Farms Certification accepted by all three major retailers

he Australian horticulture sector continues to back the industry developed Fair Farms Training and Certification Program demonstrating industry’s commitment to stamping out workplace non-compliance and worker exploitation. Fair Farms is built on the idea that compliant and ethical employers should be recognised and rewarded for their efforts by their customers and consumers, who may choose to buy Australian produce from ethically verified sources.

In a positive outcome for the program, Coles recently confirmed it would now accept Fair Farms Certification as a way by which fresh produce suppliers can demonstrate compliance with the Coles Ethical Sourcing Policy. This announcement by Coles means Fair Farms Certification is now accepted by all three major retailers in Australia: Coles, Woolworths and Aldi.

Coles General Manager Fresh Produce Craig Taylor said the supermarket was proud to give the Fair Farms training and certification program the tick of approval. “Around 95 per cent of the fresh produce we sell comes from Australian farms, and it’s important to Coles and to our customers that the workers in our supply chain are treated fairly. “By adopting this additional industrybased solution that can be used by all suppliers regardless of who buys their produce, Coles is making it easier for Aussie farmers to meet ethical workplace standards.”

New National Program Manager announced

PHOTO © GROWCOM

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3 MARSHA Aralar, Fair Farms National Program Manager

Eager to strengthen relationships across horticultural and grower communities, Ms Aralar’s international qualifications in quality assurance and public health coupled with an energetic personality mark an exciting new period for Fair Farms. “Our goal from here is to build a critical mass of Fair Farms certified businesses. This will enable ethical buyers and sellers to work towards improving the conditions for farm workers, stamping out exploitation,” Ms Aralar said.

“95% of the fresh produce we sell comes from Australian farms...” Craig Taylor, COLES

Fair Farms in August announced the appointment of Marsha Aralar as its new National Program Manager. Ms Aralar brings a wealth of experience to her role as National Program Manager, having worked in a variety of food safety and compliance roles across Australia and the Middle East. “In my previous role I was lucky enough to get onto farms and get my boots dirty. I really enjoy engaging with growers, getting to understand their business and concerns, and helping them meet market and regulatory requirements,” Ms Aralar said.

“It is an exciting time to join the team at Growcom. I am looking forward to further enhancing Fair Farms and driving the continued success of the program and showcasing our world-class growers.”

Fair Farms is developed and delivered by Growcom with support from the Fair Work Ombudsman, the Federal Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment and AUSVEG. MORE INFORMATION For more information visit the Fair Farms website: www.fairfarms.com.au

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Always read the fine print in your Audit Contract.

Requesting an audit A

s with all farm products and services, it is always a great idea to do your due diligence when seeking a service such as a farm audit. Seek out appropriate Certification Bodies that can provide audits for the standards you are seeking certification, and check that they have appropriately qualified auditors available in your operating locations.

If it’s a Freshcare audit you’re after, there are currently seven approved Certification Bodies (CB’s) that can provide an audit for your business. See the Freshcare website for details (www.freshcare.com.au/ auditing-and-certification). When obtaining a quote for audit, there are some variables that must be compared between the quotes offered for an audit from different Certification Bodies.

WA Grower SPRING 2020

Quote variables:

1 Independence Certification Bodies operate independently of the standards they audit and independently of each other, therefore quotes and offering will vary between Certification Bodies for one standard such as Freshcare. 2 Availability Are you able to schedule an audit to occur during the appropriate time e.g. your businesses harvest and packing window? Freshcare audits must occur during harvest and operating periods (picking and/or packing crops) as per the Freshcare Rules Edition 4.3. This is an important variable to consider as there may be ramifications with customers if an audit cannot be undertaken at the appropriate time and hence certification is not achieved. 3 Cost How much will it cost and what are the components quoted? You need to make sure that you’re comparing similar services in the quotes provided. The Freshcare Certification fee will also be captured at audit; has this fee been outlined in your quotes provided? Freshcare provides a breakdown of their fees on their website www.freshcare.com.au/ about/freshcare-fee-structure

4 Travel Has a travel component been quoted and if so, how is it applied? Check whether the Certification Body has a local auditor, or if an auditor is being dispatched from another location and is a travel cost incurred if so. Read the fine print in your Audit Contract (supplied prior to audit). It’s worth noting that if the CB has other clients in the region that require audits in the same window then travel costs may be shared, so consider discussing your options with other growers in your region and then the Certification Body. 5 Service If you are a business that is undergoing a Recertification Audit (i.e. you had an audit to the same system last year) and you received a good level of service, support and you had a good experience, why not reward that CB with your next audit? On the other hand, if things did not go well, you could consider shifting to another CB. Afterall, you are the customer so you are entitled to feel satisfied following the delivery of a service for a fee.

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This allows a participating business to complete an online form, which initiates contact between the business requiring the audit and the chosen Certification Bodies.

Freshcare audits must occur during harvest and operating periods. 3 CERTIFICATION Bodies operate independently of the standards they audit and independently of each other.

The CB’s will be notified of your request and they will be able to provide you with a quote to complete your audit. This means that anyone with access to a smartphone or computer can quickly and easily obtain a quote for a Freshcare audit.

If you are reading this and you’re thinking… ‘Hmmm, I’d actually like to shop around to see if there’s a better deal out there but I’m feeling overwhelmed’ — then you’re in luck! Freshcare has recently made some additions to their website and have added an Audit Request Form (www.freshcare.com.au/auditing-andcertification/audit-request)

MORE INFORMATION Do you find Quality Assurance difficult? Have you made significant changes to your business farming operations? Have you had a recent food safety incident? Are you aware of QA system changes? Do you want to discuss your Quality Assurance options? Perhaps it’s time for a Quality Assurance Health Check. Contact vegetablesWA’s Quality Assurance Coordinator Joel Dinsdale for a QA Health Check (joel.dinsdale@ vegetableswa.com.au).

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Horticulture Career Pathways Mundaring Christian College V isit

BY SAM GRUBIŠA INDUSTRY EXTENSION OFFICER, VEGETABLESWA

orticulture is life. Well, it’s my life and has been since I can remember. Much of my childhood is filled with memories of building go karts out of old wooden crates so my sister could tow my cousin and I down the hill behind the tractor, “helping” my Dida chop Rhubarb crowns with a massive cleaver for transplanting and wiping my after-school snack (Dad’s baby carrots) in my armpit to get the dirt and residual chook poo off before I ate it.

Admittedly in today’s world, there are a few questionable antics listed, yet I dare you to show me a more charmed childhood. It must have left an impression…coz look at me now! I’m still involved in the industry that gave me a fairly unique set of life skills, an appreciation for hard work and a vocabulary to rival that of even the most seasoned sailor. So, when vegetablesWA was approached by Mundaring Christian College to speak to a group of high school kids about the merits of a career in Horticulture; and my name was the only one put forward as speaker…I was slightly concerned.

The career possibilities in horticulture are endless...

WA Grower SPRING 2020

Could I do it? Absolutely! Could I keep it “unsailor-y”, while representing the industry I love to a bunch of impressionable minds? Hopefully!

Karen, Amber and I met in the car park of VegWA HQ early on August 5th for our trek up into the hills. After fighting with a USB that refused to be a team player, we were on our way. On arrival (after I skilfully drove IN the exit) we were ushered straight through to the first presentation.

I remember being 16…I was awful (ask my Mum)…so I was prepared for the worst. You can imagine my surprise when we walked into a room of conscious, engaged teenagers. As we were in “The Hills” surrounded by trees and properties of acreage, I’d hedged my bets and hoped at least a few of these bright, young minds would know something about the food they eat.

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3 A career in science doesn’t have to be “medical”, it can also cover the unexplored world of Phytopathology, plant disease epidemiology or pathosystem genetics.

Hydrologist Ecologist R&D Agri-Scientist Biosecurity Officer Geneticist Food Technology Scientist Food Safety Consultant Environmental Consultant Legislation and Policy Advocate Export Market Consultant International Market Analyst Agribusiness Lawyer QA Regulatory & Compliance Consultant Financial Analyst/Consultant Commodity Trader Horticultural Economist Sales Representative Environmental Advocate Innovation Strategist

Science

Maths/Engineering/ Technology

Environmental Engineer Mechanical Engineer Precision Agriculture Technician Electrician Surveyor Transportation and Logistics AgTech Technician Mechanic

GROWER

? Business/Law/ Economics

Other

Ag School Teacher University Lecturer Horticulture Training Advisor Journalism Design and Fashion You???

FIGURE 1. HORTICULTURE POSSIBILITIES Source: Career Avenues for Horticulture

To my delight, the three sneaky Hort facts I had sourced (including the difference between a green and red Capsicum being simply — maturity and chlorophyll degradation) didn’t fool the kids for a second…unlike a couple of my adult colleagues. So far so good!

I threw a picture of the “Spud King” and me looking delightful in my wet weather slicks into the presentation, as a reference point of what Horticulture really looks like and I’m pleased to say Ms G was an instant hit. I went on to introduce the idea that a career in science doesn’t have to be “medical”, it can also cover the unexplored world of Phytopathology, plant disease epidemiology or pathosystem genetics.

Just as Maths, Engineering and Technology aren’t only for the Elon Musk’s of the world. I know from experience, the sweet relief of seeing Mr MalBusiness/Law/Economics the Mechanic’s ute pull up at the gate just as the “Ol’ Girls” hydraulics carked! When it comes to business, law and economics the industry would grind to a halt without the QA regulators, commodity traders or policy advocates that support the Growers from afar. I was there to tell them why Horticulture is a career path they should definitely consider and…they seemed to actually pay attention. At the end there was the obligatory “Thanks Miss” and “Thanks for your time, Miss”, but there was one young man who was the last to leave. As he walked past me, he stopped and said

Other “That was really good. Thanks a lot, you know…you should be a teacher”.

Rather than tell you the thoughts that went through my mind at his suggestion of my own career change, I’ll leave you with the words I finished my presentation with… “I dare you to show me an industry that would allow a feral, often barefoot, occasionally foul mouthed, truck driving farm girl to stand as the link between its stakeholders and the wider community, including the impressionable minds of the next generation, to speak of its benefits and importance. I’m living the dream!” MORE INFORMATION Contact Sam Grubiša, phone (08) 9486 7515 or email sam.grubisa@vegetableswa.com.au

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0 2 0 2 g n i r p S

VegNET RDO Update

BY SAM GRUBIŠA REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT OFFICER, VEGETABLESWA

pring has sprung…the grass has rizz…I wonder where the virus is?

Unfortunately, it has still got our muchloved rivals over on the East Coast in a choke hold. Speaking with my national extension fam earlier today, I could really see the sighs of “Oh man…I’m so OVER this malarkey!” written all over their faces. It really was a reminder to not take for granted the freedom we have here in WA. While I may be guilty of “forgetting” the 1.5m rule as I throw my arms around friends I haven’t seen in months, smother my youngest cousin in kisses as he celebrated his First Holy Communion and beamed at the thought of squeezing another cousin as she finally marries the man she loves…surrounded by ALL who love them; I am 100 per cent aware of how lucky I am to be able to escape from life as Harriet the Hermit! Chin up “Easties”…you’ll soon be able to peel off your trackies and re-join the real world! With the shackles of isolation thrown off, life in the VegWA office has transitioned into a different kind of normal. In general, all forms of physical contact are still off the table (except for “The Huggers”…I’ll let you figure out who that is), but a new appreciation of actually being in the same room as the person you are collaborating with, has definitely dawned on us all. Zoom meetings are good but nothing beats the real thing…and absolutely nothing beats getting out on the farm for a Grower visit or two. Truyen and I have had our noses to the grindstone, whiling away the hours, working on the Hort Innovation funded VegNET Regional Strategy.

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Using a mix of our professional experience, Grower interactions and many reiterations of our “iso whiteboard session”, we believe we have created a monster…I mean document, that will aid us in our solitary aim of supporting the Growers of WA. In-between “strategy” meetings we have been trying our best to get back out into the field; however finding out that the Dr SP Singh Melon Safety webinar organised by Joel and Truyen, ‘teched’ by Amber and facilitated by me was joined by international participates, was slightly out of this world. Now, back to the real world — Truyen and Melissa spent a few days in Geraldton increasing the regions knowledge of available labour options and assisting the Growers in their enquiries around this now contentious issue.

attributes that businesses looking to incorporate export into their enterprise should consider rather than being a list of requirements. Also in the export arena, is the soon to be released online export training program the AUSVEG Export Development project is working on. It aims to assist Growers who are interested in sending their produce ‘international’. If either of these nuggets of export excellence have piqued your curiosity, please don’t hesitate to contact Manus. After living through a summer, autumn and winter like we’ve never seen before and don’t particularly want to see again; we tiptoe towards an equally unknown spring. With COVID-19’s continued grip on the globe and meteorologists suggesting a 70 per cent chance of La Niña making her way to Australia…who knows what the sunshine of spring will bring.

West certainly is Best!

While the first chapter of WA’s Benchmarking and Financial review project has finished and all final reports have been presented, Bryn hasn’t skipped a beat. Just like his spreadsheets, he has perfectly pivoted into working with fellow industry bodies in the wider hort community, with the aim of launching a similar 3+ year initiative across the whole of Western Australia’s horticulture industry — this would not only be of continued benefit to all WA’s Growers, but a first for the national hort industry. Our expert in export Manus has developed a business suitability checklist (check out his article on page 106), covering the characteristics that successful exporters have in common. The list covers business management, supply and marketing

While I ain’t no expert… the one thing I can definitively declare is that I and those who inhabit this beautiful state of ours, should be perpetually grateful to the men and women of horticulture who, despite the hardships of border closures, labour issues, unpredictable weather and a freakin’ global pandemic, have continued to keep us fed! I will not be swayed on this…West certainly is Best! MORE INFORMATION Contact Sam Grubiša, phone (08) 9486 7515 or email sam.grubisa@vegetableswa.com.au

WA POTATOES

potato

update WA Potatoes

WA Grower SPRING 2020

WA POTATOES

WA Potatoes

Executive Officer’s Report

contacts Horticulture House 103 Outram Street, WEST PERTH WA 6005 p: (08) 9481 0834 e: admin@wapotatoes.com.au w: todatoes.com.au

SIMON MOLTONI EXECUTIVE OFFICER, POTATO GROWERS ASSOCIATION

Simon Moltoni, Chief Executive Officer m: 0447 141 752 e: simon@wapotatoes.com.au Morena Perdec, Finance & Admin Manager e: morena@wapotatoes.com.au Georgia Thomas, Project Manager e: georgia@wapotatoes.com.au

Committee 2019–20 Vaughan Carter Chairperson

Busselton

Albany Colin Ayres Deputy Chairperson

m: 0417 092 505 m: 0428 451 014

Glen Ryan Secretary

Pemberton

m: 0428 827 126

Gary Bendotti Treasurer

Pemberton

m: 0427 569 903

Patrick Fox

Scott River

m: 0499 887 202

Bronwyn Fox

Dandaragan

m: 0427 447 412

Christian deHaan

Manjimup

m: 0429 436 361

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

Fee-for-service charge 2020–21 Processing potatoes — local and export

$6.00/t

Seed potatoes — local and export

$150/ha

Ware (fresh) potatoes — local

$8.00/t

Ware (fresh) potatoes — export

$6.00/t

Ware (fresh) potatoes — marketing

$2.50/t

Projects approved 2020–21 Part funding for PGA Delivery of Registered Seed Potato Certification Schemes & Virus Testing

$310,500 $96,000

fter a lifetime in the potato and vegetable industries Sam Calameri has retired. Sam built a reputation as a consistent supplier of top quality produce through a strong work ethic and always striving for improvement. Sam is well known as an innovator and early adopter of new technology. Sam’s nephew, Charlie Balogna Jr, will continue farming on Baldivis Farms under the Milana Farms banner. COVID19 continues as a major concern for our industry. The local French fry processing industry seems to have recovered quickly once the lockdown finished and (near) normal business resumed. The threat of cheap imports remains a factor as the rest of the world struggles with reduced economic activity. Labour supply is currently the major concern for all horticulture business. State and Federal Governments have announced programs (check your inbox) to help address the situation. Industry groups are not convinced that these programs go far enough. AUSVEG, as our peak industry body, has put together a 10-point plan which will be presented to the Federal Minister for Agriculture by the NFF Horticulture Council: 1. Seasonal Worker program pilot extension.

Potato Spindle Tuber Viroid (PSTVd) surveillance of the Seed Scheme

2. Incentives for domestic displaced workers.

Part Funding for Export Development Project $100,000

3. Agriculture Workforce Code introduction.

Smart Spud System

WA Grower SPRING 2020

$16,000

4. Promotion of opportunities to work in agriculture. 5. Accommodation support. 6. Development of a National Agriculture Workforce Development Network. 7. National Labour Hire Licensing/ Registration scheme. 8. Working Holidaymaker restart. 9. Agriculture visa/Harvestworker visa. 10. Horticulture Industry Labour Agreement (HILA) additional occupations. If approved, these measures will provide short term relief and longer-term security for labour in our industry. Winter production is still below demand and imports are making up the shortfall. Crops planted late enough to miss the early winter storms will soon reach maturity and supply should resume as normal. Planting has started in Manjimup/ Pemberton so southern summer supply should start on time. Steady winter rainfall has seen dams reach capacity giving growers confidence that water is secure for the coming season. AUSFarm Connect continues its development under the guidance of the PGA. A recent round of regional meetings gave growers the opportunity to ask questions and hear firsthand where the project is at. Meetings were very well attended especially by younger growers. The learnings gained by AFC from the discussions with growers has been highly valued and will help shape the organisation going forward. We are reaching a critical phase and growers will be kept up to date with developments as they occur. Thank you to Morena and Georgia and good luck to all our growers. MORE INFORMATION Contact Simon Moltoni on 0447 141 752 or email simon@wapotatoes.com.au

WA POTATOES

Social media snapshot Followers are over 80 per cent female on Facebook and around 70 per cent female on Instagram and are mostly aged between 25 and 44 (although Facebook has a slightly older demographic), and are mostly Western Australian, with some from the Eastern States and a few from overseas.

Over the three years, average reach has gone from around 60,000 per month to over 400,000 per month (see Figure 1) (reach is the number of unique people who see posted content).

Analysing social media insights has revealed that changes in consumer behaviour in 2020 have shown an increase in social media use in general, but also an increase in interest in locally grown food and especially potatoes.

AVERAGE AVERAGE AVERAGE MONTHLY MONTHLY MONTHLY REACH REACHREACH

Since the reboot of the marketing program in 2017, WA Potatoes has greatly increased its reach across both platforms through a strategic approach to content, consumer engagement and paid promotions.

500000 500000 375000 375000 375000 250000 250000 250000 125000

125000 1250000 2017 2018 2019 2020 0 YEAR 2017 2018 2019 2020 0 YEAR 2019OVER TIME 2020 2018 FIGURE 2017 1. CUMULATIVE REACH/MONTH

YEAR

(AVERAGE).

Reach is the number of unique views of social media posts over a period21600 of time.

FACEBOOK FACEBOOK FACEBOOK FOLLOWERS FOLLOWERS FOLLOWERS

As of July 2020, the WA Potatoes Facebook page has nearly 21,600 followers (see Figure 2), adding over 1000 followers from 2017. The WA Potatoes Instagram account has also grown to nearly 1500 followers (see Figure 3), adding around 660 people from 2017.

21600 21600 21325 21325 21325 21050 21050 21050 20775 20775 20775 20500 2017 20500 205002017 2017

2018 2018 2018

YEAR YEAR YEAR

2019

2020

2019 2019

2020 2020

FIGURE 2. FACEBOOK FOLLOWERS OVER TIME. 1500

INSTAGRAM INSTAGRAM INSTAGRAM FOLLOWERS FOLLOWERS FOLLOWERS

A Potatoes uses Facebook and Instagram social media channels to recruit and engage with consumers.

500000

1500 1500 1125 1125 1125 750 750 750 375 375 3750 2017 0 02017 2017

2018 2018 2018

YEAR YEAR YEAR

2019

2020

2019 2019

2020 2020

FIGURE 3. INSTAGRAM FOLLOWERS OVER TIME.

The challenge now is to keep the attention of our audience, with more great content that meets their needs. A marketing proposal for 2021 will be prepared for industry to review shortly. MORE INFORMATION • Contact: Georgia Thomas georgia@wapotatoes.com.au • Website: www.todatoes.com.au

WA Grower SPRING 2020

WA POTATOES

WA Potatoes makes a good choice with Buy West Eat Best Campaign 77% of WA shoppers feel the campaign highlights the need to support the WA economy.

3 BUY West Eat Best unprompted community recall of the campaign continues to significantly increase.

According to Buy West Eat Best Program Manager Melissa Worthington, the partnership has many positives.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to engage and collaborate with industry groups like WA Potatoes — by working together we amplify the buy-local message and create more benefits for the local economy,” she said.

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A Potatoes have long been members of the Western Australian Government’s Buy West Eat Best program and have worked closely on a range of activities, including a potato-themed dinner at Must Winebar in 2019, the annual Warren District Agriculture Show, the WA Potatoes Magazine and more.

WA POTATOES

As of 2019, WA Potatoes also joined the ‘Good choice, WA’ Campaign. Through this initiative local potatoes have been featured in Buy West Eat Best branded activations including: · TV Commercials · Social Media Campaigns · Bus sides and billboards · IGA Xsights The campaign is ongoing, but so far has yielded excellent results with consumer surveys of a representative Perth audience by Painted Dog revealing the following:

Campaign performance · Buy West Eat Best unprompted community recall of the campaign continues to significantly increase: Now two in three have seen or heard ads relating to buying WA produce (in October 2017 recall was just over two in five). · More than seven in 10 WA Shoppers recall some element of the Good choice, WA campaign. Recall has increased by 18 percentage points since 2017. Going from 53 per cent (October 2017) to currently sitting at 71 per cent (April 2020).

Campaign message performance · The key message of the campaign cut through clearly, with the main message to buy local produce received by 2 in 5

Buy West Eat Best Awareness · Three quarters (74 per cent) of all WA shoppers now say they recall the Buy West Eat Best brand · Brand awareness has increased by 8 per cent since October 2017

· The longevity of the campaign is having an impact, with significantly more people strongly agreeing with a number of overall diagnostics

· This increase has been driven primarily by those aged 18 to 34 years, those from metro WA and those higher household income

How did respondents personally feel about the ads

Moving forward WA Potatoes plans to continue to engage with the highly effective platform with upcoming activities including:

· 81 per cent feel the campaign is easy to understand · 77 per cent feel the campaign highlights the need to support the WA economy · 74 per cent feel the campaign encourages them to purchase local produce · 72 per cent feel the campaign encourages them to purchase products with the Buy West Eat Best logo

• 1-31 October: Buy West Eat Best month • 1 October: Sponsored Feature: The West Australian FOOD • 17 October: Retail Activation in partnership with Floreat Forum. MORE INFORMATION www.buywesteatbest.org.au

· 68 per cent feel the campaign is personally relevant to them · 59 per cent feel the campaign makes them feel more informed

74% of WA shoppers say they recall the Buy West Eat Best brand.

3 THE key message of the campaign cut through clearly, buy local produce!

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WA POTATOES

Get to know your potato growers… 3 (L–R) Michael, Lauren, Pennie, Jess and Sam Patane.

Michael Patane is a third-generation potato farmer.

Patane Produce F

ormed in 1999 in Myalup on 675 hectares, Patane Produce is a stand-out operation in Western Australia. The vertically-integrated business employs around 65 staff over the course of each year and includes comprehensive packing facilities for all lines grown. The temperate climate of the region allows for produce lines to be supplied for 12 months of the year.

PERTH

MYALUP

Farmer Michael and Pennie Patane Location Myalup Size 675 hectares Enterprises Potatoes, carrots, onions, broccoli, purple carrots, shallots & eschalions

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Patane Produce founders Michael and Pennie make a formidable team. Michael Patane is a third-generation potato farmer, having taken the learnings from his parents and grandparents and venturing out to setup his own business. Pennie comes to the enterprise from a banking background, bringing astute business acumen to the farm. Pennie and Michael’s children are ensuring a fourth generation of Patane’s will continue with potato farming. The eldest, Lauren, aged 22 is working fulltime on the farm after completing a degree in Agricultural Science. Jesse, aged 21 is currently at university studying psychology and human resources, and works part-time on the farm, while the youngest, Sam aged 19, works full-time on the farm. Pennie is also an active industry member and currently serves on the following committees: · Potato Strategic Investment Advisory Panel (national) · Board member of AUSVEG (national) · Member of the Agricultural Advisory Committee for Harvey Agricultural College

Q: What makes your business different from others in WA? We started the business from scratch with a view to create a vertically integrated operation. The business model means we can grow, pack, transport, sell direct to retailers, to the domestic market from our own market floor, and also sell direct to export markets. In addition to potatoes, we grow a variety of crops including carrots, onions, broccoli, purple carrots, shallots and eschalions. Q: What are the key benefits of vertical integration? Vertical integration has benefits both up and down the line. We can control all stages of the supply chain to ensure product integrity is maintained. There is less double handling and the cool chain is maintained. We have invested in the product so we handle it correctly and have quicker processing times. Plus, we get direct feedback on any issues or market changes or client requirements.

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Q: Have you always farmed potatoes? What other crops/animals do you grow? We started with potatoes and then went to carrots, onions, broccoli. We also run around 300 head of cattle to utilise vegetable waste. Q: Have you had to make many changes due to COVID-19? A lot of the necessary procedures were already in place such as hand washing stations and glove washing. We run teams of staff in the packing sheds, rotate meal breaks, and implemented an extra cleaning regime between meal breaks. As always though it is business as usual in order to make sure the job gets done and the food gets delivered. Q: What sustainability measures do you have in place that people might not be aware of? Our farm is part of the EnviroVeg program which is an industry-led environmental best-practice management program for vegetable production businesses.

The program provides tools for vegetable businesses to be responsible stewards of land, water and biodiversity. We also have 300 head of cattle to utilise vegetable wastage. Q: What are some misconceptions about farming that you want to address? There are a few! The first one is that we spend all day picking in the field or driving a tractor. Field work makes up around 10 per cent of our business. Our industry is highly mechanised and highly regulated and as such, we have nine accreditation programs that we work under and are audited to. There are lots of opportunities in this industry including Quality Assurance and auditing. We also wish more people realised that imperfect-looking produce is still perfect to eat! It’s depressing the amount of produce that we have to feed to the cattle because consumers and retailers don’t like the ugly stuff.

3 PENNIE comes to the enterprise from a banking background, bringing astute business acumen to the farm.

Another one is that vegetables are expensive. Labour makes up 50 per cent of the production costs of fresh produce, which impact the price. It would be great if people could keep that in mind when comparing the price of fresh produce to a chocolate bar on a per gram basis. Lastly, we want people to know why we choose to use foreign/backpacker labour. In actual fact, it’s not a choice, as locals would not do the work. We are investing heavily in mechanisation so that we can offer more skilled positions to locals in the future. We also offer traineeships for local gap year students and are working to develop apprenticeships that are tailored to our industry. Q: What does the future hold for Patane Produce? We are aiming to expand into direct export markets to grow the business. We still have farms to developed and packing lines to be updated, there is always something new in this space. We are also trying to develop and change our workforce to reduce our reliance on non-resident employees and offer more interesting positions for our local workforce. Q: Which is your favourite potato variety? This depends which member of the family you ask but the red potato varieties such as Rodeo are the best allrounders — can use them for anything! Q: What is your favourite potato recipe? You can’t go past a good potato au gratin. We also love using the potatoes that are too small to sell — we par boil then pan fry them with olive oil and herbs.

3 THE farm is part of the EnviroVeg program which is an industry-led environmental bestpractice management program for vegetable production businesses.

Labour makes up 50% of the production costs of fresh produce.

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WA POTATOES

Managing the risks of powdery scab in potatoes Spongospora subterranea

What is powdery scab? Powdery scab is caused by Spongospora subterranea. This pathogen can survive for long periods in the soil (greater than 10 years). The pathogen is both seed tuber and soil borne. Disease development and the severity of symptoms vary depending on a range of factors, including inoculum levels in soil or on seed tubers, soil and atmospheric conditions, cropping history, and potato cultivar.

dry rot (Fusarium caeruleum) and tuber rot caused by Colletotrichum atramentarium.

What does it look like? • S pongospora subterranea can form small white to dark brown growths (galls) on potato roots and stolons (see Figure 1).

PHOTO © RICHARD FALLOON

his guide is based on current knowledge on management of powdery scab, highlighting key factors that affect the risks of this disease and opportunities for effective disease management.

• Cankers may deform tubers. • S cabs on tubers erupt to disperse a fine powder of spores leaving ragged edged scabs (see Figure 2). • N on-erupting scabs may develop surrounding areas of discoloured tuber tissue which is variable in size.

FIGURE 1. SPONGOSPORA SUBTERRANEA GALLS ON STOLON.

• Depending on temperature and progeny, tuber scabs may take six to eight weeks to develop, and may not be evident in growing crops.

Spongospora subterranea can survive more than 10 years in the soil.

Tubers with powdery scab lesions are also susceptible to other diseases. The scab lesions can be infection points for other pathogens, and powdery scab has been implicated in increasing susceptibility to tuber late blight (Phytophthora infestans), pink rot (Phytophthora erythroseptica),

WA Grower SPRING 2020

Factors that encourage Spongospora infections

PHOTO © ROBERT LAMBERTS

The disease can cause major losses of marketable yield from fresh market potato crops, and substantial rejections in processing for French fries or crisp production.

• Common scab and powdery scab lesions look similar. Common scab lesions tend to be more corky in appearance and angular in shape, and can be raised or pitted.

Potato crops are especially susceptible to powdery scab: • D uring the tuber initiation phase of crop growth. • W hen temperatures are between 9°C and 17°C (optimum is approx. 12°C). • When soils are wet. • I n poorly drained soils (due to compaction, soil pans or over-working).

FIGURE 2. RAGGED EDGED SCABS ON TUBER.

WA POTATOES

Cyst in soil or on tuber

Cystosori (spore balls)

Primary zoospore

Cysts (resting spores) Scabbed tuber

Galls

Root hair infection

Root, shoot or stolon infection

Plasmodium in root hair (primary or sporangial plasmodium)

Lesion (scab) Zoosporangia in root hair

Galls on root, shoot or stolon

FIGURE 3. DIAGRAM OF THE SPONGOSPORA SUBTERRANEA LIFE AND DISEASE CYCLE. Source: Harrison JG, Searle RJ, Williams NA, 1997. Powdery scab disease of potato – a review. Plant Pathology 46, 1–25

Plasmodium in tuber cell (secondary or cystogenous plasmodium)

Tuber infection

Secondary zoospore

How can the risk of powdery scab be reduced? 1 Site selection and farm hygiene

2 Soil conditions

3 Crop growth

Risks

· Previous field history of powdery scab. · Volunteers.

· Cold, wet soils (particularly at tuber initiation).

· Solanaceous weeds.

· Soil compaction.

· Protracted tuber initiation periods in cold soils containing either seed or soil inoculum.

· Poor drainage.

· Excessive cultivation/tillage.

· Rotation.

Actions to manage the risk

· Avoid soils that are compacted (>2,000kPa with a penetrometer at field capacity), and try to control traffic through paddock.

· Consider paddock disease history when developing a rotation plan. Use PreDicta® Pt DNA testing to assess risks from pathogen levels in the soil. · Avoid short rotations (less than five years) between potato crops. · Control volunteers and weeds to minimise pathogen build-up. · Plant at soil temperatures above the optimum (12°C) for infection. This results in rapid plant growth and less chances for infection. · Plant high risk crops (based on varieties or market) on uncontaminated and well-drained land. · Use uninfected, certified seed tubers. · Do not transfer soil from paddock to paddock. · Do not allow contractors and visitors with dirty machinery, shoes and vehicles onto paddocks.

· Use of elemental sulphur (S) and maintaining zinc (Zn) at the upper end of its soil range have reduced powdery scab in the Ballarat region of Central Victoria. — Results with Zn applications have been highly variable. Routine soil testing will indicate whether Zn fertiliser applications may help. High levels of phosphorus can reduce Zn uptake. — Caution with S use is required as applications may cause nutrient imbalances and significant decreases in soil pH. · Biofumigation using mustards has shown positive results when combined with less susceptible cultivars and clean seed tubers. · Drain paddocks that have large areas prone to water logging.

· Over irrigation and/or poor drainage during tuber initiation. Actions to manage the risk · Manage nutrition appropriately. · Schedule irrigation correctly to avoid water logging and water stress (especially during tuber initiation). · Be aware that the risk of powdery scab will increase after excessive rainfall. · Planting tubers at shallow depth in the ridges may help reduce risk, as do other practices that encourage rapid plant emergence. · Monitor soil moisture and keep it below field capacity (FC) during tuber initiation. If water runs from soil after irrigation or can be squeezed out of a soil sample, the soil is above FC.

4 Potato grading Risk · Inoculum can contaminate grading lines and be transmitted to subsequent healthy seed tuber lines, which could infect the subsequent crop.

· Ensure good seed beds to promote rapid and even plant emergence. WA Grower SPRING 2020

WA POTATOES

Actions to manage the risk

· Wash and evaluate samples of all seed tuber lines intended for grading to assess whether they are infected.

· Ensure strict store hygiene is in place with your seed supplier.

· Grade seed tubers before fresh market lines. Give priority to higher seed grades. · Wash/disinfect grading lines at appropriate times during grading and between lines/crops. · Fully wash down and disinfect grading lines at the end of each season (at least). · Removing infected tubers from seed lines does little to diminish the risk for remaining tubers, as resting spores will contaminate remaining tubers.

5 Cultivar/variety Risk · Highly susceptible cultivars. Actions to manage the risk Check cultivar resistance to powdery scab with your seed tuber supplier. · Knowing cultivar resistance ratings for powdery scab along with intended market tolerances can help with paddock selection and crop management (esp. irrigation). · Resistant cultivars can be used to reduce occurrence and severity of powdery scab. However, in seasons conducive to disease development, cultivar resistance will have reduced impacts. · Refer to the research paper written by Genet et al. which provides a list of over 130 cultivars and their resistance/ susceptibility to powdery scab.

6 Seed tuber health Risk · Infected seed lines, particularly when planted in uncontaminated land. Actions to manage the risk · Use certified disease-free seed tubers when planting into uncontaminated land.

7 Store hygiene Risk · Dust in potato stores can be contaminated with Spongospora inoculum. This can be transmitted on to clean tubers in poorly cleaned stores (e.g. by forklift traffic).

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8 Market Risk · Markets with zero tolerance for powdery scab, e.g. for particular seed export or fresh/ware potato markets. Actions to manage the risk · Check your customer/intended market tolerance to powdery scab levels. Use low risk land for markets with tight tolerances. · Wash seed tuber samples and inspect as required.

9 Chemical control · In the USA and New Zealand, fluazinam can be used for powdery scab control. In Australia, this chemical is only registered for control of late blight and Sclerotinia in potatoes. · Do not use unregistered pesticides or use pesticides for uses not specified on the labels. Always follow label instructions. REFERENCES AND FURTHER RESOURCES • Potato Growers’ Biosecurity Manual (2018) www.farmbiosecurity.com.au/wpcontent/ uploads/2019/06/Potato-GrowersBiosecurity-Manual.pdf • Prof Calum Wilson (TIA, UTAS) discussing powdery and common scab — video https://youtu.be/ryHPrvWcF8o • Falloon, R.E., Merz, U., Butler, R.C., Curtin, D., Lister, R.A., Thomas, S.M., 2016. Root infection of potato (Solanum tuberosum) caused by Spongospora subterranea: knowledge review and evidence for decreased plant productivity. Plant Pathology 56, 422–434. https:// bsppjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/ full/10.1111/ppa.12419 • Genet, R., Paget, M., Braam, F., Falloon, R., 2017. Susceptibility of potato cultivars and breeding lines to powdery scab in New Zealand: updated results from 25 years of field evaluations. Potato Research 60, 208– 210. www.spongospora.ethz.ch/SA_2014/ docus/day2/2nd%20Int%20PScab%20 Workshop%203_%20Genet%20et%20al.pdf • 2013 Potato PreDicta® Pt manual (ed. M Rettke, SARDI) [provided as part of Predicta® Pt Training/Accreditation Course] A number of relevant final reports can be found on the AUSVEG website (https://ausveg.com. au/infoveg/infoveg-database/) and the Hort Innovation website (www.horticulture.com. au/delivery-partners/resources-for-deliverypartners/research-reports-and-more).

1996 PT303 Epidemiology and control of powdery scab in potatoes https:// ausveg.com.au/app/data/technicalinsights/docs/PT303.pdf 2003 PT96032 Influence of rotation and biofumigation on soil-borne diseases of potatoes https://ausveg.com.au/app/ data/technical-insights/docs/PT96032. pdf 2004 PT98018 Cleaning and disinfestation strategies on farms https://ausveg.com. au/app/data/technical-insights/docs/ PT98018.pdf 2008 PT04001 Understanding the implications of pastures on the management of soilborne diseases of seed potatoes https:// ausveg.com.au/app/data/technicalinsights/docs/PT04001_complete.pdf 2014 PT09039 (https://ausveg.com.au/app/ data/technical-insights/docs/PT09039. PDF) which includes the following APRP2 programs: PT09026 — Soil health disease mitigation program, PT09026A(i) — Soil amendments and nutrients, PT09026(ii) — Impact of rotations, PT09019 — Comparison between DNA testing and visual methods for assessing seed tuber health 2018 PT14002 Spongospora infection of potato roots — ecology, epidemiology and control https://ausveg.com.au/app/ uploads/technical-insights/PT14002v2. pdf ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS This article has been adapted from: • Managing the risk of powdery scab (2007) Mark Prentice, Rob Clayton, Jeff Peters and Stuart Wale. British Potato Council • A review of knowledge gaps and compilation of R and D outputs from the Australian Potato Research Programs (2015) Kevin Clayton-Greene. Horticulture Innovation Australia (https://ausveg.com.au/app/data/ technicalinsights/docs/pt13.PDF). DISCLAIMER Hort Innovation and RM Consulting Group (RMCG) make no representations and expressly disclaims all warranties (to the extent permitted by law) about the accuracy, completeness, or currency of information in this article. Users of this material should take independent action before relying on it’s accuracy in any way. Reliance on any information provided by Hort Innovation and RMCG is entirely at your own risk. Hort Innovation and RMCG are 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 Hort Innovation, RMCG or any other person’s negligence or otherwise) from your use or non-use of information from project PT17002 — Potato pest and disease R&D program or from reliance on information contained in this material or that Hort Innovation, RMCG provides to you by any other means.

PHOTOS: Victoria Baker Photographer

POMEWEST

pome

update Pomewest

WA Grower SPRING 2020

POMEWEST

From the Pomewest

contacts Pomewest Committee and Officers

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

Executive Manager e t a d p u n o s a e S

Pomewest budgeted Income 2020/2021 Project General Account Budget including FFS (Project Grant Funding APAL, HIA and DPIRD) Biosecurity Account Budget (FFS)

$ 474,210 47,500

Pomewest budgeted expenditure general account for 2020/2021 Project New Technology Project (Susie Murphy White) Maturity Standards Legislation & Compliance Medfly Surveillance Trapping Network (Ashmere Consulting) Systems Approach to Market Access Promotion & Publicity Local Project (Fresh Finesse) including other projects including investment in BWEB Annual Meetings & Communications Industry Sponsorships & Association Memberships Strategic Plan Administration including salary & office costs APC charge @10% of FFS income Total

$ 87,000 35,000 61,557 40,000 45,000 15,000 4,500

33,000 187,000 42,000 550,000

Pomewest budgeted expenditure biosecurity account 2020/2021 Project Codling Moth (DPIRD) Biosecurity Liaison Officer APC charge @10% of FFS income Total

APC fee-for-service charge

$ 35,500 16,520 6,000 58,030

POME FRUIT EFFECTIVE FROM 1 JANUARY 2015 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 SPRING 2020

“

BY NARDIA STACY EXECUTIVE MANAGER, POMEWEST

”

Even if I knew that tomorrow the world would go to pieces, I would still plant my apple tree. Martin Luther.

It is widely celebrated that spring is the time of new beginnings. With the first bud burst this year, it all looks good on the climatic front with the rainfall and chill hours to suggest a solid start to the season. It’s the ongoing threat of the global pandemic and its compounding effects and outcomes in maintaining hard borders that has created a feeling of trepidation for the next harvest period. This just adds to the challenges of the orcharding business, which is risky enough at the best of times.

Labour Securing labour for our spring, summer harvest work has now become the key issue. With one harvest over — and looking to the next — it is the restriction the movement of people will also hamper access to a skilled and motivated labour force. As I write this report, there is a call to action by a newly-formed national Union Alliance that suggests that Working Holiday Maker (WHM) visa program is axed in a bid to increase opportunities for more Australians to work on farms. This kind of action shows an absence of empathy for remaining WHM in Australia. Our State Government seem committed to hard border restrictions for now. It

may be that there is an opportunity to recruit willing young Australians, recently unemployed, for our orcharding jobs. We welcome and support State Government initiatives with campaigns or incentives to assist. Pomewest will continue to work with other hort Industries, our national peak body, APAL and the WA Government to find solutions for growers in the coming months.

Netting We are all aware that netting is a high priority for the WA industry. The threat of birds, hail and sunburn damage have a major impacts of our pack-out percentages of edible fruit which directly affects the viability of the industry. Some businesses this year have had blocks with a 30 per cent marketable loss. As the Australian Netting program is about to be rolled out in WA, Pomewest has been pro-active in ensuring that the small amount of assistance ($1.5 million so far) will be equitably disbursed across the WA industry. We believe that the scheme will be rolled out by DPIRD, and as we anticipate it will over-subscribed and as such we have highlighted the fact that the process will need to measured and transparent.

POMEWEST

Securing labour for our spring, summer harvest work has now become the key issue.

We have also been made aware of some federally funded drought-related loan schemes. There is an article in this publication as reference. We believe that growers may be able to access for netting as the funding is available to assist both farmers and small business assisting farmers during periods where their operations are adversely influenced by drought and other unforeseen issues including hail and pest damage.

Committee news, 2021–25 Strategic Plan and Industry engagement activities A Committee meeting was held on Friday 7 August at which several items were discussed. The minutes are available to growers to access. The next meeting will be held prior to our scheduled Annual dinner meeting in Donnybrook on October 13. One of the outcomes of the meeting was the decision to hold another round of grower dinner meetings at the three growing epi-centres. The dates are September 23 in the Perth Hills and on October 13 and 14 in Donnybrook and Manjimup respectively. The program will consist of several presentations, including an update and roll-out of our next Strategic Plan and the underpinning work done by

Peter Cooke of Agknowledge. All of our growers have been informed of this activity and been invited to be involved in the consultative process. You will have all received your invitations to the dinners by now and we hope to see as many of you as possible attend. This is an extremely good way to be updated on industry matters and the opportunity to have your say on the direction of the committee and the industry.

Biosecurity Liaison officer project is starting soon The Banana, Pome, Citrus and Stone Fruit APC Committees are collaborating together with supporting funds from DPIRD to engage Horticulture Liaison Officer/s for a project that will provide industry biosecurity representation, contact points, preparedness for biosecurity incidents, pest lists, guidelines and grower interaction and communication sessions and publications. The Pome component of the funding $16,500 will be an expense item from the biosecurity account. Our own Susie Murphy White will be involved in aspects of the project and the activities will communicated to you shortly in future newsletters, magazine articles and grower meetings.

This Edition Mark Scott has written another ‘Chairs Chat’ as an opinion piece that looks at Biosecurity and the similarities with the recent pandemic. Susie presents the results on her work on predicting lenticel damage in Kanzi® apples this season.

We also have an article on the outcomes of the European Red Mite project reporting on a new option of management by Alison Mathews of DPIRD (see page 74). Finally, we feature Collins Bros as part of our recent investment in collecting grower stories as part of celebrating our industry as a food provider. The Collins brothers have forged a successful family business which is inspiring and provides a positive note to end this edition. In closing this report, I again welcome you to contact myself, Susie or Committee members at any time to discuss any industry matters. MORE INFORMATION Nardia Stacy on (08) 9368 3869 or mobile 0411 138 103 or nardia@pomewest.net.au

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Chair’s chat T he current practice of area wide lockdowns, source and contact tracing, visitor registration and premises cleaning and disinfection is the new normal in the last six months of us living in a global pandemic.

Whilst this is a new concept to many in the general community, to most of us in horticulture, these are recognised as standard terms when referring to a plant biosecurity outbreak.

Cruise ships Over the past decade, regular stories have been reported in the media of cruise ships having outbreaks of Gastroenteritis, inducing Norovirus, that cruise lines seemed unable or unwilling to put protocols in to eliminate. Was it little wonder that COVID-19 then ran rampant on these vessels? Unfortunately, in our horticulture industry, we are seeing the same situation, with regular outbreaks of exotic pests and disease.

In Western Australia there is currently an outbreak of Queensland fruit fly — a pest that has had several outbreaks in WA in the past decade. Is this our Gastro on the cruise ship? We also have seen several incidents of Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (upwards of 20 Australia wide at ports). Whilst both of these suggest our surveillance systems are working, they raise some questions. • How many incursions are we missing? • How many incursions do we need before a change of protocol is enforced?

WA Grower SPRING 2020

Whilst we all agree that a low-risk system is necessary to enable trade — there doesn’t seem to be a trigger for when a number of incursions changes the risk profile of an exotic from low risk to high risk. I wouldn’t blame a grower for thinking that finding five insects across Australia at freight entry ports would suggest that surveillance systems are working, but when there are double-digit incursions, maybe a review of protocols are needed. (Remembering the trapping of one female Qfly is regarded an outbreak). One of the current ongoing issues with the current Qfly outbreak would seem to be biosecurity officials being refused access to properties in the outbreak area to treat potential hosts. Again, a similarity with our COVID outbreak — the public failing to follow quarantine and social distancing protocols. As an industry, I don’t believe it’s unreasonable for us to expect the same response from our biosecurity officers — no exemptions should be given and those refusing should be dealt with to the full extent under the law. If the laws aren’t supporting these eradication efforts then we need ask why not? The current consensus is the ongoing Qfly outbreaks have come from travellers bringing product home in luggage from personal travel. Anyone who travelled regularly before COVID would have noticed reduced services at airports — less dogs checking hand luggage — and many state-entry points, such as the central desert road, do not have any biosecurity check-points.

BY MARK SCOTT CHAIR, POMEWEST

Whilst it is incumbent on all growers to maintain on-farm biosecurity on their own property and at this point, industry haven’t been asked to contribute financially to this Qfly outbreak. The continued incursions found by surveillance suggest that our biosecurity systems for both humans and agriculture pests and diseases is currently underfunded. Hopefully, the current health crisis with COVID-19 will bring this to attention.

Labour Also related to COVID-19, the current analysis of labour force and the impact of border restrictions would suggest there is a reduced number of working holiday makers remaining in Australia. It is predicted that our industry may experience a shortage of staff during spring, summer and autumn harvest periods. I would encourage all growers to proactively analyse their requirements. Regardless if you usually use backpackers or one of the Pacific seasonal worker schemes, registering with one of the Government-funded harvest labour bodies (see weekly newsletters from Nardia for individual details) is important. This will enable us to produce and quantify solid numbers to advocate for Industry on your behalf. As always the committee always welcomes feedback and comment. Happy pruning. MORE INFORMATION Mark Scott on 0427 560 444 or email markpscott@bigpond.com.

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Predicting lenticel damage

in Kanzi apples ®

Treatment methods 1 Hot water An Esky was filled with hot water (49°C). The apples were submerged in the hot water and held under water for 30 minutes.

BY SUSIE MURPHY WHITE PROJECT MANAGER, POMEWEST

esting methods highlighted the potential for lenticel damage in Kanzi® apples in the 2020 season. In the 2019 season Manjimup Kanzi® apple growers reported a high percentage of lenticel damage to Kanzi® apples that had come out of cool store. As the apples passed over the pre-sizer in mid-April 2019 the lenticel damage was high averaging about 7 per cent then spiking up to 50 per cent of the apples showing damage later in the season. Lenticel breakdown symptoms are expressed after post-harvest handling, but damage is initiated pre-harvest

when fruit are growing rapidly and the damage can be linked to low fruit calcium status. The damage can be mitigated by managing nutritional imbalances, crop load and excessive tree vigour.

Furthermore, moisture stress and excessive irrigation can also raise the incidence of lenticel damage.

2 Ethephon A plastic box was filled with 8L of water (24ºC) and 15ml of Ethephon was mixed into the water. Every apple was dipped (2 sec) in the prepared solution.

An observation trial was set up in March 2020 to investigate if lenticel damage can be predicted before harvest, therefore influencing which fruit is suitable for cool storage and which fruit is sold first. These treatments had been successfully used by Washington State University on Honeycrisp in 2017.

A trial was set up during March to investigate if lenticel damage can be predicted.

3 LENTICEL damage in Kanzi® apples in 2019

3 Passive Fruit were placed on trays and kept at room temperature (±22°C).

2 Control The apples from cool store. WA Grower SPRING 2020

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treatment. The apples treated with Ethephon; damage began to occur at 15 days after treatment.

Samples of apples were taken from three orchards, two orchards experienced damage in 2019 and one orchard had no damage in 2019. Samples were collected three weeks prior to the expected harvest date.

All orchards responded to the Ethephon method with Orchard 2 and 3 showing 3 per cent of the apples damaged.

After the apples were treated, they were placed into trays and stored at room temperature for three weeks. The fruit were evaluated weekly until twenty-one days after treatment.

When the Kanzi® apples came out of cool store for the 2020 season, the percentage of damage after 3 weeks was Orchard 1 had 14 per cent of apples with lenticel damage, Orchard 2 10 per cent and Orchard 3 had 3 per cent of apples.

Treatment results Orchard 1 showed greatest amount of damage rising to 13 per cent at day 21 for the Ethephon method (see Figure 1), 7 per cent for the passive method and 3 per cent damage for the hot water

All methods showed a response and were able to predict that there would

PERCENTAGE DAMAGE

Nutrient uptake test Nutrient uptake tests were undertaken on the Kanzi® apple fruit and shoots at the time of sampling. To show nutritional balance at the time of sampling. In the fruit of Orchard 1 and 2 below detectable limit of nitrates were recorded. Orchard 2 had the highest calcium in the fruit sample, the highest potassium, ammonium, magnesium and phosphorous levels were in Orchard 3.

The nutrient uptake in the shoots showed that Orchard 1 had very high manganese, high chloride, iron, zinc, magnesium and calcium. Whereas Orchard 2 and 3 were in the optimum range.

Nutrition and lenticel damage

14 12 10

ORCHARD 1

ORCHARD 2

FIGURE 1. PERCENTAGE OF DAMAGED KANZI® APPLES 21 DAYS AFTER TREATMENTS.

Calcium is drawn away from fruitlets to the shoot tips in vigorous trees.

WA Grower SPRING 2020

ORCHARD 3

Cool store

Passive

Ethephon

Hot water

Cool store

Passive

Ethephon

Hot water

Cool store

Passive

Ethephon

Hot water

be some damage to the fruit coming out of cool store. But the Ethephon had a more marked effect. When you look at the cool store pack outs and the results from the treatments the Ethephon method follows what actually happened with the apples coming out of cool store.

Lenticel damage is caused by several factors which accumulate over time, and this trial has shed light on how nutrient imbalances contribute. Unbalanced nutrition, specifically low fruit calcium levels, are associated with the occurrence of lenticel damage. More specifically, high potassium and magnesium supplies promote lenticel damage because they directly lower the fruit calcium levels. This is because calcium is a cation and competes with potassium and magnesium (also both cations) in the fruit. Thus, the incidence of lenticel damage can be predicted from the fruit’s potassium, magnesium and calcium ratio (Table 1). Because orchards 1 and 3 had high potassium, magnesium and calcium ratio, unsurprisingly, they experienced lenticel damage. Furthermore, because Orchard 1 had the lowest amount of fruit calcium (Table 1), it also expressed the highest rates of lenticel damage. Similar to how calcium directly competes with potassium and magnesium, it can’t exist alone in the fruit without the appropriate amount of negatively charged anions like nitrate. Therefore, the below detectable levels (BDL) of nitrates in the fruit of Orchard 1 and 2 likely reduced the amount of calcium partitioned from the shoots (Table 2) to the fruit (Table 1).

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An intensive calcium spray programme is critical to reduce instances of lenticel damage.

3 MANAGING fruit potassium levels can be an essential procedure in reducing lenticel damage because elevated potassium status represents a high risk.

TABLE 1. APPLE FRUIT NUTRIENT UPTAKE (PPM). Nutrient

Upper Limit

Orchard 1

Orchard 2

Orchard 3

Lower limit

125

1750

1123

1115

1293

1000

NO3

BDL^

8.05

BDL: Detectable levels

TABLE 2. NUTRIENT UPTAKE OF SHOOT-TIP SAMPLES (PPM). Nutrient

Upper limit

Orchard 1

Orchard 2

Orchard 3

Lower limit

4500

4342

3763

4350

2750

700

959

629

623

300

1000

1312

1127

1279

500

NO3

Orchard 1 had more expression of lenticel damage after Ethephon treatment at 13 per cent. There could be several reasons for this, however, the exact reason is beyond the scope of this trial. What we do know is that Orchard 1 also had higher shoot tip calcium levels than the other orchards (Table 2). We know calcium can be drawn away from the fruitlets to the shoot tips in vigorous trees, and this may explain the higher calcium level. Another reason may be that more calcium was applied however, higher calcium is often associated with lower lenticel damage but only if the calcium is in the fruit.

Lenticel damage risk mitigation Results show that each method was successful at predicting lenticel damage in Kanzi® apples. The percentages of apples expressing lenticel damage out of cool store proves that these methods do work for Kanzi® apples. Ultimately all three orchards experienced lenticel damage due to unbalanced nutrition in the fruit.

Lenticel damage risk mitigation mainly comes down to good pre- and postharvest horticultural practices. An intensive calcium spray programme over the growing season is critical to reduce instances of lenticel damage, and we recommend that growers work closely with their consultants, or spray representative, to design a programme that is appropriate to their blocks.

Managing fruit potassium levels can also be an essential procedure in reducing lenticel damage because elevated potassium status represents a high risk. Maintaining nutritional balance, optimum crop load and balanced tree vigour can all assist in reducing the potential of lenticel problems later in storage. Lastly, water availability can influence the occurrence of lenticel damage, not only can hot and dry conditions increase the rate of its occurrence, but excessive irrigation can do the same.

there will be more instances of lenticel damage compared to the 2018/2019 season. Growers can help minimise calcium export from the fruit, therefore reducing the risk of lenticel damage, by implementing a good irrigation strategy and minimising water stress during periods of high temperatures. There may be other reasons that explain the differences between orchards and treatments. What was interesting here is that the testing methods highlighted the potential for lenticel damage this season. MORE INFORMATION Susie Murphy White Pomewest Manjimup susan.murphy-white@dpird.wa.gov.au ACKNOWLEDGEMENT This is a combined Pomewest and Future Orchards Trial implemented with support from Steve Spark AgFirst NZ. Thank you to the growers who have supplied fruit. https://apal.org.au/programs/futureorchards/archive-library/

Subsequently, due to the hot and dry 2019/2020 season, we expect that WA Grower SPRING 2020

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3 THREE Brothers, Dean, Murray and Tom Collins.

Collins Bros Orchard History

BY NARDIA STACY EXECUTIVE MANAGER, POMEWEST

ollins Bros Orchard is a multi-generational family business that is dedicated to producing premium apples. This family is passionate about the Western Australian apple industry, feel privileged to be in the best growing region in the country, and consider themselves fortunate to call Collins Siding, Pemberton, home.

This story goes back in time to 1906 when Paddy Collins bought the original homestead property. Since then, five generations have lived on the farm, with four generations currently calling the farm home. The oldest resident is Tom Collins, 94, who the last remaining child of Paddy. The youngest is Murray’s youngest son Jacob, who is only six months old. When Paddy first purchased the property, he made the decision to plant apples. Once his sons Bill, Jack and Tom came of age, they took over the farm becoming known as “Collins Brothers’. Kevin, son of Tom, then took over the business and bought out the other family members. Today, the name ‘Collins Bros’ still rings true, as again there are three Collins brothers, (Murray, Tom, Dean) managing the farm. Dad, Kevin, is now largely out of the orchard and oversees the family’s cattle herds. Murray, the Managing Director, is focused on the orchard and business development. Tom oversees the packing shed and has led their recent diversification into avocados, while Dean is involved in day-to-day orchard management. The operations are supported by four other permanent staff and a number of casuals throughout the season.

The Collins Bros Orchard is the largest permanent netted orchard in the state.

The idyllic location of this family-owned farm reflects the family’s narrative of producing a standard of excellence in their crops.

It is that level of professionalism that sees each piece of fruit carefully nurtured, so when it leaves the packshed, it takes with it the family’s reputation. The reward is seeing the public actively seek out their products for quality. This story is about the essence of family, and working to a value proposition of a truly genuine Western Australian brand.

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It's pretty remarkable to think that the Collins farm is still one and the same that the current three brother’s great

grandfather, Paddy farmed over 100 years ago. It’s also interesting for them to reflect on how much orcharding has changed in those hundred years and yet on the flip side, how some aspects have hardly changed at all.

Lessons learned along the way As Albert Einstein said ‘In the midst of every crisis lies great opportunity’. Orcharding is not always rosy! After a very bad season, to which they suffered a near total loss of fruit from hail, they diversified the business and took to share-farming potatoes and harvested the farm’s blue-gum plantings. This was done to pursue the opportunity to mitigate future risk in the form of installing permanent hail netting. The next year, another hailstorm came along and again destroyed over 80 per cent of fruit outside of the net. Less than 20 per cent of fruit under netting was damaged, which immediately demonstrated the immense benefits of netting with permanent structures. Since then, this risk management strategy has been the focus of the family business model. Although initially, a large financial outlay, netting the orchard has brought many benefits. Most importantly, they have the comfort of knowing that they can consistently grow a high-quality product and have supply security to expand the farm and apple orchard as opportunities present. Murray believes that they now have the largest permanent netted orchard in the state.

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PHOTOS © VICTORIA BAKER

The brothers spend a lot of time researching new varieties and growing techniques.

Managing COVID-19 Hazards to the business are always cropping up, but this current global pandemic is an unprecedented situation, which is worrying for everyone. The brothers’ view is that WA is a very fortunate place to be growing fruit and so far, they have been largely unaffected. Last season they managed the harvest with the work force that remained in the area.

However, with the cessation of international travel there will definitely be an impact to the seasonal workforce and a new risk to manage. With operations requiring a 50-person picking crew for 2021 and numerous other casual staff during the year, it is going to be difficult to find a workforce locally. This will be the next big challenge for the business.

Succession planning and implementing innovation Many multi-generational farms can struggle with the passing on of the guard. The current brothers made the decision to return to the farm at different stages and each have contributed to the growth of the business in different ways. Kevin has always supported each son’s passion and ideas to grow and develop the orchard and has slowly taken a step back while still offering guidance and is always ready to lend an ear when the brothers look towards future decisions. He has found it extremely rewarding to work alongside each of his children and watch the business grow and diversify in the hands of his sons. The brothers spend a lot of time researching new varieties and growing techniques to make sure the business remains innovative and relevant in the constantly evolving agricultural landscape. One such move in recent years has been the increased planting

of club style varieties as they offer stable pricing and risk reduction in years of over-supply. They now grow, Gala, Fuji, Pink Lady, Granny Smith, Kanzi®, Jazz®, Ambrosia®, Envy® and Bravo™ apples. Murray’s favourite apple to grow is the original WA success story — the Pink Lady, however his favourite to eat is the Envy® branded apple. He says, “the best part of growing is seeing how sound management of your business and orchard can achieve better fruit quality and crop yields”. Now with orcharding firmly in the blood line the family wouldn’t do anything else. Paddy must be proud of the dynasty he started. One thing that is for sure, is that Collins Bros Orchards will remain growing beautiful apples, leaving a living legacy for the next generations.

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T. pyri for European red mite control BY ALISON MATHEWS RESEARCH SCIENTIST, DPIRD

3 THIS work is part of a project that seeks to improve natural control of pest mites in deciduous fruit tree orchards in WA.

estern Australian apple orchardists should soon have another option for the management of European red mite as the result of research being undertaken by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD). European red mite, Panonychus ulmi, was first recorded in WA apple orchards in 2005 and is now present in all WA’s major pome fruit growing regions.

A 2015 survey of deciduous fruit tree orchards across the State found that Typhlodromus pyri, the main species of predatory mite for European red mite control in eastern Australia, and overseas, was absent from WA. This presented an opportunity to improve natural control of pest mites in WA orchards.

The timing of the onset of pest mite populations can vary each season as can the level of control provided by beneficial insects and mites. Regular monitoring can tell orchardists when mites are a risk of reaching damaging levels and if natural control agents are present in sufficient abundance to prevent economic damage from pest mites.

After several attempts over a number of seasons, T. pyri were successfully collected from orchards in the Eastern States in the 2019/20 season. These mites are now being held in a biological control production facility in South Australia, where numbers are being bulked up with the plan to import and release them directly into European red mite-infested orchards in WA during the 2020/21 season.

If monitoring shows that miticides are needed DPIRD recommends products from different activity groups be alternated to preserve their usefulness. Pest mites have a reputation for developing resistance. This reinforces the advantages of regular monitoring, ensuring miticides are only used when required.

orchards in WA.

The project team thanks orchardists in the Perth Hills, Donnybrook, Capel, Nannup and Manjimup/Pemberton regions for their cooperation and collaboration in conducting monitoring.

This project on the use of T.pyri for European red mite control The establishment and effect of T. has been co-funded by DPIRD pyri on European red and the Agricultural mite will be monitored at release sites. If they Produce Commission’s European red mite, was Pomewest and successfully establish, this predatory mite can first recorded in WA Stonefruit subthen be introduced to other apple orchards in 2005. committees. European red mite infested This work is part of a project that seeks to improve natural control of pest mites in deciduous fruit tree orchards in WA through increasing the range of species of predatory mites that are present. In the decade since it was first discovered in WA, European red mite has become the dominant pest mite in apple orchards in the Manjimup/ Pemberton area. This may be attributed to its preference for cooler climates and also the reasonably successful natural control of the other key mite pest, two-spotted mite. This pest is better managed now primarily due to the existing suite of predatory mite species, unfortunately the predators of two-spotted mite are not as efficient in controlling European red mite. Mites are consistent seasonal pests in deciduous fruit tree orchards in WA.

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MORE INFORMATION • C ontact Alison Mathews, (08) 9777 0122, alison.mathews@dpird.wa.gov.au, agric.wa.gov.au. • DPIRD website: agric.wa.gov.au search ‘European red mite’ • Australian Apple and Pear IPDM extension site at extensionaus.com.au/ ozapplepearipdm

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

WA CITRUS

citrus

update WA Citrus

WA Grower SPRING 2020

WA CITRUS

contacts WA Citrus Committee Producer Committee Members Mary Ann O’Connor, Chair m: 0429 012 503 e: chair@wacitrus.com.au Richard Eckersley Shane Kay Andrew Sorgiovanni Cliff Winfield Daniel Ying

Affiliate Committee Members Damien Guthrey Brett Heather

WA Citrus Office Building 16, 3 Baron-Hay Court, SOUTH PERTH WA 6151 Bronwyn Walsh, Industry Development Manager m: 0400 873 875 e: industrymanager@wacitrus.com.au Kate Cox, Administrative Services m: 0439 899 600 e: admin@wacitrus.com.au Helen Newman, Biosecurity Representative e: biosecurity@wacitrus.com.au

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

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The 2020 season has been a mixed blessing for our growers.

WA CITRUS

From the

industry

BY MARY ANN O’CONNOR CHAIR, WA CITRUS

ow it’s spring the citrus season 2020 is winding down for many WA growers, in some cases earlier than normal after the premature start to harvests this year. Our annual promotions have been able to continue through the winter season thanks to the flexibility of Noelene Swaine, from Fresh Finesse, our promotions provider. The season has been a mixed blessing for our growers. Lemons and limes have suffered while there have been good reports on mandarins and oranges. In Western Australia we are very lucky to have the level of freedom we currently enjoy during this pandemic. We only need to look at the eastern states to remind ourselves that the pandemic is not over yet. One of the greatest threats now is to become complacent. I encourage all growers to continue to have COVID-19 plans in place and to continue to adhere to the WA government and WA Health Department guidelines. The Citrus Australia website provides a guide to COVID-19 in the Orchard & Packing Shed (https://citrusaustralia. com.au/media/covid-19-ca-updates), if you require additional information.

The uncertainty for the year continues as we look forward to planning our regional forum at the end of the year and forecast labour requirements for next season. We have moved another step closer to moving from three to one citrus industry committees with an MOU signed between Citrus Australia and the APC citrus producers sub-committee. The next step is to vote at the AGM to dissolve WA Citrus as an Incorporated Association.

This process has been underway since early 2019 and has not been rushed in order to consider all aspects of the potential change. Members of each Committee are keen to hear from WA growers if they would like to understand the process better, disagree or agree with the direction to one committee and have any questions.

COVID-19 in the Orchard & Packing Shed: citrusaustralia.com.au

I sympathise with everyone who is unable to visit family and friends located interstate or overseas. Although electronic communication isn’t the same as being there in person, it does allow us to continue to be connected. As the various governments remind us — “stay safe and we will get through this”.

Lastly, this time of year is a good time to look back and think about what went well and what didn’t go so well. Your challenges and ideas for research, development or extension activities are fed into the APC citrus fee for service consultation as well as setting regional priorities for the national citrus levy via Hort Innovation and Citrus Australia. Please contact Bronwyn if you’d like to put any ideas forward or discuss challenges. All the best. MORE INFORMATION Contact Mary Ann O'Connor on 0429 012 503 or chair@wacitrus.com.au

Industry Liaison Training Coordinated by PHA

elen Newman, our Biosecurity Officer, participated in Industry Liaison Training coordinated by PHA on the 24th of June. The training provided a good overview of the roles of industry liaison officers (state and local) and how responses work. The key takeaway message was that it is best to have more than one representative to share the workload, particularly during large/long responses, as this reduces burnout.

Follow-up sessions are planned so that participants can go through a simulated outbreak and response activity. Topics covered in the training included: • Biosecurity emergency management systems • Emergency response management in Western Australia • Response phases and the role of industry liaison in each • Expectations of an industry liaison • Communication and confidentiality in a response.

WA Grower SPRING 2020

WA CITRUS

Citrus gall wasp is a pest that affects all citrus species.

Developing a model for predicting annual emergence of citrus gall wasp BY HELEN NEWMAN BIOSECURITY REPRESENTATIVE, WA CITRUS

itrus gall wasp (CGW) emergence monitoring for the 2020 season commenced in the first week of September. CGW monitoring in WA will involve twice weekly visits to five monitoring sites in the metropolitan region from September to December. Data collected will further validate the NSW DPI emergence model for WA conditions. Data collected in 2019 showed very strong correlations with predictions generated by the model. This means that predictions of the model are matching up with what we are observing in the field which is great news. Table 1 shows predicted emergence timings for Perth, based on weather data from the Perth airport. TABLE 1. PERCENTAGE OF WASPS EMERGED. 5%

50%

95%

Average year

2/10/2020

24/10/2020

5/11/2020

Cool year

17/10/2020

8/11/2020

20/11/2020

Warm year

7/09/2020

10/10/2020

13/10/2020

This second year of emergence monitoring is possible due to a project funded by Hort Innovation, using the citrus industry research and development and contributions from the Australian Government. Hort Innovation is the growerowned, not-for-profit research and development corporation for Australian horticulture. The project is lead by Jianhua Mo, senior entomologist with NSWDPI. The first year of monitoring was funded by the WA citrus producers fee for service. MORE INFORMATION Contact Bronwyn Walsh on 0400 873 875 or industrymanager@wacitrus.com.au.

WA Grower SPRING 2020

Citrus gall wasp found in a Bunbury nursery WA citrus growers should stay vigilant and monitor their orchards for citrus gall wasp. A DPIRD staff member found a gall on a Tahitian lime tree at a retail outlet in Bunbury on 19 July. DPIRD is working with the store to ensure staff are aware of the pest and how to identify it. Citrus gall wasp is not a declared pest, but this is the first time it has been found in regional WA. DPIRD and WA Citrus are working more broadly with the nursery industry to ensure they are aware of citrus gall wasp and can put appropriate management processes in place.

An E-news was sent out to inform WA growers of the situation. DPIRD also did a media release on August 3 highlighting the risk of moving trees and the importance of monitoring for and treating galls. Two radio interviews associated with the media release have been conducted so far, one for the Sunday morning gardening show on 6PR and another for a commercial radio station in the south west. This incident builds on the experience with citrus canker of spreading commercially threatening pests and diseases via pathways used by the urban community. Community/urban engagement is one of the agenda items on the Citrus Australia Pest and Disease Prevention Committee. MORE INFORMATION Contact Bronwyn Walsh on 0400 873 875 or industrymanager@wacitrus.com.au.

WA CITRUS

WA citrus growers should stay vigilant and monitor their orchards for citrus gall wasp.

Citrus gall wasp Management calendar Timing of control actions varies with locations. Follow citrus tree development suited to your region. J

Citrus bloom and spring flush Time to fertilise^ Adult wasp emergence and egg laying Time to prune galls Monitor gall development Check trees monthly for galls missed in main monitoring period ^ Varies depending on variety and seasonal conditions Source: DPIRD

WA Grower SPRING 2020

WA CITRUS 3 FALL armyworm has been detected in Geraldton.

Horticulture Biosecurity Advisory Committee

elen and Bronwyn joined other horticulture industry representatives with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) at the Horticulture Biosecurity Advisory Committee (HBAC) on July 1. Updates on information are sent via eNews as it is available. Summary points about current responses from the meeting are given below.

Queensland fruit fly (Qfly) eradication • NO Queensland fruit fly have been found on commercial orchards. • Over 300 flies have been detected in the quarantine area (Perth metro). • 178 staff are involved (56 operational teams in the field), with increased engagement and participation from Local Government Authorities. • 95 per cent of backyards in quarantine have been inspected.

WA trials

part of national R&D to reduce costs and smooth out yields

estern Australia is part of several national R&D projects this year and the next few years to come, meeting one of our regional priorities to have trials done in WA. This winter has seen the second year of harvests of the satellite imagery trial. The research is investigating whether a satellite image of an orchard can give a better estimate of yield than someone out in the field.

It has the potential to reduce costs of staff doing yield forecasts and improve the efficiencies in the supply chain for logistics and fine tuning. The second project to look at smoothing out yield of afourer mandarins has gathered case studies of current afourer management from around Australia and in South Africa. From these, growers will decide on trials for each of their regions. MORE INFORMATION These projects are funded by Hort Innovation using the citrus industry research and development levy and contributions from the Australian Government. Hort Innovation is the grower-owned, not-for-profit research and development corporation for Australian horticulture.

• The Quarantine area will be expanded from 1130ha to 2053ha as a precautionary measure (no spread has been detected — this is just a precaution). • Going forward, amulet cue-lures and sterile insects (sourced from the SIT facility in SA) will be used/ added to the eradication efforts.

Fall armyworm (FAW) • There has been a detection of FAW in Geraldton. • Host range assessments will be conducted in Kununurra to determine possible impacts of FAW on horticultural crops. • An ID card to help growers distinguish FAW from other similar-looking species is available. MORE INFORMATION More information on DPIRD biosecurity outbreaks are available on their website.

WA Grower SPRING 2020

ted the 3 PICKING team harves s. satellite imagery trial tree

Trials to help reduce costs and smooth out yields.

STONEFRUIT

stonefruit

update Stonefruit WA

WA Grower SPRING 2020

STONEFRUIT

Strategy launch — September 2020

contacts Stonefruit Sub-Committee

3 MEDITERRANEAN fruit fly (Medfly) (Ceratitis capitate).

Danny Di Marco, Chair e: dimarconson@gmail.com Anthony Fullam

e: afullam@wn.com.au

Bruno Delsimone

e: bdelsimone@mercermooney.com.au

Anthony Caccetta

e: antc83@hotmail.com

Mark Scott

e: markpscott@bigpond.com

Sebastian Fiolo

e: karragullen@bigpond.com

Mick Padula

e: mickpadula@yahoo.com.au

Robert Giumelli

e: juroorchard@live.com.au

Shay Crouch, Value Chain Facilitator

e: shay.crouch@perthnrm.com e: (08) 9374 3306

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

$/kg

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

0.015

Processing fruit

0.006

what’s on... 2020

September

National Fruit Fly Strategy 2020–25 launched

Late October

Scarlet Roxby joins us as the Project Support Officer

Early December

Stonefruit Season Launch

December to March

Carry out in store tasting and activations

2021

Late March

New project proposals due to APC committees

National Fruit Fly Strategy

ollowing the draft of the first National Fruit Fly Strategy in 2008, the National Fruit Fly Council is expected to launch a new strategy for 2020–25 in September, providing a strong, documented framework to coordinate activities across Australia.

Fruit flies have a major economic impact across the globe and are a barrier to accessing export markets for around half of Australia’s $13 billion horticulture sector. Fortunately, our global markets recognise the East West Protocol regarding the distribution of Queensland fruit fly (QFly) and Mediterranean fruit fly (Medfly), with Western Australia currently classed as having Area Freedom for QFly. Globally, advances in surveillance technologies are being applied to maintain biosecurity and access to markets. Coordinated strategies as proposed by the Council will ensure Australia is not left behind.

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The Council has driven collaboration across horticultural industries, the Australian government, Hort Innovation and various research institutions for this renewed national approach to fruit fly management, which will help progress: • The maintenance of resource capability and capacity to manage fruit fly • An increase in the availability and development of management tools • The maintenance of existing markets and development of new markets The Strategy has four Strategic Objectives with eight Priority Areas.

Strategic Objectives 1. Maintain Australia’s freedom from exotic fruit fly: Important to the sustainability of Australia’s Horticultural industries. 2. Minimise the incidence and spread of fruit fly: Will help support productivity, reduce management costs, and enable trade and market access opportunities through low pest prevalence and pest free areas.

STONEFRUIT

3. Implement national systems that support market access: Providing markets confidence in our fruit fly system and allow growers to capitalize on our reputation of quality produce. 4. Facilitate a cooperative and committed national approach to fruit fly management: Cooperation across governments, industries and communities is vital to the success of the fruit fly system.

Priority Areas 1. Market access

PHOTO © DPIRD

2. Management of established fruit fly 3. Prevention, preparedness and response 4. Research 5. Surveillance 6. Diagnostics 7. Communication and engagement 8. Cooperation The National Fruit Fly Council will be responsible for overseeing the Strategy and they have developed an Implementation Plan for 2020–21 to help monitor and report to stakeholders on progress.

Lloyd Klumpp, Chair of the National Fruit Fly Council, said the anticipated release of the strategy in September was a tool for the Council’s broader objectives. “The National Fruit Fly Council is tasked with overseeing the implementation of the strategy; however our strength lies in the contribution that every individual and every organisation makes to combating the fruit fly in Australia”. ●

Horticulture Liaison Officer

BY SHAY CROUCH VALUE CHAIN FACILITATOR, STONEFRUIT WA

• An improved industry understanding of the costs incurred from a biosecurity incident, e.g. the Citrus Canker incident, • A list of priority pests for the industry,

ndustry has come together with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) to provide the Biosecurity Horticulture Liaison Officer project.

• A factsheet on the current state border practices,

Producer committees for Pome, Citrus, Stone and Carnarvon Banana have joined forces and are set to reap the rewards of this project over the next 12 months.

The project will be achieved with industry engagement, with communications including presentations, information factsheets, and reports.

The role has been split into four part-time positions, to service each industry accordingly, with the stonefruit officer acting as the project lead.

We hope you can provide guidance and participate in the project where appropriate and that the industry is more prepared for exotic pest incursions once it is concluded.

The project has come about due to the increased frequency and severity of biosecurity events in WA and industry are wanting to increase their preparedness. With work starting in spring 2020, the stonefruit industry is looking to achieve the following:

• A set of guidelines for when a biosecurity incident occurs, where to start and how to go about it, • A comprehensive update on current surveillance activities in WA. This information will better place the industry for future biosecurity incidents, identifying existing gaps, and further resourcing requirements.

The committee will also review the project as it progresses to establish its effectiveness and if there is an opportunity to continue the project if there is a need. ● MORE INFORMATION For more information contact Shay Crouch, or Bronwyn Walsh as the project Manager at industrymanager@wacitrus.com.au

MORE INFORMATION Visit www.preventfruitfly.com.au where you can also sign up for a monthly fruit fly e-newsletter.

WA Grower WINTER 2020

STONEFRUIT

Grower profile

Robert Giumelli Juro Orchard

BY SHAY CROUCH VALUE CHAIN FACILITATOR, STONEFRUIT WA

here are over 170 Stonefruit growers in WA and they all have a story to tell. I recently got to chat with Rob Giumelli and how he started his orchard in Dwellingup.

Where is your farm and how long have you been orcharding there?

I run a farm in Dwellingup with my wife Judith. We have had this property and been orcharding here for 15 years. The farm had already been established by the Vergone family when we brought it — they have been orcharding in Dwellingup for over 70 years. My orcharding career started many years ago with my parents on the family farm in Pickering Brook. In 1971 the family decided to venture out and try our luck in the beautiful town of Dwellingup which had a few established orchards already. When we purchased the land in Dwellingup we were required to clear and plant a whole new orchard. In 1985 I left the family farm to venture out on my own with a smaller orchard, while also working for Alcoa until my retirement in 2015. Since then I have enjoyed ‘semi-retirement’ by working full-time on the farm, although my wife might disagree as she is always getting me to slow down and enjoy life rather than working so hard.

WA Grower SPRING 2020

What do you grow in your Orchard?

We grow a variety of fruit including nectarines, peaches, plums, cherries, apples, nashi pears and persimmons. I also have a passion for growing Giant Atlantic Pumpkins and was lucky enough to have won the 2018 WA Largest Pumpkin, weighing in at 361kg. The annual Giant Pumpkin Festival is held every Easter at the Dwellingup Primary School. The event helps bring over 10,000 people to our small community and raises some great money for the local Primary School.

What is your favourite stone fruit you grow?

Living and working on orchards most of my life, I enjoy and appreciate anything fresh and in season, you really cannot beat eating fruit straight from the tree. I will, however, eat white flesh nectarines all day!

How about your favourite Stonefruit recipe?

I’m not a fancy man when it comes to desserts, but I do love chargrilled peaches and nectarines

with some ice cream. It is the best summertime dessert.

Are you interested in exploring export markets?

I believe WA grows high quality fruit that needs to be recognised around the world. Though I have been in the orchard industry for a long time, exploring the export market is of interest. I would also like to take my orcharding knowledge and experience and help mentor other local growers in their orcharding career.

What would be your key message for consumers about WA Stonefruit?

I think the main thing people do not realise is that fruit should be eaten at room temperature, as it brings out the sweetness and full flavour of the produce. ● MORE INFORMATION For more information contact Shay via email shay.crouch@perthnrm.com or phone (08) 9374 3306.

STONEFRUIT

We cannot wait till peaches are back in season so we can try this recipe.

Barbecued peaches with brown sugar glaze and ice cream BY CURTIS STONE

Ingredients • 1/4 cup (55g) brown sugar • 2 tablespoons hot water • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 4 ripe peaches, halved, pitted • 2 teaspoons canola oil • Vanilla ice cream for serving

Method

d e u c e b r ba es h c a e p

2. Brush cut sides of peach halves with oil. Barbecue peaches, cut side down, for about 3 mins, or until char marks form. Turn peaches over and brush with some brown sugar glaze, allowing some glaze to pool in pit indentation of peaches. Continue cooking for about 3 mins, or until heated through. 3. Spoon ice cream into 4 bowls. Top with warm peaches and their juices. Drizzle with more brown sugar glaze and serve. Notes: Make-ahead: Brown sugar glaze can be made up to 2 days ahead, covered and refrigerated. Recipe © www.taste.com.au/ recipes/barbecued-peaches-brownsugar-glaze-ice-cream/yfih9cm6

PHOTO © UNSPLASH

3 GRILLED peaches are an all-time favourite summer dessert.

1. Preheat barbecue for high heat. In small bowl, mix brown sugar, hot water and cinnamon until sugar dissolves.

WA Grower SPRING 2020

STONEFRUIT

Looking for labour during a pandemic BY SHAY CROUCH VALUE CHAIN FACILITATOR, STONEFRUIT WA

With a smaller pool of these workers available, competition will be greater and we need to get creative.

ith hard border restrictions across Western Australia in place, many growers will not have access to their usual workforces for the coming season so you may need to throw the net wider to get through the season. In my discussions with growers, I have heard a few strategies that may help. 1. Communicate with your neighbours They will most likely be in the same boat as you; they may only have work for a few days a week or a few weeks. Why not work with them to help share the labour out and keep the workers employed for longer and get your crop off?

2. Online Job searches In addition to your usual online services (Job Shop, Seek, Gumtree etc), the state government has partnered with Studium (www.studium.work) to pool those looking for work and those looking for labour. The site has been used by university students many of which will be looking for some cash over the summer break. Harvest Trail (www.jobsearch.gov.au/harvest) is also being used nationally.

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3 MAYBE it’s worth bringing in a worker or two early in the season and secure your labour needs before there is a rush on picking.

3. Bring them in earlier Have you got things around the property that could do with a tidy up or help out with loose ends? Maybe it’s worth bringing in a worker or two early in the season and secure your labour needs before there is a rush on picking.

4. Have an industry approach If you need workers, let me know and I can put a call out through some other networks. WA Stonefruit social media channels have more than 1500 followers and can reach audiences even greater than this. Tag us with @welovewastonefruit on Facebook and @wastonefruit on Instagram and we will share your callouts.

5. Offer a bonus or incentive When there is a competitive market, people look for the best value. Are there ways you can make it more enticing to have people work for you? Fridays off, finish at 1pm, pay rates higher than

minimum requirements, pick up and drop off in town, work ute available to get to and from work — these are just a few ideas.

This list is not exhaustive and won’t work for everyone… some examples might not work at all, but we are in unfamiliar territory and we need to think outside the square. Our industry is just one of several that traditionally look to backpackers for seasonal labour; with a smaller pool of these workers available, competition will be greater and we need to get creative. If you have any labour hire success strategies or tips, let me know. ● MORE INFORMATION For more information contact Shay via email shay.crouch@perthnrm.com or phone (08) 9374 3306.

YOUR BUSINESS

your

business Your business WA Grower SPRING 2020

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Staff and visitor biosecurity BY MADELEINE QUIRK BIOSECURITY OFFICER, AUSVEG

ne of the best defences against pest and diseases is to implement on-farm hygiene practices, which will limit the entry, spread and establishment of pests and diseases, and help to protect your crops. AUSVEG Biosecurity Officer Madeleine Quirk reports. With trade and tourism on the rise, it is likely that Australia will be at greater risk of plant pests coming into the country now and into the future. But how does this affect vegetable producers? With increasing globalisation, it will be easier for plant pests to enter and move around Australia more rapidly, potentially affecting vegetable production regions.

Farm hygiene is the practice of implementing simple yet effective measures on-farm to reduce the risk of entry, spread and establishment of plant pests on-farm. Farm hygiene is the first step to helping growers protect their own business and the wider horticulture industry, while minimising production losses and unnecessary costs associated with pest outbreaks. This article focuses on some common farm hygiene practices relating to farm staff and visitors. Every day, staff, contractors, service providers, suppliers, industry representatives, and in many cases, tourists and school groups, work on or visit vegetable farms. This can create a significant

WA Grower SPRING 2020

biosecurity risk, as many organisms can hitchhike on clothing, hands, footwear and vehicles, and they can seriously affect a grower’s bottom line. However, if implemented correctly, farm hygiene practices have the potential to significantly reduce these risks.

Visitor inductions The first step to limiting the spread of pests and diseases on-farm is to install biosecurity signage at property entrance points. Gate signs should display a contact mobile number in clear, large writing, encouraging visitors to register their presence with the business owner or farm manager prior to entry. Additional signage directing visitors to a designated parking area may be useful.

Induction of all staff (including casual workers and backpackers), contractors, service providers, and suppliers should be undertaken prior to commencement of any work on-farm. Induction sessions should outline the following: • Biosecurity measures to be undertaken on-farm • The business’ biosecurity plan • Biosecurity checklist • Risks posed by exotic and endemic pests to the business • Key exotic pests of concern.

Install biosecurity signage at property entrance points.

When a visitor arrives at the designated parking area, further signage should direct them to the farm office to sign-in. Keeping a visitor register is important for both biosecurity and safety purposes, and should request details including name, phone number, sign-in time, sign-out time, and purpose of visit.

3 THE first step to limiting the spread of pests and diseases on-farm is to install biosecurity signage at property entrance points.

An example of a farm biosecurity induction manual can be found online at: farmbiosecurity. com.au/wp-content/ uploads/2019/03/ Biosecurity-InductionManual-for-BundabergHorticultural-Farms.pdf.

Biosecurity signage is also available from AUSVEG free-ofcharge. Please send an email to science@ausveg.com.au or call (03) 9882 0277 to request signs or for further information on developing a biosecurity induction.

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Come clean, go clean Many pests and diseases are spread mechanically by footwear, clothing, gloves, hair, cars, and personal equipment. To ensure that staff, contractors, service providers and other visitors ‘come clean and go clean’ (meaning they are not spreading diseases or insect pests from one farm to another), staff and visitors should have access to the following items and should use them when required: • Footbaths and scrubbing brushes • Disposable booties • Disposable overalls • Hand sanitiser • Clean gloves. It is very common for contractors, service providers, casual staff, and tourists to visit multiple properties in one day and with that comes a greater risk of spreading pests and diseases from one property to another. Entry on-farm should always be conditional to a biosecurity induction.

Limiting on-farm vehicle movement Limiting worker, contractor or visitor movement from different areas of the property can reduce the spread of plant pests, both on-farm and between farms. Separating a farm into different zones will help to limit movement between different areas. A farm can be separated into an exclusion zone, separation zone, and farming zone: • The exclusion zone restricts nonessential visitors and staff from internal roadways, pathways, and farming areas. Visiting vehicles are to be limited to specific car parks at the farm entrance. • The separation zone consists of internal roadways and pathways on-farm. Only essential vehicles should have access to these areas. • The farming zone is considered the area where crops are grown. Only dedicated farm vehicles and machinery should operate in these areas. Zones should be separated by physical barriers such as fencing and signage. It is also important to ensure that proper sanitation procedures are in place between zones, and only essential vehicles and personnel can access these areas.

3 ENSURE footbaths and scrubbing brushes are easily accessible for staff and farm visitors.

Introducing

farm biosecurity checklists A farm biosecurity checklist is a good way to monitor your existing practices and identify the current gaps. Below is a checklist that can be used when assessing your ‘staff and farm visitor’ practices. Biosecurity practice

In place

In progress

Not practiced

N/A

Footbaths and scrubbing brushes are easily accessible for staff and farm visitors. Visitor clothing, footwear and tools are checked for soil and organic matter before entering the farm. Staff is trained in biosecurity and farm hygiene practices. Visitors are inducted in biosecurity expectations prior to moving around the farm. Visitors sign a register in order to monitor on-farm movements. Appropriate hygiene supplies are available to staff and visitors (hand sanitiser, gloves, boots, overalls). Contractor entry is conditional to a biosecurity induction and hygiene protocols.

To download a full Farm Biosecurity checklist, visit pages 12-13 of the AUSVEG biosecurity toolkit: ausveg.com.au/app/uploads/2017/05/ Biosecurity-R-1.pdf.

On-farm biosecurity can be simple, yet these simple steps can significantly protect your farm business.

MORE INFORMATION

For information on other farm hygiene practices, including advice on managing biosecurity risks associated with packaging/pallets/bins, waste and weeds, planting material, and wind, please visit farmbiosecurity.com.au/ essentials-toolkit.

Contact AUSVEG Biosecurity Officer Madeleine Quirk on (03) 9882 0277 or madeleine.quirk@ausveg.com.au. The Farm Biosecurity Program is funded by the Plant Health Levy.

Find out more: Any unusual plant pest should be reported immediately to the relevant state or territory agriculture agency through the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline (1800 084 881).

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Lifelong learning

h t w o r g ss e n i s key to bu BY SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

n a constantly evolving environment, business owners who commit to learning new skills will be better able to adapt to change and keep their business going in challenging conditions. Many business owners feel that with all the responsibilities and tasks they already have, there is no time, need or capacity for them to learn new skills. However, studies have shown that adopting a ‘growth mindset’ — believing that your basic abilities are not fixed, and committing to learning and developing over time — is an important attribute for those who want to stay in business. People with a growth mindset prioritise lifelong learning so that they can consistently develop new and useful skills to get ahead.

accountants, lawyers and consultants, there are many other needs you could meet yourself, if you develop the right skills and knowledge. These can include learning how to effectively use social media, understand your business financials, and refine your business plan.

Leaders who commit to learning new skills will be in a better position to steer their business forward, deal with challenges and seize opportunities. Skills development is also important to many employees, and offering these sorts of opportunities can help you retain good employees for longer, as they grow with your business.

The SBDC offers a wide range of affordable skillsbuilding online workshops.

The needs of your business can change over time. While you can always ‘buy in’ valuable professional advice and services from professionals including

WA Grower SPRING 2020

What sort of learning is available to small businesses?

With business information readily available these days, there are many affordable ways to learn such as reading books and online articles, watching videos or listening to podcasts. For those who prefer to be instructed directly and learn with others, there are also short courses and workshops. At the other end of the spectrum, there are longer, more

3 LEADERS who commit to learning new skills will be in a better position to steer their business forward.

formal courses, such certificates and diplomas offered by universities and other learning providers. With a focus on keeping costs under control in a turbulent economy, there is significant demand for free and lowcost learning opportunities for small business owners. The rise of the internet and the social distancing changes due to COVID-19 has resulted in an increase in demand (and supply) of online courses and webinars. Learning this way enables students to participate in skills development from the comfort of their own home or office, while accessing subject matter experts who can answer questions and provide insight into topics. The Small Business Development Corporation offers a wide range of affordable skills-building online workshops as part of their support for small business owners in Western Australia. Their interactive sessions cover topics designed both for new and established business owners who want to add to their skills. The workshops are currently available free of charge to support small businesses through the disruption of COVID-19. A full schedule of upcoming courses is available at smallbusiness.wa.gov.au/ workshops

YOUR BUSINESS 3TO succeed in small business, owners must be committed to growing and learning.

Organisations including Chamber of Commerce and Industry and networking groups also frequently organise affordable business skills courses.

What types of training should you do? The best type of training for your business is a topic that addresses the specific situations that you encounter. Considering how you will apply and practice what you learn is essential to making sure your learning investment is worthwhile. Many people find they learn most effectively through handson opportunities, so it’s useful to put new skills into practice before they are forgotten. To decide what training you or your employees need to do for your business, ask yourself: • What am I trying to achieve for my business? • What are the gaps in knowledge or skills that are holding my business back? • What tasks could I cost effectively do myself in my business instead of outsourcing, if I had the skills?

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• What am I interested in or inspired to learn more about, that I could apply to improving my business?

Making time for lifelong learning Being a small business owner, you may feel time-poor and that you don’t have a lot of spare time to spend learning new skills. It is important to choose learning that fits into your available time, but to also consider whether you are using your spare time effectively. Recent studies show that Australians spend on average more than an hour and a half every day on social media and almost 14 million people have subscription or pay TV services.

By dedicating a small amount of free time to meet your learning goals, you can slowly but surely build your skill base. To succeed in small business, owners must be committed to growing and learning. Small business owners who are lifetime learners adapt to change more readily and can achieve great results for their business. MORE INFORMATION Visit www.smallbusiness.wa.gov.au workshops for more information about the practical and affordable business skills training on offer.

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Assis tance for WA growers affected by drought and other challenging threats

635 loans valued at more than $715 million has been made to farmers. BY DR IAN WILKINSON SENIOR RESEARCH SCIENTIST, DEPARTMENT OF PRIMARY INDUSTRIES AND REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT

ederal Government funding is available to assist farmers and small businesses assisting farmers during periods where their operations are adversely influenced by drought and other unforeseen issues, including hail and pest damage.

WA Grower SPRING 2020

Three funding streams are administered by the Regional Investment Corporation (RIC) — Drought loans for farmers, Farm Investment loans for farmers, and AgBiz Drought loans for small businesses. In the financial year ending 30 June 2020, 635 loans valued at more than $715 million had been made to farmers.

Loans for farmers and horticulturists Both farm loans are available to Western Australian farmers. Each allows for loans of up to $2 million, to be repaid over 10 years. The estimated processing time for the loan is six months or more from the time an application is completed. This is due to high demand — the RIC is working hard to improve those timeframes. Details of the criteria for the loans can be found at the weblinks provided at the end of this article. There are no eligible and non-eligible geographical areas defined for these loans.

3 DROUGHT and Farm Improvement loans can be utilised for the installation of netting to protect crops from the weather, and pest events.

The loans can be applied for at any time, at no cost, however, applicants must have 50 per cent or more of their debt with a commercial lender.

Frequency of repayments will be tailored to the cash flow of each business, with no fees for extra repayments, or for early settlement of the loan. However, no redraws are permitted on the loan. With both loans, applicants must be Australian citizens or permanent residents, contribute at least 75 per cent of their labour to the business, earn at least 50 per cent of their income from the business, and own or lease land used for farming purposes.

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The business must be in financial need of a loan, have the capacity to repay the loan, have existing commercial debt, and be financially viable in the long term. The business must be in the agriculture or horticulture industry, be registered for tax purposes in Australia, with an ABN and registered for GST, not be under external administration or bankruptcy, and operate as a sole trader/trust/partnership or private company. Security must be provided for the loan, support from a commercial lender must be secured for the loan, and the loan must be repaid. Discussions held with the Australian Government’s Regional Investment Corporation indicate that applicants must be able to demonstrate adverse impacts on their business for both loans. While there are no specific percentage loss figures required to trigger eligibility for loans, the details of any loss and reasons for that loss will be considered in the loan application.

The loan assessment team will contact applicants and seek further details if required, or if further supporting documents are needed to process the application. In the horticulture industry, these loans can be utilised for the installation of netting to protect crops from the weather (including sun, hail, storm), and pest events (bird damage to crops). Use of such netting will also assist in decreasing water usage for growing the crop (a drought mitigation measure).

TABLE 1. COMPARING THE DROUGHT AND FARM INVESTMENT LOANS. Drought loan

Farm Investment Loan

Eligibility

Demonstrated drought impacts on farm

Solely/mainly sell, or plan to sell to interstate/international supply chains

Repayment

First two years’ interest-free, three years’ interest only, remaining five years interest and principal*

First five years’ interest only, remaining five years’ principal and interest

Purpose

Prepare for, manage, or recover from drought

Strengthen farm business, take steps to access markets outside WA, prepare for, manage through, or recover from drought

Additional application documentation

Drought Plan required — see www.ric.gov.au/drought

*For applications received before 30 September 2020. Applications received after this time will be five years’ interest only, followed by five years’ principal and interest.

reduction in turnover, or an increase in unsecured debt as a result of drought. Examples include businesses associated with apple packing and distribution. Most of Western Australia is included in the eligible drought area, but areas relevant to the business should be confirmed on the map provided at the bottom of the AgBiz Drought loans webpage. Loans of up to $500,000 are available, and repayment terms and periods are consistent with the Drought loans mentioned above. As with Drought loans, the first two years of the AgBiz Drought loan is interestfree when applications are received by Regional Investment Corporation before 30 September 2020. These funds will assist businesses with refinancing their debts, paying for operating expenses, suppliers, and/or salaries, wages and rent to assist with management during the drought.

For further information on these loans call

1800 875 675.

While similar, the two loans have some differences in eligibility, repayment criteria, the purpose of the loan, and documentation required to apply for the loan. These are shown in Table 1.

Loans for small businesses supporting farmers AgBiz Drought loans are for small businesses (not farms) with less than 20 staff (excluding casuals) that supply goods and services relating to primary production to farm businesses in a drought-affected area that have had a

Further information on loans For more details of any of the loans and the application process, view the Regional Investment Corporation website or call 1800 875 675. It is recommended you regularly visit the web page to check for any changes that may have been made to the loan criteria, and note the 30 September 2020 deadline for receipt of applications for some of the loans in relation to interest-free repayment periods.

3 THE installation of netting can prevent fruit damage during storms.

MORE INFORMATION • R egional Investment Corporation at www.ric.gov.au/loans or call 1800 875 675 • Drought loans at www.ric.gov.au/drought • F arm Improvement loans at www.ric.gov. au/farm-investment • AgBiz Drought loans at www.ric.gov.au/ agbiz-drought

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

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Regional Investment Corporation Loans d n a u o y p l e h y e th d l u o c your business?

BY CHRIS PUCKRIDGE RURAL FINANCIAL COUNSELLOR, RURAL WEST

n 2018 the Commonwealth Government established the Regional Investment Corporation (RIC) to assist farmers with drought recovery and preparedness and to help build producer’s export capacity and competitiveness. But what does that mean for you? In a nutshell, the RIC loans are an alternative funding option, with two types of loans available to primary producers: Drought Loans and Farm Investment Loans. The Drought Loans are all about preparing and recovering from drought and are focused on water infrastructure and general drought recovery. The drought loans have a two-year interest free period and then three years interest only however, the interest free period will only apply to loans applied for before September 30, 2020; after this the drought loan will be more similar to the Farm Investment Loan.

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Although these may suit some producers in WA, in most cases the Farm Investment Loans will probably be more relevant to WA producers and you can discuss this with RIC on their direct line 1800 875 675.

The Farm Investment Loans are designed for people planning to access markets interstate or outside of Australia, which is relevant to many of our fruit and vegetable growers. Of course, it is always important to determine if interest rates are a key factor in your businesses profitability or if other factors are more important.

Who is eligible? There is a range of eligibility criteria, which can be reviewed on the RIC website, but importantly a grower must have a business plan, be financially viable and keep at least 50 per cent of their existing debt with a commercial lender. One of the key qualifiers is that you must have suffered a significant financial impact in recent years and the cause of the significant financial impact must be substantially outside the control of the farm business. For example, it may be because of drought or natural disaster, pest or disease outbreak, unexpected market closure or other significant events that are outside the control of the farm business.

The interest free period only applies to loans applied for before September 30, 2020.

The Farm Investment Loans can improve your cashflow through refinancing existing debt and the loan can be used to fund operating expenses or capital improvements to your business. The maximum loan available is $2 million and the current interest rate is 1.92 per cent (variable and reviewed six-monthly).

The term of the loans are 10 years, with the first five years interest only and the second five years requiring principal and interest. The remaining debt at the end of the 10-year period can be transferred to a commercial lender and there are no ongoing fees or charges.

Business planning might be the key? To qualify for a RIC loan, you need to have a business plan, which states what you are doing now and what you want to do in the future. This is where we come in. Rural West has a very good business planning framework that adapts to various businesses. Our framework is based on the Harvard Business Planning Model and this has been used successfully across many industries all over the world to analyse and clarify what a business can do.

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3 THE Farm Investment Loans are designed for people planning to access markets interstate or outside of Australia.

Supporting growers in a labour short market BY BERNICE RUSSO HARVEST OFFICER, RURAL ENTERPRISES AUSTRALIA

In particular, it can identify your areas of strength and areas where you need to focus your energy. It might sound complicated, but it’s actually a very simple way to get a bank to understand what you are doing and what you want to do in the future. It’s a very practical way to build your bank’s confidence in your plans and it’s something that our team at Rural West can help you work through.

Sound interesting? By calling Rural West on 1800 612 004 we can run through what your business options might be and help point you in the right direction. MORE INFORMATION More information on the RIC loans is available at www.ric.gov.au or phone 1800 875 675. By calling Rural West on 1800 612 004, we can run through what your business options might be and help point you in the right direction.

arvest Trail Services (HTS) is a free initiative developed by the Federal Government, which aims to link workers, including Australian job seekers and working holiday makers, with seasonal harvest jobs to meet seasonal peaks in employer demand in locations across Australia. After a successful 2019–20 season, placing over 23,000 employees to assist with seasonal work in the horticulture and viticulture industry, HTS has grown and has now expanded into the South West region — Rural Enterprises has been awarded the contract to be the Provider for this region. Rural Enterprises specialise in agricultural recruitment and have been supplying recruitment services to the industry for over 60 years. They are very well positioned to help whether you are an employer needing to hire harvest workers, or a job seeker looking for harvest work. Bernice Russo has been appointed as Rural Enterprises’ dedicated Harvest Officer. After being born and bred in the South West, she has returned with 15 years of recruitment experience to manage the Harvest Trail Service in her home territory. She will be meeting with growers to identify their labour needs and source job seekers. This is done through multiple resourcing channels to develop a database of job seekers to fill growers’ needs — connecting you with suitable harvest workers. Bernice will do the marketing and finding of

3 RURAL Enterprises Team — Emma Willis, Stuart Willis, Sarah Clayton and Bernice Russo.

workers for you so you can get on with managing your business. Harvest Trail Information Services (HTIS) provides comprehensive up-todate information about harvest work vacancies on the Harvest Trail website. They can provide you with reliable information about fair, safe and legal work arrangements.

The HTIS produces the quarterly State of the Australian Harvest Trail Market Report, and they also contribute to and coordinate information for the National Harvest Guide. Being funded by the Federal Government, there is NO cost to you to use these services. If you would like assistance with your recruitment needs, reach out to Bernice at Rural Enterprises to arrange a site visit to your property, or visit our newly-opened office in Vasse. MORE INFORMATION Bernice Russo, Harvest Officer, email bernice@ruralenterprises.com.au or phone (08) 6166 9124.

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ADVERTORIAL

MADEC Harvest Trail Information Service Provider BY ROB HAYES STATE MANAGER, MADEC HTIS

A NEWLY-BRANDED AND enhanced Harvest Trail Information Service (HTIS) including a refreshed Harvest Trail website, new harvest guide and contact centre, has been delivered by MADEC Australia from July 1. MADEC is a successful not-for-profit and charitable organisation with a 50-year history providing education and employment services, including to disadvantaged groups. MADEC HTIS State Manager Rob Hayes said the new Harvest Trail Information Service will allow employers and job seekers to access greater benefits from the service. “As part of the reforms the Harvest Trail website has been revamped so job seekers (including Australians and visa holders) and employers can easily see what jobs and services are available.”

A new Harvest Guide will also be published and distributed in hard copy form to thousands of jobseekers, information centres and accommodation providers across the country twice a year. The guide details where and when certain crops are grown and when labour is needed to either pick and pack crops, or when other farm work such as pruning is undertaken. The third element of the HTIS is a national contact and communications centre, which operates from 8am to 11pm AEST. Mr Hayes said that, “Trained operators help employers list vacancies on the Harvest Trail

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3 A Facebook page provides real-time information on vacancies and other relevant happenings within the horticulture industry.

website and can also help jobseekers find horticulture jobs and what the work involves.” “These staff will often provide valuable advice to travellers particularly when adverse weather conditions or natural disasters occur, saving people much time and effort in their search for work and keeping them safe.” A Facebook page also provides realtime information on vacancies and other relevant happenings within the horticulture industry. More than ever, the Harvest Trail Information Service will play a crucial role in linking seasonal workers with horticulture vacancies across the country. Mr Hayes strongly encouraged growers and labour hire contractors to contact the call centre to list vacancies if they were having difficulty recruiting. “Growers have been through a lot in recent times so knowing that a no-cost service is there to help them find required labour when they need it is just so important,” he said.

“Our experience in the Call Centre is that while most unskilled jobs can be filled within a matter of days, the dwindling number of backpackers in the country is making it harder to fill vacancies and growers are strongly advised to contact the HTIS on 1800 062 332 well in advance of their need for workers.” In further good news for WA growers, there is now dedicated Harvest Trail Service providers located in Vasse and Kununurra to cater for the needs of growers. These are no-cost services that can source, screen and visa-check workers, before referring them to vacancies. The HTIS works closely with these service providers. MORE INFORMATION Call our Harvest Trail contact centre to speak to one of our team today on free-call 1800 062 332 (8AM – 8PM, Monday to Friday, AEST) or visit the Harvest Trail website to find or post seasonal farm jobs: www.harvesttrail.gov.au

WA crates The professional packaging service for WAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest fresh fruit and vegetables

0 email: service@wacrates.com.au

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Transmission of COVID-19 through food and food packaging BY DEON MAHONEY HEAD OF FOOD SAFETY, PMA AUSTRALIA NEW ZEALAND

ver the past six months, considerable scientific data has been published on the SARSCoV-2 virus, its mode of transmission, and the use of control strategies such as wearing masks. Not surprisingly, there are conflicting findings and difficulties in interpreting what the results mean. This reflects the complexity of doing and reporting science. Plus, some of the studies have been poorly-designed and have generated dubious results. Unfortunately, in recent weeks the role of food and food packaging in transmission of the virus has again been raised. Below we set out what is known.

Is food a vehicle for the virus? Public health authorities continue to reaffirm that the risk from food is very low. This advice has remained in place during the entire period of the pandemic.

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World Health Organization States that it is highly unlikely that people can contract COVID-19 from food or food packaging. www.who.int/publications/i/item/covid-19and-food-safety-guidance-for-food-businesses Mike Ryan, the head of the WHO emergencies programme told a briefing in Geneva on 13 August 2020: “People should not fear food, or food packaging or processing or delivery of food. There is no evidence that food or the food chain is participating in transmission of this virus. And people should feel comfortable and safe.” United States Food and Drug Administration There is no evidence of transmission of the COVID-19 virus, a respiratory virus, through food or food packaging, and the FDA does not anticipate that food products would need to be recalled or be withdrawn from the market because of COVID-19. www.fda.gov/food/food-safety-duringemergencies/food-safety-and-coronavirusdisease-2019-covid-19#import/export. United Kingdom Food Standards Agency A risk assessment by the Agency found that the probability that UK consumers will receive potentially infectious exposures to SARS-CoV-2 via the consumption of food or the handling of food contact materials or packaging is overall very low. www.food.gov.uk/print/pdf/node/4121.

3 THE transmission of the COVID-19 virus via food or food packaging represents a very low risk for food handlers, the public, and consumers.

How is the virus transmitted? Authorities continue to report that the disease spreads between people through direct, indirect (contaminated objects or surfaces), or close contact with infected people via mouth and nose secretions. Hence airborne precautions such as the use of masks is essential as fresh aerosols may contain viable virus. While transmission of COVID19 via surfaces is plausible, it is highly unlikely.

Survival on surfaces While some preliminary studies suggest the virus may survive on inanimate surfaces for periods up to six days, these studies do not replicate real-life situations. Importantly the concentrations of virus used were considerably higher than those in droplets in real-life situations. Transmission via inanimate surfaces is very small, and only where an infected person coughs or sneezes on the surface, and another person touches that surface soon after the cough or sneeze.

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While transmission of COVID-19 via surfaces is plausible, it is highly unlikely.

High-level advice The transmission of the COVID-19 virus via food or food packaging represents a very low risk for food handlers, the public, and consumers.

Virus transmission by food is highly unlikely. Virus transmission via food packaging is highly unlikely. REFERENCES Goldman, E. (2020). Exaggerated risk of transmission of COVID-19 by fomites. The Lancet Infectious Diseases. doi:10.1016/ s1473-3099(20)30561-2 Kampf et al. (2020). Persistence of coronaviruses on inanimate surfaces and its inactivation with biocidal agents. Journal of Hospital Infection. doi:10.1016/j.jhin.2020.01.022 Public Health Ontario (2020) COVID-19 Routes of Transmission – What We Know So Far. www.publichealthontario.ca/-/ media/documents/ncov/wwksf-routestransmission-mar-06-2020.pdf?la=en van Doremalen et al. (2020). Aerosol and Surface Stability of SARS-CoV-2 as Compared with SARS-CoV-1. N Engl J Med, 382:1564-1567. doi:10.1056/ NEJMc2004973

Crisis management seminar BY DEON MAHONEY HEAD OF FOOD SAFETY, PMA AUSTRALIA NEW ZEALAND

MA Australia New Zealand recently hosted the seminar Crisis management in the fresh produce sector.

The seminar was in response to serious incidents that had occurred in the primary production sector and food industry in recent years, and underlined the need for businesses to be better organised to manage such incidents. The seminar featured presentations by Peter McGee, David Hawkins, and Sean Dignum outlining the impacts of incidents, how to manage an incident, and the importance of effective crisis communication.

The presenters provided examples of real-world incidents and their impact. They also highlighted the importance of preparedness to manage a crisis: • Being proactive — identify what could go wrong and how it will impact your business • Develop a crisis management plan — ensures your business response is well organised and efficiently executed with the right personnel in a timely manner, with an emphasis on an effective communication plan • Present regular training sessions and simulations to assist with preparedness.

Every business seeks to avoid an incident or crisis that will damage their reputation.

Every business seeks to avoid an incident or crisis that will damage their reputation. Unfortunately, no business is protected from the possibility, especially as incidents can take many forms. This includes: a food safety issue, product tampering, a workplace accident, an environmental concern, or employment practices.

A properly constructed crisis management plan will not protect you from incident, but it will ensure any disruption is minimised and your ability to continue in business is safeguarded.

MORE INFORMATION Video content from the seminar is available on the PMA Australia New Zealand website: www.pma.com/Global-PMA/ANZ/ News/2020/Crisis-Management-in-theFresh-Produce-Sector

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Webinars to communicate and empower horticulture in 2020 and beyond

We can bring the world to our members in a time when we cannot travel.

BY JOEL DINSDALE QUALITY ASSURANCE COORDINATOR, VEGETABLESWA

CYMI, (that’s millennial vocab for ‘In case you missed it’), COVID-19 has forced the world to have a rethink. Within a matter of weeks, the whole world adjusted and now are familiar with the terms and actions of social distancing, iso, masks, sanitisers etc. It is really unclear as to how long these things will be in place, so we’ve had to adjust accordingly.

Despite COVID-19 restrictions, vegetablesWA is determined to keep communicating and interacting with our amazing network of members and friends to ensure that fruit and vegetable production is minimally impacted by the crisis.

As a result, we have been getting our technology on and conducting webinars to communicate critical messages to our network in place of running face-to-face workshops (that’s so 2019!). We have chosen to use the platform Zoom, but other organisations in the horticulture space are using Webex, Teams, Skype, and the list goes on. To run programs like Zoom, you only need a smart phone or smart device which is a common tool for most involved in horticulture. “So why use Zoom”, you ask? The answer is simple!

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We can bring the world to our members in a time when we cannot travel. A great example of this was our recent webinar on Melon Food Safety lead by vegetablesWA’s industry extension officer, Sam Grubiša. The webinar was presented by Dr SP Singh (from the NSW DPI). Dr Singh is an Australian expert on Melon Food Safety who has been heavily involved in a number of projects that were born following the Listeria outbreak in early 2018. The presentation, which he shared from his office in Sydney (via Zoom’s screen share function), primarily drilled into melon food safety, but there are so many learnings that could be applied to other fruit and vegetable commodities. Zoom has a chat function, which allowed for the live participants to ask their burning questions of Dr Singh. This added great value to the event for our participants. “I missed it…can you tell me more about it?” No…because Zoom has solved that problem!

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Our Communications guru Amber Atkinson recorded the live webinar and we have uploaded it to our vegetablesWA YouTube channel (so why not check it out if you missed it). But wait…there’s more!

At vegetablesWA, we have another amazing resource at our disposal in Truyen Vo. Truyen has translated the webinar into Vietnamese, so that our Vietnamese network can also enjoy the teachings of Dr Singh. If that’s not enough to convince you to take a look…then perhaps the inside knowledge that growers from interstate and one person from overseas participated in the live event and provided feedback that they loved the webinar’s content. “I don’t wash produce, so that’s no help to me.” Don’t worry, we’ve still got you covered.

vegetablesWA’s Labour Facilitator Melissa Denning (in conjunction with Pome West and WA Berries), hosted a live webinar to discuss labour issues stemming from COVID-19. We know that labour is a MASSIVE issue for most horticulture businesses in WA so we addressed it. Spoiler alert…there was a robust, frank discussion on the state of play in the labour market with questions coming in live from the meeting participants (growers and other stakeholders).

to remove the barriers of travel and COVID-19. In case I haven’t convinced you of the power of technology like Zoom, then consider this as a final thought — there are farmers currently conducting business via platforms like Zoom to sell their produce — so there’s never been a better time to get up-to-speed with the latest technology.

There are farmers conducting business via platforms like Zoom to sell their produce.

Other webinars hosted by vegetablesWA include, Benchmarking and Financial planning with Bryn Edwards, Export Updates with Manus Stockdale and a COVID-19 Business Update hosted By CEO John Shannon. Check out our YouTube channel to see these.

MORE INFORMATION

Are you enjoying our webinars and videos? Do you have a burning topic that you would like the vegetablesWA team to address? Would you like a Zoom tutorial or some assistance so that you too can enjoy the webinars on offer? Then contact vegetablesWA on (08) 9486 7515. Our team are only too happy to assist.

I have also been using Zoom to interact with growers to address their food safety systems. While New Zealand is trialling remote auditing as a way

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Will there or won’t there be enough labour?

BY MELISSA DENNING LABOUR SCHEME FACILITATOR

abour appears to be the hot topic at the moment. ABC Perth radio presenters Nadia and Russell are talking about it most mornings.

AM often has a news item about it and Belinda is always interested to hear what is happening. Jennifer from The West has also written some great pieces in the last couple of weeks. What we do know is that we don’t have any clear data.

The number of Working Holiday Makers in Australia has reduced by over 40 per cent since March, down from the standard (approx.) 145,000 to (approx.) 85,000. Then take out those that are over East and those that are working in the tourism sector plus add those that have done their “88-days”, the numbers are dwindling more and more. The forecast says we are going to need approximately 5,000 workers in spring. Will we have enough? We just don’t know.

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3 THE forecast says we are going to need approximately 5,000 workers in spring.

On 23 July, vegetablesWA, Berries Australia and Pome hosted a webinar to explore some of the options available to growers. Not everything may work for everyone, or maybe you don’t even have a problem. These are just options available.

The conversation was very robust and there was an opportunity for a number of industry members to speak and offer their thoughts and ideas. Here are a few of the ideas that were mentioned:

Harvest Trail

• P aying bonuses if workers stay a little longer

https://jobsearch.gov.au/harvest The Harvest Trail is a website funded by the Department of Education, Skills and Employment (DESE). It is a free service offered to growers to advertise available positions.

Rural Enterprises hts@ruralenterprises. com.au

• O ffering schools hours so Mums can pick

• C ontacting another “off-season” grower and recommending workers – on the thought that when they finish there, they will return to you for your next season • Offer accommodation, where possible • Work with the hostels in the area to be recognised as a “good” employer

The number of Working Holiday Makers in Australia has reduced by over 40% since March.

Bernice at Rural Enterprises is available to assist in finding workers for your business. Rural Enterprises have the Harvest Office based in Vasse. This office is linked to the Harvest Trail website and again is a free service offered by DESE.

Studium www.studium.work/jobsinfoodandag Studium has formed a partnership with the Department of Primary Industries to assist growers in finding workers. Based on the premise of job matching, Studium allows you to search for a specific skill rather than trolling through huge numbers of resumes.

• Contact the local schools to see about school leavers.

DESE have also been hosting Job Fairs in regional towns, if one pops up near you go along. They are free for employers to attend.

MORE INFORMATION The webinar is available on the vegetablesWA YouTube page at www.youtube.com/ watch?v=uGtWGWXWhIg&t=14s

Labour Market Testing We recommend that you begin labour market testing (advertising) as soon as possible for two reasons: so you have a clear picture of available and interested workers, and so we can get current data from growers that reflects the reality of these unprecedented times. So what does this involve?

WRITE YOUR AD When writing your ad, there are a number of requirements. Make sure you include:

The number of workers Whether it’s for a casual or permanent role The location of the farm The date of the contract eg. May to December The number of hours of work offered per week And finally, the rate – whether you’ll be paying the horticulture award or piece rate

ADVERTISE You need to advertise on the Harvest Trail website. Visit www.harvesttrail.gov.au

2 WEEK WAIT Your ad needs to be live on the Harvest Trail website for a minimum of two weeks

CONTACT VEGETABLESWA Email Melissa Denning at melissa.denning@vegetableswa.com.au. She will need a copy of your ad, as well as: How many Australians applied? How many Australians were offered a place? How many Australians took up the work? Why did Australians turn down the position?

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Teaching kids about

ith the recent COVID-19 pandemic, food security has been increasingly prevalent in our daily discussions. Part of food security is having younger generations coming through to continue the great work done by those who have come before them. So, how do we get the next generation interested in farming when there are less families involved in farming? As an extension of the “Food You Can Trust” initiative, WAFarmers is embarking on a journey to bring the farm to primary school students. Federally funded over the next two years, WAFarmers will be targeting year six students with the program running for three weeks. The program has three components for delivery. The first component is 250 minutes (or five lessons) of learning about different agricultural industries including: • Vegetables • Fruit • Broadacre • Dairy • Livestock • Fibre (Wool and Cotton) • Soil and Climate • Seafood.

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A PRESENTATION COLLEG

Teaching the next generation about food production. This in-class learning will address year six curriculum, including the concept of scarcity revolving around finite environmental resources to meet the needs of the local and global populations. Lessons will highlight the alternative use of resources resulting in the need to consider trade-offs (e.g. using the land to grow crops or to graze cattle). Students will also learn about the impact consumer purchasing decisions can have on a family, the broader community (e.g. purchasing from the local growers’ market or a supermarket chain) and the environment (e.g. pollution, waste).

In week three, there will be a “Mini Agricultural Day Incursion” where students will interact with live production farm animals and real-life farmers in their own school. This will give students the look, touch and feel of agriculture and will explain to them both the benefits and what is required to have a career in agriculture. Students will also get the opportunity to ask pertinent questions that matter to them about real-life farmers, aimed at satisfying their curiosity about agriculture. This experience is limited to the first 75 schools that take up the program in any given year.

PHOTO © CATHY BROAD, ION

BY AARON NATOLI PROJECT MANAGER, PERTH NRM

agriculture

To tie the learning and understanding of the first two activities, each student will get a take home an Augmented Reality storybook about agriculture. The story will be about two city kids (boy and a girl) who go on an agricultural adventure including picking vegetables, fishing on a boat and driving a tractor. In this storybook, half the story takes place on the page and the other half of the story takes place in augmented reality, to make a truly unique and immersive experience. WAFarmers is currently looking for volunteer vegetable and fruit growers who would like to take part in the school day incursions in 2021 and 2022. A Working with Children Check will be required and we encourage growers (including those recently retired) who have time available to join us in shaping the next generation of agriculture. MORE INFORMATION Contact Aaron Natoli from WAFarmers on 0488 779 038 or email aaronnatoli@ wafarmers.org.au

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market Your market WA Grower SPRING 2020

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Is your business suitable for export? D

BY MANUS STOCKDALE EXPORT DEVELOPMENT PROJECT LEAD, VEGETABLESWA

To be successful in export, businesses need to have a long-term focus.

uring the past two and a half years of the Export Facilitator Project, we’ve developed a list of the characteristics of business that successfully incorporated export into their enterprise.

3 MOST importers are looking for a supplier that can provide all of their requirements for as long as possible.

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YOUR MARKET 3 GROWERS that don’t have the capability to process vegetables for sale within their own business will struggle to be successful at export sales.

This is not an exhaustive list and businesses don’t necessarily need to have all of these attributes to be successful but they certainly help.

Business factors; business management, supply and marketing.

These factors can be divided into three categories: business management, supply and marketing (see Table 1).

TABLE 1. SUCCESSFUL EXPORT BUSINESS FACTORS.

Business Management

a Have a business plan or at least

a longer-term strategic vision for their business. To be successful in export, businesses need to have a long-term focus and a desire to strategically expand their market options rather than a focus on short-term opportunities.

b Record and analyse the cost of production of vegetables produced and are not purely focused on price. To be successful in export growers need to know what it costs them to produce the vegetables that they are exporting. Export prices are not always higher than domestic prices, but they are often more stable and volumes more consistent so knowing cost of production is key to making sure export sales are profitable and add value to the business as a whole. The advantage to the grower’s business in pursuing an export market that has longer term stable volume and pricing is that profitability then lies within their control (by driving efficiencies and reducing cost of production) as compared to a traditional volatile domestic wholesale market channel. c Have high enough equity levels in their business that they can absorb potential short-term losses for longer term gain in an export market. The initial risks and costs of new export business can be high and therefore businesses need to have enough financial reserves to cover any losses and business development costs. While exporting vegetables to overseas markets might seem complicated, most of the skills and knowledge used to sell vegetables to domestic markets are transferable. So, if your business supplies the major retailers in Australia you could easily be supplying overseas customers and diversifying your

Supply

a Have a long supply window or

large volume of the vegetable line in a narrow window. Most importers are looking for a supplier that can provide all of their requirements for as long as possible (unless they have a particular requirement for a niche supply over a short period). There are also economies of scale for freight by both air and sea with larger container sizes leading to significantly lower per kilogram cost, so growers should aim to supply the largest volume that the customer can handle in each consignment.

b Possess the capability to process and/or pack vegetables for retail sale. Generally exporting growers need to be able to supply vegetables to overseas customers in a format that is ready for retail or wholesale sale. Growers that don’t have the capability to process vegetables for sale within their own business will struggle to be successful at export sales. c Supply domestic markets (usually direct to retail). Having a demonstrated capability to supply to local domestic customers provides overseas importers with a level of confidence about the grower’s ability to supply on time and to the quality required. Supplying export customers requires the same management and skills as domestic markets, with a few additional complexities and longer lead times for orders.

Marketing

a Have their own brand and packaging.

Export customers generally want to buy produce that is branded and identifiable as Australian, so it is important for growers to have a clear brand and packaging. Having readily recognisable packaging and branding also helps build a grower’s reputation which may lead to more customers and sales.

b Have some understanding of export market opportunities and an open mind to adapt products to meet overseas customer preferences. Having an appreciation for the size of the opportunity in export markets and a desire to succeed is essential. Growers that understand that overseas customers have different buying behaviour and preferences to Australians and are willing to remain flexible and modify the size or packaging of their product are more likely to be successful. c Have someone in the business who is willing and able to manage export enquiries and business. Managing export enquiries requires time and patience and while it is not necessarily a full-time role to begin with, it does need to be allocated to someone in the business that has the time and the interest to do the job properly. Understanding and being sensitive to cultural differences and the expectations of overseas customers is also important.

business and spreading your risk. If you’d like to find out more about export and how we can help you to get into export please contact me. MORE INFORMATION Manus Stockdale on (08) 9486 7515 or manus.stockdale@vegetableswa.com.au

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Patterns of Success: Insights on how to succeed

he Partnering for Customer Value (P4CV) initiative commissioned 11 case studies profiling 14 agribusinesses in the horticulture, livestock, dairy, grains, seafood and processed foods sectors, across small, medium and large enterprises that were from Australia, New Zealand, Europe and the United Kingdom.

A report titled Patterns of Success draws together insights on how to succeed from the 11 agribusiness case studies.

The report describes how five key business practices, or ‘patterns of success’ are common across the successful case studies and lacking in those businesses that ultimately failed. The five key patterns of success provide a roadmap for businesses looking to grow and succeed in competitive markets.

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Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

Departm Primary ent of Region Industries al Dev and elopmen t

Partnering for Customer Partnering for Customer Partnering for Customer Partnering for Customer Value case study: Value case study: Value case study: Value case study: Mountain Milk Co-operative OBE Organic Beef

Manbulloo Ltd.

Dingley Dell Pork

Prepared by Professor Andrew Fearne, Norwich Business Prepared School, by Professor Andrew Fearne, Norwich Business School, Prepared by Dr David McKinna and Catherine Wall, Prepared MCKINNA by Dr etDavid al McKinna and Catherine Wall, MCKINNA et alAnglia, United Kingdom University of East University of East Anglia

Partn Value ering for Cu case s s tudy: tomer Internat ional Li

Business OBE Organic Beef

Business Manbulloo Ltd

Business Dingley Dell Pork

Location Kiewa Valley, Victoria

Location Channel Country of Central Australia

Owner Marie Piccone

Owners Mark and Paul Hayward

Product Milk

Product Organic beef

Business Mountain Milk Co-operative

Key findings from the report 1 Focusing on key strategic relationships A strategic relationship is the opposite of the transactional relationship. There is a shared interest between both parties and business transactions are planned and delivered so that an attractive margin is earned at both ends. There is mutual regard and both parties are motivated to support each other’s continued success.

Location Queensland and Northern Territory Product Mangoes

Zespri

Location Suffolk, England

Product Prepar ed Pork Norwich by Profes sor Busin ess Sc Andrew Fea hool, Unive rne, rsity of East

mited Anglia

Busin ess Zespri Interna Limited tional Owner s 2435 gro wers Locat ion Mount Ma New Zea unganui, land Produ ct Kiwifru it

2 Delivering customer value The key insight from the case studies is the need to deliver genuine, differentiated customer value. WA businesses need to focus on competing through product differentiation that delivers customer value.

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The five key patterns of success are interrelated.

3 Developing a ‘whole product’ offering The ‘whole product’ offering bundles a physical product together with a range of the accompanying services (may also include emotional engagement components) that deliver additional value to the customer that a business’s competitors find hard to replicate. Businesses therefore need to protect this investment (in developing a whole product) and establish a barrier to competition by making sure the advantages are “hard to replicate”. It is in recognising these components of customer value and connecting them to a hard to replicate business capability that the most successful case study businesses demonstrate their entrepreneurial acumen. 4 Using customer development to investigate and understand customer needs The key outcome from customer development process is to ensure that a business’s whole product delivers genuine, superior customer value before the business commits to scaling up to full commercial production. 5 Partnering between businesses to deliver a differentiated whole product Partnerships allow businesses to develop and deliver customer value in novel ways previously beyond their individual capabilities.

3 THE ability to reposition customer relationships is unlocked by delivering genuine value through a differentiated whole product.

Through systematic customer development, a business can understand exactly what its key customers truly value.

These five key patterns of success are interrelated Together they work to drive the transition from a business with many transactional customer relationships that are not delivering the desired results, to a business with a set of strategic customer relationships that do.

Value chain partnering can then provide the capabilities to develop and deliver the whole product that meets these needs. Are there common patterns in what successful businesses do?

The ability to reposition customer relationships is unlocked by delivering genuine value through a differentiated whole product.

Yes. The case studies show five key ‘patterns of success’.

TABLE 1. CASE STUDY BUSINESSES DEMONSTRATING THE PATTERNS OF SUCCESS.

Manbulloo Dingley Dell Pork Zespri OBE Organic Mountain Milk Sun Lychee & Exotico Beerenberg Greenyard Frozen Island Fresh Seafoods Blue Stripe, ProForm Foods & Darwin Prawns Carlsberg Null-LOX

Strategic Relationships

Whole Product

Customer Value

Customer Development

Value Chain Partnering

● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ◑

● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ○

● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ◑

● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

● ● ● ● ● ● ◑ ◑ ◑

○

◑

○

Key: ● Case study demonstrates strong application of business practice ◑ Case study demonstrates some application of business practice ○ Case study demonstrates little or no application of business practice

○

◑

○

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Case study snapshot

Manbulloo Ltd BY PROFESSOR ANDREW FEARNE NORWICH BUSINESS SCHOOL, UNIVERSITY OF EAST ANGLIA, UNITED KINGDOM

Snapshot Industry Horticulture Location Queensland and Northern Territory, Australia Timeframe • Established: 2005 (acquired existing brand and orchards) • Established own exporting business: 2009 • Pivot to fewer, more profitable export markets: 2013 Transformation Acquired rundown brand and orchards  Major supplier of Kensington Pride to Coles under 8-year contract and more than 200 tonnes exported to key markets during 2018 Key investments • $2.4 million during 2009 for Vapour Heat Treatment (VHT) plant to enable export market access • 22,000 additional trees planted during 2017–18 Key markets South Korea, Canada, United States

Manbulloo Ltd is a mediumsized family-owned company consisting of seven mango farms across northern Queensland and the Northern Territory. It is Australia’s largest grower of the Kensington Pride variety, at 80 per cent of production. Its focus is on growing the best quality mangoes and fostering collaborative value chain relationships. “We rated all of our customers, not just on profitability but on the potential for growth, the stability of the market, the technical ability of our partners and the nature of our relationship with them. We came to the conclusion that nobody was adding value. It was all opportunistic; nobody really knew what was going on with the consumer, communication was long and unwieldy, everyone was transactional and there were lots of inefficiencies.” Marie Piccone, Founder and Managing Director, Manbulloo

Critical Success Factors 1 Focus on delivering a ‘whole product’ to their customers; high quality mangoes, early and consistent supply, marketing and promotion in-market. 2 Focus on developing long term, collaborative relationships with key customers whose strategic outlook align with Manbulloo’s. “Manbulloo is committed to collaborating with Coles and their vision is to be a significant part of the best mango retail offer in Australia. They are absolutely focused on delivering top quality mangoes to our customers.” John Durkan, Managing Director, Coles

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3 Willingness to invest time and money in export development projects with Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF), Australian Mango Industry Association (AMIA), Australian Government, etc. 4 Willingness to innovate and to constantly apply learnings from previous exporting endeavours. “We went through this incredible journey of discovery; learning about the management of the value chain. The project showed us what we needed to do and how to analyse information in order to identify the key elements we needed to put in place to achieve success. It gave us a picture of what we could be. That’s when we started to look more critically and analyse our export business.” Scott Ledger, Quality Manager, Manbulloo 5 Ability to undertake a strategic rationalisation of export business (reducing both markets and customers) in order to focus on profitable, long term relationships. “Profitability matters but the ability to grow profitability in the longer term is more important. The goal is to work with our partners to build demand that we are able to meet. We don’t want to build demand for our competitors. When you start building demand you have got to be ready to fulfil that demand and you also have to be ready for the journey of innovation that comes with it. You have to look at ways to become more efficient and more effective.” Marie Piccone, Founder and Managing Director, Manbulloo

YOUR MARKET

6 Desire to invest considerable time, effort and capital in developing export business, through improving business structure, systems, assets and human resources.

Why you should read the full case study • Detailed analysis of Manbulloo’s initial approach to their key export markets. • Real world examples of value chain partnerships. • Manbulloo’s customer analysis matrix, used to rationalise their export business. MORE INFORMATION Manbulloo full case study dpird.wa.gov.au Phone: +61 1300 374 731 Email: enquiries@dpird.wa.gov.au

3 MARIE Piccone, Founder and Managing Director, Manbulloo.

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YOUR MARKET

Export Facilitators Project

update

BY MANUS STOCKDALE EXPORT DEVELOPMENT PROJECT LEAD, VEGETABLESWA

he Export Facilitator Project is all about helping vegetable growers to understand what is involved in export and assisting them to start selling their produce to overseas buyers.

Over the past two and half years of the project we have engaged with a broad range of Western Australian vegetable growers and helped them along their export journey. Some of the achievements of the project have included: • Supporting more than 20 growers to export for the first time or target new export markets; • 30 growers attending trade shows in Australia and in overseas markets; and • 43 growers participating in export workshops and training activities. The current project has three months left to run and we are currently discussing the future of the Export Facilitator project with funding bodies so if you are interested in exploring export as an option for your business please get in touch.

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Online export training available soon In response to the current national travel restriction and requests from growers, AUSVEG through the Vegetable Industry Export Program (VG16061), is launching online Export Training. The export training will cover the basics of export including regulatory requirements, documentation, export marketing and sales, and logistics. If you are interested in participating in the training, please let us know.

IFAM extended On July 3, the Australian Government announced the extension of the International Freight Assistance Measure (IFAM), with an additional $241.9 million funding to continue supported international air freight until February 2021. There are an increasing number of IFAM supported flights servicing international destinations from Perth including Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong. Interested exporters should register with Austrade and discuss freight options with their freight forwarder as soon as they know their freight requirements. For more information visit www.austrade.gov. au/news/news/international-freightassistance-mechanism

Export Market Development Grants The Export Market Development Grants (EMDG) scheme is an Australian Government financial assistance program that helps exporters offset the cost of export development

Funding increase for the EMDG scheme of

$49.8 million!

activities. On April 1, 2020 the Federal Government announced an increase in funding for the EMDG scheme of $49.8 million in the 2019–20 financial year, allowing exporters to get additional reimbursements for costs incurred in marketing their products around the world.

Online applications for the grants close on November 30, 2020 for exporters submitting their own application, or March 2, 2021 if using an approved EMDG Quality Incentive Program (QIP) Consultant. For more information visit: www.austrade.gov.au/Australian/ Export/Export-Grants MORE INFORMATION For more information on any of the activities in the article or to discuss export opportunities please contact Manus Stockdale on 0448 897 652 or email manus.stockdale@vegetableswa.com.au

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IMPROVING WATER AND FERTILISER USE EFFICIENCY — VIETNAMESE TRANSLATION

Tăng cường hiệu quả sữ dụng nước và phân bón cho ngành trồng rau màu vùng đồng bằng duyên hải Swan

Vùng sản xuất rau màu chính của Tây Úc là khu vực Tây Nam bao gồm vùng đồng bằng duyên hải Swan từ Gingin (100km phía bắc Perth) đến Myalup (100km phía nam Perth). Sản lượng của khu vưc này chiếm 67% tổng sản lượng ngành rau màu của tiểu bang.

Trong khi đó nông dân trồng rau màu trong vùng này lại thiếu kiến thứ về đất đai cũng như quản lý nước và phân bón cho hoa màu. Một khảo sát về sử dụng phân bón và nước tưới trong vùng3 cho thấy có sự chênh lệch lớn về hiệu quả sử dụng phân bón và nước tưới giửa các nông gia. Cùng cho năng suất cà chua gần như nhau nhưng lượng nước tưới chênh lệch từ 7.800 mét khối/ha/vụ đến 29.000 mét khối/ha/vụ. Tương tự như vậy, chi phí phân bón cũng chênh lệch từ 6.700 đô-la/ha/vụ đến 22.300 đô-la/ha/vụ.

Khó khăn

Cơ hội

Ba loại đất chính của vùng đồng bằng duyên hải Swan bao gồm đất cát Spearwood, đất cát Karrakatta and và đất cát Bassendean thuộc vào các loại đất nghèo dinh dưỡng nhất thế giới 1. Nghiêm trọng hơn nữa là gần đây đã có đề nghị cắt giảm 10% lượng nước được phép khai thác của nông dân trong vùng Bắc Wanneroo kể từ năm 20282. Điều này làm cho ngành sản xuất rau màu trở nên rất khó khăn.

Có cơ hội để nông gia cải thiện lợi nhuận khi phải canh tác trong điều kiện bất lợi như trên. Về mặt hổ trợ của chính phủ, Bộ Tài Nguyên Nước và Quản Lý Môi Trường (DWE) đang cùng làm việc với Bộ Nông Nghiệp và Phát Triển Nông Thôn (DPIRD) để hổ trợ nông gia Bắc Wanneroo trong chương trình tiên phong đánh giá độc lập về sử dụng nước tưới và xây dựng các điểm trình diển mô hình thực hành canh tác tốt nhất4.

VÕ THẾ TRUYỀN CHUYÊN VIÊN KHUYẾN NÔNG VIỆT NAM, HIỆP HỘI RAU CẢI TÂY ÚC

1 www.agric.wa.gov.au/soil-productivity/vegetablecrop-nutrition-sandy-soils-swan-coastalplain?page=0%2C1 2 www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Pages/ McGowan/2019/01/Delivering-certainty-forWanneroo-growers.aspx

3 Report on water and fertiliser use by vegetable grower in North Perth. Neil Lantzke and Truyen Vo, 2016, funded by Natural Resources management. 4 www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Pages/ McGowan/2019/01/Delivering-certainty-forWanneroo-growers.aspx

3 ĐÁNH giá độ đồng đều của phân bố nước tưới trên ruộng cải phía Bắc Perth năm 2019 của Bộ Nông nghiệp.

chương trình tiên phong đánh giá độc lập về sử dụng nước tưới đã hoàn thành hồi đầu năm. Một hội thao trình bày kết quả đánh giá cùng với các mô hình trình diển thực hành canh tác tốt nhất trong tưới nước và các công nghệ tưới hiện đại đã được lên lịch vào tháng mười này tại một nông trang. Sự kiện này do DPIRD, DWE, Hiệp hội Rau màu Tây Úc và một số doanh nghiệp tư nhân trong ngành như Irrigation Australia cùng phối hợp tổ chức. Mặt khác, Cơ quan đại diện ngành rau màu của tiểu bang, Hiệp hội Rau màu Tây Úc, cũng đang thực hiện một dự án giúp nông gia trong vùng hạ thấp chi phí sản xuất bằng cách tận dụng tối đa lượng nước có hạn cũng như giảm thiểu phân bón. Dự án chuyên đề này là một phần của dự án Mạng lưới khuyến nông ngành rau màu VegNET do Tổ chức cải tiến ngành Rau quả Úc (Hort Innovation Australia – HIA) tài trợ sử dụng kinh phí từ nguồn thu phí liên bang và phí dịch vụ rau màu tiểu bang để hổ trợ nông dân.

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BẢNG 1. Sự chênh lệch về thực hành canh tác trong áp dụng phân bón của nông dân trồng cà tại phía Bắc Perth so với khuyến cáo. Nông dân

Đạm N (kg/ha/vụ)

Lân P (kg/ha/vụ)

Kali K (kg/ha/vụ)

Giá trị ước tính ($/ha)

Năng suất (kg/cây)

1429

347

14,149

1111

234

1186

16,998

800

544

541

9,589

777

253

1000

9,443

753

997

8,680

717

741

6,654

1992

235

1552

22,275

686

231

616

6,693

Khuyến cáo của Bộ Nông nghiệp

625

125

950

6,397

Sự chênh lệch về thực hành canh tác Khảo sát về sử dụng nước và phân bón trong năm 20165 cho thấy rằng so với mức độ chi phí phân bón của Bộ Nông nghiệp khuyến cáo là 6.500 đô-la/ha/ vụ cà chua thì 75% của số nông gia được khảo sát có thể tiết kiệm được từ 1.000-15.000 đô-la/ha vụ mà vẫn cho năng suất tương đương nếu nắm được phương pháp canh tác tốt (bảng 1). Tương tự như vậy, 37% số nông dân khảo sát cũng có cơ hội tiết kiệm từ 3.000–10.000 mét khối nước/ha/vụ cà. Thêm nữa, khảo sát cũng cho thấy một lượng lớn chất dinh dưỡng (chủ yếu là đạm N) có trong nguồn nước tưới mà sản sàng có thể tính ra số tiền tiết kiệm được nếu nông dân đưa vào tính toán 5 Report on water and fertiliser use by vegetable grower in North Perth. Neil Lantzke and Truyen Vo, 2016, funded by Natural Resources management.

trong công thức phân bón của mình6 (Bảng 2).

Dự án của Hiệp hội rau màu nhằm cải thiện hiệu quả sử dụng nước và phân bón. Cơ sở lý luận Hiện có một nguồn kiến thức khổng lồ bằng tư liệu có thể được giới thiệu cho nông dân để thúc đẩy sự thay đổi biện pháp canh tác trong lảnh vực tăng cường hiệu quả sử dụng nước và phân bón. Nguồn kiến thức này có thể giúp nông dân hiểu rỏ hơn về bản đồ đất, đặc tính đất đai, cách thức nước tưới di chuyển trong đất, nhu cầu dinh dưỡng của các 6 Report on water and fertiliser use by vegetable grower in North Perth. Neil Lantzke and Truyen Vo, 2016, funded by Natural Resources management.

BẢNG 2. Sự chênh lệch trong biện pháp canh tác về lượng nước tưới và giá trị `của lượng đạm miển phí có trong nước tưới.

Nông dân

Lượng đạm N có trong mẩu nước tưới (mg/l)

Tổng lượng nước tưới (x1000 mét khối/ ha/vụ)

Lượng đam N miển phí trong tổng lượng nước tưới (kg/ha/vụ)

Giá trị của lượng đam N miển phí trong tổng lượng nước tưới ($/ha/vụ)

13.6

204

163.2

25.2

730

584

6.1

18.9

115

8.3

174

139.2

8.1

7.8

50.4

4.5

11.9

43.2

9.4

297

237.6

0.1

29.6

Khuyến cáo của Bộ Nông Nghiệp

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loại hoa màu khác nhau trong từng thời kỳ sinh trưởng, kỹ thuật tưới đáp ứng nhu cầu nước của các loại hoa màu khác nhau trong từng thời kỳ sinh trưởng vv. Cho dù chi phí đầu tư cho hệ thống tưới rất đắc đỏ có thể là rao cản khiến nông dân lo ngại, nhưng may mắn là đánh giá hiệu quả của hệ thống tưới hồi đầu năm của Bộ Nông nghiệp tại một số nông gia cho thấy tất cả đều đạt mức từ chấp nhận được đến tốt. Chúng tôi tin rằng chỉ cần cải hiện phương pháp tưới cũng có thể mang lại kết quả khả quan và tiết kiệm chi phí đáng kể cho nông dân Mục đích và chỉ tiêu của dự án Cùng với việc cải thiện năng lực sản xuất, thân thiện với môi trường, và canh tác bền vững, mục đích trọng tâm của dự án là “gia tăng lợi nhuận và hiệu quả sử dụng nước và phân bón”. Chỉ tiêu chính về gia tăng lợi nhuận trong dự án là tiết kiệm tối thiểu 10% chi phí phân bón và lượng nước tưới cho khoảng 10–25% số nông dân tham gia. Lợi ích của việc xóa đi chệnh lệch trong thực hành canh tác Báo cáo 3 năm điều tra đánh giá hiệu quả của doanh nghiệp rau màu cho thấy chi phí trung bình cho 1 ha rau màu trong 1 năm lần lượt là 3.999 đô-la cho phân bón, 218 đô-la cho tưới nước và 1.530 đô-la cho chi phí điện (phần lớn dùng để bơm nước tưới). Tiết kiệm 10% tương đương với 570 đô-la/ha/năm. Con số này có ý nghĩa đáng kể khi biết rằng lợi nhuận bình quân trước thuế của ngành rau màu chỉ là 6.200 dô-la/ha/năm. Chiến lược dự án và các công việc sẽ được thực hiện Dự án được thiết kế giúp nông dân tham gia thông qua quá trình 5 giai đoạn bao gồm: • Kiến thức: Nông dân tiếp cận kiến thức về khái niệm hiệu quả sử dụng nước và phân bón và hiểu được các chức năng của chúng. • Thuyết phục: Hình thành suy nghĩ tích cực về vấn đề tăng cường hiệu quả sử dụng nước và phân bón. • Quyết định: Quyết tâm tiếp nhận tiến bộ kỹ thuật.

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• Thực hiện: Đưa tiến bộ kỹ thuật vào thực hành canh tác. • Khẳng định: Kiên định áp dụng dựa trên kết quả khả quan từ việc ứng dụng tiến bộ kỹ thuật Nâng cao khả năng đưa ra quyết định của nông dân về các biện pháp thực hành tưới nước bón phân Một loạt hội thảo sẽ được thực hiện để cung cấp kiến thức cho nông dân về bản đồ đất, đặc tính đất đai, cách thức nước tưới di chuyển trong đất, nhu cầu dinh dưỡng của các loại hoa màu khác nhau trong từng thời kỳ sinh trưởng, kỹ thuật tưới đáp ứng nhu cầu nước của các loại hoa màu khác nhau trong từng thời kỳ sinh trưởng, lượng phân bón miển phí có trong nước tự nhiên, hệ số hoa màu vv. Động viên một nhóm 4–6 nông dân tham gia thử nghiệm trên qui mô nhỏ thay đổi biện pháp sử dụng nước và phân bón dựa trên kiến thức được giới thiệu. Kết quả thử nghiệm sẽ được đánh giá như là những nghiên cứu riêng lẻ theo từng trường hợp cụ thể. Cải thiện lịch tưới và quản lý tưới Tiến hành 4-6 thí nghiệm giảm 10% lượng nước và phân bón trong các điều kiện khác nhau. Áp dụng chế độ tưới nước và phân bón dựa trên loại đất, đặc tính đất đai, thời kỳ sinh trưởng của hoa màu. Tổ chức các cuộc thảo luận với nông dân về các khía cạnh đã được cải thiện dựa trên kết quả thí nghiệm, các thuận lợi, khó khăn khi thực hiện để rút ra bài học cho việc ứng dụng rộng rãi. Điều tra đánh giá lợi ích của việc thay đổi thực hành canh tác Nông dân tham gia dự án sẽ được hổ trợ để tinh chỉnh các thực hành canh tác đã thay đổi để thấy được lợi ích tương đối của các biện pháp mới (mức độ tốt hơn so với biện pháp củ); khả năng tương hợp của biện pháp mới (tính ổn định với kết quả hiện tại, phù hợp với kinh nghiệm có sẳn và phù hợp nhu cầu); và khả năng nhìn thấy được kết quả rỏ ràng của tiến bộ kỹ thuật. Các công việc trong giai đoan này gồm có: • Phát hành tài liệu hướng dẫn và hình ảnh minh họa để giới thiệu kiến thức

mới về sự thay đổi kích thước rể và vùng rể của các loại hoa màu theo thời gian, sụ linh động của nước di chuyển trong đất khi tưới nhỏ giọt vv. • Tiếp tục thu thập, đánh giá số liệu về sự cải thiện năng suất và lợi nhuận và cùng thảo luận với nông dân về lợi ích tương đối của biện pháp mới khi so sánh với biện pháp củ. • Truyền bá kết quả từ các điển trình diễn và tỏ chức các cuộc tham quan học tập tại vườn để khuyến khích nông dân có bài học từ kết quả thực tế. • Hội thảo tổng kết kết quả và thành tựu. Đánh giá và báo cáo Công viện này nhằm thu thập các bài học và các tác động của công tác thay đổi thực hành canh tác liên quan đến sự chọn lựa các hệ thống tưới và áp dụng phân bón mới và phương pháp quản lý

3 ĐÁNH giá hiệu quả hệ thống tưới năm 2019 tại Carabooda.

nước và phân bón được cải thiện dể tối ưu hóa việc sử dụng và lợi tức. THÊM THÔNG TIN Để tìm thêm thông tin xin vui lòng liên hệ Truyen Vo, truyen.vo@vegetableswa.com.au or 0457 457 559. Dự án này được tại trợ một phần từ Ũy hội Nông nghiệp và Ũy hội Rau màu ,Hội đồng các nhà sản xuất rau màu và từ Tỏ chức cải tiến ngành rau màu Úc sử dụng phí nghiên cứu và phát triển rau màu và từ ngân quỹ chính phủ liên bang. Để biết thêm thông tin về nguồn quỹ và chiến lược đầu tư nguồn phí hảy xem trang thông tin mạng horticulture.com.au

WA Grower SPRING 2020

115

YOUR PRODUCTION Permits

Permits

Current Minor Use Permits can also be searched by specific crop or pest types at https://portal.apvma.gov.au/permits Permit No.

Product

Crop

Reason for use

PER14726

Raptor Wg Herbicide

Adzuki & Faba Beans

Grass & Broadleaf Weed Control

30-Sep-24

PER13607

Spinnaker Herbicide

Adzuki Bean

Weeds

30-Sep-23

PER14936

Haloxyfop

Adzuki Bean

Grass Weeds

30-Jun-24

PER85152

Pirimicarb

Adzuki Bean, Mung Bean & Soybean

Cowpea Aphid & Soyabean Aphid

31-Jul-23

PER82124

Filan

Adzuki Beans

Sclerotinia

31-Mar-22

PER14496

Metolachlor

Adzuki Beans & Mung Beans

Certain Annual Grasses & Broadleaf Weeds

31-Mar-24

PER12716

Confidor 200 Sc Insecticide

Asian Root Vegetables

Greenhouse Whitefly & Green Peach Aphid

31-Jul-25

PER84890

Pyriproxfen

Beans

Silverleaf Whitefly

31-May-21

PER86530

Status Herbicide

Beans

Annual Rye Grass & Winter Grass

31-Aug-21

PER81260

Imidacloprid

Beetroot

Aphids & Thrips

31-Jul-25

PER14891

Trifloxystrobin

Beetroot

Alternaria Leaf Spot

30-Sep-29

PER82461

Folicur 430 Sc Fungicide

Beetroot, Beetroot Leaves, Chicory, Endive, Radish, Silverbeet

Sclerotinia Rot

31-Aug-25

PER87630

Serenade Opti Biofungicide

Brassica Leafy Vegetables

Bacterial Spot

30-Jun-22

PER14584

Imidacloprid

Brassica Leafy Vegetables

Aphids, Whitefly & Thrips

31-Jan-24

PER87670

Xentari Wg Bta Biological Insecticide

Brassica Leafy Vegetables

Diamond Back Moth, Cabbage White Butterfly, Helicoverpa & Vegetable Looper

31-Jul-24

PER14907

Emamectin

Brassica Leafy Vegetables

Various Pests

30-Nov-24

PER10845

Barmac Zineb Fungicide

Brassica Leafy Vegetables

Cercospora Leaf Spot & Downy Mildew

31-May-25

PER14127

Pendimethalin

Brassica Leafy Vegetables & Rocket

Weeds

31-Aug-23

PER14045

Mancozeb + Metalaxyl

Brassica Leafy Vegetables, Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Cauliflower, Chicory, Endive, Radicchio, Rocket, Carrots & Parsnip

Various Fungal Diseases

31-Mar-22

PER87773

Devrinol-C 500wg Herbicide

Brassica Vegetables

Broadleaf & Grass Control

31-Aug-22

PER14596

Chlorpyrifos

Brassica Vegetables

Vegetable Beetle Adults

30-Sep-29

PER81876

Abamectin

Brassica Vegetables, Bulb Vegetables, Fruiting Vegetables

Leaf Miner

30-Apr-24

PER14352

Metalaxyl-M (Apron Xl Broccoli (Seed Treatment) 350) & Fludioxonil (Maxim 100)

Damping-Off & Rhizoctonia

31-Jan-24

PER14051

Iprodione

Broccoli Seed Treatment

Rhizoctinia

31-Mar-23

PER84261

Admiral Insect Growth Regulator (Pyriproxyfen)

Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage & Cauliflower

Silverleaf Whitefly

31-Aug-25

PER14432

Pendimethalin

Brussels Sprouts

Grasses & Broadleaf Weeds

30-Jun-24

PER80910

Iprodione

Brussels Sprouts & Eggplant

Grey Mould

31-Jul-25

PER11951

Phosphorous Acid

Brussels Sprouts, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Spinach, Silverbeet, Endive, Radicchio, Chicory & Processing Peas

Downy Mildew

31-Mar-25

PER87200

Starane Advanced Herbicide

Bulb Onion

Weeds

31-Aug-24

PER88567

Outlook

Bulb Onions

Amaranthus

30-Nov-20

PER80060

Frontier-P

Bulb Onions

31-Jul-21

PER89185

Mainman 500 Wg Insecticide

Bulb Vegetable

Thrips

31-Aug-23

PER82039

Bifenthrin

Cabbage, Chinese Cabbage & Cauliflower

Symphyla

30-Sep-23

PER81408

Phosphorous Acid

Capsicum

Phytophthora Soil Fungus

31-Jul-25

116

WA Grower SPRING 2020

Expiry date

YOUR PRODUCTION

Permit No.

Product

Crop

Reason for use

PER12565

Scala Fungicide

Capsicum & Lettuce (Protected Crops Only)

Botrytis Rots

30-Jun-25

PER13901

Glyphosate (Shielded Sprayer)

Capsicums, Snow Peas, Sugar Snap Peas

Annual & Perennial Grass & Broadleaf Weeds

30-Jun-24

PER87852

Versys Insecticide

Capsicums, Cucumber, Eggplant

Aphids

31-May-23

PER14816

Azoxystrobin

Carrot

Powdery Mildew, Sclerotinia Rot (White Mould), Black Rot

30-Jun-24

PER13795

Agpro Propazine 500

Carrot Crops

Nightshade, Fat Hen & Wireweed

31-Mar-23

PER11747

2,2-Dichloropropionic Acid

Carrot Crops (For Seed)

Promotion Of Bolting & Grass Weed Control

2-Dec-22

PER85291

Prosulfocarb

Carrot For Seed Production Only

Annual Ryegrass

31-Mar-23

PER85402

Flumioxazin

Carrot For Seed Production Only

Cleavers

30-Jun-23

PER85232

Tau-Fluvalinate

Carrot For Seed Production Only

Rutherglen Bug

30-Sep-23

PER10918

Imidacloprid

Carrot, Leafy Lettuce, Silverbeet & Spinach

Greenhouse Whitefly & Aphids

31-Dec-23

PER86665

Fipronil

Carrots

White Fringed Weevil & Symphylids

31-Jan-22

PER13305

Glyphosate (Shielded Sprayer)

Carrots

Certain Broadleaf & Grass Weeds

30-Jun-22

PER80169

Metribuzin

Carrots

Grass & Broadleaf Weeds

30-Apr-24

PER13147

Lontrel

Cauliflower

Capeweed & Clover

30-Sep-24

PER86599

Bifenthrin

Celery

Red Legged Earthmite

31-Dec-23

PER14843

Indoxacarb (Avatar Insecticide)

Celery

Heliothis, Lightbrown Apple Moth, Lucerne Leaf Roller & Vegetable Weevil

30-Sep-24

PER11256

Phosphine

Cereals

In-Transit Fumigation

30-Sep-24

PER10677

Propyzamide

Chicory & Endive

Grass & Broadleef Weeds

30-Apr-23

PER14457

Alpha-Cypermethrin

Chicory, Leeks, Spring Onions, Shallots

Red-legged Earth Mite, Onion Thrips

30-Jun-24

PER85163

Pyriproxyfen

Cropping Areas: Fruits, Vegetables, Nuts, Herbs & Spices

Red Imported Fire Ant

30-Apr-21

PER86428

Serenade Opti

Cucumber

Bacterial Spot

30-Jun-21

PER14722

Abamectin

Cucumber, Zucchini, Squash

Tomato Red Spider Mite

31-Jul-25

PER14046

Mancozeb

Cucumbers

Grey Mould

31-Mar-23

PER14765

Hexythiazox (Calibre 100 Ec Miticide)

Cucurbit Vegetables, Fruiting Vegetables, Potatoes, Snow & Sugar Snap Peas

Tomato Spider Mite, Two-spotted Mite, Broad Mite, Tomato Russet Mite

30-Sep-23

PER88032

Serenade Opti Biofungicide

Eggplant

Early Blight, Botrytis Grey Mould, Powdery Mildew, Bacterial Spot

31-Oct-22

PER14186

Success Neo (Spinetoram)

Eggplant

Melon Thrips

30-Sep-21

PER14036

Bupirimate

Eggplant

Powdery Mildew

28-Feb-23

PER12506

Dimethoate

Eggplant

Queensland Fruit Fly & Mediterranean Fruit Fly

31-Aug-23

PER8930

Phorate

Eggplant, Peppers, Shallots & Spring Onions

Aphids, Jassids, Mites, Thrips & Onion Maggot

30-Nov-24

PER14839

Zineb

Eggplant, Spinach & Silverbeet

Anthracnose (Colletotrichum Spp.)

30-Sep-24

PER80717

Trichlorfon

Eggplant, Thai Eggplant, Pepino & Cape Gooseberry

Fruit Fly

31-Aug-25

PER85363

Fulfill Insecticide

Faba Beans

Green Peach Aphid & Faba Bean Aphid

31-Aug-21

PER86849

Imazamox, Imazapyr

Faba Beans

Annual Broadleaf & Grass Weeds

30-Apr-22

PER13752

Tebuconazole

Faba Beans & Broad Beans

Cercospora Leaf Spot & Rust

30-Jun-24

PER84757

Spinetoram

Fruiting Vegetables Other Than Cucurbits & Root & Tuber Vegetables

Tomato Potato Psyllid

31-Aug-25

PER80101

Sumitomo Samurai Systemic Insecticide

Fruiting Vegetables, Cucurbits

Cucumber Fruit Fly

30-Sep-23

PER80099

Alpha-Cypermethrin

Fruiting Vegetables, Except Cucurbits

Mediterranean Fruit Fly & Queensland Fruit Fly

31-Mar-25

PER80100

Sumitomo Samurai Systematic Insecticide

Fruiting Vegetables, Excluding Cucurbits Mediterranean Fruit Fly & Queensland Fruit Fly

30-Sep-23

PER87754

Folicur

Garlic

31-Jul-22

Orange Rust

Expiry date

WA Grower SPRING 2020

117

YOUR PRODUCTION

permits (cont.) Permit No.

Product

Crop

Reason for use

Expiry date

PER86732

Various Herbicides

Garlic

Various Weeds

30-Aug-21

PER86723

Various Herbicides

Garlic

Broadleaf & Grass Weeds

30-Sep-21

PER87376

Switch

Garlic

Black Mould

30-Nov-21

PER87114

Axiom Plus

Garlic

Downy Mildew, Purple Blotch

30-Jun-22

PER87015

Lambda- Cyhalothrin

Garlic

Various Pests

31-Aug-22

PER87113

Chateau

Garlic

Various Weeds

31-Oct-22

PER86800

Lambda-Cyhalothrin

Garlic

Insects

30-Sep-23

PER86799

Tebuconazole, Mancozeb, Metalaxyl, Metalaxyl-M

Garlic

Fungal Diseases

30-Sep-23

PER86751

Various Fungicide

Garlic

Various Disease

30-Sep-23

PER87014

Various Products

Garlic

Annual Grasses & Broadleaf Weeds

28-Feb-24

PER87013

Various Products

Garlic

Various Diseases

28-Feb-24

PER87552

Various Herbicides

Garlic

Various Weeds

30-Apr-24

PER87005

Abamectin

Garlic

Bulb Mite

30-Sep-24

PER14886

Pendimethalin

Garlic

Grass & Broadleaf Weeds

31-Jan-25

PER87012

Ioxynil

Garlic (Allium sativum) (Fresh Market & Seed)

Broadleaf Weeds

30-Sep-21

PER85103

Nufarm Nuprid

Green Beans

Silver Leaf Whitefly

30-Sep-22

PER84955

Iprodione

Green Beans, Carrots, Spinach & Silverbeet

Sclerotinia, Black Rot & Grey Mould

28-Feb-23

PER14896

Bentazone (Basagran)

Green Peas (Processing)

Broadleaf Weeds

30-Sep-24

PER14696

Abamectin

Head Lettuce

Two-spotted Mite

31-Dec-23

PER14959

Haloxyfop

Leafy (Salad) Vegetables, Mizuina, Green Storksbill Elk

30-Nov-24

PER12351

Imidacloprid

Leafy Lettuce, Okra, Green Beans

Silverleaf Whitefly

30-Apr-25

PER14906

Triadimenol

Leek, Chives, Shallot, Spring & Chinese Onions

White Rot (Sclerotium)

31-Oct-24

PER13367

Linuron

Leeks & Celeriac

Grass & Broadleaf Weeds

30-Apr-25

PER81271

Various Actives

Leeks & Garlic

Grass & Broadleaf Weeds

30-Sep-25

PER13653

Maldison

Leeks, Spring Onions & Shallots

Onion Thrips

28-Feb-23

PER14473

Dimethomorph & Mancozeb

Leeks, Spring Onions & Shallots

Downy Mildew, Purple Blotch & Botrytis Rots

30-Jun-23

PER14210

Acramite Miticide

Lettuce

Two-spotted (Red Spider) Mite

30-Sep-21

PER81136

Switch Fungicide

Lettuce

Anthracnose

30-Sep-21

PER13301

Alpha-Cypermethrin

Lettuce

Red-legged Earth Mite & Vegetable Weevil

31-May-25

PER14964

Chlorothalonil

Lettuce Seedlings

Antracnose (Shot Hole)

30-Nov-22

PER81241

Phenmedipham (Betanal)

Lettuce, Chicory, Endive, Radicchio & Spinach

Broadleaf Weeds

31-May-25

PER14650

Paramite (Etoxazole)

Melons

Two-spotted Mite

28-Feb-23

PER87065

Dimethoate

Melons Including Watermelons (PostHarvest)

Various Fruit Fly Species

28-Feb-24

PER89331

Success Neo Insecticide

Onion

Fall Armyworm

31-Mar-23

PER14602

Boscalid, Iprodione & Chlorothalonil

Onion (Bulb & Seed)

Botrytis Neck-Rot

30-Sep-23

PER87914

Nufarm Maya Herbicide

Onions

Broadleaf Weeds

31-May-21

PER86865

Ioxynil

Onions

Annual Broadleaf Weeds

31-Aug-21

PER14773

Basagran (BentazoneSodium)

Onions

Broadleaf Weeds

31-Jan-23

PER13119

Diazinon

Onions

Onion Thrips

31-May-23

PER84734

Verdict (Haloxyfop)

Onions

Storksbill

31-Dec-24

PER14858

Pendimethalin

Parsnip

Grasses & Broadleaf Weeds

31-Mar-25

PER12048

Prometryn

Parsnip & Carrot

Weeds

31-Jul-25

PER13696

Trifluralin

Parsnips

Wintergrass

31-Mar-23

PER14695

Ridomil Gold 25g (Metalaxyl-M)

Parsnips

Pythium Spp. & Phytophthora Spp.

30-Jun-24

PER12357

Linuron

Parsnips

Weeds

31-Jul-25

118

WA Grower SPRING 2020

YOUR PRODUCTION

Permit No.

Product

Crop

Reason for use

PER84245

Movento 240 Sc

Potato, Sweet Potato, Tomato, Capsicum, Chilli, Peppers, Eggplant

Tomato Potato Psyllid

Expiry date 30-Apr-25

PER85127

Phosphorous Acid

Processing Tomatoes

Phytophthora Root Rot

31-Mar-23

PER84878

Switch Fungicide

Protected & Field Grown Capsicum

Botrytis & Sclerotinia

30-Nov-22

PER14694

Vectobac Wg Biological Larvicide

Protected Cropping - Capsicum, Cucumber, Eggplant, Herbs, & Lettuce

PER80210

Pyrimethanil

Protected Tomatoes

Botrytis

30-Jun-23

PER11949

Lambda-Cyhalothrin

Radish & Beetroot

Various Insects

31-Mar-25

PER11441

Propachlor

Radish, Swede, Turnip

Grass & Broadleaf Weeds

31-Oct-24

PER14471

Lambda-Cyhalothrin

Shallots & Spring Onions

Various Pests

31-May-24

PER89645

Afalon Herbicide

Shallots & Spring Onions

Annual Weeds As Per Afalon Label

30-Jun-22

PER10988

Cyanazine

Snow & Sugar Snap Peas

Weeds As Per Label

31-Mar-25

PER11764

Spiroxamine

Snow Peas & Sugar Snap Peas

Powdery Mildew

31-Dec-21

PER14033

Lambda-Cyhalothrin

Snow Peas & Sugar Snap Peas

Pasture Webworm, Cutworm, Rutherglen Bug & Thrips.

31-May-23

PER14505

Pyrimethanil

Snow Peas & Sugar Snap Peas

Grey Mould (Botrytis)

30-Jun-24

PER10938

Imidacloprid

Snow Peas & Sugar Snap Peas

Greenhouse Whitefly & Green Peach Aphid

31-Jan-25

PER10976

Bentazone

Snow Peas & Sugar Snap Peas

Broadleaf Weeds

31-Mar-25

PER87878

Delegate Insecticide

Snow Peas, Sugar Snap Peas

Liriomyza Leafminers

28-Feb-23

PER14593

Mancozeb

Specified Fruiting & Legume Vegetables

Downy Mildew, Anthracnose (Colletotrichum Spp) & Alternaria.

30-Apr-25

PER81244

Fluazifop-P-Butyl

Specified Vegetables & Herbs

Annual Grass Weeds

30-Jun-22

PER14703

Tramat 500 Sc Selective Herbicide (Ethofumesate)

Spinach (Spinacia oleracea only) & Silverbeet

Various Weeds

31-Jul-24

PER87631

Coragen Insecticide

Spinach & Silverbeet

Cabbage Leaf Miner

30-Jun-24

PER85003

Ranman 400 Sc Fungicide

Spinach & Silverbeet

Pythium Damping Off

28-Feb-23

PER83765

Maxim Xl

Spinach & Silverbeet

Damping Off

31-Jul-25

PER14842

Copper Oxychloride, Cuprous Oxide Or Cupric Hydroxide

Spring Onions & Shallots

Downy Mildew

30-Sep-24

PER14890

Methomyl (Lannate-L)

Spring Onions & Shallots

Western Flower Thrips.

31-Oct-24

PER14142

Ioxynil

Spring Onions, Shallots & Welsh Onions

Broadleaf & Grass Weeds

30-Sep-25

PER14337

Trifluralin

Swedes & Turnips

Weeds

30-Jun-25

PER89705

Indoxacarb

Sweet Corn

Fall Armyworm

31-Dec-20

PER86245

Veritas Fungicide

Sweet Corn

Maize Rust

31-Dec-23

PER84531

Methoxyfenozide

Sweet Corn

Lepidopteran Pests

31-Aug-25

PER86443

Pirimicarb

Sweet Potato, Spring Onion

Various Aphids

30-Jun-23

PER86959

Hydrogen Peroxide (49.5%)

Tomato

Agrobacterium

30-Sep-20

PER88277

Huwasan Tr50

Tomato

Agrobacterium

31-May-21

PER86815

Versys

Tomato

Silverleaf Whitefly

31-Dec-21

PER87208

Torque

Tomato

Two-spotted Mite

30-Apr-22

PER88484

Nimrod

Tomato

Powdery Mildew

30-Jun-22

PER87185

Benevia Insecticide

Tomato

Suckling Pests

31-Jul-24

PER87619

Entrust Sc Naturalyte

Tomato

Various Thrips

31-Aug-24

PER85076

Peratec Plus Fungicide

Tomatoes

Fusarium Wilt

28-Feb-21

PER80219

Apollo Miticide (Clofentezine)

Tomatoes (Protected)

Two-spotted Mite

30-Apr-24

PER89358

Trojan Insecticide

Various Crops

Fall Armyworm

1-May-21

PER89398

Magnet Insect Attractant Technology

Various Crops

Fall Armyworm

30-Jun-22

PER89279

Various Products

Various Crops

Fall Armyworm

31-Mar-23

PER89278

Avatar Insecticide

Various Crops

Fall Armyworm

31-Mar-23

PER89263

Proclaim Opti Insecticide

Various Crops

Fall Armyworm

31-Mar-23

PER89259

Altacor Insecticide

Various Crops

Fall Armyworm

31-Mar-23

30-Jun-24

WA Grower SPRING 2020

119

YOUR PRODUCTION

permits (cont.) Permit No.

Product

Crop

Reason for use

Expiry date

PER89241

Success Neo & Delegate Insecticide

Various Crops

Fall Armyworm

31-Mar-23

PER89293

Lannate Insecticide

Various Crops As Per Label

Fall Armyworm

30-Apr-23

PER89285

Proclaim Opti Insecticide

Various Leafy Vegetables, Celery, Blueberry

Fall Armyworm

31-Mar-23

PER89169

Pheromone Lure & Dichlorvos

Various Situations

Fall Armyworm

28-Feb-23

PER14583

Chlorpyrifos

Various Vegetable Crops

Various Insect Pests

31-Oct-21

PER14479

Propiconazole

Various Vegetable Crops

Various Pests

30-Nov-24

PER87051

Durivo Insecticide

Various Vegetables

Various Pests

28-Feb-24

PER13695

Ecocarb Fungicide

Various Vegetables

Powdery Mildew

31-Jul-25

PER82895

Chlorothalonil

Various Vegetables & Herbs

Fungal Diseases

31-Aug-25

PER87918

Pestech Py-Bo

Zucchini

Ants, Aphids, Caterpillars, Earwigs, Leafhoppers, Thrips & Whitefly

30-Apr-22

PER87563

Warlock Insecticide

Brassica Vegetables

Liriomyza Leafminers

30-Jun-24

PER89280

Durivo Insecticide

Brassicas, Leafy Vegetables

Fall Armyworm

31-Mar-23

PER88430

Versys Insecticide

Carrots

Aphids Including Green Peach Aphid & Carrot Aphid

31-Jul-23

PER88066

Emamectin

Celery

Helicoverpa, Lightbrown Apple Moth & Cluster Caterpillar.

31-Aug-24

PER12489

Imidacloprid

Celery, Cucumber, Peppers & Cape Gooseberry

Aphids, Whitefly, Thrips

31-May-25

PER88363

Lambda-Cyhalothrin

Garlic

Various Pests

30-Jun-23

PER86750

Lambda-Cyhalothrin

Garlic

Insects

30-Sep-23

PER88362

Various Products

Garlic

Fungi & Mildew

30-Jun-25

PER80954

Methoxyfenozide

Snow Peas & Sugar Snap Peas

Native Budworm, Tomato Grub & Cluster Caterpillar

31-Jul-25

PER88179

Propargite

Sweet Corn

Two-Spotted Mite

31-Dec-22

PER87276

Applaud

Tomatoes

Bemisia tabaci & Trialeurodes vaporariorum

30-Jun-21

PER89353

Chlorantraniliprole

Various Crops

Fall Armyworm

31-May-23

WA Grower advertiser contacts

120

Name

Website/Email

Address

Contact name

Contact no.

Achmea (p39)

www.achmea.com.au

PO Box 359 Sydney NSW 2000

Edward Crossin

1800 724 214

Bayer Crop Science (p25)

lindsay.balbirnie@bayer.com

N/A

Lindsay Balbirnie

N/A

Bon Electrics (IBC)

www.bon-electrics.com.au

Lot 4, Bullsbrook Rd, Bullsbrook WA 6084

Kaela Bonomi

(08) 95711314

Corteva (p35, OBC)

www.corteva.com.au

N/A

Tiffany Partington

0412913006

DELTAwater Solutions (p6)

www.deltawater.com.au

N/A

Dianne Panov

(02) 4960 9555

Frig Tech (Effective Marketing) (IFC)

www.frigtech.com.au

2/463 Marine Terrace West End WA 6530

David Chandler

(08) 9932 6436

Harvest Trail Information Service (p34)

www.harvesttrail.gov.au

126-130 Deakin Ave, Mildura VIC 3500

Alicia Pezzaniti

(03) 50254093

Planted Passion Pty Ltd (p101)

www. plantedpassionagriculture. com.au

15 Donovan St, Osborne Park WA 6017

Suzanne Miles

0429 599 977

Rivulis (p91)

www.rivulis.com

N/A

Tiffany Visser

1800 558 009

Silvan Australia (p111)

www.silvan.com.au

12 Cressall Rd, Balcatta WA 6021

Nick Dicembre

1300 745 826

Tiger International Solutions (p13)

www.go2tigers.com

2 Tarlton Crescent, Perth International Airport, WA 6105

Jason Radford

(08) 9479 0308

Veratin Pty Ltd (p28)

www.veratin.com.au

Unit 1, 14A Hines Rd, O'Connor 6163

Ramiz Boulos

0431150538

WA Crates (p51)

Service@wacrates.com.au

Crate Yard, Market City

Colin Strong-Grove

(08) 94564092

WA Grower SPRING 2020

Unlocking the true power of water and electrical technology for WA growers. At BON, we’ve been working across the unique WA horticultural landscape for over 30 years with growers in every corner of the state. As a family owned and run business, we take a proactive approach to identify and solve your electrical, water and refrigeration needs. We can bring your vision to life through the design and install of new infrastructure, partnering with you along the way to keep things running as they should. We pride ourselves on doing the right thing by our customers, providing you with end-to-end solutions through dependable service.

Pictured in the photo, left to right: Brandon Southern (Project Manager), Frank Bonomi (Company Director), Ben Bonomi (Technical Director).

Electrical Back Up Power Solutions | Packing Floor Custom Design Automation | Horticultural Climate Control General Electrical Maintenance | Programmable Logic Control Systems | Energy Efficient Lighting Solutions Energy Harvesting Solutions | Refrigeration Systems and Solutions

Water Comprehensive Irrigation System Solutions | Pump Systems and Associated Controls | Filtration Systems and Solutions | Automated Fertigation and Water Control | Maintenance of your entire water supply system Water Measurement Technologies

“Over the past 20 years BON Electrics have been our electrical contractor of choice. We have worked with them on numerous projects and they continually support our business with ongoing maintenance. We recommend BON Electrics without hesitation, they’re efficient, knowledgeable and consistently deliver the high quality of work required by WA Corn Growers.” - Jim Trandos, Trandos Farms

If you’re looking for a partner with knowledge and experience in the WA horticulture industry, book your free consultation with BON today.

www.bon.com.au

A sustainable farm for a sustainable future EntrustÂŽ Organic is the biological insecticide that restores balance to your crop protection program. It works alongside conventional technologies, delivering proven efficacy and real benefits for your business. With Entrust Organic, you can build sustainable productivity for this generation and secure the future of your farm for the next. To register your interest, contact your Territory Sales Manager or visit entrust-organic.corteva.com.au

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WA Grower Magazine Spring 2020

Articles inside

Patterns of Success

Teaching kids about agriculture

Communicating with webinars

Crisis management seminar

Transmission of COVID-19

Labour short market

Staff and visitor biosecurity

Lifelong learning

Looking for labour

Assistance for WA growers

Loans to help your business

Grower profile Robert Giumelli

Horticulture Liaison Officer

T. pyri for European red mite control

Powdery scab in potatoes

Predicting lenticel damage

Collins Bros Orchard

Chair’s chat

Patane Produce

Buy West Eat Best Campaign

Social media snapshot

Fair Farms Certification

Executive Officer’s Report

Requesting an audit

Horticulture Career Pathways

VegNET RDO Update

Queensland fruit fly eradication

Buy local message

Frankie Galati

Online training and tools

Virus diseases of capsicums

Postharvest disease management

Soil mapping

Innovative bacteria treatment

Native flies as pollinators

Western Australian research on TPP

Spring is the time for travel bugs

Water and fertiliser use efficiency

Precision systems technology

Precision ag pays off

vegetablesWA CEO’s Report

Management of six-spotted mite

Carnarvon sweet corn trial

vegetablesWA President’s Report