NEWS
On the cutting edge The inaugural Growing Smarter in the Mallee ag tech summit brought about 250 people together to see and discuss some of the cutting-edge technology and innovations being used to address industry and regional challenges. An initiative of the Mallee Regional Innovation Centre (MRIC), the event was held at the SuniTAFE Smart Farm in Irymple on 5 and 6 May. MRIC CEO Rebecca Wells said the event allowed people from across different industries to come together and learn from each other, with people attending from other regions, Melbourne, Adelaide, and as far away as Brisbane. “We started out with an idea of bringing an event to the region – one that you would normally find in a capital city,” Rebecca said.
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“We wanted to put something of scale together and make it accessible. “There is lots of information and technologies out there, and this event opened a door for people to be able to hear from and follow up with the researchers and providers who spoke at panel sessions, were at the trade stalls, or were demonstrating equipment.” One of many innovations showcased at the event was the dried grape mechanised pruning prototype, which is being developed by Dried Fruits Australia and MRIC partner La Trobe University. Attendees also got to see and learn about other prototypes, patented applications, and the latest innovations and influences on industry, including options for data collection, traceability, and what energy may look like in the future. The Australian Table Grape Association CEO Jeff Scott gave
a unique insight into the table grape traceability pilot, alongside technology provider Result Group. Rebecca said the event really highlighted what an exciting time it is to be in horticulture. “You could listen to a panel session with speakers and then head out of the tent and see a practical demonstration, go on a farm tour, attend a workshop or visit a trade stall to get the depth of knowledge for what you were interested in,” she said. “A delegate approached me at the end of the event and said how they had thought all these things were theoretical. But in fact, it's not. It's happening now. “For that grower, it really changed how they were viewing future tech and its applications for industry.” v
