Australian Berry Journal – AUTUMN 2025 - Edition 22 by BerriesAustralia

CANE TOAD ALERT

Blueberries

COOL CHAIN, FRESH GAINS

Strawberries

Rubus

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EDITOR

Sandy

Melinda

Graeme

Executive Director's Report

Rachel Mackenzie | 0408 796 199 | rachelmackenzie@berries.net.au

Welcome to the first edition of the Australian Berry Journal for 2025. Having worked in horticulture policy and advocacy for nearly 20 years, I do know that the wins are hard fought and far between. Therefore, I am very pleased to say we have had a number of positive announcements in recent months which are the direct result of our efforts as Berries Australia or as part of a broader coalition of horticulture bodies.

Firstly, in conjunction with Melons Australia, AUSVEG and the Fresh Markets Association, with the support of Freshcare and the NFF Horticulture Council, we have been able to avert the implementation of costly, duplicative and overly bureaucratic food safety requirements that were due to come into place in February across Australia. The Primary Production and Processing (PPP) Standards requirements will proceed but are expected to align with the model just implemented in Victoria. This model recognises existing schemes which are globally benchmarked as GFSI-accredited schemes - like Freshcare - and will not require additional audits, avoiding the costly and burdensome approaches proposed by many other states.

The proposed Biosecurity Protection Levy has been scrapped completely. You may recall this was a proposal by the federal government to put a levy on every single primary producer to fund national biosecurity activities. Along with colleagues from the NFF Horticulture Council, the Australian Fresh Produce Alliance and the broader agriculture sector this was defeated in the Senate and has now been taken off the table. This outcome is a direct result of working together across agriculture and shows what can be

achieved if we take a united and well-argued position to the national policy negotiating table.

On a more local scale, Berries Australia successfully pushed back against a proposal by the Nambucca Valley Council to require formal development approvals for structures associated with intensive horticulture (nets and tunnels). While the recommendation was supported by a narrow majority of Councillors, the NSW Department of Planning & Environment did not approve the proposal and made direct reference to the points made in our submission. I do think we may have won the battle but not the war, however it does go to show that a solid submission with expert input from a town planner (Heidi Goese PlanPlace) can make a material difference to an outcome.

It is also really important that growers in all locations try to minimise land use conflicts and ensure they comply with local government and state regulations at all times as it can get disheartening when we hear of growers doing the wrong thing.

While it does seem that many of our wins are actually just preventing losses rather than proactive outcomes for the sector, the recent announcement of a new national food security strategy – Feeding Australia - will give us the opportunity to identify positive changes we can make to ensure the long-term sustainability of the fresh berry sector. Certainly, there were many thought-provoking discussions at BerryQuest which we can feed into this conversation.

Continuing on a positive note, you may have heard that berries continue to be Australia’s most valuable fruit category, and the sector is now worth more than $1.3 billion per annum at farmgate. The latest edition of the Horticulture Statistics Handbook produced by Hort Innovation is now available on our Resource Library and at bit.ly/41xNr36

Since 2023, production has increased by 26% to 121,667 tons while value has increased by 21%. The disparity between the production increase and value increase highlights the importance of continuing with investments like the Berry Basket marketing campaign and export market access. Blueberries and strawberries are in a tussle for most valuable berry sector at farmgate with strawberries just inching out blueberries with a value of $508 million compared with $505 million for blueberries. Rubus are valued at $290 million.

Strawberries

Strawberry production has increased 23% with good growing conditions experienced across all regions however the value only increased by 18%. Anecdotally, the strawberry market in Tasmania has been surprisingly strong post-Christmas, with January prices better than expected. Pre-Christmas prices were described as ‘ordinary’ and February were lower than expected. Reports in the north of the country were that runner growers were producing plants earlier in the year than usual, but plastic is down and ready to plant out. Northern November production was higher than usual, due to peak conditions at the end of the season. This has impacted traditional pricing windows due to challenges with a 3–4-week overlap of production between regions.

Blueberries

Blueberries have the biggest gap between volume and value with production increasing by 36% but value only increasing by 20%. Obviously opening new markets and investing in marketing campaigns are important, but it is also important that every grower considers their contribution to this statistic. We should not underestimate the consequences of pumping lower quality fruit into the market at certain times of year. Hopefully, better genetics will soon be available to enable the industry to produce decent volumes of good quality fruit over the lucrative Christmas period.

Rubus

The picture for Rubus is rosier on the surface with a 24% increase in volume and a 31% increase in value. It would be valuable to explore the market dynamics between the two types of Rubus, as anecdotal evidence suggests raspberry value has plateaued, while blackberry value continues to rise from a lower starting point. Raspberry prices were comparable to last year, although the market was reported as slow in January with sales increasing in February. Blackberries had similar challenges in January and concerns were raised about the high supply of other summer fruits impacting berry sales.

Finally, I would like to thank all of our Sponsors for their support of BerryQuest International 2025 and all of our delegates for taking the time to attend. The feedback from our post-event survey has been incredibly valuable to help us do even better next time, although I think you will agree that we have set the bar at an incredibly high standard with this event. Check out the photo report on PAGE 18 and visit our Resource Library at bit.ly/BA-RL to see the recordings of sessions and the presentations from speakers who have granted us their permission to share.

Chairman's Report

Anthony Poiner | 0412 010 843 | anthony@smartberries.com.au

I hope you had a restful and/or profitable festive season depending on your location. The berry calendar started the year with a bang with the very successful BerryQuest conference held in Tasmania in February.

It is a testament to the esteem in which the industry is held that the Federal Minister for Agriculture Julie Collins opened the event, and we had Tasmanian Agriculture Minister Jane Howlett attend the dinner. We also had the CEO of Hort Innovation and Hort Innovation Directors attend for the whole conference. BerryQuest was very well attended, with 540 delegates, including growers, suppliers to our industry (many of whom were also exhibitors), supply chain partners, students and speakers. From the initial feedback, 92% of delegates said they ranked the event as either ‘excellent’ or ‘good’. It is crystal clear that the berry industry is now firmly established as Australia's largest and leading fruit sector.

The event featured 53 speakers, including international experts from the UK, Poland, and Singapore, with two live streamed from the UK and Vietnam. With 58 overseas delegates from 12 countries, BerryQuest truly lived up to its international name.

If you missed a presentation, most of the recordings and slide presentations (depending on speaker permission) are now available on our website at the Resource Library (bit.ly/BA-RL)

We were flooded with interest for the trade show which meant we had to open the second area downstairs and welcomed 65 trade exhibitors. We absolutely value the support of every single one of you and hope you achieved your objectives for the conference. Please speak to the Berries Australia team if you have any suggestions for improving future events.

I would like to give particular thanks to those businesses who opened their doors to over 160 delegates for each of the farm tours. The tours visited six farms from the north of the state to the south. Farms included two berry producers (Piñata Farms and Hillwood Berries), berry propagator (Driscoll’s), plus cherry and apple farms (Reid Fruits, R&R Smith and Hansens Orchard). I would also like to give particular thanks to the IDOs for organising the tours and staying on top of the complex logistics across the two days.

The event was capped off by a truly spectacular Gala Dinner sponsored by Driscoll’s and a short and sweet awards ceremony. It is important to honour those who go above and beyond for industry and all of the recipients and nominees were worthy of the accolade. For more information about the winners please SEE PAGE 29.

Thank you to everyone who attended. Taking time off farm or sending team members to events like BerryQuest is an investment, but the returns—new knowledge, valuable connections, and industry insights—far outweigh the cost. These interactions not only strengthen individual businesses but also shape the industry's future by guiding our priorities.

Events like these don’t just happen so I would like to give thanks to Jen Rowling, Wendy Morris and the whole Berries Australia team along with the BerryQuest Subcommittee chaired by Simon Dornauf. Thank you also to Mountain Blue and Perfection Fresh for not only being our Platinum Sponsors but also having such fantastic stands at the event. For those of you who were unable to attend, we are interested in ways to incentivise even more grower attendance so please come to us with suggestions and we hope to see you for BerryQuest International 2027!

Brett Fifield, Hort Innovation, Chief Executive Officer

It’s not hyperbole to say that the value of berry production has skyrocketed over the past decade. The latest edition of the Australian Horticulture Statistics Handbook reveals the sector grew from $567 million in 2013/14 to over $1.3 billion in 2023/24, making it a powerhouse in Australian horticulture and the highest-value fruit category last year.

Key findings include:

• Blueberries have more than tripled in value over the past 12 years

• Strawberries, despite fluctuations, consistently exceed $400 million in production value

• Rubus berries show the second-highest growth rate, climbing to $290 million

These figures highlight not just the growth in the berry sector but growers’ resilience and adaptability. But, as we know all too well, with rapid expansion comes added complexity. The question now becomes how does the Australian berry industry maintain its competitive edge, while continuing to build resilience? The challenges are varied but we know they are not insurmountable.

Regulatory shifts and evolving consumer expectations, both domestically and internationally, demand ongoing innovation. Investments in sustainable practices and integrated pest management are helping Rubus growers track their environmental footprint. Advancing chemical alternatives, like area-wide pest management, further supports sustainable adaptation.

We are also well aware of the challenges presented by a lack of workforce capability. Having a workforce is step one, but having an efficient one is another matter altogether. The time taken to pick one tonne of berries differs significantly—100 hours for an experienced picker compared to 140 hours for an inexperienced one.

Hort Innovation is working on programs to support grower needs, ensuring that training and access to labour keep pace with industry growth. These innovations involve exploring labour-focused tech, motion-detecting wearables to evaluate performance and real-time quality-assessment cameras, training fruit pickers using virtual reality equipment, employing robots to move fruit containers, and wearing exoskeletons to support physical labour. The future is as yet unknown, but the possibilities are endless, and we need to embrace it.

So, how can the Australian berry industry manage growth, seize opportunities, and maintain its reputation for high-quality produce?

1. Industry Development and Grower Capability: Continued investment in IDO programs, the Memorandum of Understanding with Berries Australia, and initiatives like SHiFT ensure growers’ voices shape the industry's future.

2. Leadership and Global Perspective: Investing in future industry leaders is essential. Initiatives such as the Nuffield scholarship program has seen Rubus industry participants travel the world to gain insights, bringing back fresh ideas to strengthen the industry.

3. Frontiers Venture Capital Fund: Hort Innovation has launched a world-first horticulture venture capital fund, to invest in start-ups that will drive investment in local innovation - through new technologies, smarter farming practices, and better export solutions.

4. Get Involved and Stay Connected: I encourage all of you to be part of these efforts. We want to listen to your thoughts, ideas, and understand the challenges you are facing.

The future of Australian berries is bright. We have the best growers, producing the best berries, in one of the most exciting and dynamic industries in the world. But success is not just about growth – it’s about how we adapt, innovate, and work together. It’s a big task but one we’re prepared to meet, through careful planning, industry expertise, science, technology and a global perspective.

R&D and Biosecurity Manager

Dr Angela Atkinson | 0499 645 836 | angelaatkinson@berries.net.au

Research & Development

Following the first round of ideation and prioritisation of R&D needs last year under the new 'Berry Advisory Mechanism (MT23003)', three projects were prioritised and endorsed by industry:

• BerryQuest International 2025 (Blueberry, Raspberry and Blackberry, and Strawberry)

• Support for agrichemical permits in berry industries (Blueberry and Rubus)

• Enhancing management strategies for leafrollers and chilli thrips in the Australian berry industry (Blueberry and Rubus)

Berry Quest International 2025 has been successfully held in Hobart, with support through the above project, in addition to the major support by our sponsors.

You can explore a report from the event on PAGE 18 and you can access copies of both the presenters' slides and the video recordings of their sessions on the industry website RESOURCE LIBRARY at bit.ly/BA-RL

The project to support applications for minor use permits for the berry industry is progressing as an industry priority. Hort Innovation has recently invested in a new Regulatory Support & Response Co-ordination program. While there is also a review happening within the APVMA around the granting of minor use permits and the definition of minor crops, industry will be updated when further information is available.

The project to enhance chilli thrip and leaf roller management was put out to market for tender late last year, and the responses from delivery partners are currently under evaluation.

R&D levy investments for horticulture industries are guided by overarching Strategic Investment Plans (SIPs) which expire June 30, 2025. Hort Innovation has launched a new program, SHIFt (Strategic Horticulture Investment Framework), to develop future SIPs. As part of the industry consultation a discussion guide has been developed to ensure that consultation on future SIPs is transparent, accessible and fit for purpose. Opportunities to contribute to this process are set out in the discussion guide which can be found at bit.ly/SHIFt. Interested growers are encouraged to review the discussion guide and provide feedback before the closing date of 4 May 2025.

Biosecurity

Work is progressing to put in place the mechanisms for repayment of SAI and RABA’s cost-sharing commitment for the Varroa mite response. The industry commitments are underwritten by the Commonwealth government for 10 years using taxpayer funds, giving industries the opportunity to repay over time. This involves activating industry Emergency Response Levies until the industry has repaid the debt. We are working with the Commonwealth department of agriculture (DAFF) and levy payers will be notified regarding the process. Other biosecurity matters involving the berry industry include an incursion of the exotic Red Dwarf Honey Bee (RDHB) in the Pilbara in Western Australia. RDHB is a concern for the honey bee industry as it is aggressive and competes with European honey bees, but there is also evidence that is can be an effective pollinator for many crops. Western Australia is currently working with other states and the Commonwealth, as well as pollination dependent industries, to determine if it can be eradicated.

The brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) is a mottle brown coloured, shield shaped stink bug

Photo credit: Kristie Graham, USDA ARS, Bugwood.org

In addition to RDHB, there are currently post border detections of Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) in several states. BMSB is one of Australia’s high priority exotic pests, and causes major damage to agricultural crops, nursery stock and ornamental plants. It is also a nuisance pest as it seeks shelter in large numbers in buildings and equipment during winter. When crushed it has a foul-smelling odour to deter predators.

BMSB stows away in cargo arriving from the northern hemisphere between September and April each year and is often detected in shipments during this period. Currently, the state jurisdictions are conducting surveillance to manage the risk of the pest establishing.

For more information on BMSB visit bit.ly/DAFF-BMSB

A cluster of BMSB adults

Photo credit: Gary Bernon, USDA APHIS, Bugwood.org

Tasmania

Ella Roper, Berry Industry Development Officer

0400 100 593 | berryido@fruitgrowerstas.org.au

Harvest is well and truly underway for growers across Tasmania for all major berry crops. Cool weather in late spring resulted in a slightly late start to the season for many crops, however warm weather in November and December has pushed plant growth and fruit development.

Heavy rain in early December across the north of the state resulted in over 200mm across three days in some areas. While cherry crops experienced fruit cracking due to heavy rain, berry crops have fortunately been largely unaffected, although the extra moisture and humidity may have exacerbated disease conditions and fruit firmness through December.

While December saw wet conditions across much of the state, rainfall and soil moisture have dropped off through January and growers will be focusing on maintaining sufficient irrigation for plant needs and fruit quality.

Raspberries and blackberries experienced a slightly late start to the season compared to last year, however many growers are reporting strong volumes. Growers in protected systems are utilising long cane plants to enable production early in the season and to fill gaps between floricane and primocane harvest peaks. Strawberry crops are in continual harvest mode with growers focusing on quality particularly as the weather warms. A major focus coming into autumn for both Rubus and strawberries will be fruit quality as the crops reach the tail end of their production.

Blueberry growers have also reported a slightly later start to the season than last year, but many growers have reported good volumes and quality through December and January. The Tasmanian blueberry season is relatively short in comparison with Rubus and strawberries, and following peak harvest in late January, northern highbush production drops off quickly into February and March.

After several challenging years of labour shortages, many growers are now reporting an adequate workforce for this season. However, despite the availability of seasonal workers, rising labour costs—especially for harvesting—remain a significant challenge. Many businesses are heavily focused on improving harvest efficiencies wherever possible, such as promoting picker performance or developing new technologies such as harvest platforms to improve efficiencies.

Access to available chemistry in Rubus has been an ongoing priority for growers, with limited products registered for key pests such as grubs, thrips and mites. A new permit (PER95049) for lepidopteran pests in both field and protected cane berries was released in January, which will be a welcome addition for growers. More information about this new permit is available on the NEWS section of the industry website.

As I write this, Berry Quest International 2025 is approaching rapidly, and preparations are in full swing for the conference being held in Hobart in late February. I am looking forward to playing a key role in the conference team, learning about new research and innovations, and meeting growers from around the country.

It is a busy time of year for Tasmanian berry growers with all crops in peak harvest, however a webinar was held on 12 February focused on optimising sprays in berry crops, including covering how crop protection products work, factors that affect their performance and getting the dose right.

The webinar was recorded and is available now on our YouTube channel at youtu.be/COpUIwHgs9o

In addition, preparations are currently underway in the Fruit Growers Tasmania team for this year’s annual conference. The conference will focus on Tasmanian berry, stone and pome fruit production and bring together growers and representatives from across the industries to improve knowledge, share ideas and develop connections. More information will be shared with growers soon.

Queensland

Wendy Morris, Berry Industry Development Officer 0484 272 963 | qldberryido@berries.net.au

Happy New Year! It’s been a busy start to 2025. For our Stanthorpe growers, early January saw an unwelcome hail storm that caused damage to property and crops. Thankfully, overall damage to crops wasn’t enough to cause interruptions to supply.

Our Caboolture and Bundaberg growers are laying plastic ready for planting this season’s winter crop. Preparations for BerryQuest are in full swing with the Trade Show now sold out having been increased in size twice, and the farm tours are fully finalised. It’s been fabulous to see how many quality speakers have been secured, and to visit the farms that are included in the BerryQuest tours. If you can’t attend BerryQuest, and you’ve noticed a speaker or topic on the program that is of interest, please let us know! If we receive enough interest in a topic, we can try to address it at a local event.

Speaking of local events, our grower lunch in November saw over 30 attendees gather to learn more about chemical policy, fumigation, nanobubbles and the National Fire Ant Eradication Program. For more information on fire ants please SEE PAGE 39

We also acknowledge that it is important that your farm workers can identify fire ants. If you’re in Queensland or New South Wales, you will have a fire ant identification poster included with this copy of the journal. If you haven’t received a copy, or would like duplicates, please get in touch on qldberryido@berries.net.au.

Our first event for 2025 was ‘An afternoon at Tinaberries’ held on 6 February. Learning how to grow a new variety is a frustrating and expensive process for many growers, so Paul Jones from Bugs for Bugs came along to share his wisdom on developing a nutrition plan. This event was also a great opportunity for growers to share their experiences so that as an industry, we send the best fruit possible to market.

Growers gathered at the Beerwah Hotel on 21 November 2024 to hear from a number of speakers including the National Fire Ant Eradication Program. Photo credit: Wendy Morris

On the food safety front, the implementation of the new requirements for berry growers are likely to be delayed past the initial 12 February release date. Safe Food Queensland will continue to liaise with growers about updates and we will be sharing information as soon as we have clarity.

Chemical access remains a huge challenge for the industry as the government continues to review older chemistries. We are aware that many growers have been advised by experts and government bodies to use certain chemicals in certain ways, and that the entire usage of these chemicals might not be encompassed on the product label or permit.

One such example is Paraquat, a chemical which is likely to be removed from the stock of tools available to strawberry growers. Paraquat is currently used by some growers at the end of season to kill off plants in a timely manner.

As an industry body, we’ve learned from the Paraquat review that it is imperative that we are aware not only of reviews that are in progress, but of how growers are using chemicals under review. During 2025 we will be keeping a close eye on all matters ‘chemical’, and ask growers to share their thoughts and experiences.

The APVMA has acknowledged their engagement with industry has not been ideal and has an updated Engagement Model. This model seeks to deliver a shift in the level of transparency and a more two-way collaborative experience for stakeholders.

As always, I am available to assist all Queensland berry growers so please reach out with any event suggestions or areas where you feel you need any additional resources to help manage your berry business.

L-R: Wendy, Jen and Claire spent time in Hobart in late January to finalise plans for the upcoming BerryQuest International conference, including visiting the farm businesses hosting the farm tours like the state-of-the-art cherry packing shed pictured here at Hansen Orchards. Photo credit: Wendy Morris

New South Wales

Gaius Leong, Berry Industry Development Officer 0484 055 748 | gaius.leong@dpi.nsw.gov.au

A field day on integrated pest management (IPM) approaches to address caterpillar challenges in Rubus production was held on 6 January 2025 at Costa Corindi farms (Figure 1). The field day was part of a wider project involving biological conservation in Rubus production delivered in collaboration with research partners Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA) and funded by Hort Innovation, using the Raspberry and Blackberry research and development levy and contributions from the Australian Government. We had a good mix of growers and industry people attend with positive feedback and interest in the topics discussed.

For those who missed out on the field day, here is a summary of the project and accompanying components. With noctuid caterpillars becoming more common across subtropical growing regions, there has been increased prevalence in Rubus crops. Amongst the caterpillars impacting Rubus production, Helicoverpa armigera, Helicoverpa punctigera, and Spodoptera litura have been the most challenging. The larvae have been observed to cause extensive feeding damage to leaves, bud, flower, green and ripening fruit, which has led to severe economic losses if left untreated.

To make matters more challenging, Rubus production involves an extremely quick harvest rotation to ensure fruit quality is maintained. This reduces the ability of producers to rely on chemical intervention to control pest challenges. In the light of this, the project’s objectives are to develop chemically limited pest management approaches that are tailored for Rubus production and thereafter to facilitate the implementation of sustainable biological control approach to the Rubus industry.

Figure 1. Rubus biological conservation field day held at Costa farms on 6 January 2025. Photo credit: NSW DPIRD

There are currently three components to the project:

1. The use of interplanted flowering plants to increase longevity of beneficial releases. Flowering plants can act as an alternative host to shelter beneficials and attract pollinators into the crop. There are currently five species of flowering plants under evaluation, two Zinnias, sunflower, marigold and buckwheat (Figure 2).

2. Augmentative fortnightly release of egg parasitoids, Trichogramma pretiosum. These are beneficials that target the egg laying stage of the pests.

3. Mass trapping via the use of pheromone traps for 3 moth species. The lures are replaced fortnightly to ensure efficacy (Figure 3).

The project is expected to reduce repetitive investment in pesticide use and reduce number of beneficial releases required commercially to manage major Helicoverpa and Spodoptera caterpillar pests through the evaluation these three components.

Figure 3. Dr Saleh Adnan, NSW DPIRD, explaining to field day attendees the mass trapping component

Photo credit: NSW DPIRD

Figure 2. Flowering plants being evaluated in Rubus production. Photo credit: NSW DPIRD

Victoria & South Australia

Sandy Shaw, Berry Industry Development Officer 0408 416 538 | vicberryido@berries.net.au

The last few months have marked the peak berry season for Victoria and South Australia, with production in full swing before the summer heat took hold. Since early January, conditions have been drier than usual, leading to increased irrigation demands. Growers are closely monitoring their crops for heat stress. By the time this update is published, strawberry summer plantings will have been completed, and strawberry growers will be focusing on harvest as the weather cools and production volumes return. Meanwhile, Rubus and blueberry growers who have finished their season will be cleaning up their plants and preparing for the next cycle.

I had the opportunity to visit and connect with South Australian growers for the first time as IDO in December. I would like to extend my gratitude to everyone who took the time to meet with me, share insights about their farms, and discuss their challenges, concerns, and innovations. I wasn't able to meet with everyone during this visit, but I look forward to returning soon to continue to learn more about South Australian growers’ needs.

During my time in South Australia, I visited the South Australian Produce Market (SAPM) and toured the ongoing construction of their new biosecurity facility. A joint venture between the SAPM and state and national governments, the facility will soon complete Stage 1 of construction which will see their postharvest fumigation facilities operational later this year. Stage 2 irradiation facilities are next on the docket, with completion targeted within the next three years.

Victorian Strawberry Industry Development Committee

(L) George Piliouras from Mount Barker Strawberries in South Australia with one of his premium pack offerings, (C) Host plants for the powdery mildew resistance in grapevines project at SARDI, and (R) Adam and Theo Sherry with IDO Sandy Shaw at Kuitpo Forest Strawberries on the Fleurieu Peninsula

Photo credits: Sandy Shaw and Diane Weda

Jodi Neal walks growers through the ASBP test plot in Wandin, Victoria. Photo credit: Sandy Shaw

Growers listen to a presentation by visiting professor Doug Shaw. Photo credit: Sandy Shaw

I also had the opportunity to visit researchers at the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI), who arranged a tour of their diagnostics lab where many disease samples from southern Australia are processed. They also provided an overview of their fungicide resistance research into powdery mildew, downy mildew and Botrytis bunch rot in grapevine, a project that SARDI runs on behalf of Wine Australia and SAAFECRC (Solving Antimicrobial Resistance in Agribusiness) in collaboration with Curtin University and the Australian Wine Research Institute. As part of this project, SARDI hosts a library of around 60 isolates of grape powdery mildew strains with varying resistance to fungicides which are used for conducting research and testing the baseline of new fungicides. In addition, they test samples from around Australia suspected of developing chemical resistance and report the test results back to growers. This enables grapevine growers to adjust their spray programs and rotate chemicals to mitigate resistance, ensuring the continued effective use of these treatments in the future. Berry growers consistently struggle with the control of powdery mildew and it was valuable to see the innovative steps SARDI and their partner organisations have taken to address similar issues in grapevines.

In Victoria, the Australian Strawberry Breeding Program (ASBP) hosted their mid-season field walk in December. Head breeder Jodi Neal provided an overview of the program’s current selection pipeline and gave growers a chance to provide feedback on the selections in the field. An update from the breeding program is available on PAGE 97.

In January we hosted an evening of agtech presentations. The presentations included an overview of the ‘Cabrillo’ strawberry variety, which is becoming increasingly popular in southern Australia, a demonstration of the BioBee BugFlow attachment for more even distribution of biological predators, and a presentation on drone technology by D.C. Kennedy, who highlighted the potential of drones for spraying and discussed the potential uses of multi-spectral drones for berry growers.

Victorian growers will be aware that Agriculture Victoria has rolled out their registration process for the new food safety standards that came into effect on 12 February this year. Growers are required to register their compliance with the new standards on the AV Connect portal. More information on the standards, including how to sign up for AV Connect and information on the registration pathway, is available on the Agriculture Victoria website at agriculture.vic.gov.au/biosecurity/food-safety/ food-safety-for-horticulture-producers

Growers can also find basic how-to guides to the different sign-up pathways in the Berries Australia Resource Library. Visit bit.ly/BA-RL and type 'PPP' in the Search box.

The implementation of the standards in South Australia has been delayed past the 12 February date. The regulation is progressing after feedback from industry bodies and further updates will be provided from PIRSA as information becomes available. I will continue to share relevant standards information with South Australian growers to help them prepare for implementation as new details are provided.

C.R. Kennedy AJI 25L drone in flight

Photo credit: Sandy Shaw

Biological Service’s Greg Pruitt demonstrates biological predator application with the BioBee BugFlow

Photo credit: Sandy Shaw

Climate and crop

Western Australia

Helen Newman, Berry Industry Development Officer 0428 335 724 | Helen.Newman@dpird.wa.gov.au

Industry news

Spring ended on a warm note, particularly in locations away from coastal sea breezes. Overall, spring maximum temperatures were 1-2 degrees warmer than average across berry-growing regions, and minimums were up to 2 degrees warmer. Rainfall was below average to very much below average, despite a good dollop of rain in the Manjimup-Pemberton region in November. December temperatures were also warmer than usual with maximums up to 3.7 degrees higher than average and minimums up to 2 degrees warmer. Record-breaking temperatures of 45°C were recorded during December at several locations including Pierce and the Perth Hills. Pierce recorded 16 days with temperatures over 35°C during December. The very much warmer than average temperatures continued into January with maximums 2 to 3.5 degrees warmer than average and minimums up to 3 degrees warmer. Even Albany was warmer than normal with its highest average mean temperature in 20 years. Many other sites also had their highest minimum and maximum temperatures on record. The greater Perth region experienced an extended heatwave in January with 5 consecutive days above 40°C. Northern metro growing regions recorded 13 to 16 days of temperatures over 35°C in January.

Crops are progressing as normal on the whole despite the very much warmer than normal temperatures. Thankfully, some of the very hot days in January were accompanied by cloud cover so plants were under less transpiration stress and humidity was higher. Chilli thrips have been thriving in the greater-Perth climate and continue to cause problems in all berry categories. Chilli thrip trials using the predatory thrip ‘Frankie’ in blueberries have shown promising results throughout the growing season and post-pruning when combined with banker plants and modified pruning strategies. SEE PAGE 64 for more information on this new biological option.

Welcome Chi!

Chi Nguyen from Vegetables WA has been contracted through the WA Berry IDO Project to provide interpretation and translation of strawberry information for our local Vietnamese growers. Many strawberry growers also grow vegetables, so this collaboration is mutually beneficial. Chi has a background in Agribusiness and has a passion for finance and assisting growers to improve their financial situation. Chi will be coming on farm visits with me again this season so please make the most of his skills and passion.

WA Protected Cropping Events

The last in a series of three protected cropping events delivered in collaboration with VegNET and Vegetables WA was held in late November. Two strawberry growers immersed themselves in the topic, participating in 4.5 days of intensive training with Graeme Smith. Our learnings on how to manage transpiration stress are summarised on PAGE 42

Chemical training delivered and assessed in Vietnamese

In another collaboration with VegNET and Vegetables WA, strawberry growers wishing to attend chemical training delivered and assessed in Vietnamese can register for a session that will be held in Gnangara on 20 and 21 March 2025. Two units of competency will be covered:

• AHCCHM307 – Prepare and apply chemicals to control pests, weeds, and diseases

• AHCCHM304 – Transport and store chemicals

New food safety standards

If you are a berry grower in WA, the new Primary production and processing standards require you to notify your Local Government Authority (City/Town/Shire) of your operations using a 'Food Business Notification' form under the Food Act 2008.

Contact your local government for the correct forms, some have the forms clearly listed on their websites, but others are more difficult to find.

For more information on the standards implementation in WA visit Primary production and processing standards for leafy vegetables, melons, and berries at bit.ly/PPP-WA or see the article on PAGE 31.

Safe Horticulture Australia have produced a guide to the primary production and processing standards for horticulture which can be downloaded at bit.ly/PPP-Hort

Strawberry growers Ty Tran and Vince Ngo measuring light levels, leaf temperature, and wind speed in a cucumber crop as part of an intensive 4.5 day masterclass in protected cropping. Photo credit: Helen Newman

DAY 1

MONDAY 24 FEBRUARY 2025

FARM TOUR NORTH

An exciting and jam-packed tour where attendees met local berry and orchard producers, heard their stories and learnt why they are some of the leading growers in Tasmania. This tour started in Launceston and wound its way down to Hobart.

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY:

HILLWOOD BERRIES

SCAN FOR MORE INFORMATION

Second stop on this tour was Hillwood Berries, a family-owned Tasmanian berry producer known for its innovation and high-quality crops across all four berry categories. The tour showcased cutting-edge farm technology, including Cocogreen’s coir substrate for optimised plant growth and the BerrySuite Platform, which tracks picker speeds and yield in real-time. Attendees also saw the agile forced air-cooling system, enabling same-day fruit dispatch, and the Haygrove Total Vents, a revolutionary tunnel design for better climate control. Additionally, the farm is trialling the Burro autonomous robot for taking fruit from field to coolroom and using the Delmade Rut Filler to maintain smooth inter-row access.

DRISCOLL’S NURSERY

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Attendees gained valuable insights into the propagation and production of raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries.

The tour covered the raspberry long cane propagation process, clean stock management, and how these plants are used to maximise fruit production. Similarly, the blackberry long cane segment highlighted the True to Type propagation process, ensuring plant consistency and quality for commercial growers.

Attendees also explored the strawberry misted tip system, learning about its unique characteristics, key production steps, and the challenges and innovations that have shaped its success over the years.

REID FRUITS

SCAN FOR MORE INFORMATION

The final stop on the Farm Tour North took attendees to Reid Fruits, one of Australia’s largest cherry producers, renowned for growing premium cherries exported to over 20 countries worldwide.

With a legacy dating back to 1856, Reid Fruits has remained at the forefront of innovation, and the tour provided a firsthand look at their Cravo retractable tunnel systems. These state-of-the-art structures offer automatic covering and precise climate control, ensuring optimal growing conditions while protecting the crop.

The visit highlighted Tasmania’s reputation for high-quality cherry production and the advanced techniques driving its global success.

RASPBERRY PROPAGATION

First stop on the Driscoll’s nursery tour, Marius Boarta providing an overview of the raspberry propagation process

TASTE & RATE

The final stop took in part of the strawberry operation. Attendees were also given the opportunity to taste and rate some newly developed varieties

BLACKBERRY PROPAGATION

Second stage of the tour looked at Blackberry long cane propagation with a talk given by Nursery Site Manager James Knaggs, pictured here with John Gray from Angus Soft Fruits in the UK

TABLETOP STRAWBERRIES

Some of the 20 hectares of tabletop strawberries grown at Hillwood Berries

Photo credit: Melinda Simpson

Photo credit: Jane Richter

COIR USAGE

The team from Cocogreen and Muirs provided an overview of the coir used at Hillwood Berries; pictured here with (L) Berries Australia IDO Sandy Shaw are Michael Gangi and Yannik Heller from Muirs

BURROS AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Paying for itself in the first season of use, the Burro autonomous vehicles are now employed taking fruit from the field to the cool room, dramatically reducing the direct costs of this component of the process

Farm owner, Simon Dornauf gave the tour some great insights into the benefits being realised from using the BerrySuite picking management platform developed by Hillwood Berries

Photo

Hillwood Berries grows over 20 hectares of Rubus and the Total Vent tunnels by Haygrove are providing a number of significant benefits like improved climate control

The forced air-cooling system with capacity for 18 pallets reduces the core fruit temperature rapidly down to 1-2°C allowing fruit to be dispatched same day from farm and improving shelf life longevity

CRAVO RETRACTABLE ROOF TUNNELS

The final stop for the day - Reid Fruits’ Honeywood Orchard at Jericho – enabled attendees to see the Cravo retractable roof tunnels in operation. This sophisticated system is fully computer controlled to optimise climate conditions inside the structure

credit: Jane Richter

Photo credits: Wendy Morris & Jane Richter

Photo credit: Ella Roper

Photo credits: Jane Richter

Photo credit: Jane Richter

DAY 2

TUESDAY 25 FEBRUARY 2025

FARM TOUR SOUTH

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY:

PIÑATA FARMS

SCAN FOR MORE INFORMATION

Piñata Farms, a family-owned leader in multi-fruit production, is known for its strawberries, specialty raspberries, and Honey Gold® mangoes. As BerryWorld’s exclusive Australian partner, Piñata ensures year-round berry production across its sites.

The tour showcased packhouse operations, including heat-sealed punnet packing, a forced air-cooling system, and advanced quality control with metal detectors and check weighers.

Attendees also gained insights into raspberry and strawberry production, featuring Diamond Jubilee raspberries, Sweet Eve, and Eve’s Delight strawberries, highlighting Piñata’s commitment to innovation and premium fruit quality.

R&R SMITH

WILLIE SMITH’S

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SCAN FOR MORE INFORMATION HANSEN

ORCHARDS

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The Farm Tour South continued to the Huon Valley, home to the award-winning Willie Smith’s organic cider and the iconic Apple Shed. This stop offered a unique insight into the region’s rich apple-growing heritage with attendees enjoying a delicious lunch at the Apple Shed whilst listening to Allison Clark and Andrew Smith talking about the secrets behind a successful Agritourism business.

Attendees then had the choice between two local orchard visits. Hansen Orchards is a family-run business growing apples in Tasmania since the 1890s. Now a leading producer of apples and cherries, Hansen Orchards is globally recognised for its premium export-quality fruit.

R&R Smith is a fourth-generation apple producer located in Tasmania's Huon Valley, boasting over 130 years of apple-growing heritage. As Australia's largest organic apple grower, they cultivate a variety of apple types across their expansive orchards. Delegates were able to learn about their sustainable apple production practices.

The Orielton farm site at Piñata Farms spans about 120 hectares and was first established in 2019

Participants were given the opportunity to taste the fruit grown at the Orielton site

Business Owner, Gavin Scurr, sharing some insights about the business with tour attendees

(L) Kiran Bhusal and (R) Seeger Van Kints, PhD Candidates from University of Tasmania who are currently working with the levy funded projects RB21000 and RB21001 (See PAGE 106)

Howard Hansen from Hansen Orchards showcasing their operations

Allison Clark (Agritourism Tasmania) and Andrew Smith (R&R Smith) provided insights into running a successful agritourism venture whilst attendees enjoyed a BBQ lunch at Wille Smith’s Apple Shed

R&R Smith are Australia's largest organic apple grower and have been in the Huon Valley for over 130 years

Photo credit: Huemen Media

DAY 2

TUESDAY 25 FEBRUARY 2025

WELCOME RECEPTION

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY:

Following the highly successful Farm Tours, the conference officially opened with a Welcome Reception hosted in the three Trade Show areas by Platinum Sponsors Mountain Blue and Perfection Fresh.

The informal networking session gave delegates their first taste of the extensive Trade Show with 65 exhibitors.

All photos credit: Huemen Media

Some of the team from Costa Berries attending BQI25

DAY 3 & 4

WEDNESDAY 26 FEBRUARY –

THURSDAY 27 FEBRUARY 2025

CONFERENCE DAYS

With over 50 speakers across 2 days in three separate rooms, there was certainly something for everyone who attended!

CONFERENCE OPENING

MC Richard Shannon opening the Conference and introducing special guest, the Hon Julie Collins MP Federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

For those that missed a session, where the speaker has given their permission to share their material it can be accessed now at the Berries Australia Resource Library at bit.ly/BA-RL

All photos credit: Huemen Media

(L-R) Rachel Mackenzie, Anthony Poiner, Julie Collins & Simon Dornauf

Keynote speaker Mike Knowles from Fruitnet Europe provided invaluable insights into the global berry market

(L-R) Students Bingxi Wang, Declan Lafferty and Ziwei Zhou from the University of Melbourne

Keynote speaker Rachael Robertson delivered simple yet powerful insights for leaders in all walks of life

(L-R) Jen Rowling, Rachel Mackenzie and Jane Richter, Berries Australia

Attendees were fortunate to also hear from UK based Nuffield Scholar John Gray who joined (L-R) Brett Fifield, Anthony Poiner and Mike Knowles on a Q&A panel discussion

Our Trade Show exhibitors delivered an engaging, insightful and comprehensive look at the best on offer to Australian berry growers

and delegates making good use of the FreshTrack Business Lounge

(L) Alex Tse and (R) Con Melas from Gold Sponsor Multisteps

(L) Ivan Davison, (C) Narjis Ouadif and (R) Matteo Peveri from Business Lounge Sponsor FreshTrack

DAY 4

THURSDAY 27 FEBRUARY 2025

DRISCOLL’S GALA DINNER & AWARDS EVENING

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY:

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Hobart’s iconic waterfront, Princes Wharf No. 1 offered a truly spectacular setting for the BQI25 Gala Dinner.

Located on the edge of the Derwent River, this historic venue blends industrial charm with modern elegance, and provided a vibrant, atmospheric experience that made the Driscoll’s Gala Dinner & Awards Evening an unforgettable celebration of the Australian berry industry.

All photos credit: Huemen Media

Entertainment provided by the fabulous live band, Sugartrain

(L-R) Rachel Mackenzie, Luke Gibson & Jesse White

BERRY INDUSTRY AWARDS

AGRONOMIST OF THE YEAR

Stuart Doyle, AgVista

“ My heartfelt thanks go to all the growers for their trust in the science of agronomy, and to my family for their patience with my travels and countless berry photos! ”

INDUSTRY IMPACT

SPONSORED BY FRESHCARE Tyler Scofield, Driscoll’s

“Winning the Industry Impact Award at BerryQuest 2025 was the cherry on top of an incredible week—huge thanks to Berries Australia, the sponsors, and this amazing industry!”

The Berry Industry Awards recognise and celebrate excellence, innovation, and leadership across the sector, honouring those who drive progress, adopt best practices, and contribute to the sustainability and success of the Australian berry industry.

RESEARCHER OF THE YEAR

SUPPLY CHAIN CHAMPION

GROWER OF THE YEAR

SPONSORED BY SYNGENTA Anthony Yewers, Berry Sweet

“ I was totally shocked to receive this award. I have to thank my team as without their hard work we wouldn't be where we are today – thank you”

SPECIAL AWARD FOR A LIFETIME CONTRIBUTION TO THE AUSTRALIAN BERRY INDUSTRY

THANK YOU

We extend our deepest gratitude to our sponsors and exhibitors, whose generous support and commitment have made this event possible. Your contributions have helped bring together industry leaders, innovators, and growers, fostering collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and the future growth of the berry sector.

From insightful discussions to cutting-edge technologies on display, your involvement has enriched the experience for all attendees. Thank you for being part of BQI25 and for your ongoing dedication to the Australian berry industry. We look forward to seeing you again in the future!

EXHIBITORS

A&D Weighing and Inspection

ABC Software

AgNova

AgPick

Agri Automation

Australia

Agrinova

Agri-tech Pacific

AgSpec

Apex Greenhouses

Australasian

Plant Genetics

Australian Growing Solutions

Australian

Pacific Labour Alliance

Bee Friendly Farming

Bee Innovative

Beekenkamp Verpakkingen

BeeSTAR

PLATINUM SPONSORS

EVENT SPONSORS & DELIVERY PARTNERS

Hort Innovation

Produce Plus

Business Events Tasmania supported by the Tasmanian Government

Biological Services

Bitwise / Nanobubble

Cravo Equipment

De Sangosse Australia

Driscoll's

Eco Trellis

Hort Solutions

Ecomix

Elite Tunnels / GreenlifeGRO

Elifab Solutions

FreshTrack Systems

Garden City Plastics

Ginegar Plastic Products

GreenPro

Haygrove

Hort Innovation

Irribiz

Legro / Botanicoir

MAF Oceania

Mountain Blue

Muirs

Multisteps

Netafim

Paradise Berry Propagators

Perfection Fresh

Piñata Farms / Berry World

Produce Plus

Protected Cropping Australia

Redox

Rivulis

Royal Brinkman

SQM

Stackpack

Tomra

TTA-ISO

Unitec

Van Der Hoeven

Viscon Australia

Weighter

WinHarvest

National Horticulture Roadshow supported through the NFF Horticulture Council by the Australian Government

Australian Growing Solutions

Elite Tunnels & GreenlifeGRO

Ginegar Plastic Products

Haygrove

Multisteps

Tomra

Redox

WinHarvest

Driscoll’s

Bee Innovative

FreshTrack Systems

Rivulis

ABC Software

AgNova Technologies

Piñata Farms & BerryWorld

Priva

Freshcare

Legro

Syngenta

Smart Berries

Costa

Muirs & Cocogreen

Nutrien Ag Solutions

Food Safety Changes for Horticulture Producers

Rachel Mackenzie, Executive Director, Berries Australia

Berry businesses in Victoria and WA are now subject to a mandatory registration requirement with other states to follow suit. This is the culmination of a long and challenging engagement with government at the federal level and across all states. We have fought long and hard to ensure that berry businesses were not slugged with unnecessary fees or bureaucracy and that the existing systems such as Freshcare were recognised. This battle continues with some states still developing their regulations.

For background, in August 2022, three new national horticulture primary production and processing standards were introduced into the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code: Primary Production and Processing Standards 4.2.7 Berries, 4.2.8 Leafy Vegetables and 4.2.9 Melons. These standards were supposed to come into effect nationally on 12 February 2025 but only WA and Victoria are at the implementation stage.

The key requirement for berry businesses is to register with the local food safety regulator. The objective is to improve traceability and work with growers not already on a food safety scheme to ensure they are compliant.

The standards provide a risk-based, preventative approach to providing safe and suitable food. They are based on the principle that food safety is best ensured by implementing good agricultural practice, hygiene controls at each stage of production and processing, and effective traceability.

All producers (of all commodities including fresh produce) have a general obligation to ensure that food for sale is safe and suitable for human consumption and to comply with the Food Standards Code, where applicable, however these new standards are the first specific standards to apply to horticulture produce (except bean sprouts).

FSANZ has published a guidebook to help producers to understand the requirements of the new standards: ‘Safe Horticulture Australia - A guide to the primary production and processing standards for horticulture’ which can be downloaded at bit.ly/PPP-Hort

Each State and Territory is responsible for the implementation of the standards in their jurisdiction, and each have chosen to take a slightly different approach.

Western Australia

The new standards were adopted under the WA Food Act 2008 and commenced from 12 February 2025.

Primary producers and processors of berries must notify their local government authority of their berry operations before the standards commence and comply with the requirements of the new food safety standard. The following key food safety risk areas are covered in the new food safety standard for berries:

• traceability

• soil

• fertiliser

• water

• premises and equipment

• skills and knowledge

• health and hygiene of personnel and visitors.

As part of the notification requirement, the following information must be provided to the local government:

• Contact details including name and address of business;

• Description of activities undertaken in relation to berries; and

• Location(s) of the activities.

Businesses under the notification requirement are typically not subject to routine inspections. However, your local government may conduct random inspections to check that you are compliant with the standards.

You will need to contact the local government where your farm and/or processing facility is located to obtain the relevant forms for notification.

Your local government contact details are available from the WA Local Government Association website at walga.asn.au/your-local-government/localgovernment-directory

For more information visit bit.ly/PPP-WA

Victoria

Victoria’s food safety standards for leafy vegetable, melon and berry producers are regulated by Agriculture Victoria and took effect on 12 February 2025. All berry producers are required to register and notify Agriculture Victoria of how you are complying with the standards.

Producers are required to register via AV Connect at bit.ly/AgVic-Connect, and the length of this process varies depending on your current food safety compliance level. Businesses registered with a Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) scheme are able to proceed quickly by providing proof of their current accreditation by those schemes.

Freshcare users have the most direct and streamlined process via a data share agreement between Freshcare and AgVic. Those registered with other GFSI recognised schemes such as Global G.A.P., SQF, and BRCGS will also be able to participate in a streamlined process, but these schemes do not have a data share agreement in place with AgVic.

If you are not accredited to a GFSI-benchmarked food safety scheme, then the process will take longer. Non-GFSI-certified businesses must complete a

questionnaire which includes yes/no questions, multiple choice questions and short responses focusing on the elements of the relevant standard such as traceability, inputs, premises and equipment management, staff hygiene and food safety training, and systems to manage unsafe product.

Producers can create an AV Connect account ahead of time to streamline registration. Agriculture Victoria has created a series of videos which lay out the process for registering on AV Connect.

• How to create an AV Connect account at www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gh3l9na6Ebc

• How to create an AV Connect profile at www.youtube.com/watch?v=a09s_dkTXU8

• How to register your business on AV Connect at www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hmws_dt_qBY

• How to manage your business roles on AV Connect at www.youtube.com/watch?v=s0vS0OFZz-Y

There will be an annual fee for berry growers to register with Agriculture Victoria. The fee will be scaled to the size of your production area. All registrations approved in 2025 and 2026 will automatically have a temporary fee discount/rebate of 50% applied at the point of registration. On Agriculture Victoria Connect, after completing the application questions and before submitting, you will be directed to the payment screen, where you can pay by credit card. The 50% discount will have already been applied to the total shown in the summary and payment sections. The registration fee is non-refundable. Further discounts may be applied in future years at the discretion of Agriculture Victoria.

Registrations will be valid for 12 months from the approval date. If you are certified to Freshcare FSQ4.2 and your Freshcare certification is renewed within the 12-month period, that information will be automatically shared with AgVic as part of the data share agreement. If you are part of a different scheme, you will need to log into AV Connect and upload the new credentials.

Victorian Growers are strongly advised to sign up for Agriculture Victoria’s updates at bit.ly/Vic-PPP-Updates

For more information visit bit.ly/PPP-Vic or call Agriculture Victoria’s Biosecurity Services Centre: 1800 403 224 Monday to Friday, 9 am to 4:30 pm

South Australia

The Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) have prepared the SA Horticulture regulation discussion paper, which has been presented to the South Australian Minister for consideration along with industry comments and concerns.

It has been proposed that the Primary Produce (Food Safety Schemes) (Plant Products) Act 2022 is varied to adopt the horticulture standards. SA businesses will be required to operate under an approved food safety arrangement under section 16 of the Act. Food safety arrangements require approval by the Minister’s delegate. Businesses that have a food safety arrangement (food safety program) in place already may propose this arrangement, for example Freshcare. The businesses that do not have a food safety arrangement in place will be provided a template which they can fill out which details their food safety arrangements.

PIRSA is expediently progressing the variation of regulations. Further updates will be provided in due course - information will be provided as soon as it becomes available.

For more information visit bit.ly/PPP-SA

Queensland

Implementation of the new Food Safety Standards for berries, melons and leafy vegetables (originally scheduled to take effect on 12 February 2025) has been delayed to allow more time for consultation between government and industry. Berries Australia along with our industry colleagues pushed for this additional consultation time as we have been deeply dissatisfied with the engagement to date and the proposed model which would have been onerous and expensive for growers.

As a result, Queensland producers and processors of these commodities are not required to apply for accreditation at this time. When regulation is in place, Safe Food will notify industry well in advance of accreditation being required. Industry members are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the new standards in the meantime.

Queensland Growers are strongly advised to sign up for Safe Food Queensland updates at www.safefood.qld. gov.au/horticulture-scheme-subscribe-form

For more information visit bit.ly/PPP-Qld

New South Wales

The NSW Food Authority is finalising how the national Primary Production and Processing Standards will be implemented in NSW through proposed changes to the NSW Food Regulation.

While the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code sets the national food safety laws for food businesses, the NSW Food Regulation will outline how these new national standards will be administered in NSW.

Feedback on the draft NSW Food Regulation 2025 was sought in December 2024. All feedback is currently being reviewed, including how licensing, fees and charges and potential exemptions could be applied. The regulation may be modified before it is submitted to the Minister for approval and gazettal.

Until the Food Regulation 2025 comes into effect in NSW, no proposed licensing requirements, on-farm inspections or fees will be imposed on producers and processors in the berries industry.

For more information visit bit.ly/PPP-NSW where you can also sign up to receive updates

Tasmania

There is currently no information available about the implementation of the standards in Tasmania. Updates will be provided when further information is published by the Tasmanian Government.

Download this guide at bit.ly/PPP-Hort

Produced by Safe Horticulture Australia, the guide contains more information about the new standards

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Browse our diverse range of multi-span polytunnel models and essential ancillary parts on our website. We hold stock of a variety of ancillary parts, including: C-clips • hinge-clamps sheeting-rope • rope-pullers We also stock ample rolls of plastic.

Berry Basket Marketing Campaign: Breaking new ground for berries

The project 'MT23500 FY24 Berry Basket Marketing Campaign' is funded by industry levies through Hort Innovation and contributions from the Australian Blueberry Growers Association voluntary levy.

Jane Richter, Communication Manager, Berries Australia

• Delivered through Hort Innovation and led by Berries Australia, this project has seen an industry-first collaboration between blueberries, raspberries, blackberries and strawberries all promoted under a ‘berry basket’ banner

• Three bursts of promotional activity have now been completed, each timed to coincide with peak supply periods across each crop

The final burst of promotional activity took place across December 2024 and January 2025, with an upweight of dedicated Rubus support thanks to a final contribution from the Raspberry and Blackberry Marketing Levy Fund. The additional Rubus investment was channelled exclusively into a social media campaign to achieve the most cost-effective reach against the target audience in the key supply period before Christmas and across January.

The television advert ran again across January on the Broadcast Video on Demand catch-up TV channels like 7 Plus, 9NOW, 10play, and SBS On Demand as well as Kayo Sports and Optus Sport. This was enhanced by a final series of outdoor digital billboard advertising

featuring the berry basket campaign creative positioned close to major grocery stores to remind consumers about the berry category on their way into the shop.

The final report from our media agency, Wavemaker, shows clearly that we have exceeded all of the major key performance indicators (KPI) that we set out at the beginning of the campaign. But has the investment been worthwhile?

At its most basic level, the point of consumer marketing is to connect products with potential buyers by creating awareness, interest, and desire. Marketing activities aim to inform consumers about what is available, why they

need it, and how it can improve their lives, ultimately encouraging them to make a purchase. Effective marketing strives to ensure that the right message reaches the right audience at the right time, helping products to build relationships, trust, and loyalty with their customers while driving sales and growth.

The KPIs that we are able to measure help us to understand who we reached with our messaging and how frequently. It gives us a yardstick to evaluate how effective the allocation of our media spend was, but it alone cannot give an indication of the impact of our investment. For this we need to look at consumer behavioural data that tells us if consumers are changing their shopping patterns over the longer term. In the Summer edition I shared the latest consumer indicator data from the Harvest to Home portal (www.harvesttohome.net.au), a project funded by Hort Innovation, using the Australian Horticulture research and development levies, and contributions from the Australian Government. All the key indicators of consumer behaviour were increasing showing that existing buyers who buy berries are buying berries more often when they are shopping for groceries. The next data release is due at the end of March 2025 and we will be looking closely at how the trends are tracking.

In this final report from the industry-first collaborative marketing campaign it is worth revisiting the key reasons why joining forces is a ‘no-brainer’. There are six major reasons supporting a joint approach:

1. Health Halo Effect: Promoting all berries together reinforces their shared health benefits, like antioxidants, vitamins, and fibre

2. Increased Consumption: Showing variety encourages shoppers to buy more than one type of berry at a time, driving up overall category sales

3. Cross-Promotion: When berries are marketed as a mix, it boosts awareness and sales for less wellknown berries alongside favourites like strawberries and lifts total category sales

4. Seasonal Appeal: Promoting all berries together encourages shoppers to shop for berries all year round based on which berries are currently in season

5. Recipe Inspiration: Showing mixed berries in simple recipe ideas like smoothies, desserts, or salads inspires consumers to use multiple berry types together, increasing basket size and reflecting the way that consumers tend to eat

6. Efficient Marketing Spend: Instead of separate campaigns, a unified berry message stretches the budget further while creating a stronger impact

The competition for consumer purchase choices is not one berry versus another, it is a wide range of products that can fulfill the same need, usage occasion or recipe inclusion as berries. Consumer decision making is a highly individual and complex process and the industry’s best chance of long-term success comes from working collaboratively to increase the entire berry category across the whole year.

Next steps

The Berries Australia board has been provided with the final report from the Berry Basket Marketing Campaign and is looking at a range of options to continue this joint approach. The key challenge is the funding model which needs to be fair, equitable between crops and sustainable for the industry to pursue in the longer term to fully reap the benefits of marketing investment. Given that there is no statutory marketing levy in place in any of the crops, an innovative approach is going to be required, but the benefits are there for the taking.

New Berries Australia board director, Nathan Baronio is now taking the lead and will be chairing the Marketing Sub-Committee. New members of any of the committees are always welcome so if you are interested, please get in touch with Rachel Mackenzie rachelmackenzie@berries.net.au

If you missed the Marketing presentation at BQI25 you can download the presentation slides and watch the recording of the session online. Visit the Industry Resource Library at https://berries.net.au/resource-library and search for ‘Marketing BQI25’

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Protect your farm from fire ants

National Fire Ant Eradication Program

Fire ants are small but aggressive pests that can turn your thriving berry farm into a battlefield. But you’re not alone in this fight.

The National Fire Ant Eradication Program (the Program) is working to stop this growing biosecurity threat, and as a grower, you play a vital role in helping to eradicate fire ants from Australia by 2032. Here’s why protecting your farm matters and how you can help safeguard Australian agriculture from fire ants.

Why eradicate fire ants?

Fire ants are among the world’s most invasive pests, causing devastating impacts on our health, environment, economy, and outdoor way of life. They destroy crops, machinery, plants, and seeds – turning paddocks into wastelands and disrupting supply chains. If left untreated, fire ants could infest 97% of Australia and cause $381 million in agricultural losses annually. Beyond damaging farms, fire ants pose risks to you, your workers, pets, livestock, and native animals. When disturbed, they swarm en masse and sting multiple times. Their stings cause intense burning and itching that can last for hours. Multiple stings can feel like your body is on fire, and small pustules may form at sting sites, which can become infected. In rare cases, fire ant stings can trigger life-threatening allergic reactions known as anaphylaxis.

Where are fire ants found?

The Program has currently contained fire ants to a small area, predominantly in South East Queensland. It is also managing discrete outlier responses in parts of northern New South Wales, Toowoomba, and the Sunshine Coast.

Fire ants are highly mobile, travelling over and under the ground, flying up to 5 km, and even forming rafts on water to relocate their colony. However, the biggest cause of fire ant spread is human-assisted movement of materials that can carry fire ants, such as soil, hay, mulch, manure and other landscaping materials.

The data is updated monthly and the map can be found at www.fireants.org.au/treat/program/planned-activities

How to protect your farm?

You can take proactive steps to stop fire ants on your farm:

Know what to look for – fire ants are copper brown in colour with a darker abdomen, measure 2–6 mm in size, and vary in sizes within one nest. They nest in gardens, lawns, crops, piles of organic matter, near dams, along irrigation lines and edges of farmed land.

Check a suspect nest – wear protective clothing, boots, and gloves. Poke the nest with a long stick and observe from a distance. Watch for their colour, size, and swarming behaviour.

Report fire ants and nests immediately – report online or call 132 ANT (13 22 68). If possible, take a photo or video to assist with identification. Depending on your location, the Program may treat the nests, or you may need to self-treat. www.fireants.org.au

Follow biosecurity rules – implement fire ant-safe work practices, check fire ant biosecurity zones, and follow movement controls before handling or moving materials that can carry fire ants originating from within the zones.

Complete free fire ant training at www.fireants.org.au –learn more about fire ants, how to treat, and manage them.

How is treatment delivered and is it safe?

The Program leads eradication efforts in the eradication treatment area, while Queensland’s Fire Ant Suppression Taskforce (FAST) supports activities in the suppression treatment area.

Eradication treatment area – all properties receive multiple rounds of treatment over several years, whether fire ants are visible or not.

Suppression treatment area – you can self-treat fire ants to control populations until eradication treatment reaches your area.

Check the fire ant activities map to see if your farm is in an eradication or a suppression area.

Fire ant eradication treatment is safe, effective, and approved by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority. Treatment consists of small pieces of corn grit soaked in soybean oil and a low concentration of insect growth regulator. Foraging ants take the granules back to their nest, where it stops the queen from reproducing viable and reproductive offspring – leading to the colony naturally dying off.

Treatment is delivered using drones, helicopters, fixed wing planes, utility terrain vehicles, and handheld spreaders. All methods are minimally disruptive, so your farm can keep operating while managing fire ants.

Will reporting fire ants disrupt my farm operations?

If you’re in the eradication treatment area, the Program will work with you to create a safe and effective treatment plan. Completing a property information form helps ensure that access considerations like locked gates, animals, livestock, crops, or water bodies are factored into the approach.

If you’re in the eradication treatment area, you can work with the Program to minimise any impact on certification and production. Treatments can be scheduled after harvest or during rotation periods. Program officers can provide tailored treatment options that align with organic standards, ensuring compliance while protecting your farm from fire ants.

If you’re in the suppression treatment area, FAST can help you self-manage fire ants on your farm with free treatment products and support.

Eradicating fire ants is a shared responsibility

Stopping fire ants is a shared responsibility and we all must work together. By staying vigilant, reporting sightings, and working with the Program, berry growers can protect their farms and the entire industry from this super pest.

Photo credits: National Fire Ant Eradication Program

Strategies to keep plants comfortable when it’s hot

Helen Newman, Berry Industry Development Officer, Agricultural Produce Commission WA & Graeme Smith, Graeme Smith Consulting

This article was written using information presented at the Graeme Smith Consulting 4.5 day Greenhouse Technical Management training course. Please contact Graeme for course details: graeme@graemesmithconsulting.com

• Transpiration stress during hot weather can cause wilting, leaf scorch, fruit drop, and disruptions to the movement of nutrients, minerals, sugars, and metabolites throughout the plant

• Damage to plant cells caused by transpiration stress can also favour disease development and impact fruit quality

• While mild stress in some crops can trigger processes that improve plant health and fruit quality, prolonged or acute stress is often associated with poor outcomes

• Maintaining an environment where plants can transpire as needed throughout the day provides optimum conditions for growth

Good irrigation system design and scheduling are essential for minimising transpiration stress. This article assumes good irrigation and instead explores additional strategies that can be used to limit transpiration stress that occurs even in the presence of optimum irrigation.

Plant transpiration principles

• Leaf temperature (not air temperature!) drives transpiration

• Light drives leaf temperature

• 100% light = maximum transpiration demand

• 50% light = 50% lower transpiration demand

Transpiration stress occurs when a plant cannot transport enough water from the root zone to the stomata to match the transpiration demand. This can occur, even with good root zone moisture content (and EC management), in very sunny conditions.

Figure 2 shows an example of a plant under transpiration stress and how this can be managed using shading. The happy plant on the left is getting 50% less light, so its leaves are cooler, and the transpiration demand is 50% lower, despite the warmer ambient temperature that can occur under screens. The stressed plant on the right is getting full light, so its leaves are hotter, and the transpiration demand is 100% despite the cooler ambient temperature. This plant cannot take up enough water to match its transpiration needs, so its stomata have closed to protect from further water loss, and it has wilted. This plant has stopped transpiring so leaf temperature will continue to rise. The plant on the left continues to transpire, so it will stay cooler and will use more water than the plant on the right.

Plants can (to an extent) open and close their stomata depending on water levels in the plant, light intensity, and CO2 levels. Stomata open to allow CO2 to enter a leaf and water vapour to leave.

Figure 1. Close-up view of the plant transpiration process. Photo credit: Unknown / Widely circulated online

2. How shading can help manage transpiration stress

Figure

Light drives leaf temperature  leaf temperature drives transpiration

It takes about a minute for a plant to respond to a rapid rise in leaf temperature (Figure 3).

At 200W/m2 radiation, plant, and air temperature are basically the same. With each extra 100W/m2 (above 200W/m2), plant leaf temperature can increase by 0.6°C. So, at 800W/m2 (600W/m2 higher), plant leaf temperature can be 3.6°C higher.

A linear increase in plant temperature relative to air temperature is generally expected as radiation intensity increases. A non-linear increase signals transpiration stress (Figure 4).

<<re-create>> Figure 4. Ambient and leaf temperature pattern according to radiation

Figure 3. Air and plant temperature patterns after significant changes in light levels (e.g. sunrise)

Figure 4. Ambient and leaf temperature pattern according to radiation

Shade options to manage transpiration stress

Shading can be achieved in several ways including screens, netting, reflective films sprayed on polytunnels or glasshouses, and kaolin or mineral-based particle films applied directly to the foliage. When selecting a shading option, consideration should be given to how it will influence ventilation, pollination, IPM, crop physiology, and yield. An understanding of the light spectrum, and how it is impacted by the different shading options is also important (Figure 5).

• UVC is blocked by the ozone layer and can only reach plants if applied through artificial lights

• UVB assists insect navigation (including bees), has sterilisation properties (including powdery mildew), and enhances colour in plants

• UVA also influences pigmentation and plant physiology, and may also influence insect populations

• Visible Light is Photosynthetic Active Radiation (PAR) and is used by plants for photosynthesis. Within the visible light spectrum, the different colours (violet, indigo, blue, green, yellow, orange, red) trigger multiple physiological processes in plants

• Infrared radiation heats objects and structures

Figure 5. Light spectrum

Screens

Shade screens come in a variety of formats and materials. High-tech shade screens respond autonomously to environmental conditions, providing shade when needed and retracting to allow maximum light when conditions are favourable. These screens are normally installed within an overhead structure.

More durable screening fabrics can be placed on top of structures and moved manually or autonomously each day or seasonally as required. Pale-coloured (so-called diffuse) materials are often selected as they uniformly reflect light and don’t absorb as much heat as darker materials. A range of products offer shading from 30% up to almost total blackout, and screens can be either open, with gaps that allow air exchange, or closed to retain more warmth when needed.

Netting

Netting is usually more driven by the need for bird or hail protection, however its positive impact on light, especially in brighter areas, is becoming more understood. White and black are the most used netting colours in the Australian blueberry industry. Black netting absorbs the most light and therefore provides the most shade. Light that passes through the holes in black netting remains spectrally unchanged. Light that hits fibres of white and coloured netting scatters and changes spectrally. The modified light spectrum alters plant physiological processes, while scattered (diffuse) light penetrates deeper into the canopy between leaves. Most netting sold in Australia has an 18-20% shade factor, which may not be sufficient to avoid transpiration stress in some locations. Yields may be reduced under permanent black netting, with 35% probably the upper limit for blueberries.

For a more detailed look at netting in blueberries see the ‘Coloured netting for blueberries’ article in the Winter 2022 edition: bit.ly/BB-Netting

Figure 6. Autonomous shade screens used in a Cravo system. Horizontal Airflow Fans (HAF) installed below the screen maintain an active environment by generating gentle airflow in the structure. Photo credit: Cravo

Reflective paint

Where polytunnels or glasshouses are used, reflective white paint applied over the plastic/glass before summer heat is a popular and effective option. This can be done by hand on elevated platforms on lower tunnels or by drone. A potential advantage of whitening over shade screens and netting is that it doesn’t affect ventilation. It also significantly increases the fraction of diffuse light. The paint may need to be removed seasonally as light levels fall.

Particle film sprays

Kaolin clay and mineral-based particle film sprays applied to plants during vegetative stages may be another tool in an integrated heat-management approach (Figure 8). The particles reflect ultraviolet (UV) and infrared radiation (IR) and a portion of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), reducing leaf temperature and transpiration stress. Reflection of IR alone can reduce canopy temperature by up to 5ºC (Glenn, 2021).

Permanent and seasonal shading options may reduce yield as they cannot be readily adjusted for changing conditions from day to day or during a day. This results in reduced light levels even when it’s not needed.

Figure 7. Drone applying reflective paint to polytunnels

Photo credit: Dan Sheahan, Applied Drone Technology

Figure 8. Kaolin-based clay spray applied to citrus leaves

Photo credit: AgNova Technologies

Humidity and temperature

The difference in moisture content between the plant and ambient air also impacts transpiration. Combined with temperature, ambient relative humidity can be used to calculate Humidity Deficit (HD) and/or Vapour Pressure Deficit (VPD). Both are a good indication of plant comfort. Research suggests that the optimum HD for plants is 3.5 and that they are comfortable over the range of 2 - 8 g/m3 (VPD 0.3 – 1.5kPa) and temperature of 16 – 28°C (Figure 9).

Plants generally stop growing and transpiring when the HD is less than 2 (VPD <0.3). In these situations, the plant leaves are potentially cooler than the ambient air. HD’s over 8 (VPD >1.5) can lead to transpiration stress. Plant leaves are often increasingly hotter than the ambient air in these conditions.

Shading and ventilation are the most economical methods of improving HD and VPD. Studies have shown that shading lowers the ambient temperature, increases transpiration (as plants are no longer in transpiration stress), and increases humidity in hot and dry conditions.

Figure 9. A Humidity Deficit Diagram can be used to estimate plant comfort based on ambient air temperature and relative humidity

Ventilation replaces warmer air inside a structure with cooler air from the outside. If the outside temperature is low enough, and the temperature inside the structure is not too high, warm air can be exhausted passively (naturally) through vents. If air circulation is low, Horizontal Air Flow (HAF) fans can be used to gently push excess heat out of the structure. HAF fans can also be useful where low air movement has allowed humidity to build up around leaves to a point where plants are suffering a self-induced reduction in transpiration, which can also be detrimental.

When ambient temperatures are high and humidity is low, fogging systems (Figure 10) or sprinklers to water interrows may also be useful to bring the HD/VPD back into the comfortable zone. These can be used strategically in the most challenging part of the day to limit the time plants are under stress. This strategy is less useful in windy conditions.

Other strategies to increase humidity under high ambient temperatures include closer plantings, vegetated interrows, and windbreaks. Note: strong winds can create situations where humidity is continuously stripped away from leaves, increasing HD/VPD and sometimes outstripping a plant's ability to keep up with transpiration losses.

Figure 10. Fogging system with HAF fans used in a glasshouse (Takao Nursery, California).

Photo credit: MeeFog Systems

An integrated approach

Shading is the most effective way to reduce crop stress during extreme heat. It can also save a crop in an emergency where the irrigation schedule is disrupted. Ventilation is also critical for crops growing under protective structures. Other practices and infrastructure that decrease ambient temperature and increase humidity can be considered as part of an integrated approach to maintaining a comfortable growing environment.

Critical temperatures and light levels (trigger points) that cause crop stress and fruit damage vary with the cultivar and fruit development stage. The interventions (e.g. shading) needed to manage crop stress will also vary with location. On-farm experimentation is needed to determine the best solution for your situation.

It’s important to remember that under somewhat normal conditions, plants are very resilient and can manage themselves very well, however there is a range of technologies to relieve a plant of stress as required. Overuse of some technologies can encourage a weaker, less resilient plant. It is important to find a balance.

References and more reading

Reid, A. (2022). Coloured netting for blueberries. Australian Berry Journal. Winter 2022, Edition 11, Pages 46-49. https://bit.ly/BB-Netting

Retamales, J.B., Montecino, J.M., Lobos, G.A. and Rojas, L.A. (2008). Colored Shading Nets Increase Yields and Profitability of Highbush Blueberries. Acta Hortic. 770, 193-197. https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2008.770.22

Brito, C., Dinis, L., Moutinho-Pereira, J., & Correia, C. (2019). Kaolin, an emerging tool to alleviate the effects of abiotic stresses on crop performance. Scientia Horticulturae, Volume 250, 2019, Pages 310-316, ISSN 0304-4238, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scienta.2019.02.070

Glenn, D. M. (2012). The Mechanisms of Plant Stress Mitigation by Kaolin-based Particle Films and Applications in Horticultural and Agricultural Crops. HortScience horts, 47(6), 710-711. https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI.47.6.710

Santos, B.M., Salame-Donoso, T.P., Stanley, C.D., Whidden, A.J., Snodgrass C.A., and Henry, M.B. (2011). Cultural Practices for Vegetable and Small Fruit Crops: Using Kaolin Clay to Reduce Sprinkler Irrigation for Strawberry Transplant Establishment: HS1188 HS1188, 12 2010”. EDIS 2011 (1). Gainesville, FL. https://journals.flvc.org/edis/article/view/118876

Sharma, R.R., Vijay Rakesh Reddy, S., & Datta, S.C. (2015). Particle films and their applications in horticultural crops. Applied Clay Science, Volumes 116–117, 2015, Pages 54-68, ISSN 0169-1317. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clay.2015.08.009

Spiers, J.D., Matta, F.B., & Marshall, D.A. (2003). Effects of Kaolin Clay Particle Film on Southern Highbush (Vaccinium corymbosumL.) Blueberry Plants. Small Fruits Review, 2(4), 29–36. https://doi.org/10.1300/J301v02n04_04

Baille, Kittas, and Katsoulas (2001). Influence of whitening on greenhouse microclimate and crop energy partitioning. Agricultural and Forest Meteorology. Volume 107, Issue 4, 19 April 2001, Pages 293-306 https://doi.org/10.1016/S0168-1923(01)00216-7

Yang, F., Bryla, D. R., Orr, S. T., Strik, B. C., & Zhao, Y. (2020). Thermal Cooling with Sprinklers or Microsprinklers Reduces Heat Damage and Improves Fruit Quality in Northern Highbush Blueberry. HortScience horts, 55(8), 1365-1371. https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI15119-20

Probiotics to help pollinators be the best they can 'bee'

Dr Georgina Binns, Research Officer, School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University

Probiotics in honey bees to fight bacterial and fungal diseases (PH21003)

• Researchers are assessing the effects of probiotic treatments on honeybees to increase brood survival against common brood diseases

• Now more than ever before, commercial crop-pollinating honeybees need extra support to fight common brood-targeting diseases

• Researchers at Macquarie University are designing natural, low-cost treatments, made from good gut bacteria, to help boost honeybee larvae health and immune systems

• The Probiotics team predict that good gut health will also help increase memory and learning in honeybees and improve pollination services

Honeybees have been victims of their own success as pollinators with pathogens and parasites colonising hives. Exposure to climate change, pesticides and pollutants has weakened bees’ health. Now, more than ever before, crop-pollinating honeybees need extra support to survive common pathogens. Our team at Macquarie University have been working on designing economical and chemical-free probiotics to help boost disease-resistance in honeybees, particularly targeting brood pathogens such as chalkbrood and American and European foulbrood. These prevalent diseases infect colonies and reduce brood survival throughout the year, reducing bee numbers and negatively affecting pollination services.

In Australia, 65% of horticultural and agricultural crops require pollination and western honeybees are essential to those services. Prior to the incursion of Varroa destructor mites, the Australian Honeybee Industry Council reported there were 855,000 hives, which contributed $14.2 billion to agricultural services in Australia.

Macquarie University hosts over 30 hives on campus

Photo credit: Georgina Binns

Berry growers produced over 96,800 tonnes of fruit in 2023, worth over $1 billion per annum (Australian Horticulture Stats. Handbook 2022/23). Whilst berry crops rely on a number of insect pollinators for successful fruit growth, the berry growing industry reportedly uses honeybees for cross-pollination.

Probiotics, made from naturally occurring beneficial gut microorganisms, have health benefits when ingested. They maintain gut health and boost the immune system. Recent research shows that supplementing honeybee diet with these beneficial microorganisms increases survival and brood count in colonies where honeybees are infected with American foulbrood. However, despite these encouraging results, more research is needed to understand how these treatments work at colony-wide scales, and over successive pollination seasons.

The Honeybee Probiotics team, which includes article author Dr Georgina Binns, Post-doctoral Fellow Dr Darsh Rathnayake, PhD candidate Casey Forster, and that is led by Associate Professor Fleur Ponton, have recently completed a set of preliminary trials, where they grafted hatched larvae from campus hives and hand-raised them in a specialised ‘insectary’ laboratory to adulthood.

The team have focused on two probiotic treatments. The first is a set of honeybee gut microbes that they have isolated from bee guts. These ‘native’ species of bacteria include members from the core-gut microbes found in all bees throughout the year, such as several Lactobacillus species, Bifidobacterium asteroides, Snodgrassella alvi and Gillamella apicola. They predicted that reinforcing the natural gut bacteria would create a thriving beneficial community within the brood gut, and therefore aid in safeguarding the gut from potential infections as well as supporting overall health.

The second treatment contained the same bacteria as the first, but with the addition of several ‘non-native’ species of bacteria that are commonly found in commercial probiotics for both humans and animals, such as Lactobacillus plantarum and L. rhamnosus These species are found to grow quickly and prolifically. They take up space in the gut and may prevent other potentially harming species of bacteria and fungi (such as those that cause chalkbrood and foulbrood disease) from taking hold of the individual bee. As the larvae will shed all their gut microbes prior to pupation, the researchers felt that including these non-native species

Honeybee larvae are reared inside a special research ‘insectary’ laboratory and raised to adulthood in simulated brood cells. Photo credit: Georgina Binns

could give a short-term benefit to the individual, without negatively affecting the adult bee it will eventually become. Further, it gave an opportunity to test the efficiency of probiotic bacteria that are already on the market.

The preliminary trials are showing that the nonnative probiotic mix decreases brood to adulthood survival. The native mix, however, promoted brood survival and adult emergence. The next step of the experiments is to inoculate bee larvae with pathogens and test the effect of the mixes on their resistance. The team predict that non-native probiotic bacteria will exclude pathogens from the gut, however they do not know how it will affect bee survival. They are currently carrying out these experiments using both bacterial and fungal diseases common to honeybees.

This summer and autumn, they are conducting field trials to test the effect of the probiotics on honeybee behaviour. How supplemented probiotics might affect bee learning and memory during their pollination behaviour has not been addressed in previous probiotic studies and it is another objective of this team’s research. They know that gut health affects memory and learning abilities in other animals and even humans, so, increasing good gut health in bees could assist in improving their pollination services by enhancing their memory and navigation skills, which is beneficial for everyone, particularly when it comes to helping secure food production.

Keep up to date with the research by visiting sites.google.com/view/aussiepollinatorhealth/home

Acknowledgements

Probiotics in honey bees to fight bacterial and fungal diseases (PH21003) is funded through Frontiers developed by Hort Innovation, with co-investments from Macquarie University and contributions from the Australian Government.

An overview of Protected Cropping Australia

Tony Bundock, Project Officer, Protected Cropping Australia

The name Protected Cropping Australia (PCA) is often seen around the industry, but what exactly do PCA do?

Protected Cropping Australia (PCA) is the peak industry body representing commercial growers Australia-wide who are growing crops within, under, or sheltered by a type of structure. The range of structures utilised by growers is quite broad and includes floating crop covers, row covers, hail netting, screen and shade houses, poly-tunnels, retractable roof structures, passive ventilated greenhouses, glasshouses, and plant factory rooms. In terms of crops, PCA members are involved in producing a wide range of crops, including vegetables, fruits, berries, leafy greens, herbs, medicinal plants and amenity plants.

As well as growers, the PCA membership offers a range of categories including material suppliers, equipment and installation suppliers, specialist consultants and advisors, researchers and educators, and other industry stakeholders.

PCA’s core purpose is to advocate on behalf of the broader industry and its members, and PCA supports their members and the sector through delivery of a range of programs, services and opportunities that help businesses to achieve greater success.

PCA has worked with Berries Australia on Conference and Land Use Planning matters and sharing of resources, as well as cross promotional educational activities and knowledge sharing with the Berry Industry Development Officer network around the country.

Supporting Research, Development and Extension

PCA were actively involved in the development of the 2021-2030 Protected Cropping Research, Development and Extension Strategy which guides suitable investments of relevance for the berry sector. PCA worked closely with Berries Australia to gain input into the development of the strategy. PCA have also actively promoted ongoing investment in pollination and helping growers transition from soil-based production systems to substrate production systems under tunnels.

Webinars & National Roadshow/ Farm Tours

PCA run regular webinars on a range of topic areas for the berry industry and other sectors in the protected cropping industry more broadly. The webinars are run on a monthly basis, and berry growers are welcome to join these free webinars. The webinars themselves are recorded and made available to PCA members via the organisation’s website. Forthcoming webinars are regularly promoted in The Burst newsletter.

Examples of topics covered in previous webinars include:

• Choosing suitable substrates

• Integrated Pest & Disease Management

• Fertigation and climate control

• New products and structures

• Alternate pollinators

• Recycling plastic initiatives

PCA also run regional farm tours and industry workshops to bring industry and growers together to look at new innovations and technologies.

Recent tours have been run under the National Horticulture Roadshow project, and tours have been held around the country in Tasmania, the mid north coast region of New South Wales, the Adelaide plains, country Victoria, and Western Australia. More of these are planned for 2025.

Land Use Planning

PCA have been actively involved in supporting their members with land use planning and issues associated with new developments. This has seen PCA working with Berries Australia and the Australian Building Codes Board to ensure that unnecessary red and green tape is minimised where possible.

More broadly, PCA advocate on a range of matters for the protected cropping industry in the areas of R&D, Biosecurity, and Education to name a few. PCA have also co-funded a national map of protected cropping systems that assists PCA and the berry industry in advocating to Government on a range of matters affecting the industry. It is hoped that this map can be updated in 2025 (subject to funding). The map, and your property can be found at https://protectedcropping.net.au/the-national-map-of-protected-cropping-systems

This resource enables berry growers to find their property on the map and zoom in for a detailed view of the location. It should be noted that no private information is disclosed and the site is completely confidential.

PCA Grower Day participants

Photo credit: PCA

PCA Project Manager delivering a presentation at a PCA roadshow event. Photo credit: PCA

Photo credit: PCA

Bi-annual Conference

PCA run a biannual conference with the next conference being held in Adelaide from 28-30 July 2025. There are a range of topics of interest to berry growers including a stream specifically to address the needs of berry growers, as well as a comprehensive trade show where most of the key industry suppliers will be exhibiting.

To support growers, up to 150 free grower passes will be made available – stay tuned for more info in the coming months!

Visit the Conference website for more information on the PCA conference: pca2025.com

You can view the 2021-2030 Protected Cropping Research, Development and Extension Strategy at https://protectedcropping.net.au/wp-content/ uploads/Australian-Protected-CroppingStrategy-2021-2030.pdf

So, what’s the cost to join PCA?

Grower membership is only $50.00+GST per year representing great value for money.

You can join online at protectedcropping.net.au

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Securing the future of pollination for Australian Berry Growers

Jane Richter, Communication Manager, Berries Australia

The future of pollination in Australia has taken a major step forward with the announcement of a $1 million grant from The Ian Potter Foundation to develop a national pollination strategy. This initiative, led by the Wheen Bee Foundation, brings together a wide network of agriculture and beekeeping industries, environmental organisations, businesses, governments, and research institutes to strengthen pollination services across the country. For berry growers, this strategy presents a significant opportunity to improve fruit yields and secure pollination services for the long term.

Wheen Bee Foundation CEO Fiona Chambers emphasised the significance of this project, highlighting that for the first time, all stakeholders involved in pollination are united at the same table.

“For the first time, we have representatives from all sectors connected to pollination at the table, ready and now able to work together to improve pollination, to bolster biodiversity and increase food security in Australia,” Ms Chambers said.

The $1 million grant from The Ian Potter Foundation builds on the $1.3 million in cash and in-kind contributions already pledged by key partners. This financial backing will drive the development of a coordinated, science-based pollination strategy that addresses critical challenges facing Australian growers.

Pollination is a cornerstone of berry production, but Australian growers face a number of pressing challenges, including:

• Biosecurity threats such as pests and diseases affecting bee populations

• Increasing demand for pollination services due to agricultural expansion

• Lack of coordination in policy development and research

• Environmental pressures, including habitat loss and pesticide use

• Market imbalances impacting the commercial beekeeping industry

Ms Chambers stressed the importance of creating a structured plan that is informed by science and developed in collaboration with all relevant industries.

“That’s why it is critical that we develop a plan for pollination that is informed by science, strategic in its vision and coordinated across all sectors,” she said.

Paul Conroy, CEO of The Ian Potter Foundation, sees this initiative as a transformative opportunity for Australian agriculture.

“ The creation of a national strategy offers excellent transformative potential to help Australia prepare for looming threats to the environment, including food production and security,” Mr Conroy said. “We are greatly encouraged by strong collaboration between dozens of industry partners, environmental groups, corporate partners, research institutions, and state and territory governments informing the strategy.”

The Australian Pollination Strategy project officially began on 1 October 2024 with the appointment of a leadership team comprising representatives from pollination-dependent agriculture sectors, the beekeeping industry, environmental groups, and research institutions. The first major milestone will be the release of a Pollination Security Status Report, which will provide a clear assessment of Australia’s current pollination landscape, key threats, and opportunities.

Following this, the project will engage industry-wide collaboration to develop a robust Australian Pollination Strategy. This process ensures that all sectors— including berry growers—have a say in shaping the future of pollination services in Australia.

“We have the opportunity to address some of the big challenges, and unify the many industries involved in a common understanding of the real issues surrounding pollination in Australia,” Ms Chambers said.

The ultimate goal is to implement the strategy, secure funding for essential research, roll out education and extension activities, and establish a sustainable model to ensure the strategy’s longevity beyond the five-year project period.

For berry growers, this initiative represents an essential step towards securing reliable and effective pollination services, which are vital for maximising fruit quality and yield. The strategy will not only provide a roadmap for addressing current challenges but also set the foundation for a more resilient and sustainable pollination system.

Growers and industry stakeholders interested in participating in the Australian Pollination Strategy can visit pollination.org.au for more details.

Acknowledgements

The Australian Pollination Strategy project is being funded by The Ian Potter Foundation, along with support from Hort Innovation, Australian Farming Services, Euroley Pty Ltd, Hive IQ, Stahmann Webster and Fresh Country Farms.

The project has also received support from Bush Heritage Australia, Plant Health Australia, Australian National University, University of Sydney, Monash University, CSIRO, AgLive, Australian Seed Federation, Berries Australia, Northern Territory Government, Beechworth Honey, Australian Native Bee Association and Balliang Consulting.

Total cash and in-kind contributions: $2.64 million.

Organisations wishing to take part in the initiative can contact aps@wheenbeefoundation.org.au for more information.

With this collaborative approach, the Australian berry industry stands to gain a more secure and sustainable pollination future—one that ensures thriving crops and long-term success for growers nationwide.

Exotic plant pests and diseases to keep an eye out this season

Dr Zac Hemmings, Regional Plant Biosecurity Officer, NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

Growers are accustomed to dealing with a wide range of pests, from fruit flies to rusts. Wouldn’t it be nice if we could stop them becoming a problem in the first place? Luckily for us, some of the world’s worst plant pests are yet to reach our shores! Here’s a quick peak at four of the biggest exotic threats to the berry industry, what they look like, what their impacts are, and things you can do to keep the list of pests you have to worry about shorter.

Xylella fastidiosa

Xylella fastidiosa, or simply Xylella as it is known, is a bacterial pathogen capable of infecting more than 450 species of plant, including blueberries and Rubus. The bacterium inhabits the xylem of its host, the part of the plants vascular system responsible for transporting water and nutrients from the roots to the stems and leaves.

Xylella is an extremely destructive plant pathogen, there is no treatment and infected plants will eventually die.

Build-up of bacteria within the xylem inhibits movement of water causing a progression of symptoms. Initially, leaf edges become scorched, giving the disease its name “bacterial leaf scorch”.

This scorching progresses towards the middle of the leaf, with infected leaves being dropped by the plant and eventually the stems turning yellow (Figure 1), and finally the plant dies. Symptoms typically develop within the first year of infection and generally continue through a second season. These symptoms are shared with other diseases, nutrient deficiencies, and abiotic stressors. The yellowing of stems combined with loss of all leaves is one of the best indicators that a berry plant is infected with Xylella

Xylella can only be spread between host plants through grafting of infected plant material or by xylem feeding insects, most notably the exotic glassy-winged sharpshooter and meadow spittlebug (Figure 2).

Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica)

Japanese beetle is a small, brightly coloured, scarab beetle. Adults are 8 – 11 mm long with a metallic green head and coppery bronze wings (Figure 3). There are similar looking beetles in Australia (e.g. the dung beetle Onitis alexis), however, a key feature of this pest are the six tufts of white hair running down each side. While these tufts are not unique to Japanese beetle, other species that share this feature are also exotic. Despite its rather pretty appearance it is a voracious pest, feeding on over 400 species of plant including blueberry, Rubus, and strawberry.

Adults feed on the leaves, flowers, and fruit of their hosts and are capable of skeletonising leaves. They congregate in large groups to feed, typically starting at the top of the host and moving downwards. These aggregations can completely strip a plant of its leaves and will often feed on fruit, rendering it unsuitable for market (Figure 3). Large infestations can result in crop losses of > 60%, or even 100% as while not all fruit is damaged picking the crop uneconomical.

Figure 1. Blueberry plants showing symptoms of Xylella infection; leaf scorch (A, B), dropping of leaves and yellowing of stems (C). Photos credit: Phillip M. Brannen

Figure 2. A) Glassy winged sharpshooter. Photo credit: Johnny N. Dell, Auburn University, Bugwood.org used licensed under a Creative Common Attribution-Noncommercial 3.0 License. B) Meadow spittlebug. Photo credit: Ryan Hodnett, licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International License.

Female beetles lay their eggs in moist soil, and prefer irrigated environments, such as golf courses and turf farms. Larvae inhabit the soil where they are a major pest of grasses. They will spend the summer and autumn months consuming grass roots before overwintering in the deeper soil layers. In early spring they move back to the surface, with adult beetle typically emerging in late spring to early summer.

Spotted wing drosophila (Drosophila suzukii)

Spotted wing drosophila (SWD) is a pest of soft skinned fruit, including blueberries, Rubus, and strawberries. While it’s often called a fruit fly it’s a bit different to other fruit flies you may be familiar with, such as Queensland fruit fly. It is actually a member of the genus Drosophila, the same group as the vinegar flies you see buzzing around your kitchen. Where your typical vinegar fly reproduces using fermenting and rotting fruit, SWD prefer to lay their eggs inside undamaged and slightly under ripe fruit. Once the eggs hatch, larvae consume the flesh of the fruit leaving it unsuitable for all markets. Once fruit has been infested there are no viable options for control or redirection to other markets. Yield losses of up to 80% have been reported, but losses of 30-40% are more common.

Adults are 2-3 mm long, with red eyes, and yellowbrown bodies (Figure 4). Male flies have a dark spot on the end of their wings but are otherwise similar in appearance to other species of Drosophila. Flies emerge in spring, and are typically active from October – May, although if it is warm enough in the winter then some adults will be active. Development from egg to adult can take as little as nine days, with up to 15 generations per year depending on conditions. Often the first sign of a SWD infestation is the presence of scars and maggots on otherwise healthy fruit (Figure 4 B).

Brown Marmorated stink bug

Brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) is a highly invasive species. It is extremely polyphagous with over 300 known hosts, attacking most species of commercially grown fruit and vegetable. It is frequently intercepted at the border in shipping containers and vehicles from late spring to late autumn. There’s even been reports of them in people’s luggage! These interceptions are the result of the overwintering behaviour of BMSB, where large groups seek shelter to hibernate during the colder months in the northern hemisphere.

Adult BMSB are 12 – 17 mm long and are generally a mottled brown colour. The key features that differentiate BMSB from similar species of stink bugs are white bands on the antennae, alternating black and white stripes along the sides of the body, a rounded (not pointy!) head and shoulders (Figure 5).

BMSB feed by piercing the plant with specialised mouthparts, injecting saliva and removing fluids. This can result in sunken areas on the fruit surface, deformed fruit and shrivelled seed pods, pale spongey areas on the surface of fruit, internal tissue damage, and rotting or corking flesh. This also creates an opportunity for secondary infection by bacteria and fungi.

Not only is it a plant pest but its overwintering behaviour makes it a serious social pest as well. In countries where the pest is established groups of thousands of BMSB will often seek shelter inside houses and under eaves where their excrement can cause damage to the building. When they’re disturbed they release a foul-smelling odour.

Figure 3. A) Adult Japanese beetle. Photo credit: Susan Ellis, Bugwood.org, B) Japanese beetle on raspberry. Photo credit: European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organisation, Bugwood.org, C) light Japanese beetle damage to raspberry leaves.

Photo credit: Whitney Cranshaw Colorado State University, Bugwood.org. Images licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.

What you can do

This is far from a comprehensive list of exotic pests of the berry sector. The Berry Industry Biosecurity Plan 2020 assessed over exotic 200 pests, and while many of these present a negligible or very-low risk it always pays to be vigilant. New pests could arrive at any time, or species that were thought to have only have a minor impact may turn out to be a more significant threat once they enter a new environment. This is not to say that you should panic whenever you see a strange new insect, rather the message is to be alert, not alarmed.

Growers are a vital component of Australia’s biosecurity system; you can mitigate the risks and help protect your industry and community by:

• Maintain good biosecurity practices

• Having a biosecurity management plan for your property can help you assess and mitigate biosecurity risks

• Be vigilant

• If you see something unusual, such as pest you haven’t seen before, unusual symptoms, or an old pest on a new crop report it

• You can use the exotic plant pest hotline—1800 084 881—to report it from anywhere in Australia

• Alternatively, you can contact your state’s biosecurity organisation directly

Figure 4. A) Male and female spotted wing drosophila. Photo credit: Shane F. McEvey, Australian Museum, B) Oviposition hole and larvae in a blueberry. Photo credit: Frank A. Hale, Bugwood.org, C) Spotted wing drosophila on Rubus berry Photo credit: Hanna Burack, Bugwood.org. Images licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.

Figure 5. Size of a brown marmorated stink bug adult (middle), and nymph (right) relative to a $1 coin Adapted from photos by Susan Ellis, Bugwood.org licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.

Meet Frankie, a new tool in the battle against foliar thrips

Helen Newman, Berry Industry Development Officer, Agricultural Produce Commission, WA

This article has been produced with thanks to information provided by Biological Services

A chance backyard discovery by Biological Services Entomologist Adam Billsborough has led to the development of Franklinothrips vespiformis, a new ally for Australian growers in the difficult battle to control leaf-dwelling thrips.

Franklinothrips vespiformis occurs in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world, including Australia. It is unique in several aspects:

• It is much larger than a typical thrip (2.5-3mm long) and looks like an ant or wasp

• The larvae and pupae are bright red

• The larvae pupate on the leaf surface inside silk cocoons and the female has pronounced ant-like behaviours

• They complete most of their lifecycle on the foliage of the host plant

• As an an obligate predator, Frankie feeds on all thrips life stages, spider mites, and small arthropods; but they can also survive on pollen

(L) Adult F. vespiformis

Photo credit: Adam Billsborough

Juvenile F. vespiformis feeding on another foliar thrip

Photo credit: Adam Billsborough

There is no denying that pest thrips cause big problems. However, there are beneficial thrips as well. Predatory thrips can feed on spider mites, aphids, other thrips, moth eggs, and even small caterpillars. Occasionally, these beneficial thrips make a big impact. For example, the naturally occurring Six-Spotted Thrip (Scolothrips sexmaculatus) often helps control Two-Spotted Mite infestations in late summer.

The use of predatory thrips for the biological control of thrips has been investigated for decades, but few are commercially available due to the many other biological control agents that are easier to rear in large numbers.

In 2022, while tending his potted plants at home, Adam Billsborough from Biological Services noticed an ant-like insect feeding on the other thrips. A qualified entomologist, Adam quickly identified it as the native predatory thrip Franklinothrips vespiformis. He reared a small colony of the thrips at home to investigate their feeding habits.

“We are fortunate to have IPM consultants of Adam’s calibre in our team,” says Lachlan Chilman. “Adam’s entomology qualifications and his innate curiosity enabled this discovery.”

In true Aussie fashion, the thrips quickly got the nickname “Frankie”. Adam’s discovery was the first step in the journey of developing Frankie into a commercial product. To confirm and expand on Adam’s discovery, large numbers of Frankie were needed for commercial trials. This task fell to Maricel Malonzo, Head of Research and Development at Biological Services’ Western Australian Insectary. Maricel developed a unique mass-rearing system for Frankie in cooperation with Biobest.

Cezar Moraes surveying trial plants in November before post-harvest pruning. Photo credit: Helen Newman

Blueberry plants in Frankie trial plots in mid-January.

Photo credit: Cezar Moraes

Blueberry plants receiving conventional chemical applications with severe Chilli thrips damage in mid-January

Photo credit: Cezar Moraes

The discovery and development of Frankie as a commercial product for Australian growers comes at an opportune time, particularly for WA berry growers battling Chilli Thrips (Scirtothrips dorsalis). There is still work to be done, but Biological Services is optimistic about Frankie’s potential to control Chilli Thrips.

Trials in blueberries in the Bullsbrook region in 2024 have shown promising results. Less Chilli thrips damage was observed on blueberries in Frankie trials, where no chemical treatments had been used for 12 months, compared with areas receiving conventional spray applications.

Frankie is active at temperatures above 18°C, with development from egg to adult completed in approximately three weeks at 27°C. Females may live for up to two months and lay between 150 to 200 eggs, which are inserted individually inside leaf tissue. A yellowish protective secretion is deposited over the eggs to safeguard them.

Frankie needs a high level of food source for good establishment. They can also detect and follow their food source. Chilli thrips are a good food source. The 2024 trials suggest that pollen-rich banker plants such as ‘Sweet Alyssum’ may assist Frankie to establish before Chilli thrips numbers build up. Trials also showed that careful postharvest pruning where one entire leafy shoot was left on each plant allowed Frankie to remain in the crop and carry over to protect the new growth.

Frankie also feeds on other thrips such as Western Flower Thrips, making it a useful addition to thrips control programs that already rely on predatory mites and Orius.

Biological Services are continuing trials to optimise the use of Frankie in IPM programs for Australian conditions.

For more information visit: www.biologicalservices.com.au

To order Frankie, please contact: info@biologicalservices.com.au

Strategies for weed management in berry crops

Ella Roper, Berry Industry Development Officer, Fruit Growers Tasmania & Berries Australia

Weeds are an almost inevitable part of growing crops, however developing an effective management strategy can help improve plant health, reduce labour efforts and limit costs. Weeds can block irrigation lines, compete for essential water and nutrients intended for the primary crop or be an alternate host for pests and diseases that can transfer to berry plants, impacting plant health, yield and fruit quality.

In more severe cases, weeds can also grow within the crop, reducing the amount of light reaching the leaves and fruit, and can impact photosynthesis and fruit colouring. Weeds growing within the plant can also be difficult to remove, particularly during harvest when hand weeding can result in fruit being knocked off or damaged.

It is always a good idea to prepare your weed control strategy in advance of the season before they become an issue, as prevention is always easier than control. Spring and summer are when weeds often become a challenge as temperatures increase and fertiliser is applied to crops. Despite our best efforts, water and nutrients intended for berry crops often create an ideal environment for weeds to grow.

Cultural and physical weed control

An effective weed control program will utilise a wide range of management strategies to help prevent or reduce weed growth and its impact on the crop. While chemical herbicides can be effective at controlling weeds if used well, alternative control methods should be the first consideration for growers as it helps prevent initial weed growth and the extent of chemical control needed through the season, consequently reducing labour and chemical costs. Cultural and physical control is also an important part of weed management in organic and low spray growing systems where the use of chemical products is limited.

Natural mulch ground covers

Natural mulches such as woodchips supress weed growth and are a popular option on many farms. Natural mulches also help prevent drying out of the soil surface, thereby improving soil moisture distribution in the soil and improving soil conditions for root development. The breakdown of natural mulches over time also provides organic matter in the soil, improving soil structure, drainage, provides plant nutrients and improves the cation exchange capacity of the soil, meaning the soil can hold more nutrients for plant uptake. However, natural mulches are generally most effective in the first year after application and efficacy declines over time as the mulch breaks down and needs to be reapplied every few years in an ongoing program.

Synthetic weed mat covers

Synthetic weed mat covers can provide a barrier for weeds to grow and make it difficult for seeds to land and germinate. Synthetic weed mats provide longer term weed control and are popular in many berry crops as they can be relatively cheap to apply, however these also require specialised machinery to install over large areas. While synthetic weed mats provide good weed control in the covered areas, weed management is still required around the planting holes, such as through the use of natural mulch, herbicides or hand weeding.

Hand weeding

Hand weeding is generally one of the last options for growers as it is labour intensive, time-consuming and expensive to undertake. However, it is generally very effective for most weed species and often necessary when dealing with larger weeds that cannot be controlled with cultural methods or where herbicides cannot be used. Hand weeding is generally undertaken around the plants where herbicides are avoided due to the risk to new shoot growth.

Prevent weeds from going to seed

Recognising the different types of weeds on farm and the stage of growth is important as weed species can be targeted more effectively. Having a good understanding of the lifecycle of major weeds and when they establish through the year helps to target weed control methods at the right time and prevents weeds from going to seed, further adding to the seed bank in the soil.

Ensuring the inter-rows are planted with suitable pasture species helps prevent weeds establishing and producing further seed within the crop. Mowing or slashing of inter-rows where possible helps prevent taller weeds from flowering and dispersing seeds that can establish within the crop. An example is flick weed (Cardamine hirsute L.), which reproduces quickly and develops seed pods that rupture and expel seeds over a significant distance and should be controlled prior to seed development.

Weeds in substrate pots

Weeds in substrate pots can be a major challenge to manage, particularly in perennial crops where plants are grown in pots for multiple years. The weed seedbank within the pot can increase over time, and the tight root-ball can make it difficult to pull weeds out by hand. Prevention is the best method in substrate and there are various physical and cultural management options available, to prevent or slow the growth of weeds.

(L) Sugar cane mulch used to suppress weeds in the inter-row at an organic strawberry grower in Queensland and (R) natural mulches suppress weed growth and provide a range of other benefits such as preventing moisture loss from the soil surface and provide a source of organic matter used at the base of blueberry bushes when planted in ground. Photo credits: Jane Richter and Ella Roper

Ensuring plants are potted into substrate media that is certified and free of weed seeds helps prevent weed development. Coir weed mat discs to fit the pot dimensions and fit around the plant can be purchased from a variety of suppliers and can be customised to fit irrigation emitter needs. Natural mulches can also be used on the top of pots to slow weed growth and impede weeds from landing on and germinating in the pot. A coarse mulch that resists breakdown and inhibits seed germination would be best suited. There are limited registered herbicides available for use in pots, although given the proximity, care should be taken to avoid injury to berry plants.

Chemical weed control

Chemical herbicides often provide a more economical means of control and can be very effective if used well. There are a variety of herbicides available with different modes of action that kill or limit the growth of weeds. Understanding the types of herbicides available for the specific weeds in the crop is important to plan when and how to apply for optimal weed control and to minimise application costs.

Pre- vs Post-Emergence Herbicides

Pre-emergent herbicides are applied to the top layer of soil and inhibit the germination of weed seeds. There are various pre-emergent herbicides with different modes of action, affecting root and/or shoot growth. Pre-emergent herbicides are generally required for application to bare soil and require adequate rainfall or soil moisture for uptake via roots. Example: oryzalin

Post-emergent herbicides are herbicides that act on plants or weeds after they have germinated. They work in a variety of ways but often require actively growing weeds for uptake and control. They are best applied when weeds are small and more susceptible to herbicide. Applying when weeds are small also reduces the amount of herbicide needed for effective control. Examples: carfentrazone, glufosinate-ammonium

Selective vs Non-Selective Herbicides

Non-selective herbicides or broad-spectrum herbicides are toxic to a wide range of plant species. Example: glyphosate

(L) Weeds in inter-rows can spread into crop mounds if not managed early and (R) Herbicide applied in bands beneath tabletop strawberries helps to limit weed growth under plants. Photos credit: Mark Salter

Selective herbicides generally have activity on select weed species and can be used to kill target weeds with minimal impact to the main crop. Often selective herbicides will target grass or broadleaf weeds only. Example: fluazifop-P

Translocated vs Contact Herbicides

Translocated herbicides move from the site applied through the plant transport systems (phloem or xylem) to other parts of the plant, disrupting plant growth and internal biological processes. Example: glyphosate

Contact herbicides destroy leaf tissue at or near the site the herbicide is applied and have limited movement within the plant. Contact herbicides require even and thorough coverage for effective control and can be selective or non-selective.

Example: glufosinate-ammonium

Check the APVMA website at portal.apvma. gov.au/pubcris for the full list of approved herbicides on label and permit in your state

Things to consider when using herbicides

Timing: While weeds can grow at any point through the year, winter is generally a good time to control many weed species as Rubus and blueberry plants are dormant, and there is less risk of injury to the crop. Herbicide use in spring needs to be done with care particularly in crops where new shoot growth is encouraged as contact herbicides can injure or kill new growth. Mature blueberry and Rubus plants are also generally more tolerant to herbicides than younger plants, particularly around hardened lignified wood, although injury can still occur.

Rates of application: Herbicide rates are an important consideration, and some registrations will provide a rate range depending on weed characteristics, such as species, stage of growth or density.

Equipment: Consider the types of equipment on the farm and whether it is sufficient to cover area in an adequate amount of time before weeds become an issue again and require further action. There are various types of spray units designed for tractor towing and other equipment which can cover large areas more quickly. Backpack sprayers are slower to use but enable the operator to target weeds more selectively through spot-spraying. Check product label for approved application equipment.

Withholding period: As with any chemical applied to the crop, herbicides also have withholding periods, a minimum length of time within which the crop cannot be harvested to ensure compliance with MRL limits. Some herbicides have short or no withholding periods while others require long intervals (e.g. FUSILADE Forte®) and care must be taken to ensure the withholding period does not impact when you want to harvest.

Spray drift risk: Herbicide spray drift is the movement of small herbicide droplets through the air away from target weeds to the main crop and other plants. Canopy parts most at risk of damage are soft new shoots, leaves and reproductive parts such as new Rubus suckers and young blueberry shoots. Lignified (i.e. hardened) wood in Rubus and blueberry is generally more resistant, although damage can still occur. Tranlocated herbicides pose a greater risk than contact herbicides which produce more localised damage and extra care should be taken particularly when using non-selective translocated herbicides. Spray drift is influenced by product volatility, type of equipment and nozzles used, amount of active ingredient and weather conditions.

To minimise spray drift, select nozzles that minimise the number of small droplets produced but still provide sufficient coverage. Avoid spraying in windy conditions, target 3 – 20 km/h wind speed for spraying and avoid spraying in very low Delta T conditions which can prolong the lifespan of droplets and cause drift. Certain adjuvants can also help to reduce drift when applied with herbicides.

Adjuvants: Some herbicide labels require the addition of certain adjuvants when spraying to improve herbicide performance or prevent spray drift.

Chemical rotation: Rotating available herbicides with different ‘modes of action’ helps reduce the risk of weeds developing resistance to herbicides.

Herbicide interactions: Be aware of potential herbicide interactions, such as avoiding using translocated herbicides immediately following a contact herbicide as active living growth is required for the herbicide to work. For more information about Herbicide Resistance Strategies visit www.croplife.org.au/resources/ programs/resistance-management/herbicideresistance-management-strategies

Other considerations: Some herbicides (e.g. Basta®) can remain active or inert on surfaces such as plastic mulch and therefore extra care should be taken as plant contact with sprayed plastic can result in crop damage.

Herbicides currently registered and on permit for berries

Blackberry Raspberry Carfentrazone (e.g. Spotlight®) Plus Sucker control

Blackberry Raspberry Carfentrazone & Glufosinate (HELLCAT®)

Raspberry Dichlobenil (e.g. CASORON 4G®)

Blueberry Strawberry Fluazifop-P (e.g. FUSILADE Forte®)

Blueberry Flumioxazin (e.g. CHATEAU®)

Blackberry Blueberry Raspberry Strawberry Glufosinate (e.g. Basta®)

Blueberry Raspberry Glyphosate (e.g. Roundup®)

Blueberry Haloxyfop (e.g. Verdict®)

Blackberry Blueberry Raspberry Oryzalin

Raspberry Strawberry Simazine

Inter-row area

Annual grass & broadleaf weeds

Grass weeds

Grass & broadleaf weeds

Rubus only: Primocane & sucker control

Grass & broadleaf weeds

Various weeds

Grass weeds

Various weeds

Post-emergence All States

Pre-emergence Tas only

Post-emergence

Blueberries: Label: Qld only; PER86586: NSW, ACT, NT, SA, TAS & WA Strawberries: All States

Pre-emergence All States

Post-emergence

NSW, ACT, VIC, TAS only

Post-emergence All States

Post-emergence Depends on formulation

Post-emergence All States

Pre-emergence All States

Herbicides registered for use in orchards have not been included in this table.

Disclaimer: All efforts have been made to provide the most current and accurate information about these registered chemicals, however Berries Australia recommend that you always confirm the details at the APVMA website portal.apvma.gov.au/pubcris prior to using any chemical covered by these registrations or permits.

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HORTICULTURE

► Grow Bags

► Substrates

► Stakes

► Coir Pot Tops

► Shadecloth

► Coir Discs

► Plant Bags

► Weedmat

► Hold Down Pins

► Fixing Channel

► Wiggle Wire

► Plastics

Varroa T2M Program: How to Bee Resilient

Rebecca Sloan, National Pollination Industry Coordinator, NVMMP

Following the entrenchment of Varroa Destructor in Australia, the National Varroa Mite Management Program (NVMMP) has been working hard to educate both beekeepers and pollination dependent industries on the challenges that lie ahead. Varroa’s expected effects are that wild bee populations that many berry growers currently rely on will be devastated and greatly reduced in the coming years. Australia has many things that make it unique as a host of Varroa mite, such as our robust gum tree population and lack of certain disease vectors, so the exact rate of decline is currently unknown. However, it is clear that wild bee pollinations will go down and beekeepers will be in high demand.

As berries are highly dependent on pollination from external sources it is now in every grower’s best interest to start their journey into the world of managed pollination. This can take different forms depending on your location but one common factor across the entire country is the relationship that is developed between beekeeper and grower.

“Establishing beekeeper relationships will be the most essential component of successful pollination once Varroa mite becomes established in your growing area”

Essential actions for growers

Some growers may have already formed relationships with beekeepers to assist with your pollination needs. Now is the time to refine the relationship and ensure that all bases are covered, ensuring you have robust pollination agreements/contracts in place.

For growers who are new to working with beekeepers now is the time to start the conversation with your local beekeeper’s association. Having early discussions on price, hive location and distribution on your property and expectations from all parties will ensure that everyone gets off on the right foot.

Download and read the Pollination Guide for the Australian Berry Industry 2024 from the industry website Resource Library (berries.net.au/resource-library) to ensure you have all bases covered for when the time comes to transition to the use of managed pollination. This guide will become your go-to for all your base information, and any of the finer details to be successful can be discussed with your beekeeper.

Happy bees

On farm there are a few things that you as the grower, can do to make sure that your bees are as happy as they can be.

Location, location, location:

Speak with your beekeeper to determine the best place on your farm to locate the hives. Communication is the key so that both parties, the beekeeper and the grower, can have a successful pollination season.

Offer a bee-buffet

Have other floral options for the bees to eat. Bees need a varied diet to be healthy. Floral options can also help when flowering is erratic, or weather conditions are less than ideal. Alternate floral options can also be helpful to encourage alternate pollinators to help support your managed hives.

Use chemicals mindfully

Have discussions with your agronomists to make sure that your pesticide choices are the most bee-friendly that they can possibly be. This conversation will be important as it may lead to changes in chemical application and timing to ensure that there is no harm to the hives on your or your neighbours’ properties who may still be in the process of completing their pollination season.

Embrace technology

You can share information about hive locations and crop protection activities easily with neighbours using the free BeeConnected app. Farmers and beekeepers can seamlessly communicate and collaborate, ensuring the safety of bees and encouraging sustainable farming practices.

Find out more at beeconnected.org.au

Resources for berry growers

Search the berry industry website RESOURCE LIBRARY at berries.net. au/resource-library by selecting the ‘Pollination’ Category or typing a search term into the Search box

There are over 50 articles, factsheets and guides currently available

• NVMMP: On Farm Reference Guide for Honeybee Management

• Pollination Guide for Australian Berry Industry 2024

• Varroa — What Does it Mean for Pollination in Australia

• Visit Wheen Bee Foundations Bee Friendly Farming at: www.beefriendlyfarming.org.au

• Strawberries — Pollination

• Blueberries — Pollination

• Berries — Pollination

• A guide to Australian crop pollinating insects

• Powerful Pollinators Planting Guides

Acknowledgements: The National Varroa Mite Management Program is overseen by the Consultative Committee on Emergency Plant Pests (CCEPP) and the National Management Group (NMG). The NMG is made up of representatives from the Australian Government, every state and territory government, relevant peak industry bodies and Plant Health Australia. www.varroa.org.au

Profile: Earthbound

Ella Roper, Berry Industry Development Officer, Fruit Growers Tasmania & Berries Australia

Based in the stunning hills of Mountain River in the Huon Valley found in the far south of Tasmania, I caught up with Kate Brennan and Mark Bandick at Earthbound who are paving the way for their blueberry propagation business and developing a strong connection with their local community. With limited previous experience in horticulture, they have taken on the challenge and set up a successful propagation business supplying blueberry plants to local nurseries and growers.

Kate and Mark met six years ago and made the move to the Huon Valley in 2021, where they had been searching for a property with the aim of starting a farm business and being involved in food production. Kate said she has a strong memory of the moment she first saw the property, with its sunny open aspect, plentiful water supply and surrounded by dramatic mountains and knew it would be the one.

“We’ve fallen in love with this place and feel really fortunate to be growing in the Huon Valley,” explains Kate.

While Mark spent his early childhood living on a farm, they had limited horticultural experience coming in to this new venture. Kate ran a community centre working with children and families over the past decade and Mark worked in the public health sector.

Kate said it had been a significant change moving from a regular income to a field where they had to consider every cent coming in. They have had to become proficient in all aspects of propagation, irrigation, fertigation and plant management.

The couple were fortunate as the former owner had previously run a rootstock business on site, with existing infrastructure for plant propagation, including a fogging tunnel, protected nursery area and established irrigation systems. They initially rented out the setup for cherry rootstock propagation in their first year, and after a challenging first propagation for the crew, they both agreed to get involved to help the team and learn the process themselves.

While the vision for their business was in a different direction than rootstock, they developed the skills and understanding of propagation and grafting processes, as well as vital connections within the horticultural community. Kate said it was such a positive experience and was really the turning point for them.

This early experience sowed the seed for their own blueberry propagation business, Earthbound. Kate said they were fortunate to have the assistance of local horticultural expertise to offer support and provide guidance.

“The generosity of horticulturalists, growers and market gardeners has really made the difference for us in being able to have a run at this. We have been willing to listen, and I think people appreciate when you have a genuine openness to learn. Generally, people like to be asked for their advice and there has been an incredible community generosity and a willingness to help and share knowledge down here.”

Kate and Mark were highly motivated to learn the process of blueberry propagation, with a strong focus on plant management, climate control, and fertigation requirements to achieve the desired plant height and uniformity. They have learned how to propagate blueberry plants from cuttings, finding some varieties easier to propagate while others are more challenging and time consuming.

Propagated blueberry plants spend time in the protected nursery for hardening off

The propagation tunnel with fogging system setup

Mark and Kate established Earthbound two years ago, set in the picturesque foothills of Mountain River, Tasmania

All Photos Credit: Ella Roper

Protected Cropping

Mark says, “Understanding how to problem solve has been an important part of the process, particularly in having persistence to troubleshoot and find ways to make the process work.”

Temperature and humidity are an important part of the propagation process, and understanding its management and sensitivities in the fogging tunnel has been a learning process. Mark tells me the site has been ideal for blueberry propagation, with minimal frosts and plenty of sun through the day for plant growth and development. Mark knows that healthy plants are the key to a growers’ success.

“Plant quality is the most important thing for us as a healthy nursery plant means better establishment. We aim for quality over quantity, and we need to be supplying plants that growers are happy with.”

The plants have target characteristics in terms of height and root development prior to being supplied to local nurseries and growers.

While blueberry propagation is the key part of the business, Kate and Mark are also passionate about contributing to the local community and industry. The couple have a shared vision of fostering connections within the community and have hosted local events, housed concerts and festivals at the property, raising money for charity and supporting their goal of bringing people together.

“Community is a really important part of this for us, to have a place where ideas can grow, people are coming together, and there is space for opportunities.”

Earthbound currently produces young blueberry plants just for local nurseries and blueberry growers. Going forward, Kate and Mark are looking to expand their propagation business to reach a wider market, while maintaining top quality plants.

“We feel incredibly blessed to be growing in this part of the world,” Kate says, “and seeing the progress in the plants and knowing it’s a result of all the hard work and time we’ve put in over the past year is incredibly rewarding.”

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Be alert for Cane Toads

Mandy Holland, Invasive Species Biosecurity, NSW DPIRD

In January 2025, two cane toads were found and reported by berry producers near Coffs Harbour and Tabulam. The toads were found at the premises and are believed to be associated with recent deliveries of nursery plant material that originated from Queensland.

Despite cane toads being widespread in Queensland and areas of north-eastern NSW, 98% of NSW remains cane toad free. Cane toads are considered an extreme non-native invasive pest in NSW. A cane toad Biosecurity Zone exists in all areas of NSW except a portion of the north-east of the state.

The management of existing non-native invasive animal populations and preventing the introduction and establishment of new non-native animal species are key concerns for the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (NSW DPIRD).

Cane toads could cause devastating impacts on our communities, native wildlife and ecosystems due to their ability to spread to new areas, use limited natural resources and to poison animals that try to eat them.

Cane toads can be accidentally transported to new locations via freight, including nursery products such as mulch and plants.

NSW DPIRD would appreciate the assistance of the horticultural industry members, including berry producers, that purchase plants and other materials from cane toad-infested areas (such as Qld and northern NSW), to be vigilant when receiving incoming deliveries by checking pallets, plants and containers that may accidently host a Cane Toad.

Detecting and reporting Cane Toads

• Become familiar with the identification and key features of a cane toad (Figure 1)

• Quarantine your deliveries in a secure holding area until the goods can be inspected for cane toads and other unwanted pests (as part of your biosecurity inspection process)

• Thoroughly inspect and look through pallets, potted plants and other materials for cane toads

• If you suspect that you have found a cane toad, please capture the animal and place it in a container with a lid

• Report the suspect animal to the NSW DPIRD Invasive Species Biosecurity team via Feral Scan –Toad Scan using the App or the website as soon as possible at bit.ly/report-cane-toad

• Take a clear close up photo of the suspect animal to assist with the identification and response

• Keep the suspect animal in a cool, secure place until your report has been responded to, and advice has been provided

• Please do not harm the suspected animal/s as it may be a native frog species that looks like a cane toad (Figure 2).

Be alert for cane toads, as they are particularly active over the summer months at night and listen for calling toads near farm dams or water supply areas accessible to cane toads.

The call of a cane toad can be heard from visiting the Feral Scan – Toad Scan website at bit.ly/Toad-frog-info

Figure 1. Key identifying features of cane toads

2. Native frogs that can be mistaken as cane toads

Figure

A Sustainable Future: Mountain Blue's Plastic-Free Packaging Trial

Jane Richter, Communication Manager, Berries Australia

Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword in the food industry—it’s a driving force behind innovation, market differentiation, and consumer appeal. Recent research indicates that Australian consumers are increasingly concerned about plastic waste and are actively seeking ways to reduce their reliance on plastic packaging.

A study by the Australia Institute found that 81% of Australians believe businesses that produce or use plastic packaging should be primarily responsible for reducing plastic packaging waste. Additionally, 74% of respondents felt that individual consumers also share this responsibility. These findings underscore a significant shift in consumer attitudes in Australia, with a growing preference for sustainable practices and a reduction in plastic usage.

Leading the charge is

Mountain Blue, a pioneer in blueberry genetics, which has partnered with packaging solutions company Opal and supermarket Coles to trial a plastic-free alternative for fresh blueberry packaging.

For decades, plastic has been the go-to packaging choice for fresh produce due to its durability and visibility. However, with increasing environmental concerns and consumer demand for sustainable solutions, the industry has been searching for a viable alternative that maintains product quality while reducing plastic waste. Mountain Blue’s latest trial could be a game-changer.

The Trial: Sustainable, Functional, and Consumer-Friendly

Over a two-month period, Mountain Blue’s popular Eureka blueberries were packaged in kerbside recyclable and FSC®-certified cardboard punnets across 34 Coles stores in Northern New South Wales. These punnets, developed in collaboration with Opal, featured a unique transparent film made from wood pulp, allowing customers to see the freshness of the blueberries inside while still adhering to sustainability goals. By using FSC-certified materials, Mountain Blue is reinforcing its commitment to responsible sourcing and environmental stewardship. The punnets were crafted from recycled paper manufactured in Australia by Opal, ensuring local production supporting both sustainability and supply chain resilience. Despite being paper-based, they were designed to withstand the rigors of freight and retail display without compromising on the fruit’s freshness or protection.

“We’re excited to trial kerbside recyclable cardboard punnets with Opal. This innovation offers consumers sustainable packaging choices in Coles supermarkets,” said Andrew Bell, Managing Director of Mountain Blue.

communicate messages to consumers than traditional

The trial included a Coles branded pack with a more basic packaging decoration at a lower price point than the premium Eureka brand berries

Coles Customer Alice with the Coles branded cardboard trial pack at Coles in Ballina, NSW

The Eureka branded cardboard trial pack has full graphics printed giving much more space to

plastic punnets

For berry growers watching this trial closely, one of the key considerations is whether this type of packaging can maintain the integrity of fresh produce through logistics and retail environments. The collaboration between Mountain Blue and Opal was built on a deep understanding of these industry-specific challenges.

“By partnering with Mountain Blue, we were able to understand their packaging needs and work together with our automation and machinery team, to deliver a punnet solution that is innovative, functional and sustainable,” said Chris Daly, Executive General Manager at Opal Packaging.

A Retailer’s Perspective: Meeting Consumer Expectations

Major retailers have been actively seeking new ways to improve packaging sustainability without sacrificing convenience or product quality. Coles sees this trial as an opportunity to assess consumer interest in plasticfree packaging while ensuring the product remains fresh and appealing.

“Fresh produce packaging is ripe for innovation, and we’re excited to provide our customers with a plastic-free alternative for much-loved and in-season blueberries,” said Brooke Donnelly, General Manager of Sustainability at Coles.

“This trial is about ensuring the new cardboard punnets keep blueberries as fresh and tasty as the conventional plastic packaging, and to see how our customers respond to the change.”

How did Consumers Respond?

Mountain Blue conducted the trial across selected stores and used two control groups to validate the trial outcomes. Across the trial stores when compared with the control groups, the following insights were gathered:

• There was an increase in purchase frequency and purchase volume for both Eureka (200g) and the Coles branded punnets (125g, 300g) meaning consumers bought both more total blueberry volume and more often during the trial period.

• The packaging featured a QR code to allow consumers to give direct feedback on the packaging concept. The response rate exceeded expectations, with a high number of QR forms completed for Eureka and numerous handwritten letters sent to Mountain Blue. These letters expressed appreciation for the industry's efforts to innovate in this area.

• The sales results were excellent across all tiers of berries – from the standard Coles branded pack sizes (125g, 300g) to the premium 200g Eureka punnets.

• Consumers also provided feedback on the design and functionality of the punnets, particularly appreciating the ability to see the fruit through the clear panels on the side and top.

What This Means for Berry Growers

For growers considering a transition to sustainable packaging, this trial offers valuable insights into the realworld viability of cardboard punnets. While the industry has long sought alternatives to single-use plastics, one of the biggest challenges has been developing a solution that balances sustainability with practicality.

This trial could pave the way for wider adoption of paper-based packaging across the berry industry and beyond. It also signals a growing expectation from both retailers and consumers that sustainability should be a key focus for fresh produce suppliers.

As growers continue to innovate in their farming practices, packaging is becoming the next frontier for differentiation in a competitive marketplace. Whether it’s reducing plastic waste, improving recyclability, or enhancing consumer trust, initiatives like Mountain Blue’s trial could help set new industry standards for sustainability. It may not be long before cardboard punnets become a staple in berry aisles nationwide.

Western Australian Botrytis fungicide resistance study

Helen Newman, Berry Industry Development Officer, Agricultural Produce Commission WA Lincoln Harper (Research Officer) & Nirmala Sharma (PhD student), Centre for Crop and Disease Management, School of Molecular and Life Sciences, Curtin University

Botrytis cinerea (grey mould) has a broad host range, impacting over 1400 plant species worldwide. It is prone to fungicide resistance because of its genetic diversity and ability to produce high volumes of spores over its short life cycle. Its prevalence and ongoing control in major fruit and vegetable crops increase its susceptibility to fungicide resistance.

In 2021 and 2022, researchers at the Curtin University Centre for Crop and Disease Management in Western Australia characterised fungicide resistance in Botrytis isolated from berries collected from Perth retailers and strawberry runners sourced from Victoria and Queensland.

A total of 307 Botrytis isolates were extracted from the samples collected. Among these isolates, forty-five (45) different phenotypes were identified, a reflection of the high genetic diversity of the pathogen.

Botrytis isolates were tested for resistance to the fungicides listed in Table 1.

Phenotype: In genetics, a phenotype is an organism's set of observable characteristics or traits. The term covers the organism's morphology (physical form and structure), developmental processes, biochemical and physiological properties, behaviour, and the products of behaviour. An organism's phenotype results from two basic factors: the expression of its genetic code (its genotype) and the influence of environmental factors.

Carbendazim Group 1

Not registered in berries – previously permitted/registered in Strawberries and Rubus

Iprodione Group 2 Raspberries, Blueberries, Strawberries

Tebuconazole Group 3 Strawberries

Boscalid Group 7 Raspberries, Blackberries, Blueberries

Pyrimethanil Group 9 Raspberries, Blackberries, Blueberries, Strawberries

Azoxystrobin Group 11 Raspberries, Blackberries, Blueberries

Fludioxonil Group 12 Raspberries, Blackberries, Blueberries, Strawberries

Fenhexamid Group 17 Raspberries, Blackberries, Blueberries, Strawberries

Isolates found to have resistance to the active tested are expected to have resistance to other actives in the same Group.

Table 1. Botrytis isolates were tested for resistance to these fungicides

Table 2 shows the number of Botrytis isolates collected across the berry categories and runners during the twoyear study. The frequency of fungicide resistance found in isolates in each berry category is also shown. A frequency of 100% means that resistance to at least one of the fungicides tested was found in all (100%) isolates.

Over 200 samples of Botrytis on conventionally grown strawberries were collected as part of this study, so data from this category is more reliable. Fewer samples were collected in the other categories, so this article focuses on results from the strawberry component of the trial.

Table 2. Fungicide resistance frequency for Botrytis isolates characterised in this study for each host sampled

Conventionally grown strawberries had very high levels of resistance to pyrimethanil (Group 9), azoxystrobin (Group 11), iprodione (Group 2), and fenhexamid (Group 17); and high levels of resistance to boscalid (Group 7) and carbendazim (Group 1). Resistance to tebuconazole (Group 3) and fludioxonil (Group 12) was low. Ninety-nine percent (99%) of the resistant isolates tested had resistance to more than one fungicide; 88% were resistant to 5 to 7 of the fungicides tested.

Organic strawberries had high to moderate levels of resistance to azoxystrobin, pyrimethanil, iprodione, and fenhexamid; and moderate to low resistance to carbendazim, boscalid, fludioxonil and tebuconazole. Seventy percent (70%) of the resistant isolates tested had resistance to more than one fungicide; Sixty-six percent (66%) were resistant to 2 to 6 of the fungicides tested.

Strawberry runners had high to moderate levels of resistance to azoxystrobin and tebuconazole; and low levels of resistance to boscalid, carbendazim, and iprodione. No resistance was recorded for pyrimethanil, fludioxonil, and fenhexamid. Thirty-eight percent (38%) of the resistant isolates tested had resistance to more than one fungicide.

In this research, fludioxonil (Group 12) resistance was low, as reported in other studies. Fitness costs associated with fludioxonil resistance may contribute to the low frequencies of resistance to this fungicide. Highly resistant isolates found in this study had very poor sporulation, which would likely limit their ability to proliferate in the field when competing with normal highly sporulating fludioxonil-sensitive or less resistant isolates.

Resistant frequencies observed for boscalid (Group 7) fall within the range of other studies. It is unclear if fitness costs associated with resistance could suppress Group 7 resistance frequencies.

Resistance frequencies were very high for iprodione (Group 2), pyrimethanil (Group 9), azoxystrobin (Group 11), and fenhexamid (Group 17). High selection pressures appear to have overcome potential fitness costs associated with resistance to these fungicides.

Resistant isolates found on organic fruit or in crops where the chemical or Group is not registered can be the result of:

• wind dispersal of resistant isolates from other botrytissusceptible crops (e.g. grapes and vegetable crops)

• physical transfer of resistant spores during harvest or post-harvest operations (poor hygiene)

• persistence of resistant isolates from past conventional management practices or to chemistries previously registered/permitted

• resistance caused by other (potentially registered) chemicals in the same Group

For more information on this research, please contact Dr Fran Lopez Ruiz, Associate Professor, Centre for Crop Disease Management, Curtin University Perth Western Australia: fran.lopezruiz@curtin.edu.au

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Propagator Profile: Toolangi Certified Strawberry Runner Growers’ Co-Op

For sixty-five years the Toolangi Certified Strawberry Runner Growers’ Co-operative (the Co-op) has been supplying certified strawberry runners to growers across the country. Today the Co-op is made up of six long-standing family businesses and is Australia’s longest-serving runner producer. Specialising in the commercial propagation of strawberry runners, the Co-op operates under the Victorian Strawberry Runner Certification Scheme (the Scheme) and is currently the only runner supplier in Australia whose runners meet this Scheme’s rigorous certification requirements. Over the years, many strawberry growers have built their businesses in tandem with the Co-op, and many of the innovations used in production fields today have their roots in industry collaboration with the Co-op.

Sandy Shaw (Vic/SA) & Wendy Morris (Qld), Berry Industry Development Officers, Berries Australia

VSICA inspection team reviewing runners for Scheme certification, 2025. Photo credit: George Weda

The Co-op Today

The Co-op is proud of their historical experience and are committed to continuous growth and improvement through scientific research. They engage in an ongoing process of evaluation and importation of new international varieties for the Australian market; most recently the new University of California and California Berry Cultivars varieties.

They are supporting the domestic breeding program by propagating their late-stage varieties for large-scale grower trials. They collaborate with industry extensively in research and development for runner production (e.g., Hort Innovation projects BS13002; BS13004), disease diagnostics (e.g., BS10002; BS12009), and soilless production systems (e.g., BS06029; BS09019).

For example, they spearheaded research which developed optimum nutrient and trimming regimes for leaf-on runners for subsequent fruit production in Western Australia. Research co-funded by the Co-op led to the development of advanced diagnostic technologies for viruses and bacteria. Additionally, 20 years ago the Co-op was a pioneer in introducing soilless production systems for runner multiplication and plug production. Early research at the runner industry level informed soilless production practices now adopted more widely in the fruit production industry.

For many strawberry growers, purchasing certified runners from the Co-op provides a healthy start for their plants and protects against the introduction of soilborne pathogens such as Macrophomina, Colletotrichum, Fusarium, Verticillium, and Phytophthora. To produce certified runners, the Co-op’s runner growers must adhere to the strict phytosanitary protocols outlined in the Scheme, which is regularly updated and independently managed by the Victorian Strawberry Industry Certification Authority (VSICA).

VSICA is a not-for-profit, independent business from the Co-op, established in 1995. The Board of VSICA has equal representation by fruit and runner growers to ensure the Scheme meets the needs of the whole industry. VSICA provide the Co-op with high-health mother stock plants that have undergone two generations of production and intensive pathogen testing. Each year, these plants are indexed and DNA-tested for viral, bacterial, and fungal pathogens by independent scientists at AgriBio. The Co-op then multiplies the mother plants supplied by VSICA in the final two generations of the Scheme.

To ensure compliance with the Scheme, VSICA conducts a minimum of thrice-yearly inspections for diseases of all runner plants and plugs, with the final inspection occurring just before harvest and distribution to fruit growers. Any concerns identified during inspections must be addressed before the runners can receive the official Certification label.

Toolangi runner harvest, 2010. Photo credit: Historical photo provided by the Toolangi Co-Op

Fruithaul truck prepares to depart Toolangi Co-op for Queensland, 2025. Photo credit: George Weda

A Historically Scientific Foundation

In the 1950s, most strawberry production in Australia was centred in Silvan, Victoria. At that time, growers produced their own runners by selecting plants from the current season's fruiting crops for use as the next season’s planting stock. Without fumigation or knowledge of virus and disease transmission, this practice led to the accumulation of pathogens over time, reducing plant health, fruit quality, and yields to unsustainable levels of 2-3 tons per acre.

Seeking a solution, the Silvan Growers’ Association (now the Victorian Strawberry Growers Association) partnered with the Victorian Department of Agriculture to address the issue. Together, they identified three key areas of focus for research: developing an isolated site for runner production, introducing new varieties from overseas, and creating pathogen-tested plants.

The township of Toolangi, at over 600m altitude and nestled in a state-forest of mountain ash, was selected as the ideal site for runner production due to its isolation from fruit production areas and virus vectors like aphids. Professor Lionel Stubbs, a virologist, and Karel Kroon from the Institute for Horticultural Science at Knoxfield, developed a protocol for pathogen testing, now known as the Scheme. Stubbs discovered that heat therapy eliminated most strawberry viruses and that Toolangi’s cool, moist environment hindered aphidborne virus transmission.

By the early 1960s, pathogen-tested runners from Toolangi were successfully trialled in Silvan, leading to the formation of the early Co-op. This association commercially produced certified runners for distribution across Australia, with its growers adhering to strict biosecurity and plant health protocols. The Toolangi district was later designated a Strawberry Isolation Area (now the Toolangi Plant Protection District), ensuring the protection of pathogen-tested varieties by prohibiting the entry of potentially harmful plant material, including strawberry fruit, into the area.

In the 1980s, the Co-op negotiated licensing agreements to import new strawberry varieties from the University of California, Davis breeding program and other sources. The strong reputation of the Scheme played a crucial role in securing these agreements. The Co-op demonstrated its ability to meet UC Davis’s stringent production protocols for quality and yield, which was key to gaining their trust and advancing the partnership. The partnership formed a foundational model for the introduction of all new strawberry varieties from overseas into Australia.

Senior Field Officers Karel Kroon and Ralph Proctor inspect virus-infected plants in a strawberry production field trial, 1960s. Photo credit: Historical

Toolangi Plant Protection District signage Photo credit: George Weda

Dr. Lionel Stubbs, plant virologist

Photo credit: Historical photo provided by the Toolangi Co-Op

photo provided by the Toolangi Co-Op

In the early 2000s, in response to the global phaseout of the fumigant methyl bromide, the Co-op coinvested in and ultimately led the longest running research program to find effective soil disinfestation solutions in Australia. Many of the fumigants now used by the fruit industry originated from this program (e.g., ethanedinitrile and optimum mixtures of 1,3-dichloropropene and chloropicrin).

Thinking towards the Future

Co-op Managing Director George Weda says the Co-op is rapidly expanding its plug plant facilities, developing state-of-the-art infrastructure to provide growers with quality transplants. They have spent the last few years working with grower-cooperators to gather research data on plug setups and will continue to do so into the future. The Co-op has also invested considerable time in working with drone manufacturers and agronomists to develop spray applications via drone, which allows them to spray in conditions when fields are inaccessible to tractors. The Co-op are working in cooperation with researchers and private industry to carefully transition to the soil fumigant methyl iodide as their main fumigation method - the only alternative that consistently controlled pathogens as effectively as methyl bromide in research carried out at Toolangi.

When asked what he sees as the key to the Co-op’s longevity, Mr. Weda cites the strong relationships the Co-op has developed with their grower clients over the years. He says they feel comfortable calling to give feedback and ask for advice, a process which pays dividends for the Co-op as it helps them identify and improve their operations based on direct grower feedback. He is also excited about the next generation of runner growers who are coming into their own and bringing their own ideas and innovations into the Co-op.

Mr. Weda stated that the Co-op’s future focus will continue to revolve around their scientific research at home and abroad, with particular emphasis on practical innovation for all aspects of the Australian strawberry industry.

Drone spraying application in action, 2025

Photo credit: Tom Ridley

Toolangi plug curtains at peak of production, 2025 Photo credit: Corina Horstra

New plug production facility, 2025 Photo credit: Tom Ridley

Australian Strawberry Breeding Program Update

Jodi Neal – Principal Plant Breeder & Katie O’Connor – Plant Breeder, Australian Strawberry Breeding Program Team, Queensland Department of Primary Industries

This article provides a Subtropical and Mediterranean seasons wrap-up and activity update for the project BS22000: Australian Strawberry Breeding Program

The Australian Strawberry Breeding Program (ASBP) has made steady progress in adapting strawberry varieties for Australia's different climates. Our recent activities aim to benefit growers and industry by producing varieties with increased yields, larger fruit sizes, and resilience to diseases, while also meeting consumer demand for taste and visual appeal.

Breeding program overview

The ASBP works to develop new strawberry varieties adapted to Australia’s three growing climates: temperate, subtropical, and Mediterranean. The new varieties must have superior production traits for grower profitability, and excellent quality to drive repeat purchases in consumers.

Our breeding program pipeline consists of four stages of trialling: seedlings, early-stage clones, advancedstage clones, and on-farm trials. These are summarised in Figure 1. Every year we choose specific combinations of parents for each region to cross-pollinate and create thousands of seedlings. These seedlings, each one genetically unique, are visually assessed at multiple times through the season in seedling trials. The seedlings that display desirable fruit and plant

architecture characteristics throughout the season are dug from the ground and clonally propagated. These accessions are then planted in replicated ‘early-stage’ clonal trials the following year.

Accessions in the early-stage trials are harvested and assessed weekly for yield, average fruit size, flavour, firmness and many other traits. Our breeders use quantitative genetics analyses to select the best performing lines for further evaluation in ‘advancedstage’ trials. Comprehensive evaluations are again conducted weekly, with elite material supplied to fruit growers for ‘on-farm’ trials. Feedback and data from the growers at this stage is extremely valuable and helps in the decision making of whether any are selected for commercialisation. These four trial stages are conducted concurrently each year in each production region.

Figure 1. ASBP breeding pipeline showing trial stages. These trials are run every year in each region.

Subtropical and Mediterranean seasons wrapped up

For the subtropical region, our seedling and clonal trials wrapped up in early September. We selected 113 seedlings from across our two sites in Bundaberg and Nambour (Figures 2 and 3). These included nine from genomics analyses (more detail below) and 6 from crosses between white and very dark red accessions, which has successfully carried across the enhanced flavour of our novelty white and blush fruit into standard and dark red fruit. We have also selected 19 early-stage and 21 advanced-stage accessions, chosen through statistical analysis of multi-year trial data and invaluable feedback from industry partners involved in our on-farm trial programs.

These on-farm trials, which involved six accessions across four locations and provided industry-led insights, have played a critical role in guiding our selection process for the future.

Our Mediterranean trials have now also concluded, with 92 seedlings selected, and seven early-stage and six advanced-stage accessions from a trial in Bullsbrook, WA. Four of the seedling accessions were from genomics analyses, and ten specifically bred for tolerance to Fusarium wilt. We were very pleased to hear that the new subtropical variety ‘Stella’ has performed well across the board in South-East Queensland in 2024.

Industry engagement

Progress of our breeding trials has been communicated to growers and industry representatives in multiple settings, including field days, reference group meetings and grower meetings. One such event held at a grower’s farm in Wanneroo (WA) provided a closer look at accessions from the Mediterranean clonal trial and allowed for feedback on accession performance (Figure 4). Similarly, a temperate farm walk was held at the Wandin Research Centre in December, where valuable feedback on advanced accessions was provided by industry members. Comprehensive end-of-season reports were developed for each region and distributed to growers and industry members.

Temperate season is ongoing

The temperate region's trials at Wandin, Victoria involve a seedling trial of 13,000 genotypes from 53 families, and a clonal trial of 76 early-stage and 26 advanced-stage accessions. Data collection in the temperate clonal trial will continue to the end of April again, as requested by our Temperate Reference Committee. Temperate on-farm trial plants were distributed to six growers across five states over winter, in line with their local planting schedules.

Genomics analyses

Genomics analysis is a way to study an organism's DNA, which includes all of its genes, to understand its characteristics, how it functions and what we can see in the organism. In plant breeding, we can use genomics to help to identify patterns in the DNA that code for different traits like large fruit size and flavour through the use of statistical analyses. Genomics is particularly useful to help to increase breeding efficiency and develop better selections. This is because we can examine the DNA of plants that have not yet been assessed (those for which we have no trait performance data) and predict their performance based on the DNA patterns.

We have now used genomics analyses to predict the performance of individuals based on their genetic data. Six subtropical, four Mediterranean and five temperate 2023 seedling accessions were predicted to have high performance for multiple traits. These were included in crosses with complementary accessions and will be assessed in seedling trials in 2025. In this way, we are progressing elite genetics through our breeding pipeline a year earlier than is possible without the use of genomics.

Disease screening

Disease resistance continues to be a priority area for the ASBP, with multiple screening trials progressing each year and tolerant accessions being used in cross-pollinations. Powdery mildew resistance screening took place from May to September 2024. Accessions assessed included over 300 seedlings from nine temperate and 16 subtropical families, as well as two Mediterranean, 11 temperate and nine subtropical clones. Each year, we continue to select more seedlings with tolerance to powdery mildew as well as good plant architecture, large fruit size and firmer fruit.

Figure 3. Breeder Dr Katie O’Connor assessing the 2024 seedling trial at Nambour, Queensland

Photo credit: Department of Primary Industries, Queensland

Figure 2. Breeder Dr Jodi Neal making final selections at the 2024 seedling trial at Bundaberg, Queensland

Photo credit: Department of Primary Industries, Queensland

A Fusarium wilt resistance screening trial on seven temperate, 13 subtropical and four Mediterranean accessions commenced in June 2024 and concluded in early December. Screening for resistance to charcoal rot (Macrophomina phaseolina) commenced in August 2024 and included 12 subtropical and 11 temperate accessions. It will be concluded in late January 2025, at which time anthracnose crown rot (Colletotrichum gloeosporioides) screening will commence.

Conclusions

Going forward, we maintain our commitment to delivering results that will positively impact the strawberry farming industry. Our team is always here to discuss any aspect of our work or to receive feedback, which is vital for the success and relevance of our breeding efforts.

Acknowledgements

The Australian Strawberry Breeding Program has been funded by Hort Innovation using the strawberry research and development levy and matched funds from the Australian Government, with cocontributions from the Queensland Government through its Department of Primary Industries.

We thank the contributions by the Temperate, Subtropical and Mediterranean Reference Groups who have helped guide the program, the Industry Development Officers, and all other industry members who provide feedback, advice, and support.

We are also extremely grateful to all the fruit producers in all states who have trialled, collected data on, and given feedback on our on-farm accessions. This has helped us make more informed and better commercial judgments.

The Australian Strawberry Breeding Program team members include Jodi Neal (project lead), Michaela Antoine (Perth field assistant), Freya Brinkley (Nambour lab assistant), Mitchell Gates (Nambour lab assistant), Joanna Gillespie (genetics and virus indexing), Dilmini Hettiarachchi (PhD student), Lilian Kass (Nambour field assistant), Dale McKenna (Nambour field technical officer and hydroponics), Alan Noon (Wandin field assistant), Katie O’Connor (breeding and genomics), Michelle Paynter (virus indexing, tissue culture, and pathology), Melanie Ritter (Wandin field assistant), Karen Spencer (Wandin operations manager), and Louella Woolcock (Nambour field and glasshouse operations manager).

Figure 4. Dr Jodi Neal presenting to industry at the field day in Wanneroo, Western Australia

Photo credit: Helen Newman

Strawberry quality depends on getting it right at the farm

Jodie Campbell, Senior Principal Horticulturist (Supply Chains) & Hung Duong, Research Horticulturist, Department of Primary Industries, Queensland

This article provides a project update from the levy-funded AM21000 Serviced Supply Chains II project

• Only 33% of strawberry supply chains monitored achieved average supply chain temperatures of 2-5°C

• Not enough time to pre-cool strawberries to the recommended temperature was a major factor impacting average supply chain temperatures

• Low relative humidity (60-65%) storage increases moisture loss 3-8 times more than high humidity (90%) resulting in decreased quality and shelf life

• Rapidly removing field heat from freshly picked strawberries was important for maintaining fruit quality and extending shelf life

Achieving quality and consistency in domestic and export strawberry supply chains can be challenging. There are many pre- and postharvest factors that can impact on strawberry quality by the time it reaches the consumer. Supply chains become more complex with multiple supply chain partners taking responsibility for the care of strawberry shipments.

The AM21000 Serviced Supply Chains II (SSCII) project is focussed on exploring and quantifying the factors that affect quality and shelf life within supply chains. It seeks to understand the associated risks and create decision support tools to aid supply chain businesses.

This article provides an update on the two-year effort to analyse domestic strawberry supply chains. Data from supply chain monitoring has informed lab simulations, aiding the creation of models to predict strawberry shelf life.

Strawberry quality assessment

Developing a set of quality assessment criteria was a critical step to ensure they met the expectations of the market. A wide scan of supply chain expectations was conducted to ensure a common language was developed to describe strawberry quality. Initial quality descriptions and an image set were developed to measure quality during monitoring and simulation studies. Industry was engaged to validate the quality assessment descriptors, quality levels and assessment of end of shelf life (Figure 1). This included growers, researchers, in-market quality assessors and other industry personnel to ensure a cross section of the supply chain provided their interpretations of strawberry quality.

Establishment of standardised quality assessment procedures were developed to collect consistent quality data essential for evaluating supply chain performance through monitoring and simulations. This protocol has since evolved into an app that enables real-time tracking and rapid reporting for strawberry shipments.

Strawberry monitoring and supply chain improvement

Strawberry shipment monitoring was conducted during the 2023 and 2024 Sunshine Coast (SC) and Bundaberg in Central Queensland (CQ) production seasons. The monitoring activities involved assessing quality, real time temperature, humidity, location and time from harvest to arrival at the Wholesaler or the Retail Distribution Centre in Melbourne. To analyse comparative production, weather and supply chain condition impacts on quality, the focus was on monitoring shipments of the predominate variety, ‘Red Rhapsody’.

Commercial strawberry businesses indicated that they felt they had good management and control of temperatures in their supply chains. Conducting monitoring activities on 21 strawberry shipments, across six businesses, identified departures from optimal temperature management in most of the chains that were analysed. Only 33% of the consignments had average supply chain temperatures that fell between the 2-5ºC range. Inadequate precooling to 5ºC or less was identified as the main cause of above average temperatures in the supply chain.

Incorrect pre-cooling was identified as an issue with 20% of consignments achieving the correct dispatch temperature of 1-5ºC. Improved pre-cooling was identified in the second year of monitoring. Collaboration with partner businesses facilitated enhancements in their temperature management strategies and motivated investments in new infrastructure.

Despite these improvements in pre-cooling, transport challenges emerged. Typically, transportation to market consolidates shipments from several growers in one truck. If the truck is pre-cooled to the proper temperature, but a few growers or packers have not precooled their strawberries, it can raise the temperature for the entire shipment, affecting all businesses involved.

It's important to note that refrigerated trucks are intended to maintain, not reduce, the temperature of produce.

Most retailers specify receival temperatures of 1-6ºC. If consignments do not meet this specification, then they may be rejected by the retailer. Half of consignments arrived in Melbourne, mainly to the Wholesale market, at 6ºC or less and 81% at 7ºC or less. One monitored

Figure 1. Participants at a strawberry industry quality workshop Photo credit: Department of Primary Industries, Queensland

consignment arrived at 10ºC, with an average supply chain temperature of 9.6ºC. The fruit in this consignment showed 20% bruising as a result of being transported by road at a higher temperature.

Interest in monitoring consignments using real time temperature and relative humidity (RH) monitors has increased with many wanting to be able to view what was happening to their shipments in real time.

In-market quality surveyor

Once consignments arrived in Melbourne, fruit samples were collected from the Wholesaler or Distribution Centre by an independent surveyor. Quality was assessed on arrival, stored at 4ºC, and again at day 7 and day 10 or 14 after arrival to measure end of shelf life. Participating businesses were supplied with an individual report to identify opportunities to improve their supply chains.

De-identifying and analysing shipment quality data showed fruit quality on arrival in the market was assessed as more than 90% fruit meeting an acceptable standard in 19 of 20 shipments assessed for quality.

In 2024, at the day 7 assessment, an average of 89% of the strawberries were still of an acceptable standard for consumption. In 2023 the day 7 average was 27% across 7 consignments. Generally, half of the fruit was assessed as end of shelf life by day 10 or 14 assessments in 2024. Figure 3 demonstrates the influence of average supply chain temperature on acceptable quality fruit. Quality starts to drop off when the average temperature goes above 5ºC. It also demonstrates that end of shelf life falls between 7 (red line) to 14 (green line) days after arrival at market.

Figure 2. Example of strawberry shipment monitoring from the Sunshine Coast to Melbourne, 2024 season, indicating ideal temperature management throughout the supply chain

Photo credit: Department of Primary Industries, Queensland

Predicting shelf life

Over the past two years, the project team simulated a range of consignment handling conditions to quantify impacts on fruit quality and shelf life. ‘Red Rhapsody’ variety strawberries were sourced from CQ and SC growers throughout the season. They were held at 1, 4, 10, 15 and 20ºC for up to 7 days and then stored at 4ºC until the end of shelf life. Two RH levels (85-90 and 6065%) were also tested at 4ºC. Fruit quality was recorded over the duration of the trials.

The trials confirmed the importance of rapidly removing field heat from freshly picked strawberries and maintaining optimal RH levels for preserving fruit quality and shelf life.

Key observations included:

• Pre-cooling berries down to 1ºC was optimal for maintaining quality

• Berries pre-cooled and maintained at 10ºC for 1 day following harvest lost up to 36% of shelf life relative to those cooled to 1ºC

• Berries held at 10ºC for 3 days (e.g. mixed load transport) lost up to 46% of shelf life, as compared to berries always kept at 1ºC

• Berries maintained at low (e.g. 60-65%) RH at 4ºC lost 3-8 times more weight than those held at 90% RH

• The higher RH level delayed visible fruit dehydration and associated loss of surface gloss and softening

The simulation trials could also be used to examine impacts of other deviations from optimal cool-chain practice (e.g. during cross-docking). This information could help growers and their supply chain partners to prioritise improvements to handling practice. The project team is using the simulation trial data to predict remaining shelf life of strawberries on arrival at market. This could assist supply chain participants to make informed decisions on stock management.

Figure 3. The relationship between average temperature along the supply chain and the percentage of acceptable fruits in the 2024 season

Photo credit: Department of Primary Industries, Queensland

In summary

Findings in the project so far identified that inadequate pre-cooling in 80% of monitored consignments is impacting the average supply chain temperature and reducing quality and shelf life. Simulation trials have been able to quantify the reduction in shelf life using the example of fruit stored at 10ºC for 1 and 3 days respectively reducing shelf life by 36% and 46% compared to storage at 1ºC. Simulation trails have also shown the importance of maintaining high RH (90%) to maintain fruit quality and improve shelf life.

What’s next?

More monitoring activities will take place this year with plans to look at strawberry supply chains in other parts of Australia. Further laboratory simulation studies will be conducted to develop the shelf life prediction model for ‘Red Rhapsody’ strawberries. Validation of the model in commercial supply chains will be conducted as part of the 2025 Queensland strawberry season before release to industry. Further work will also be conducted on other varieties such as ‘Albion’ and ‘Cabrillo’ as well as investigating the impacts on quality of postharvest disinfestation treatments such as Methyl Bromide and Irradiation.

This project offers a great opportunity for strawberry growers and their supply chain partners to get involved in monitoring their supply chains to identify areas of risk. Interested growers are invited to contact Jodie Campbell at jodie.campbell@daf.qld.gov.au or contact your local Berry Industry Development Officer.

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to acknowledge the Supply Chain Innovation Team members who have assisted with the strawberry activities. This includes Andrew Mead, Lawrance Smith, Saeedeh Taghadomi Saberi, John Agnew, Andrew Macnish, Pip Bryant, Yiru Chen and Boyd Tarlinton. We would also like to acknowledge the Team at Rudge Produce Systems for the in-market quality assessments.

The Serviced Supply Chains II project (AM21000) is funded by the Hort Innovation Frontiers Fund, Avocado and Strawberry research and development levy, and contributions from the Australian Government, with co-investment from the Department of Primary Industries, Queensland (DPI), Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, Victoria (DEECA), Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Northern Territory (DAF), Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Western Australia (DPIRD), Piñata Farms Pty Ltd and Summerfruit Australia Ltd. Hort Innovation is the grower-owned, not-for-profit research and development corporation for Australian horticulture.

Figure 4. Assessing strawberry quality during laboratory simulation trials

Rubus IPM: Project update

Dr Jon Finch, Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture

RB21000: Integrated pest management approaches to address pest challenges in raspberry and blackberry

RB21001: Using pheromones and traps in the management of mirids and vegetable bugs

Our national $2.4 million research program aims to improve integrated pest management (IPM) for raspberry and blackberry crops. The project will develop strategies that minimise chemical use and costs, whilst effectively managing pests. The Hort Innovation funded program, partnering the University of Tasmania, NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, and Agriculture Victoria, will create region-specific pest management solutions across Australia. The research will explore four core approaches: monitoring, biological control, pheromones, and trap cropping. More detailed information can be found by reading our digital newsletters at bit.ly/Rubus-IPM

Welcome, Justin

We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Justin Cappadonna to our team at the University of Tasmania’s Launceston campus, situated near many of Tassies largest Rubus crops.

Justin brings valuable expertise in managing mirids, a key pest in Rubus crops, and has made fascinating discoveries about their movement and nocturnal behaviour.

In this project, he will be working with Burlington Berries on conservation biocontrol and trap cropping techniques. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Justin for all things related to integrated pest management (IPM).

Justin.cappadonna@utas.edu.au | 03 6226 5954

Conservation biological control strips being trialled to promote predators at Piñata Farm, Orielton, Tasmania

Photo credit: Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture

Very hungry caterpillars

Last season, raspberry and blackberry crops in NSW faced significant caterpillar pest pressures. Saleh Adnan (NSW DPIRD) and University of Tasmania PhD candidate Jaher Ahmed are collaborating with Costa Berries on a 2-hectare trial testing three complimentary strategies to manage caterpillars pests, including Helicoverpa armigera (cotton bollworm), Helicoverpa punctigera (native budworm), and Spodoptera litura (cluster caterpillar). Saleh and Jaher’s trials are currently ongoing. The strategies being tested include:

• Mass trapping: Using species-specific pheromone lures and traps to capture moths before they can breed and lay eggs

• Conservation biocontrol: Planting zinnias, sunflowers, marigolds, and buckwheat to attract and support predators and parasitoids

• Biological control agents: Releasing Trichogramma pretiosum, a parasitic wasp, to control caterpillar populations

Tracking Trichopoda

Hasan Rahmani (Agriculture Victoria) is seeking help to track the distribution of Trichopoda giacomellii, a biocontrol agent for green vegetable bug. A fly species from central America, T. giacomellii was released in northern NSW in the 90’s but its current distribution is unknown. Knowing the pest’s distribution will help us to understand the potential of T. giacomellii to control green vegetable bug in temperate berry production areas like Victoria and Tasmania. Contact Hasan directly if you’d like to participate in specimen collection. Hasan.Rahmani@agriculture.vic.gov.au | 0417 940 012

Sexy solutions

UTAS PhD Candidate Seeger Van Kints is also conducting research on green vegetable bug. Seeger is currently synthesising green vegetable bug sex pheromones at the university. These will then be trialled as tools for monitoring and potentially trapping these problematic pests in raspberry crops. Seeger also aims discover the pheromones of the Australian crop mirid. Doing this may ultimately allow us to develop novel monitoring and management options for growers.

UTAS PhD candidate Jaher Ahmed deploying pheromone traps at Costa Berry, Corindi

Photo credit: Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture

Green vegetable bug wearing a very fashionable Trichopoda giacomellii egg ‘hat’

Photo credit: Jean and Fred Hort

Counting the cost of crop mirids

PhD candidate Kiran Bhusal is estimating action thresholds for the Australian crop mirid in raspberries. He is studying the damage caused by adult mirids to raspberry fruits and flowers. We hope this will help to develop better decision tools for growers in the future.

Kiran has also recently completed an experiment investigating the impact of temperature on crop mirid development. This data may then be used to help predict the appearance of mirids in raspberry and blackberry crops.

Goodbye, Michele Buntain

It is with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to UTAS horticultural and extension guru, Michele Buntain. Michele was instrumental in the development and implementation of this programme. She has led much of our extension efforts including planning field days, writing newsletters and developing the project website.

Her knowledge of horticulture, boundless enthusiasm and impressive networking abilities have been pivotal in our success to date. No doubt she will be equally missed by the scientific and horticultural communities that she did so much to bring together!

We wish Michele all the best in her future adventures, mainly caravaning around Australia. Thank you, Michele! You will be missed.

Acknowledgement

The projects, Integrated pest management approaches to address pest challenges in raspberry and blackberry (RB21000) and Using pheromones and traps in the management of mirids and vegetable bugs (RB21001) are strategic levy investments under the Hort Innovation Raspberry and Blackberry Fund. The projects have been funded by Hort Innovation, using the raspberry and blackberry research and development levy and contributions from the Australian Government, with in-kind contributions from the University of Tasmania, Agriculture Victoria, and NSW DPI. Hort Innovation is the grower owned, not-for-profit research and development corporation for Australian horticulture.

UTAS PhD candidate Kiran Bhusal deploying cages to study the impact of crop mirids on fruit set

Photo credit: Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture

UTAS PhD candidate Seeger van Kints searching for mirids in our flowering strips at Piñata Farm, Orielton, Tasmania. Photo credit: Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture

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