Fresh Source Winter 2025

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It is my pleasure to bring you the Winter 2025 edition of Fresh Source.

The last few months have proceeded at the usual hectic pace with plenty happening on site, end of financial year and of course our industry’s national flagship event – Hort Connections.

Hort Connections

Hort Connections is always an excellent opportunity for our industry to gather and share experiences. People from remote areas all over Australia come together for an intense few days of networking, information sharing, learning and celebration.

This year, Hort Connections was held in Brisbane and the Brisbane Markets was pleased to welcome nearly 100 delegates from all over Australia, and internationally, for tours throughout our facility.

Busloads of conference delegates arrived just after 6am to view Market trading operations in full flight, joining us for breakfast and coffee before departing.

Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) and Brismark staff guided delegates through our central trading area, providing background on the Brisbane Markets’ 60+ year journey and the significant innovations that have created today’s modern, industry-leading Market.

During the tours, several of our wholesalers made the time to meet with tour groups and speak with them directly, providing a personal perspective on their experience with the Brisbane Markets.

I would like to thank all of the BML and Brismark staff that helped make the site visit such a successful event, and also extend my gratitude to the wholesalers that gave up their valuable time during a busy workday to make our guests welcome, chat with them and answer questions. See more on page 13.

A very worthy acknowledgement

I am proud to share that Brismark was recognised at the Horticulture Awards for Excellence, announced at the Hort Connections’ Gala Dinner.

The Brisbane Markets Price Report app was a finalist for the prestigious UPL Tech Innovation Award.

The app was developed and launched late last year, providing pricing trends based on real-time, actual transactions. It is the first of its kind in the agriculture industry, demonstrating a much-needed level of transparency and accuracy.

Congratulations to the Brismark team. Read more on page 6.

Supermarkets inquiry continues to raise questions

As highlighted in our last issue of Fresh Source, the ACCC’s Supermarkets Inquiry Final Report came up with a list of 20 recommendations for the Federal Government’s consideration and action.

One recommendation (recommendation 16) raises questions and concerns, as it appears to shift the focus onto intermediaries such as wholesalers, deflecting the Inquiry from the real issues at hand in relation to major supermarkets. Specifically, the recommendation proposes amendments to the Hort Code which places a significant additional burden on wholesalers in terms of information disclosure and reporting. This seems at odds with the intended scope of the Inquiry, which was meant to address supermarket behaviours.

We will continue to monitor the progress of the Inquiry recommendations and work towards best possible outcomes for the industry. Read more on page 10.

In closing, I would like to thank those who contributed articles to Fresh Source – Westpac, BDO, HopgoodGanim and Fresh Markets Australia.

I’d also like to take a moment to acknowledge and congratulate Ed Golebiowski for a remarkable 50-year career with Brismark (see page 8).

I hope you enjoy reading this issue.

Andrew Young, Managing Director and CEO - BML Chief Executive Officer - Brismark

6 Accolades for Brisbane Markets Price Report 8 From hardware to high-tech: 50 years of dedication to Brismark

10 Out of scope: Supermarkets Inquiry again deflects focus to wholesaling sector 13 Brisbane Markets showcases industry leadership at 2025 Hort Connections

Women in the Markets: diverse roles powering a

produce hub 18 Unlocking value and reach through Brisbane Markets wholesalers and independent retailers

BRISBANE MARKETS LIMITED | ABN 39 064 983 017 PO Box 80, Brisbane Market, Rocklea, Queensland 4106 E communications@brisbanemarkets.com.au W www.brisbanemarkets.com.au

ADVERTISING AND EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES

Editor: Ann Robins, Brisbane Markets Limited P 07 3915 4200 E communications@brisbanemarkets.com.au

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Shift to mandatory prevention plans for sexual harassment and sex or gender-based harassment

Queensland leads national beetroot recovery and growth

FMA industry news and views

Growers on alert after tomato virus downgrade

Championing the interests of Granite Belt Growers

Wide Bay Burnett: autumn highlights and industry insights

Supporting North Queensland’s growers

Accolades for Brisbane Markets Price Report

Queensland’s fresh produce wholesaler representative organisation, Brismark, was recognised at the Horticulture Awards for Excellence announced as part of Hort Connections 2025, with its Brisbane Markets Price Report app named as a finalist for the prestigious UPL Tech Innovation Award.

Brismark CEO and Brisbane Markets Limited Managing Director and CEO Andrew Young said that the organisation was honoured to be recognised at the southern hemisphere’s largest horticulture industry conference as a finalist for the award, which recognises technology-focused innovation in the Australian or New Zealand fresh produce sector that creates value and impact.

“Our Market Price Report was launched in October last year, and we are already receiving positive feedback from growers and grower groups who are seeing the transparency and associated value the report provides,” said Mr Young.

“The Price Report is based on real sales data from fruit and vegetable wholesalers who operate on the trading floor at the Brisbane Markets, providing a reliable and verifiable source of information.”

This innovative mobile and web app, which was on display at Hort Connections 2025, provides subscribers with de-identified daily low, high, average, and most sales prices for fresh produce sold by Brisbane Markets wholesalers. With prices for over 160 produce lines or varieties updated and published at the end of each trading day, the Price Report helps address the longstanding calls from grower groups, the Federal Government, and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) for greater price transparency in the Central Markets.

Price reports used to be based more on observations and anecdotes rather than on real sales data, according to Mr Young.

"Even though they provided prompt feedback, the fresh produce wholesale industry was subject to criticism due to the lack of validated market price data,” Mr Young continued.

“As Brismark operates the financial clearing house for the Brisbane Markets, we receive daily invoicing data from Brisbane Markets wholesalers and have worked with over 90% of them

to turn this data into an easy-to-use phone and web app, offering real information at users’ fingertips, with subscriptions starting from less than the cost of a coffee a week.

"We believe this app is greatly increasing wholesale market price transparency and is a useful tool for growers, buyers, and other stakeholders across the fresh produce supply chain.”

The Price Report is based on real sales data from fruit and vegetable wholesalers who operate on the trading floor at the Brisbane Markets, providing a reliable and verifiable source of information.

Mr Young expressed that the organisation was honoured to receive recognition for their efforts. He extended his gratitude to his team, whose contributions made the app a reality, and congratulated the businesses and individuals who received an award or who were acknowledged as finalists in the Horticulture Excellence Awards.

“It is individuals and businesses such as these who are playing a crucial role in advancing our horticulture industry, ensuring we can overcome challenges and continue to satisfy the needs of our consumers, communities, and other stakeholders,” he said.

More information about the Brisbane Markets Price Report and a list of wholesalers who are contributing their sales data can be found by visiting brisbanemarketspricereport.com.au.

Awards

From hardware to high-tech: 50 years of dedication to Brismark

When 16-year-old Ed Golebiowski (Ed) stepped through the doors of Brismark’s hardware store in 1975, he expected a short-term job on his way to becoming an apprentice electrician. What he started, though, was a journey filled with unexpected opportunities, lasting relationships, and an unknown passion that would shape his future in ways he never imagined.

“I always intended to get a trade apprenticeship as an electrician after school,” Ed recalls.

“The only problem was, so did everyone else. I must have gone to 20 or 30 interviews, and there were at least 50 kids at each one, all fighting for just a couple of spots. It was tough.”

That all changed one day on Sherwood Road.

“I walked into the hardware store and asked for a job. I was hired as a shop assistant. It was supposed to be a part-time position while I kept looking for an apprenticeship, but as it turned out, it was the right fit — and the rest, as they say, is history.”

In those early days, Ed found his place among the organised chaos of the Brisbane Markets. He thrived in the energy, humour, and hard work of the industry.

“I met so many characters. Market people with stories that were absolutely hilarious and terrifying all in the same breath,” Ed says with a grin.

“It was like no other place I had ever seen. The hustle and bustle created an amazing atmosphere, and the people I dealt with, some of whom are also still here today, were incredible. It opened my eyes to a whole new world, a world I wanted to become a part of.”

Throughout the 1970’s and 1980’s, Brismark was involved in operating a range of businesses, including the hardware store, a packaging supplies business and a service station. Yet, it was the arrival of computers that marked a turning point in Ed’s career. After becoming manager of the hardware store in the early 1980’s, Ed was offered a new role that would define the next four decades.

“When computers came on the scene I was fascinated by them, so when the opportunity came to work with them, I jumped at it,” Ed says.

Ed’s 50 years of service to Brismark is a truly outstanding and exemplary achievement.

Ed’s natural curiosity and love of data made him the perfect candidate for a role focused on reading and translating data. Although the move from the hardware store to the Brismark office was not without challenges, Ed embraced it.

“It was a big change going from being on the floor speaking to customers firsthand on a daily basis to sitting at a desk. But learning about what these machines could do was exciting. Fast forward 40 years, and I cannot imagine how we would do what we do without technology,” he says.

“Software development, building apps for stakeholders — these were things we could only dream of back then. To play a part in creating those tools has been a real highlight of my career.”

Ed celebrated his 50-year anniversary at Brismark on 26 June 2025.

One project stands out above the rest as Ed happily details.

“The Brisbane Markets Price Report app project is probably the biggest thing I have worked on,” he says.

“I spent countless hours writing rules, fixing issues, and checking the accuracy of data — all the handson stuff I love. Seeing it in action and knowing that it is making a difference for our stakeholders is incredibly satisfying.”

In a world where most people change jobs every few years, Ed’s 50-year career at Brismark is nothing short of extraordinary. But he didn’t stay for lack of opportunity, he stayed because he loved it.

“The people are the reason I stayed,” Ed says simply.

“I have had the chance to work with some amazing individuals over the years. Why would I leave a place where I enjoy the work and the people so much?”

Ed officially began his career with the Queensland Chamber of Fruit and Vegetable Industries Cooperative Limited (now Brismark) on 26 June 1975.

Brismark CEO Andrew Young says Ed’s contribution is nothing short of monumental.

“Ed’s 50 years of service to Brismark is a truly outstanding and exemplary achievement, particularly when it comes to the Credit Service and meeting payment deadlines every week without fail.

“I congratulate Ed. Few people get to establish such a record, and his dedication to his role, the organisation and our Members is an amazing achievement and one to be celebrated.”

Now, when looking out over the Markets, Ed reflects on the half a century of transformation he has witnessed and marvels at what has become of the place he has always worked.

“Ed has been a committed and dependable member of the Brismark IT Team, which for 30 plus years was essentially structured around just three main people being Ed, Anthony Ennis and Margaret Bachelor (who retired some 10 years ago),” Mr Young said.

“That in itself speaks volumes about the team and their contributions to Brismark and our Members.

When

the time does come to move on, I will leave knowing I contributed to something that mattered and that made me happy.

“I remember when trains would pull in, loaded with fruit and veg, and workers would swarm to unload them. Watching the site grow, building after building going up — it has been remarkable.”

Ed says that he has no plans to go anywhere just yet either.

“Brismark is like a family. Sure, there are ups and downs, but that is what makes us strong. I am lucky that I found my spot and I am not going anywhere. The culture here is special and that is why I still love working here,” he says.

“When the time does come to move on, I will leave knowing I contributed to something that mattered and that will make me happy. When I do finally go, I will be baiting a fishing line somewhere and spending time with family, but I still have many miles left in the tank and I intend to see them through.”

Ed Golebiowski officially began his career with the Queensland Chamber of Fruit and Vegetable Industries Co-operative Limited (now known as Brismark) on 26 June 1975.

The Brismark hardware store where Ed Golebiowski started his career at Brismark 50-years ago.

Ed (far right) at work in the 1980’s.

Out of scope: Supermarkets Inquiry again deflects focus to wholesaling sector

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) released its Supermarkets Inquiry 2024-25 final report in March 2025, making 20 recommendations designed to improve competition in the supermarket sector, make a difference for consumers and give suppliers fairer bargaining conditions.

However, one recommendation (recommendation 16) has shifted the focus onto intermediaries such as wholesalers, calling for increased transparency for growers who sell fresh produce through them.

Specifically, the recommendation proposes amendments to the Horticulture Code of Conduct (Hort Code) to require traders such as wholesalers to provide significantly more detailed and timely information to growers about the sale of produce sold on their behalf.

This includes disclosing the buyer's identity, sale price, date of sale and any relationships between the trader and the buyer. It also seeks to prohibit merchants from setting the purchase price using a method or formula.

Recommendation 16 has shifted the focus onto intermediaries such as wholesalers, calling for increased transparency for growers who sell fresh produce through them.

Brismark Chief Executive Officer Andrew Young expressed concern about the relevance of this recommendation, arguing that it falls outside the intended scope of the Inquiry, which was meant to address supermarket behavioural practices and their significant market and bargaining power.

“The recommendation to amend the Hort Code is surprising, particularly as very little evidence appears to have been submitted to the Inquiry requesting such a review,” Mr Young said.

“It is just deflecting the Inquiry from the real issues at hand in relation to major supermarkets.”

He pointed out that the Hort Code underwent an independent review in 2015, leading to protections for growers by mandating written agreements with agents and merchants. These agreements include, among other things, requirements for transparent pricing methods and payment timelines.

“Wholesalers at the Brisbane Markets are required to comply with this mandatory Code and have individual Horticulture Produce Agreements (HPAs) in place with each grower,” he explained.

“In addition, most of our wholesalers usually operate as merchants rather than agents, which means they take ownership of, and liability for, the produce rather than sell it on behalf of a grower.

“If wholesalers don't have the flexibility to use a method or formula when setting the purchase price, then it is likely that the grower or the wholesaler may lose out, particularly for produce lines which may be warehoused or ripened prior to being made available for sale.”

Mr Young emphasised that the initial purpose of the Supermarkets Inquiry was to address their market power, along with transparency issues and fairer bargaining between supermarkets and growers.

“Although the new Food and Grocery Code has some merits, how could the findings of the Inquiry have been seriously considered in formulating this Code?

“While there is still a lot of work that needs to be done to address the massive market imbalance and power of the major supermarkets, it appears very unusual for the recommendations to focus on unrelated topics outside the scope of the review.”

The recommendation to amend the Hort Code is just deflecting the Inquiry from the real issues at hand in relation to major supermarkets.

He also acknowledged that transparency is a valid concern for growers and highlighted Brisbane Markets’ wholesalers and Brismark’s additional efforts to address this concern.

“In 2024, Brismark launched the Brisbane Markets Price Report app, which provides real daily wholesale sales data, available to growers, buyers and other stakeholders across the fresh produce supply chain,” he said.

“At the end of each trading day, actual sales prices for over 160 individual produce lines or varieties are updated, including low, high, average and most sales prices.

“This level of transparency is something growers have long sought, and it is something they will not currently find elsewhere.

“Brismark also provides its wholesalers with training and information and operates a Dispute Resolution Grower Hotline to support their compliance with the Hort Code.”

We want our Central Markets to grow and prosper, and not be stifled by unnecessary regulation and increased costs.

According to Mr Young, the recommendation included in the Supermarkets Inquiry’s final report represents the kind of regulatory overreach and potential red tape that could escalate costs for the wholesale sector, further reduce competition in the marketplace and give the supermarkets even more market power.

“Running a fresh produce wholesale business is no easy task — there are costly overheads, and it requires immense effort and dedication from many people to succeed,” he stated.

Mr Young emphasised the value that a wholesaler can add for growers to access more diverse market segments such as the independent retailer sector, the food service, hospitality and catering sectors, food processors and exporters.

“We want our Central Markets to grow and prosper and not be stifled by unnecessary regulation — so that growers can continue to have options with regard to where they choose to supply their produce.”

To read the final report, go to: https://www.accc.gov.au/inquiries-andconsultations/supermarkets-inquiry-2024-25/ final-report

Donate Your Surplus Food To Feed Families In Need

Foodbank Queensland, with the support of Brisbane Markets, works with Brisbane Market Tenants to rescue food, reduce waste, and stop Queenslanders going hungry. Working together, more than 328,000 kilograms of fresh food is collected by Foodbank Queensland at Brisbane Markets each year and distributed to people in need. That’s the equivalent of 590,000 meals provided to children and adults experiencing hunger. Donating surplus produce or produce otherwise destined for landfill enables Brisbane Markets Tenants to directly provide benefits to people who are living in disadvantaged circumstances, while also having a positive impact on the environment and reducing business costs.

• Save on your waste disposal costs

• Reduce the volume of waste going to landfill

• Provide food directly to people in need

• Simple pick up process

• Positive impact on staff morale

• Meet your businesses ESG requirements

• Meet your businesses ESG requirements

• Ease of pallet transfer

Brisbane Markets showcases industry leadership at 2025 Hort Connections

Hort Connections 2025 once again cemented its status as the premier event on the Australasian fresh produce calendar, attracting over 4,000 delegates across the full breadth of the supply chain from growers and wholesalers to retailers, exporters, and service providers.

Brisbane Markets Limited (BML), in partnership with Brismark, proudly represented Queensland's leading wholesale marketplace at the event, joining forces with Central Market and Chamber colleagues from across Australia. Held this year in Brisbane, the conference provided a strategic platform for showcasing the strength and resilience of the Central Market network.

An industry reconnected and reinvigorated

Hosted under the theme of unity and progress, the 2025 Trade Show was presented by Fresh Markets Australia (FMA) and the Central Markets Association of Australia (CMAA), operating together under the national banner Australia’s Fresh Produce Markets. This collaboration underscores the shared commitment to advancing the industry through innovation, collaboration, and market access.

With over 70 expert speakers and panellists, the conference program addressed key issues impacting the horticulture sector, from sustainability and supply chain disruptions to consumer trends and technology. Educational sessions and hands-on workshops added value for attendees seeking to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.

Brisbane Markets welcomes the industry home

As the event took place in its home city, Brisbane Markets Limited and Brismark welcomed nearly 100 delegates on site for guided tours of its Central Trading Area offering firsthand insights into the scale, operations, and role of the Brisbane Markets in Australia's fresh produce landscape. Delegates heard directly from long-standing tenants, including Paul Joseph from Alfred E. Chave, Noel Greenhalgh from R.W. Pascoe and Matthew Spencer of Carter & Spencer Group, gaining a deeper appreciation of the marketplace’s dynamic role in ensuring fresh food supply across Queensland and beyond.

With the horticulture industry contributing over $15 billion annually to the Australian economy, Hort Connections serves as a vital forum for driving collaboration, sharing insights, and strengthening the supply chain. Brisbane Markets Limited and Brismark's active involvement reflects its strategic focus on industry leadership, national engagement, and the long-term success of fresh produce markets across the country.

Hort Connections 2025: a record-breaking event

Held from 4 – 6 June 2025, at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, Hort Connections 2025 attracted over 4,200 delegates, including more than 1,200 growers, marking a 20% increase in attendance compared to the previous year. The event featured over 200 exhibiting companies and 70 expert speakers, making it the largest horticulture conference and trade show in Australasia.

Australia’s Central Markets and Chamber colleagues joined together at Hort Connections, showcasing the very best of our industry.

Brisbane Markets welcomed Hort Connections delegates for an early morning tour of the Central Trading Area.

Tour visitors had the opportunity to meet with several wholesalers, including Paul Joseph of Alfred E. Chave.

Continued investment in the Brisbane Markets

Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) experienced a productive and focused start to the year, executing a broad range of works across site. These projects aimed to improve safety, maintain infrastructure standards, streamline processes on site and support long-term operational resilience.

New car park management system

A new car park management system installed at CP1 and CP2 North car parks implement a cashless payment model, enhancing accessibility and streamlining vehicle traffic. BML also launched new discounted weekly and monthly parking packages to maintain affordable parking rates for all users.

Line marking upgrades

Several high-traffic areas including roads, intersections, car parks, and pedestrian walkways required the re-application of line markings. The refreshed markings, applied in accordance with the Department of Transport and Main Roads specifications, have improved site safety and traffic control methods. Further works will continue in the next six months.

Brisbane Flower Market refresh

The Brisbane Flower Market flooring received an upgrade with a complete surface treatment to rejuvenate the non-slip surface and refreshed line marking.

A facelift for communal spaces

Columns, planter boxes, lobbies, stairwells, walkways, kitchens and toilets around the Brisbane Markets have all benefited from cleaning, patching and a fresh coat of paint. All the works were conducted after hours to minimise disruption to tenants.

Elevating critical infrastructure

BML continues to focus on ways to protect vital site infrastructure with a view to flood mitigation. This includes commencing major projects to elevate refrigeration systems and sewer pump control panels at various locations on site. A new plant deck for Building B1 will elevate refrigeration systems.

Strengthening national reach through targeted market investment

Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) is committed to strengthening Australia’s fresh produce supply chain through targeted investment and national collaboration. BML’s 49% shareholding in Perth Markets Group Limited (PMGL) is a key component of our broader strategy under Business Development and Diversification.

Perth Markets is Western Australia’s central wholesale trading hub, servicing more than 80% of the state’s fresh produce needs. BML’s investment ensures a strong presence in this strategically important market, while supporting the development of infrastructure that delivers long-term benefits to industry stakeholders across the country.

Recent developments at Perth Markets, including the construction of a new temperature-controlled warehouse and the rollout of a large-scale solar energy project, are aligned with BML’s ongoing commitment to modernising market operations and reducing environmental impact.

BML's involvement with Perth Markets reinforces our commitment to a national network that is resilient, efficient, and future-focused. By partnering with market operators across jurisdictions, BML continues to lead with a vision for an integrated, high-performing fresh produce supply and distribution chain, one that supports the growth of the horticultural sector at both state and national levels.

Supporting the businesses that support our industry

Brisbane Markets is a unique site, not only as Queensland’s only Central Market for wholesale fresh produce, but as a commercial site offering both retail and office space.

It is a perfect location for businesses delivering support services to the agriculture industry in Queensland, providing access and proximity to the state’s fresh produce distribution chain.

As Australia moves forward from the pandemic, the commercial property industry is seeing a shift back to officebased work, driving a corresponding increase in demand.

Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) has noticed that the nature of demand has changed in several important ways, as businesses seek smaller, flexible office spaces that offer value for money.

A shift to highly accessible fringe suburbs outside the CBD makes good economic and business sense.

With over 250 leases in place, BML continues to invest in quality developments and site enhancements that support our diverse range of tenant needs, including the agriculture, commercial and retail sectors.

If you are interested in leasing office space at Brisbane Markets, please reach out to BML’s Property Department for more information and to arrange an inspection. Office spaces are

Women in the Markets: diverse roles powering a fresh produce hub

At the heart of the Brisbane Markets is a hardworking community of women powering everything from logistics and sales to compliance, human resources, operations, and marketing.

Whether it is behind the wheel of a forklift, negotiating deals on the trading floor or ensuring financial and regulatory systems run smoothly behind the scenes, women are playing a vital and increasing role in every part of our industry.

Sandy Sorbello of Brisbane Markets-based fruit and vegetable wholesaler RW Pascoe has been working at the Markets for over 15 years. During that time, she has seen a transformation in how women are contributing to the way the Markets are run.

“There is no job here at the Markets that cannot be done by a woman. Be it sales, warehousing, forklift driving, office roles, picking and packing — women fill a diverse portfolio of roles here, which has not always been the case,” Ms Sorbello says.

Starting out as a data entry temp with RW Pascoe, Ms Sorbello has worked her way up to be Finance and Administration Manager, an integral role within the business.

“It really is a great job working here at the Markets,” she says.

“There is opportunity to learn and to go as far as you want with your career. When I started out, I never thought I would be in my current role managing company finances. Every day is different here, and there are always new challenges to embrace.”

The diversity of roles reflects the diversity of the women filling them. Louise Bedford, a forklift operator at Brisbane Markets fresh produce wholesaler Rising Sun Produce and a finalist in the 2024 Brisbane Produce Market Forklift Operator of the Year, loves that her role is hands-on, fast-paced, and physically demanding.

“I have been working on the trading floor for over ten years, and I love it,” she says.

“There is a real team spirit out there, and if you work hard, you get noticed.”

Coming to the Markets from a landscape gardening background, Ms Bedford said she had often dealt with people questioning her career choice, so she was well prepared when she arrived.

“There were only a handful of women operating forklifts when I started at the Markets, and it is really satisfying to see that change over the years,” she said.

Lifting the profile of women in the Markets — Louise Bedford, Forklift Operator at Rising Sun Produce.

“Not everyone is suited to working in an office environment. That is the beauty of working at the Markets: if you want a role that lets you get out and work in operations, you can.

“There really are no barriers for women who want to work here at the Brisbane Markets. There are so many different roles, and I love being a part of the community.”

For Katrina Carpenter and Danielle Peeters, both in senior sales roles at wholesaler Favco Queensland, the Markets have offered an exciting career path.

“I started out doing data entry,” says Ms Carpenter. “But once I stepped into sales, I knew I had found something I could build a career around. It challenged me in all the right ways.

“It is hard work, early starts and long hours, but it’s very rewarding.”

Ms Peeters agrees: “This place teaches you how to be sharp, how to negotiate, how to adapt. I enjoy the buzz and the relationships you build. Every day is different, and that keeps me coming back.

“Every day there are new challenges, but that just means I must think differently and try new things to get the results. That is very exciting.”

Many businesses in the fresh produce industry are familyowned and operated, some of them for many generations.

Behind the trading floor buzz, there is a huge range of administration and support roles that keep everything running smoothly. Dianne Handley from O’Toole Produce has spent over two decades in administration roles and still finds purpose and satisfaction in her work.

“I love what I do. For me, there is a lot of satisfaction in enjoying what I do and knowing I do it well. It is steady, it suits my lifestyle, and I have always felt appreciated,” says Ms Handley.

“I have worked at the Markets for 23 years, and have seen so much change in that time, especially when it comes to the evolution of women working here. I can genuinely say that there is no better place to come and work. It is a real community.”

At Brismark, the Brisbane Markets wholesaler representative organisation and operator of the Credit Service facility, women make up over 70% of the staff. Tammy Brereton, Brismark’s Senior Credit Officer, has a critical role with the Brismark Credit Service and ensuring timely credit service payments to wholesalers each week.

“No two days are ever quite the same as a Credit Officer,” Mrs Brereton says.

“Credit applications and biennial reviews are a constant, but each day brings its own set of priorities and challenges. It is a fast-paced role that keeps me on my toes, but that is what makes it so rewarding.”

With a strong focus on training and retaining good employees, the Brisbane Markets provides great career progression opportunities. It is certainly an industry that “gets in your blood” and can become a life-long passion. Many businesses in the fresh produce industry are family-owned and operated, some of them for many generations.

With so much experience across so many different channels under the one roof, there is always someone to provide help and advice.

“Having a mentor made all the difference for me,” said Ms Carpenter.

“If you are new here, I recommend that you find someone who has walked the path before. It can be a great help and support.”

Brismark’s recruitment service encourages women to consider roles across all aspects of the industry, including administration, logistics, compliance, operations and sales.

As the produce industry evolves to meet new challenges, such as sustainability and digitisation, the need for diverse skills and fresh thinking has never been greater.

If you are considering a career in fresh produce distribution, or your business is seeking some help to recruit new people, contact Brismark on 07 3915 4222 or email admin@brismark.com.au

Tammy Brereton — Senior Credit Officer at Brismark.

Katrina Carpenter and Danielle Peeters of Favco Queenslandready to make a sale.

Unlocking value and reach through Brisbane Markets wholesalers and independent retailers

One of the most effective strategies for fruit and vegetable growers looking for a smart, strategic advantage, is partnering with a wholesaler at the Brisbane Markets – Queensland’s most important centre for the marketing and distribution of fresh produce. This collaboration offers growers a powerful combination of market insight, industry expertise, and access to a wide-reaching customer base.

Growers also benefit from the added confidence that comes with wholesaler partnerships supported by initiatives like the A better choice! retailer program, which strengthens connections with independent retailers and enhances visibility in the retail space.

Tapping into market insights and industry expertise

Brisbane Markets' wholesalers bring decades of experience to the table. These professionals understand the nuances of the fresh produce supply chain and have a keen sense of what buyers are looking for. By leveraging this expertise, growers can better align their offerings with market demand, ensuring their produce reaches the right customers at the right time.

Viny Byrne of Brisbane Markets' wholesaler Favco Queensland says that the relationship between grower and wholesaler needs to be strong and honest.

“I am in constant contact with the growers I deal with, updating them on the market, and they let me know how the season’s yield is coming along,” said Mr Byrne.

Diversifying revenue streams

Another key advantage of working with a Brisbane Markets' wholesaler is the ability to tap into a broad and varied customer base, including secondary wholesalers, restaurants, cafés, hospitality and catering providers, food processors, exporters, and of course independent supermarkets and local independent fruit and vegetable shops.

This extensive network not only increases the likelihood of consistent sales but also helps growers diversify their revenue streams and reduce reliance on any single market segment or buyer.

Matthew Spencer, Principal of Brisbane Markets wholesaler Carter and Spencer, says the sales avenues that wholesalers have can be the key for a grower to take the next step in evolving their business.

“When we work with a grower, we want them to succeed, because their success is our success.” Mr Spencer says.

“That is why we have such a diverse range of customers, as it creates stability and resilience in the face of fluctuating market demands and seasonal variations.

“A broad customer base also allows us to reach different market segments and adapt to changing consumer preferences, ultimately leading to better returns for our growers.”

Backed by a retailer marketing program

In addition to the expertise and a broad customer base, Brisbane Markets' wholesalers and their independent retailer buyers are supported through a national retailer program that encourages consumers to eat more fresh fruit and vegetables and to shop at local, independent retailers.

The A better choice! retailer program, which is run in Queensland by Brismark with the support of Brisbane Markets Limited, operates in collaboration with Brisbane Markets' wholesalers and their retailer buyers who are members of the program.

The program offers state-based television advertising, national campaigns and partnership promotions designed to educate, inspire and engage customers at the point of sale.

This coordinated approach helps drive demand back through the supply chain, benefiting not only retailers and wholesalers but also the growers who supply their produce to Brisbane Markets' wholesalers.

Collaborating with industry groups such as Hort Innovation Australia (HIA), grower organisations and fresh produce brands, the A better choice! program and Brismark work closely with wholesalers to maximise the potential impact that a new season of produce can bring to a retail environment through partnership promotions.

Viny Byrne, Favco Queensland.

Mr Byrne has long supported the A better choice! retailer program, particularly when it comes to promoting Australian cherries. Byrne believes that working with Brismark and the program is an excellent way to increase awareness about the quality of the produce and encourage customer purchases.

“For products like cherries, they are perceived as a treat, with more than 75% of cherry purchases being impulse buys based on the quality offered,” Mr Byrne says.

“By promoting them through the retailer program that Brismark offers, we can open many more opportunities, which in turn helps us with sales — these flow back to the grower through increased demand for their fruit.

“Every cherry season throws up its challenges, but planning, funding, and implementing promotions is vital.

“Your offering also needs to be of top quality — there is no point in trying to do a promotion for a specific category or brand with low-quality produce.”

Fellow Brisbane Markets' wholesaler Luke Goody of Central Park Produce agrees that fresh produce growers are always looking for ways to promote their products. They just need to ensure their efforts are sustainable.

“Customers are always looking for the best deal, whether in wholesale or retail,” Mr Goody says.

“But the one factor that usually outweighs price is quality. If you have a quality product and are promoting it through the right retailers, the chances of success are high.

“Retailers will always return for quality items if their customers are asking for them. By leveraging promotions through a program such as A better choice! suppliers and retailers can unlock value they may not have previously realised.”

Independent retailers’ important role in the fresh produce supply chain

Independent retailers have the flexibility to source a large range of unique, high-quality, and seasonal produce from various suppliers through Central Markets such as the Brisbane Markets.

By encouraging consumers to shop at these local outlets, the A better choice! retailer program indirectly supports the growers whose produce fills their shelves.

Alf Catalano, owner of Spuds and Plums in Upper Mt Gravatt, Brisbane, says his customers want ‘fresh’ produce and the A better choice! retailer program promotes and supports that.

“Our customers see the ads on TV promoting A better choice! and how retailers in the program source their produce from the Brisbane Markets and that it is quality, fresh food,” Mr Catalano says.

“They know that we are at the Markets five times a week collecting the best quality produce for them, which is why they keep coming back.”

As Australia’s horticulture sector continues to evolve, growers should consider strategic partners who can navigate the complexities of distribution, marketing, market intelligence and consumer engagement. Wholesalers at the Brisbane Markets provide an option that not only connects growers with a broad cross section of buyers through expertise and insights but can also deliver additional value through the independent retail channel.

Luke Goody, Central Park Produce.

A better choice! Retailer Program Member Alf Catalano (above) from Spuds and Plums sources a large range of produce fresh from the Brisbane Markets five days per week, and his store at Mt Gravatt (below).

Preparing for a cheque-free future

Article by Simon Thurbin (Westpac Regional General Manager, Southern QLD, Regional and Agribusiness)

Cheques have been circulating as a form of payment since the days of ancient Rome, but from late 2029 they will no longer be accepted in Australia.

The phase-out will be in two steps. The deadline for issuing the last cheques is 30 June 2028, while cheques will cease to be accepted from 30 September 2029. Alongside this is a shift to real-time payments as Australia’s Bulk Electronic Clearing System is wound down by 2030.

For most people, the days of carrying a chequebook are a distant memory, but there are still plenty of businesses relying on this payment method. And there’s substantial work to be done to get technology, systems, and processes ready to move on.

The rise and fall of cheques in Australia

At their peak in the 1980s, cheques accounted for around 85% of all non-cash payments in Australia and almost all their value.

By 2022, that figure had fallen dramatically to less than 0.1% of retail payments by volume and just 0.05% by value and, as the volume of cheques declined, the cost per transaction exceeded $5 for every cheque processed.

The perfect storm of the COVID-19 pandemic and technological advances completely changed the way people pay for everyday purchases. The pandemic accelerated an adoption of digital payments that was already happening, as consumers and businesses sought safer, more convenient ways to transact.

From late 2029, cheques will no longer be accepted in Australia.

Today cheque usage has continued to decline, but Reserve Bank of Australia data shows there were still almost 1 million cheques issued in the year to April 2025 at a value of over $13 billion.

Evolution of payments

In horticulture, cheques persist for a few key reasons:

• Lack of digital payment details for growers, suppliers, or seasonal workers

• Legacy systems embedded in accounting and ERP platforms

• Regulatory or contractual mandates that still specify cheque issuance

However, as the world moves towards real-time digital payments there’s an increasing number of payment options for both individuals and businesses.

Businesses that act now will avoid disruption, unlock efficiencies and strengthen their competitive position.

Individuals have embraced real-time payments through the New Payments Platform (NPP), and the platform’s share of account-to-account transactions has increased from 5% in 2019 to 35% in 2024.

There are now more than 100 financial institutions offering NPP payments and over 102 million accounts reachable, with people and businesses paying through Osko and through PayID and PayTo for instant, data-rich payments 24/7.

These products are already here and are being used by increasing numbers of Australians and Australian organisations.

Considerations for a smooth transition

To ensure a smooth and well-supported transition away from cheques, businesses should begin planning now. A phased approach will help mitigate operational risk, reduce cost, and support customers through the change.

• Ask your bank to help you conduct a real-time maturity assessment to identify capability gaps and prioritise areas for investment.

• Define a clear timeline for when cheque issuance and acceptance will cease.

• Design alternative payment and reconciliation processes that are efficient and scalable.

• Upgrade payables and receivables channels to support real-time capabilities such as PayTo, Dynamic Virtual Cards and Osko.

• Pilot real-time capabilities in high-impact areas, such as grower settlements or seasonal payroll, to build confidence and demonstrate value.

• Communicate early and often with suppliers and customers to manage expectations and ensure a smooth transition.

This is not a task that can be completed overnight - it requires careful planning and communication. For example, if your business currently pays growers or suppliers by cheque and doesn’t hold their bank account or PayID details, you’ll need to start securely collecting that information now.

A call to action for the sector

The horticultural sector has long been a leader in innovation –from precision agriculture to sustainable packaging. There’s an opportunity to bring this same innovative mindset to payments and businesses are encouraged to act now.

This change is coming and it’s coming fast. The sooner businesses embrace and prepare for it, the sooner they can take advantage of the opportunities in the new payments landscape.

The end of cheques is more than a regulatory milestone—it’s a catalyst for operational transformation. Businesses that act now will not only avoid disruption but also unlock new efficiencies, improve cash flow visibility, and strengthen their competitive position in a rapidly evolving payments landscape.

To find out more about how your business can manage the end of cheques and shift to real-time payments, reach out to your local Westpac Agribusiness Banker. We’re here to help: https://www.westpac.com.au/business-banking/industries/ agribusiness/specialists/.

Simon Thurbin, Westpac Regional General Manager, Southern QLD, Regional and Agribusiness.

Business Legacy and leadership in agribusiness

Article supplied by BDO, written by Jodie Knowlton (Business Services Partner, Food & Agribusiness) and Suzy Munt (Business Services Partner, Family Enterprise)

In Australia’s agribusiness sector, where family, land, and enterprise are deeply intertwined, succession planning is more than a financial or legal exercise. It is the strategic intersection of business continuity, intergenerational wealth, and shared values. For family businesses, the question is not simply who will take over, but how the transition will sustain both the enterprise and the family behind it.

Rethinking succession

Traditional succession models often have a narrow focus on ownership transfer. Yet demographic shifts, blended family structures, and new operational complexities mark this view as incomplete. Effective succession planning must address leadership development, family governance, and long-term value creation.

BDO’s family enterprise and agribusiness partners specialise in supporting family farming businesses through this process. One of the tools they use is the 4L’s framework, detailed below, which adds structure around an individual within a

multi-generational family. Once defined, this structure helps to articulate roles and responsibilities and supports their development.

Effective succession planning must address leadership development, family governance, and long-term value creation.

Learning business

The up-and-coming generation is encouraged to develop a deep understanding of business in general, including operations, financials, and market dynamics. This is particularly critical in agribusiness, which has its own unique set of challenges, such as tight margins, resource scarcity, commodity cycles and many other macro factors like weather and market conditions.

Learning the family business

This step includes learning to effectively manage the ‘five capitals’ of family enterprises: Human, intellectual, social, ethical and financial capital. Every family business has its own culture, history, relationships and informal rules. Understanding these dynamics is essential, and gaining the opportunity to learn the unique aspects of family farming business is key for any member of a multi-generational business.

Learning to lead

Leadership is not conferred by inheritance. It must be earned through experience, mentorship, and accountability. Structured development pathways can help emerging leaders build the skills and confidence they need, such as board participation or external work experience.

Learning to let go

For patriarchs and matriarchs, succession can involve a shift in identity. Letting go does not mean stepping away entirely. It is about redefining their role from operator and day-to-day decision maker to mentor. This phase is about creating legacy by passing on knowledge that guides younger family members to learn business, learn the family business and learn to lead.

Succession is not a single event. It is a deliberate process that unfolds over time.

Responding to the times

From blended families and complex estates to career divergence and longevity, it’s important to ensure that succession planning reflects the lived realities of modern families. Succession in modern times does not only consider “who is running/owning the family business” but instead looks holistically at how we can support the next generation. These considerations may also include:

• Children pursuing careers outside the family business. This raises complex questions about fairness, especially when only one sibling is actively involved in the enterprise.

• On average, people now live and work longer, meaning leadership transitions are often postponed. This can create bottlenecks and stall innovation unless managed proactively.

• Modern family structures require careful planning to ensure clarity, equity, and legal robustness. Transparent communication and objective facilitation are key.

A case in point

Consider a family-owned horticulture business on Brisbane’s outskirts. The eldest son returned to manage operations after studying agribusiness, while his siblings' pursued careers in health and education. The parents, still active in the business, wanted to ensure continuity without creating division.

Through a structured plan and the right advisers, they:

• Transitioned operational control to the son over five years

• Created a family council to support inclusive decisionmaking

• Established a structure that enables whole of family land ownership, enabling income distribution while preserving the farm’s values and integrity

• Involved the whole family in planning to ensure they were all on the same page to avoid future conflicts.

The result is a sustainable business, a united family, and a clear path forward.

Looking ahead

Succession is not a single event. It is a deliberate process that unfolds over time. For Australian agribusiness families, the goal is not just to pass on assets, but to foster leadership, preserve values, and instil sustainability and resilience across generations.

Contact us on 1300 138 991 or www.bdo.com.au/contact to learn more about how BDO’s experienced professionals can assist your agribusiness to approach succession planning with clarity, empathy, and long-term vision.

Download our 4L’s explainer

When planning the path to succession, it can be helpful to consider the ‘4Ls’ approach taken in family business: ‘Learn business,’ ‘Learn our business,’ ‘Learn to lead,’ and ‘Learn to let go.’

For each of these stages, there are education and leadership development milestones that can be applied in any business involved in family succession.

Download our explainer to learn more about the 4Ls: https://shorturl.at/MjNeJ

The importance of monitoring cyber risks: how to handle a ‘Cyber Crisis’

Article supplied by HopgoodGanim Lawyers, written by Rebecca Rutland (Senior Associate, Corporate and Commercial team) in collaboration with HopgoodGanim’s Intellectual Property, Technology and Cyber Security team.

With the rapid advancement of technology, cyber-attacks are becoming more prevalent and increasingly more sophisticated. Formerly confined to the plotlines of Hollywood films, cyberattacks are now an everyday occurrence, with businesses, governments, and individuals around the world being targeted by enterprise criminals with the skills and resources to exploit digital vulnerabilities for financial gain.

On average, a cybercrime is reported to the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) once every six minutes,1 and the Australian Government expects the rate of these attacks to increase. The development of AI and other technological tools has coincided with the industrialisation of cybercrime,2 creating the perfect conditions for the proliferation of these online attacks. Cybercriminals have perhaps the most scalable business model of all - anyone with an internet connection, regardless of size, industry or revenue, is in their target market. Recent high-profile cyber-attacks are indicative of this operating model, with targeted companies operating across a broad spectrum of industries including telecommunications, health insurance and legal services.3 The Government is not immune from cyber-attacks either.4 While the average self-reported cost of cybercrime to all businesses has decreased by 8% to the 2022/23 financial year,5 cybercrimes continue to be a persistent and disruptive threat to any business.6

According to the Australian Government’s Cyber Security Strategy 2023-2030 (Strategy),8 safeguarding online platforms and services in Australia’s digital economy is critical for the productivity and prosperity of local businesses around the country.

But business owners must take an active approach to evaluating their cyber security processes. Clearly the security of the economy cannot be maintained unless private companies and individuals are adequately equipped to manage a cyber crisis, and the Australian Government has been particularly vocal about the need for everyone to take an active interest in mitigating cyber risks.

As cyber-attacks become more sophisticated, and more frequent, it is becoming increasingly apparent that businesses across the economy must invest more time and resources into strengthening their digital defences. The question is no longer if your business will suffer a cyber-attack, but when and in what form

Snapshot from the ASD’s Cyber Threat Report7

Average cost of cybercrime per report for businesses

Cybercrime reports

Calls to the Australian Cyber Security Hotline

Top 3 cybercrime types for business

Down 8%

• small business: $49,600 (up 8%)

• medium business: $62,800 (down 35%)

• large business: $63,600 (down 11%).

Nearly 87,400 cybercrime reports

• On average a report every 6 minutes.

Answered over 36,700 calls, up 12%

• On average 100 calls per day

• email compromise (20%)

• business email compromise (BEC) fraud (13%)

• online banking fraud (13%).

How to manage a Cyber Crisis

What is ‘appropriate’ risk management will vary from business to business.

However, business owners can look to guidance released by the Australian Institute of Company Directors for direction on how to effectively respond to, and recover from, a cyber security incident.9 In preparing yourself for a cyber crisis, you should focus on four key areas: Readiness, Response, Recovery and Remediation.

Similarly to the old military adage, proper planning prevents poor outcomes in responding to cyber-attacks. You should take steps now to ensure your team is able to quickly and efficiently respond to, and recover from, a cyber crisis and protect your business from financial and reputational damage.

Next steps

Cybercrime is not going away. A failure to take proper care in monitoring and responding to cyber risks can have serious implications for you as a business owner, particularly where sensitive data is stolen or where your business suffers significant financial loss.

Our team can assist in conducting a review of your company’s existing cyber security processes to determine whether they are fit for purpose and, if needed, prepare a response plan which addresses your various reporting obligations. These types of ‘Cyber Health Checks’ are critical to ensuring that your business is adequately protected and should be conducted on an ongoing basis.

For more information and to ensure your company is protected, reach out to HopgoodGanim Lawyers: www.hopgoodganim.com.au.

1 Australian Government, Australian Signals Directorate, ‘ASD Cyber Threat Report 2023-2024’, 20 November 2024, 3-4.

2 For a discussion of the current cyber extortion business model, see James McIntosh, ‘The Case for a Prohibition on the Making of Cyber Ransom Payments’ (2024) 40 C&SLJ 158.

3 The breaches of Optus, Medibank and HWL Ebsworth in 2022 and 2023 (respectively) were well documented.

4 ASD Cyber Threat Report 2022-2023 (n 1), 9-10.

5 Ibid, 30.

6 Ibid, 1.

7 Ibid, 3-4.

8 Australian Government, Australian Cyber Security Strategy, 2023-2030.

9 Australian Institute of Company Directors, Governing Through a Cyber Crisis: Cyber Incident Response and Recovery for Australian Directors, 28 February 2024 (AICD Guidance). While the AICD Guidance is intended to assist boards in discharging their duties under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), there are key takeaways for all types of business owners, whether you’re operating small or medium sized enterprise, or you’re a sole trader.

Steps to manage a Cyber Crisis

Readiness You should take some time to prepare a comprehensive cyber incident response plan, which sets out clearly defined roles and responsibilities for your team members in the event of a cyber incident.

When a cyber crisis occurs, the timeframes in which effective action must be taken can be dramatically short and it is important to have a clear outline of how you will respond to ensure you make the best use of the limited time available to you.

Response This phase of a cyber crisis will invariably be a high-stress situation for you and members of your team who will be expected to make significant decisions within tight timeframes and often based on limited information.

You will be required by legislation to take certain steps, and you may also have contractual obligations to notify key suppliers and customers of the cyber incident within a short time of it occurring. Having a clear plan and allocation of roles, as well as proper training, are critical to ensuring that you are properly prepared to respond in a cyber crisis.

Recovery It is important that you engage a digital forensic expert to investigate the scope of any data breach, take steps to restore your digital systems and ensure those systems remain secure.

After the cyber incident is contained, you should also conduct a comprehensive postincident review of your security systems and risk controls.

Remediation You will need to ensure that any remediation plans well-resourced and swiftly implemented, and that your business can provide effective communication and support for impacted parties (both internal and external) in both the short and long-term.

Depending on the extent of the cyber incident, you may also need to engage in ongoing communications with regulators, your customers and other key stakeholders.

Business Shift to mandatory prevention plans for sexual harassment and sex or gender-based harassment

Article supplied by Brismark with information sourced from Workplace Health and Safety Queensland www.worksafe.qld.gov.au

• Workers new to the workforce

• Workers under the age of 30

• LGBTIQ+ workers

• Individuals who do not conform to traditional gender norms

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workers

What should a prevention plan include?

The Queensland government is leading the way with regulations to proactively manage the risk of sexual harassment and sex or gender-based harassment in the workplace.

Effective from 1 March 2025, amendments to the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 require all persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) to take proactive steps to prevent sexual harassment and sex or gender-based harassment, rather than relying on reactive measures. As part of this shift, PCBUs are now legally required to develop a prevention plan that identifies and manages risks to the health and safety of workers and others in the workplace.

Sexual harassment and sex or genderbased harassment can occur as a single incident or through repeated behaviour. It may be overt or subtle and doesn’t need to be directed at a specific individual — exposure to inappropriate conversations or materials, such as explicit posters, can also constitute harassment. These behaviours can cause both physical and psychological harm, not only to those directly targeted but also to those who witness them.

Who is at risk?

Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws apply wherever work is carried out or where a worker is required or likely to go in the course of their duties. This includes physical locations such as offices, conferences, events, remote work sites, and worker accommodation, as well as virtual environments like email, phone calls, and online meetings.

While anyone can experience sexual harassment and sex or gender-based harassment, certain groups may face a higher risk including:

• Women working in male-dominated environments

• Workers with disability

• Migrant workers or those on temporary visas

• People from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds

• Workers in insecure, temporary or casual employment.

What behaviours are considered sexual harassment and sex or gender-based harassment?

Sexual harassment and sex or genderbased harassment encompasses a wide range of behaviours that can cause psychological or physical harm including:

• Sexual assault or attempted assault

• Derogatory, offensive, or demeaning remarks about someone’s sex, gender, or sexuality

• Deliberate misgendering, including the intentional misuse of pronouns to belittle or disrespect someone

• Sharing or threatening to share intimate images or videos without consent

• Spreading sexual rumours or gossip

• Unwanted sexual advances, persistent invitations to go on dates, or pressure to engage in sexual activity.

These behaviours are not only inappropriate — they are considered psychosocial hazards under WHS legislation. Employers and PCBUs have a legal duty to identify, manage, and eliminate or minimise these risks.

All PCBUs must develop and implement a written prevention plan if there is a risk of sexual harassment and sex or genderbased harassment in the workplace. This plan must be developed in consultation with workers and should include:

• Identification of risks related to sexual harassment and sex or gender-based harassment

• Risk assessment, considering the nature, severity, and likelihood of harm

• Control measures to eliminate or minimise the identified risks

• Clear procedures for reporting and responding to incidents

• Communication and training to ensure all workers understand the plan and their role in preventing harassment

• Regular review and updates when a complaint is made, a review is requested, or at least every three years.

Failure to comply with these requirements can result in significant penalties under WHS legislation, including fines exceeding $9,000 per breach.

More information about changes to the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 in relation to sexual harassment and sex or gender-based harassment can be found on the following fact sheet from Workplace Health and Safety Queensland: https://www.worksafe.qld. gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_ file/0016/134305/6673-sexualharassment-and-sex-or-gender-basedharassment-factsheet.pdf

Brismark also offers WHS support services that can assist fruit and vegetable wholesalers and retailers to complete a risk assessment and develop a prevention plan. For more information, please contact Brismark on (07) 3915 4222 or email admin@brismark.com.au.

Our Cleaning Services

As a trusted service provider for Brisbane Markets Limited, Eaton Services Group offers tailored commercial cleaning programs designed to meet the unique requirements of individual BML tenancies and commercial facilities across South East Queensland. Our services adhere to industry and facility regulations, providing your business with comprehensive solutions that maintain your facility to the highest standards.

We cover hard-to-reach and general surface cleaning, ensuring protection against germs, bacteria, and mould. Our team includes EWPlicensed operators with the necessary tools and experience to meet your needs.

Queensland leads national beetroot recovery and growth

The Australian beetroot sector has demonstrated strong recovery and upward momentum, with Queensland reaffirming its position as the industry’s cornerstone.

In the financial year ending June 2024, national beetroot production reached 17,300 tonnes, valued at $16.9 million, representing a 7% increase in volume and a 13% increase in value year-on-year (Hort Innovation, 2025). Queensland accounted for 85% of this volume, reinforcing its leadership role in the category.

The resurgence encompasses improved production, stronger domestic supply, growing exports, and a marked reduction in imports.

Fresh beetroot market performance

Key performance metrics for fresh beetroot supply in 2023/24 include:

• 6,460 tonnes supplied fresh to market (+4% year on year (YoY))

• $15.1 million in wholesale value (+7% YoY)

• 83% (5,383 tonnes) directed to retail; 17% (1,077 tonnes) to foodservice

• Exports: 448 tonnes (+46%) valued at $2.6 million (+57%)

• Imports: Reduced to 18 tonnes (–80% YoY)

Canned supply disruption underscores risk of offshoring

Australia continues to experience a shortage of tinned beetroot, attributed to cyclone-related agricultural losses in New Zealand, the site of Golden Circle’s canning operations following its 2008 acquisition by Kraft Heinz.

This interruption has highlighted vulnerabilities in offshore production and underscored the strategic importance of supporting domestic supply chains. In response, Australian beetroot production rose by 10% in the last financial year, bolstering fresh supply channels.

Consumer demand and engagement on the rise

Beetroot’s presence in Australian households is strengthening:

• 26% of households purchased beetroot in 2023/24

• Average volume purchased per shop: 515 grams

• Estimated per capita consumption: 0.24kg

Health-conscious eating patterns, plant-based dining, and clean-label trends are contributing to beetroot’s mainstream appeal across retail and foodservice channels.

Brisbane Markets driving value chain efficiency

Brisbane Markets continues to serve as a critical hub for Queensland-grown beetroot, linking growers with over 46 wholesalers and a broad network of independent retail and foodservice buyers as well as exporters and food processing businesses.

“Brisbane Markets plays an integral role in the value chain, from supply coordination to market access,” said Andrew Young, Managing Director and CEO of Brisbane Markets Limited.

Positive outlook supported by industry collaboration

Retailers and foodservice operators are increasingly investing in diverse beetroot formats, including pre-packed, organic, and value-added options.

According to the Hort Innovation Strategic Investment Plans (2022–2026) and data from the Australian Horticulture Statistics Handbook 2023/24, collaborative efforts between Hort Innovation, Brisbane Markets wholesalers, and the broader supply chain have been instrumental in enhancing efficiency, boosting export potential, and positioning beetroot for sustained growth in both domestic and international markets.

Industry Insights: Queensland’s beetroot supply chain

Grower Perspective: Greg Lerch

Queensland beetroot Producer

What makes beetroot different from other crops?

Beetroot needs more care and time. It grows slower than crops like broccoli or cauliflower and requires careful handling in the ground.

What does a typical beetroot season look like?

Planning is everything. You need to rotate crops to avoid soil fatigue. A poor plan can ruin the harvest.

What are the main production challenges? Weather is always a major factor. Beetroot is sensitive and needs consistent conditions.

Has demand changed recently? Yes. Demand has increased. We’re currently having one of our best years, supplying consistently while other states face issues.

What should people know about growing beetroot?

It’s hardest to grow when it’s most in demand, summer. It’s popular in salads and festive meals, but that’s not its ideal growing window. We work hard to supply it, but sometimes nature wins.

Wholesale Insight: Tony Mele

BG Brisbane

What’s the current market like?

Prices are steady but slightly elevated due to reduced supply. Growers are focusing on more profitable crops, but beetroot demand is strong.

How do you keep beetroot fresh for buyers?

Speed. Our grower picks and packs quickly, then stores it in a controlled environment for maximum freshness.

Biggest supply chain challenges?

Efficient transport and weather. Both can disrupt quality and consistency.

Retailer Perspective: Sam Eletri

Skippy’s Fresh Frootz

Has customer interest changed? Yes. Over the past year, beetroot sales have increased — better pricing and quality help. Our 1kg bag format has been a winner.

What do customers care about when buying beetroot?

Mainly price. Many juice it at home, which is a big trend.

Emerging trends?

Health-conscious consumers are driving interest. It's popular in salads, roasts, and especially juice bars due to its colour and flavour.

How do you work with growers? We’ve partnered with one grower who meets our quality standards. It’s been the best approach for us and our customers.

Any real-world example of great coordination?

Our grower has quality checks, perfect timing, and quick dispatch, a great model of how the little things ensure premium product at market.

Best-selling format? Fresh, there is no contest!

How do you inspire beetroot use?

Our juice bar does the work! Customers see us using it and get ideas for their own kitchens.

Any sourcing issues? No, our supply is consistent and reliable as we source through the Brisbane Markets.

“It’s hardest to grow when it’s most in demand, summer! We work hard to supply it, but sometimes nature wins.”

"Our grower has quality checks, perfect timing, and quick dispatch — a great model of how the little things ensure premium product at market."

At a glance^

26% of Aussie households buy beetroot

515g average per shop

$16.9 million total value of beetroot production

83% of fresh supply goes to retail

448 tonnes exported (+46%)

18 tonnes imported (-80%)

^ Source: Australian Horticulture Statistics Handbook https://www.horticulture.com.au/growers/help-yourbusiness-grow/research-reports-publications-fact-sheets-and-more/australian-horticulture-statistics-handbook/

FMA industry news and views

Article supplied by Fresh Markets Australia

Welcome to the latest Fresh Markets Australia (FMA) update with information on emerging industry news and views that may impact you.

Australia’s Fresh Produce Markets at Hort Connections 2025

FMA was again the proud major sponsor of this year’s Hort Connections trade show under the banner of Australia’s Fresh Produce Markets, our partnership between the five state wholesale chambers, the Central Markets Association of Australia (CMAA) and in collaboration with our industry partner Toyota Material Handling.

Held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre from 4-6 June 2025, the event saw almost 4,000 visitors from all sections of the fresh produce supply chain. As the leading organisation representing Australia’s Fresh Produce Markets, our trade display took centre stage at the trade show, showcasing fresh produce including the wide range of products from Australia’s five central fresh produce markets, 21 individual wholesalers and A better choice! partner exhibitors. This sponsorship demonstrates our commitment to collaboration, excellence, and growth within the industry.

Our thanks to Jason Dopson and the team at Independent Produce Professionals for their great work in merchandising to create a display to remember. Thanks also to Andrew Young and the teams at Brismark and Brisbane Markets Limited for their assistance and support throughout this event. The Brisbane Markets tours hosted by those teams and attended by over 100 participants were also very well regarded.

FMA 2025 Yearbook – Edition 15

We are excited to announce the release of our 2025 Annual Yearbook, marking its 15th year of publication. The yearbook offers a snapshot of industry events, issues, and key initiatives from the past year, with contributions from FMA’s state chamber members, the A better choice! program, Central Market operators, and other key partners. You can view an online copy via FMA’s website www.freshmarkets.com.au or pick up your complimentary hard copy from Brismark on the ground floor of the Fresh Centre at the Brisbane Markets. A complimentary electronic copy of this yearbook has also been distributed to all FMA service subscribers.

Advocacy and industry representation | Supporting the future of fresh produce markets

FMA continues to play a critical role in advocating for policies that support fair trading, enhance food safety, and promote a competitive fresh produce sector.

ACCC Supermarkets inquiry | Representing Central Market wholesalers

The recent release of the final report of ACCC Supermarkets inquiry 2024-25 has highlighted the essential role the Central Markets play in price discovery, fair competition, and supply chain transparency.

FMA continues to engage with the ACCC and Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) to reinforce the importance of a level playing field, ensuring that independent retailers and wholesalers can compete fairly without undue pressure from major supermarkets when further developing the regulation.

Horticulture Code of Conduct | 2025 Review

A review of the Horticulture Code of Conduct is expected to occur later this year, and we await an announcement in relation to its proposed timing and scope. FMA continues to engage with both DAFF and the ACCC on Horticulture Code of Conduct matters to ensure that proposed changes (if any) to the Hort Code are practical and fair. FMA will coordinate an active and timely response as appropriate, including national information, feedback and consultation with industry and our members.

FreshTest® | Supporting food safety and risk management

As food safety regulations evolve, FreshTest® remains an essential tool for wholesalers and growers, providing low-cost, high-quality chemical residue (MRL) and microbial testing of fresh produce.

For more information, visit www.freshmarkets.com.au or contact Brismark for services in the Brisbane Markets.

Members of the FMA Team at Hort Connections 2025.

About Fresh Markets Australia

FMA is the national peak industry body representing each of the five Central Market state chambers, which themselves represent fruit and vegetable wholesalers and supporting businesses across the country. FMA provides broad services to the sector, including:

• advocacy and representation on national industry and government issues

• national industry statistics and information

• promote our members and the Central Markets system

• provide support services to our members and supply chain stakeholders including:

- FreshTest - provides low cost MRL (chemical residue) and microbial testing for Wholesalers and their Growers in Australia’s Central Markets

- FreshSpecs – maintains the uniform fresh produce specifications

- FreshCode – Horticulture Code of Conduct - advice, training and support

- FreshData – online market price transparency tool

- A better choice! – the national program, promoting independent fresh produce retailers with over 800 retailer participants across Australia.

Please see the FMA website at www.freshmarkets.com.au for further information.

Growers on alert after tomato virus downgrade

Queensland growers of produce affected by the tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) are on high alert following the decision of the National Management Group (NMG) to transition its response from eradication to management.

The decision comes on the back of the NMG agreeing that it was no longer technically feasible to eradicate ToBRFV from Australia. However, it acknowledges the importance of maintaining current containment strategies until a nationally agreed management plan can be developed in consultation with impacted industries.

Grower groups, including Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers (BFVG) and the Bowen Gumlu Growers Association (BGGA), are working closely with other production regions in Queensland and Biosecurity Queensland to develop a practice manual aimed at reducing the risk of spread.

BFVG Chief Executive Officer Bree Watson said the NMG's decision would change how growers manage and monitor the virus.

"It shifts more of the responsibility for monitoring and containment onto industry and individual businesses than it does on government departments," Ms Watson said.

Significant volumes of produce have been tested within the Brisbane Markets and other distribution centres across the state to ensure Queensland remains free of the virus.

BGGA President Carl Walker also warned that if the virus reaches Queensland, the damage could be catastrophic to the industry.

"We have hundreds of millions of dollars a year just in tomatoes alone in this region,” Mr Walker said.

“It could seriously destroy the tomato industry across Australia if it is allowed to spread.

"If we do get it…it is hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth of production and thousands of jobs, which is not what our economy needs."

Currently, Queensland remains to be free of ToBRFV, as the Department of Primary Industries continues to work closely with industry, stakeholders, and other state and territory governments in response to the NMG's decision.

A Movement Control Order (MCO) was initially issued by the Queensland Government Department of Primary Industries in August 2024, and recently updated in June 2026 to reflect the shift from eradication to management. The MCO requires that any presence of the virus be reported to relevant authorities immediately. It restricts the movement of affected produce— such as tomato, capsicum and chilli plants, seedlings, seeds and fruit —from properties that are not a certified pest-free ToBRFV areas. This includes associated packaging, structures, machinery, appliances, equipment and tools used in production.

Growers are advised to practise safe biosecurity measures and report any suspicious signs in plants, crops or fruit immediately to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881.

For further information and details of the MCO, visit the Queensland Department of Primary Industries website at www.dpi.qld.gov.au and search ToBRFV.

Championing the interests of Granite Belt Growers

By Connie Taylor, Chair, Granite Belt Growers Association (GBGA)

The Granite Belt Growers Association (GBGA) is excited to welcome Brismark and Brisbane Markets Limited as a major sponsor of our group. Over the past year, we have worked hard to be at the forefront of advocacy, innovation, and community engagement, strengthening our role as a pivotal force in Queensland's horticultural sector.

In February 2024, GBGA submitted a comprehensive review to the Commonwealth's Food and Grocery Code of Conduct Review, highlighting the challenges faced by growers in negotiations with major retailers and advocating for more equitable trading terms.

This initiative was complemented by a negotiation masterclass hosted in Stanthorpe in July 2024, aimed at empowering growers with skills to address power imbalances in the supply chain.

Demonstrating a commitment to sustainable practices, GBGA secured a 'Grow Your Field' seed funding grant in November 2024 to develop a green waste management project. This initiative focuses on transforming agricultural waste into valuable resources, promoting environmental sustainability and economic resilience in the Southern Downs region.

GBGA has actively fostered community ties through events like the 'Farming After Hours' series, providing platforms for growers to connect and share knowledge. Notably, an event at Kiara Downs in August 2024 brought together local farmers to discuss industry challenges and opportunities.

In January 2025, a devastating supercell storm struck the Granite Belt, causing extensive damage to crops and infrastructure. Our members worked hard to highlight the significant impact on local growers and to emphasise the need for increased disaster relief support for the horticulture sector.

GBGA has also played a role in broader regional initiatives, collaborating with organisations like the Stanthorpe & Granite Belt Chamber of Commerce to ensure the continuity of vital services such as the Queensland College of Wine Tourism (QCWT).

Through these multifaceted efforts, GBGA continues to champion the interests of Granite Belt growers, driving progress and resilience in the face of evolving industry landscapes. It is only with the support of our wonderful sponsors that this is possible, and we sincerely thank Brismark and Brisbane Markets Limited for enabling us to continue our great work.

Wide Bay Burnett: autumn highlights and industry insights

By Bree Watson, Chief Executive Officer, Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers Limited (BFVG)

BFVG was proud to once again attend the national Hort Connections Conference held in early June. This flagship event brings together all aspects of the horticulture industry from growers, service providers and researchers through to supply chain partners to collaborate on the future of fresh produce in Australia. Our very own Chair Craig van Rooyen was nominated for the prestigious Grower of the Year Award which is a testament to the innovation, resilience, and leadership he and many others demonstrate in the Wide Bay region.

We also acknowledge Brismark, whose Brisbane Markets Price Report app was named a finalist for the UPL Tech Innovation Award. BFVG is proud to provide this valuable service to all members, thanks to our longstanding partnership with Brismark spanning more than a decade.

Prosper 2050

As a member of the Queensland Horticulture Council, we had the opportunity for a short meeting with the Hon Tony Perrett MP, Qld Minister for Primary Industries at Hort Connections. Minister Perrett has expressed a desire to work more closely with grassroots organisations like BFVG to ensure policies are fit for purpose.

BFVG will therefore be working closely with the working groups as part of the implementation of Prosper 2050, the 25-year blueprint being developed to guide the future of the state's primary industries and aligned to boost primary industry output to $30 billion by 2030. We encourage all growers to get involved in their regional plans to ensure your voices are heard and your local knowledge is utilised.

Wide Bay Promotion Night

Promotion is a critical part of our role as a representative organisation. Not just to raise awareness of what we grow, but to foster pride and recognition for the people behind Australia’s fresh food supply. Therefore, a critical event for BFVG is the Wide Bay Burnett Promotion Night at Queensland Parliament House.

This event championed by local MP, Stephen Bennett provides a unique opportunity for us to showcase the vibrant range of produce grown in our region and importantly, gives us direct access to key decision makers. We use this event to engage with Ministers, Shadow Ministers, and key public servants from portfolios that are vital to the success of our industry.

BFVG is proud to provide the Brisbane Markets Price Report app to our members.

Advocacy: protecting our industry from emerging threats

In addition to promotion and celebration, advocacy remains a critical pillar of BFVG’s work. Our region’s growers face increasing risks from biosecurity threats that can significantly disrupt production, trade, and farm viability.

We continue to advocate strongly on behalf of our members in response to emerging challenges, particularly tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) and the ongoing management of varroa mite. ToBRFV is a highly infectious plant virus that affects key crops including tomatoes, capsicums, and chillies, industries worth over $950 million nationally, with Queensland responsible for most of the winter production.

With Bundaberg and Bowen at the heart of Queensland’s supply of these crops, the implications of this virus are significant. We are therefore working closely with Government and other Regional Groups to support and protect our vital industries. There have been significant volumes of tomatoes tested within the Brisbane Markets and other distribution centres to ensure Queensland remains free of the virus and we will continue to work with all counterparts and push for coordinated action, increased funding for biosecurity preparedness, and strong communication between government and grassroots industry.

Stephen Bennett MP, Member for Burnett, Rick Prosser, Kalki Moon, Tim Sayre, Bundaberg Chamber of Commerce, Tina McPherson, Tinaberries, Bree Watson CEO BFVG, and Kylie Jackson BFVG promote the Wide Bay Promo Night at Parliament House (image taken at Tinaberries).

Supporting North Queensland’s growers

By Jenn Honnery, Chief Executive Officer, Bowen Gumlu Growers Association (BGGA)

Winter is one of our favourite times of the year in Bowen as we watch the harvest begin across the region. Over the past couple of weeks, the tomato and capsicum harvest has entered full production, the eggplants are looking delicious, and the melons and pumpkins ready to enjoy. Beans and corn are also making their way south, perfect for those winter cook-ups. Cooler weather also signals the start of mango flowering across the region and planning for the summer crop.

With fruit and vegetables front of mind, the team from BGGA attended Hort Connections in Brisbane and spent two days connecting with industry and agri-businesses. We were excited to see the diverse range of exhibitors and share the challenges and opportunities from the region.

Big cheers could be heard from the BGGA table at the Gala Dinner as local grower Melita Jurgens from Vee Jay’s Kalfresh won the 2025 Women in Horticulture Award. A huge congratulations to Melita for this recognition of her contribution to the industry and drive to empower women to assume leadership positions in horticulture.

At the recent Hort Frontiers breakfast, BGGA was named as one of the participants of the Australian Grown Innovation ‘Incubate’ program. BGGA joins 13 other growers and associated organisations to participate in six weeks of learning and mentoring for a diverse range of innovative projects. This opportunity arrives at the perfect time for BGGA as the Bowen Food Futures Precinct enters stage two of development and the establishment of a pilot processing facility.

Since the initial detection of Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV) in August 2024, BGGA has worked closely

with Biosecurity Queensland (BQ), providing a voice for the region’s growers. Attending regular industry group meetings and offering knowledge and support, BGGA has ensured that the importance of the growing region has remained front of mind through decision-making processes.

As the national strategy transitions from eradication to management, BGGA is facilitating meetings with growers to ensure a collective voice, working with BQ on biosecurity guides and best practices, and sourcing knowledge regarding the impact of ToBRFV in open field systems across the globe. Our team would like to thank BQ for the consistent engagement with industry and continuing to prioritise the needs of Queensland growers to ensure minimal impact on our agri-businesses.

On Saturday, 30 August 2025, BGGA is hosting the North Queensland Growers Gala Dinner, a night promising to be one of the most exciting in the industry’s calendar. Footy legend Shane Webcke will be joining us to share stories on both the field and the farm, accompanied by a menu boasting the region’s freshest produce.

Growers will gather to celebrate the finalists in the North Queensland Agriculture Excellence Awards, recognising the dedication, ingenuity and hard work of those who make a true difference to Queensland’s farming, agribusinesses and rural communities. Head to the BGGA website www.bowengumlugrowers.com.au for more information and to secure your seat for the night.

BGGA were proud to represent at the recent Hort Connections 2025 held in Brisbane.

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ORGANICS BIN

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COLLECTION

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