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print post approved pp 424022/00429

ISSUE: THIRTY-FOUR DECEMBER/2010

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04-10

Magazine of Brisbane Markets Limited

n o i t a n i Co ntam tests from coal gasification sites p23

The year in

Re view p8

d n a l s n Quee

Nematode threat for

strawberries p20

source

YOUR SOURCE OF FRESH INFORMATION FOR THE FRUIT AND VEGETABLE INDUSTRY.

growers wholesalers

retailers exporters processors transporters secondary wholesalers

c e o ’s BML Announces Results

Co m m e n t Government Strategic Planning

Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) has released its Annual Report for the 2009/10 financial year, highlighting an increase in operating revenue and a net profit after tax, excluding the impact of property revaluations, of $6.989 million.

The article on page 6 gives a further insight on the company’s achievements.

The results show an ongoing strong performance by BML which has continued its focus on a range of site development and upgrading works, despite the economic pressures which existed throughout the financial year.

Retirement of David De Paoli After six years as Chairman of the Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers Cooperative Limited (BFVG), David De Paoli stood down in October. David was a terrific leader for the organisation and a very effective advocate for the growing sector of the industry.

While I am sure David will continue to contribute, it is appropriate to acknowledge his efforts and input on behalf of the BFVG and the industry.

BRISBANE MARKETS LIMITED ABN 39 064 983 017 PO Box 80, Brisbane Markets, Brisbane, Queensland 4106 e: admin@brisbanemarkets.com.au w: www.brisbanemarkets.com.au ADVERTISING AND EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES Marketing and Communications Manager Brisbane Markets Limited p: 07 3915 4200 or 1800 631 002 e: admin@brisbanemarkets.com.au DESIGN Effigy p: 07 3040 4343

PRINT Buckner Printing p: 07 3865 9677

There is a saying which is often used in business circles which says “those who fail to plan, plan to fail”. It is obviously used to promote the need to plan, which can take the form of formalised strategic plans, processes and reports, through to less formal reviews and direction setting.

Successive State and Federal Governments in Australia have supported proposals to fund and/or establish strategic plans for different sectors of the agriculture industry in Australia.

Ironically however, it is more often than not the government which could benefit more from better planning, more consistent policy settings and more coordinated action, ahead of the industry.

The debate over the use of Dimethoate and Fenthion has been raging for years. The article on page 14 by Brismark’s General Manager, Ian Main, highlights that with a final decision soon due, little has been done to identify alternatives. State and Federal Government agencies with responsibilities in this area appear to be short of options with the eleventh-hour having come and gone in respect of this issue.

Similarly, the debate over the Murray Darling Basin has again left growers in limbo as to a significant issue, which

Fresh Source is the magazine of Brisbane Markets Limited. New editions of the magazine are printed bi-monthly.

Advertising and editorial inquiries are welcome and media outlets are invited to use material with or without acknowledgement.

Fresh Source is printed on Australian made recycled stock.

PAPER Dalton Paper p: 07 3326 6800

3

is not of their making. The release of a report proposing further major cut backs in water allocations, without detailed consideration of the economic and social impacts of the proposed changes, has sent shock waves through the communities concerned and only compounded the concerns growers have.

Contents

At the same time, the industry is facing the ongoing risks of urban encroachment in several growing regions, increasing levels of regulatory compliance and increasing input costs – particularly with recent escalations in the price of power and Local Government rates and charges.

FRESH UPDATES

News in brief. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p4

FRESH FROM THE MARKETS

BML Annual Report released. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p6 Development progressing Master Plan’s vision. p7

FEATURE

The year in review. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p8

FRESH WHOLESALING

Credit service - a smarter way of doing things. . p10 New Brismark board director. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p10

FEATURE

Mango Auction 2010. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p12

FRESH INDUSTRY

New Horticulture Taskforce. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p14 AUSVEG moves its office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p14 Growcom on the move. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p14 Fuel tax credits available. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p14 Dimethoate, Fenthion and a failed funding model. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p15 Horticultural leaders plan to meet the Minister. . . p16 New Minister no stranger to the bush. . . . . . . . . . . . p16 Highs and lows for Bowen growers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p17 Rains couldn’t wash away gala dinner’s success. . . p18 Bundaberg trainees awarded Sunbeam sponsorships. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p18 Orchardists fear continued losses to flying-foxes . p19 Nematode threat for Queensland strawberries. . . p20 Recognising a nematode affected plant. . . . . . . . . . .p20 National citrus quality standards released . . . . . . . . p21 Reducing R&D investment is costing our farmers. p22 Murray Darling’s water issues boil over. . . . . . . . . . . p22 Contamination tests from coal gasification sites. . . p23 New Biosecurity bill in 2011. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p23 Growing industry leaders in 2011. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p24 New body studies tropical agriculture. . . . . . . . . . . . p24

FRESH EXPORT

Nation overrun with veg imports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p26 Aussie dollar hits fresh produce exports. . . . . . . . p26

FRESH KIDS

Healthy year for Queensland Kids Fresh Net classes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p27

FRESH RETAILING

Retailer of the Month. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p28 Boosting sales from juice workshop sweet . . . . . . p29 Double the prize money. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p29

Obviously more recognition needs to be given by all tiers of government of the role and importance of Australia’s food production industries.

This is particularly the case with fresh fruit and vegetable production, and the expectation which the industry has a right to have, that governments are prepared to established longer term policies and plans regarding issues such as water infrastructure and usage, road infrastructure, protecting major production areas from alternative land uses, productivity and labour utilisation, disease and pest control strategies and biosecurity.

Season’s Greetings On behalf of the team at BML and Brismark, I wish all our readers a safe and enjoyable festive season and a prosperous 2011.

FRESH CHRISTMAS Special day for the children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p30 Andrew Young Chief Executive Officer

Foodbank readying for Christmas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p30 Holiday Season trading hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p30

Updates Chipping away at fundraising Bundaberg’s second annual spud growing competition had a few surprises for organisers this year with one contestant warning his bucket of potatoes entry was ‘artificially enhanced’.

Up went the bucket to remove the soil to see what he had grown and out came a sachet of instant potato mash.

While it didn’t take out a prize it was typical of the fun competition, run

by Rotary Club of Bundaberg City – Daybreak, that raised about $900 this year.

Entrants were asked to pay for a bucket of soil and seeds and see what they could grow by the September judging day.

Brisbane Produce Market was at the event, handing out hats and providing expert opinion as required.

The proceeds helped sponsor a Kepnock State High School student to attend an agricultural training course in Emerald.

FOLEY FARMS’ LINDY BENNETT SHOWS HER PRIZE SPUD ENTRY AT THIS YEAR’S FUND RAISER IN BUNDABERG.

Endosulfan deregistered The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) has cancelled the registration of the insecticide Endosulfan.

This decision follows a recent assessment of new information by the Federal Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (DSEWPC) that the prolonged use of Endosulfan is likely to

lead to adverse environmental effects via spray drift and run-off.

Two more key chemicals, Dimethoate and Fenthion, are under review and are expected to be limited in their use or de-registered in the months to come, sending waves of concern through grower organisations Australia-wide.

Read the full article on page 15.

Herb and spice levy proposed The Australian Herb and Spice Industry Association held workshops across Australia in October and November for growers of culinary herbs and spices to consider introducing a research and development levy.

The proposed levy would equate to 50 cents out of $100 of produce sold, or 1 cent on a $2 sale.

The target date for the levy’s introduction is 1 July 2011.

A copy of the levy discussion paper is available at http://web.ahsia.org.au or contact Peter McFarlane on 0418 839 836 or peter@mc.com.au.

5 5

A search for Brisbane Markets history A call has gone out for any memorabilia, photographs or even good old yarns that people would have from their days of trading with the Brisbane Markets.

Brisbane Markets has formed a History Task Force to pull together a collection of items that will be exhibited in a purposebuilt History Collection Room in the Fresh Centre building. Fresh Centre is the former Growcom building which is currently being refurbished.

The collection is a history of horticulture, transport, immigration, invention and people, starting with the first Brisbane Markets in Market Street in the 1880s

Bundy chairman steps aside Long term Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers Cooperative Ltd (BFVG) director and chairman, David De Paoli stood down in October.

and following its history through Roma and Turbot Street markets to the current Rocklea site.

People are being urged to pull out old photo albums, check their sheds for wooden packing crates and branding stencils and any other items that make up the colourful and interesting history of the Markets.

Anyone interested in helping with the project, should contact Vanessa Kennedy by emailing vkennedy@brisbanemarkets. com.au, phone 07 3915 4200 or mobile 0438 388 111.

DIGGING UP HISTORY: FORMER BRISBANE MARKETS BUYER RODNEY FECHNER LOOKS THROUGH OLD PHOTOS FROM HIS DAYS IN THE TURBOT STREET MARKETS FOR USE IN THE PROPOSED HISTORY COLLECTION ROOM.

Claiming the date Brisbane Produce Markets is claiming Friday, 4 March as the date for its 2011 annual gala dinner, to be held at the Brisbane Exhibition and Convention Centre.

It’s the biggest social night on the Brisbane Markets calendar and includes dinner, entertainment, awards and plenty of networking.

Fellow director Geoff Chivers was elected as chairman in his place.

Each year the Brisbane Produce Market announce the winner of the coveted Fresh Tastes Retailer of the Year Award.

Mr De Paoli was a strong supporter of the establishment of the Memorandum of Understanding between BFVG and the Brisbane Markets.

The 2011 event also marks the 70 year anniversary of the wholesaler representative organisation, Brismark.

“After 10 years on the BFVG Board, with the last six years as chairman, it is time to stand aside and allow someone else to step up and make their mark on the local horticulture industry and the organisation,” Mr De Paoli said.

For more Bundaberg news, take a look at pages 18 and 19.

from the

Markets BML Annual Report released Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) has released its 2010 annual report recording a solid result considering the economic downtown which impacted on most industry sectors.

BML recorded total revenue of $36.2 million for the 2009/10 financial year, which includes an increase of $3.85 million in the value of the investment property held.

The net profit after tax excluding the revaluation was $6.989 million, up by 6.23% on last year’s result of $6.579 million.

Operating revenues, which exclude the increase/decrease in the value of investment held, increased from $29.489 million in 2008/09 to $32.336 million in 2009/10.

This represents an increase of 9.65%.

BML chairman Tony Joseph said the company’s revenue base, which includes multiple revenue streams, offered the company added certainty and diversification in terms of its financial performance and the opportunities for growth.

“We weathered the Brisbane commercial and industry property market decline managing to maintain occupancy levels of 100% for warehouse facilities and 86% for office premises,” Mr Joseph said.

and the continuing investment in upgrading and developing the site.

He said the economic downturn in Queensland was evident in terms of business sentiment within the Markets, with downward pressure on wholesale prices and wholesaler margins.

“The 2010/11 year will see further modest growth in revenues, while debt levels increase as the Fresh Centre building and Northern Warehouse are completed,” Mr Young said.

“These projects will see additional revenue streams coming on line predominantly in 2011/12.”

“Despite the tough economic conditions, our commitment to capital projects did not diminish, and our focus remains firmly on the future development of the Brisbane Markets.”

The report is posted on the www.brisbanemarkets.com.au website and copies are available by contacting Kelly Turner on 07 3915 4200 or email kturner@brisbanemarkets.com.au.

BML CEO Andrew Young agreed the company’s results reflected its growth

Take a look at some of the highlights on pages 8 and 9.

7

Development progressing Master Plan’s vision It’s been a busy year of development for Brisbane Markets Limited with three major projects underway, all crucial steps within a 10-year $150 million Master Plan for the Rocklea site.

Western Access Road The $8.5 million western access road, creating a new entry to the Markets from Sherwood Road, is nearing completion.

The project includes a new access road, 600 car parks, vegetated areas and a new building platform. Work has begun on building a new security gatehouse.

The works have improved what was previously an unusable “wetland” area to the highest and best use. It now boasts extensive infrastructure, landscaping and street lighting and most importantly, will improve traffic flow and ease congestion.

interface between the Fresh Centre and Commercial Centre which will allow public access from Sherwood Road to new landscaped parking areas and walkways.

Northern warehouse The construction of a 4,700m2 warehouse in the north western corner of the site should be completed by mid 2011.

It is located adjacent to the IGA Distribution facility and will feature a number of distinctive design elements such as extended awnings, covered finger docks, hydraulic dock levelers, lift platforms for disabled access, and extensive mezzanine offices.

The road is expected to be open when the new security gatehouse is completed.

Fresh Centre refurbishment Contractors Wiley & Co have begun the refurbishment of the former Growcom building, now re-named The Fresh Centre.

The project will result in new offices for BML together with up to an additional 2000m2 of lettable space.

THE SIGNALISED INTERSECTION AT THE NEW WESTERN ACCESS ROAD, PROVIDING ANOTHER ENTRY INTO THE BRISBANE MARKETS FROM SHERWOOD ROAD.

BML will relocate to the top level of the building. Level one is dedicated to office space while the ground level will incorporate offices, a retail café, two training rooms, a demonstration kitchen, a Market service centre and a provision for serviced offices.

The work is stage one of a new commercial hub for Brisbane Markets and is expected to be completed by mid 2011.

Stage two of the new commercial hub will progress the development of a new

AN INTERNAL SHOT OF THE FRESH CENTRE WITH REFURBISHMENT ABOUT TO BEGIN.

The year in

Review

ANTHONY JOSEPH, OF ALFRED E CHAVE CONDUCTS A MEDIA INTERVIEW, ONE OF MANY TO SPOTLIGHT THE MARKETS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR ON MAJOR TELEVISION STATIONS.

CON THE FRUITERER CHATTED WITH FRANCIE LASPINA, OF ROMEO’S MARKETING DURING HIS ‘DRIBBILICIOUS’ TOUR OF THE BRISBANE PRODUCE MARKET.

FANCEE FRUIT’S DAVID VEDALAGO (CENTRE) CAUGHT UP WITH MY KITCHEN RULES WINNERS SHADI AND VERONICA ABRAHAM DURING A BRISBANE PRODUCE MARKET FRESH TASTES COOKING DEMONSTRATION AT THE EKKA.

It was another year of progress for Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) with infrastructure improvements, industry engagement and a whole lot of hard work to keep business ticking over in a difficult economic environment.

Development • The $8.5 million Western Access Road project saw the establishment of a new intersection on Sherwood road, car parks, access road and a new building platform.

This feature takes a look at the year that was and celebrates the milestones that have made the Brisbane Markets community so successful.

• A lease was secured, then a contractor appointed to start work on a northern warehouse, near IGA Fresh.

Performance

Entry times

• Brisbane Markets recorded a net profit of $9.69 million, an increase of $3.85 million in the value of the investment held in 2009/10.

• Entry times were reviewed with safety in mind resulting in Thursday and Friday being set aside for public entry from 10am to 11.30am.

• As at 30 June, 2010, Brisbane Markets Limited’s had total assets of $196.4 million and net assets of $103.69 million.

Social events

• A capital raising exercise raised up to $12.031 million, with final installments paid in April 2010.

• The who’s who of Brisbane Markets wholesalers and industry guests gathered at the Brisbane Exhibition and Convention Centre for the Brisbane Produce Market’s Annual Gala Dinner, a memorable “Fire and Ice” spectacular.

• Brisbane Produce Market maintained a 100% occupancy rate for selling floors and warehouses and increased occupancy rates for commercial and retail premises.

• Brisbane Markets CEO Andrew Young received an unexpected accolade from the fruit and vegetable wholesale industry when he was recognised for 20 years of outstanding leadership.

9 PKIN LAWERENCE, THE OVERSIZED PUM G BEIN R AFTE KETS ENTERED THE MAR HOUSE SOLD FOR CHARITY. DAVID PERS A GREAT OF PERSHOUSE PRODUCE GOT HA ANGLE TO COMPARE SIZES WIT REGULAR SIZED PUMPKIN.

LITTLE MINI CHEFS SHOW WHAT THEY HAVE COOKED UP IN THE KIDS IN THE KITCHEN PROGRAM AT THE 2010 EKKA IN THE BRISBANE MARKETS AGRICULTURAL HALL.

FEDERAL OPPOSITION LEADER TONY ABBOTT WAS JUST ONE OF MANY POLITICIANS WHO CALLED INTO THE BRISBANE PRODUCE MARKET THROUGHOUT THE YEAR, GIVING IT A BIG THUMBS UP.

Industry happenings • Carlo and Susan Lorenti, of Clayfield Markets Fresh, were named the Brisbane Produce Market Fresh Tastes Retailer of the Year – an honour they also earned in 2005. The couple went on to take out the 2010 Mango King title with the highest bid of $50,000 for the symbolic tray of mangoes.

• Wide Bay fruit and vegetable growers were hosted by Brisbane Markets allowing them to follow their produce through the food chain, from their farm to the Brisbane Markets, exploring processing plants, warehouses and retail outlets on the way.

• The BML board visited Bowen District Growers Association for its annual dinner and a farm tour, further cementing its Memorandum of Understanding in the region.

• Brisbane Markets sponsored and attended numerous industry events including the Australian Chamber Conference, National Low Chill Stonefruit Conference, AUSVEG Congress, Queensland Strawberry Growers Association dinner, Produce

Marketing Association’s Fresh Connections Conference, Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers gala dinner and the Citrus Australia National Conference.

Brisbane Market wholesalers and retailer representatives were among the first to visit and provide support to the Bowen region after it suffered a seedling sabotage which wiped millions of plants.

A look at history A Brisbane Markets History Task Force was appointed, chaired by former wholesaler and consultant, Arch Martin.

The task force includes Brisbane Markets Chair Tony Joseph, Brismark Chair Gary Lower and Brisbane Markets CEO Andrew Young.

An administration team, headed by Brismark’s Industry Liaison Officer Vanessa Kennedy, works with Mr Martin to collect stories and memorabilia which will be used to present an insight into the personalities, historical settings and operations of the Brisbane Markets over time.

Wholesaling Credit service - a smarter way of doing things Brismark’s credit service is offering Brisbane Markets users a smarter way of doing business.

A new brochure explaining how the Credit Service operates, the features of using the system and the benefit versus cost considerations, is now available.

It includes a background on the Credit Service that has an annual turnover in excess of $600 million.

Most visitors to the Brisbane Markets are initially surprised that they don’t see wads of cash changing hands as deals are struck on the trading floor, as seen in many other Australian Central Markets.

The brochure explains how the process works with buyers receiving one consolidated bill each week, and the role Brismark pays in collecting the monies, which are then paid to the wholesalers.

The smarter way of doing business . . .

Brismark Credit Service

To grab your copy, contact Brismark on 07 3915 4222 or email creditservice@brismark.com.au.

New Brismark board director A new face joined the Brismark Board with the election of So Crisp principal Craig Chard, replacing Quality Fruit’s David Keates.

Craig is no stranger to Brismark leadership having served on the Credit Service Sub-committee since 1996.

He comes from a farming background and was first employed in the Brisbane Markets in 1972, working as a salesman for a number of wholesalers including Ericsons, Murray Bros, Pascoes, South Queensland Produce, Central Park and Chiquita.

Eighteen years ago he began his own wholesaling business, So Crisp.

Fellow Board members include Gary Lower (Chairman), Tony Joseph (Deputy Chairman), Peter Tighe (Secretary) and directors Drew Armstrong, Stephen Edwards, Noel Greenhalgh, Anthony Gribben, Gary Lavender, Mark Clarke and Mark Moore.

NEW BRISMARK BOARD DIRECTOR CRAIG CHARD, OF SO CRISP.

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Mango Auction

Mango Auction 2010

2010

Mango Auction

Mango auction’s exciting winning bid You could feel the tension build as the bids on the first symbolic first tray of mangoes grew higher and higher at the Brisbane Produce Market Mango Auction, held in October.

It was one of the most thrilling auctions in the annual charity event’s 13-year history as retailers went head-to-head, bidding intensely on the trading floor, with the price growing to $50,000 before the hammer fell.

Mango Auction 2010

Mango Marketers Alfred E. Chave Pty Ltd BG Brisbane GNL Produce H.E. Heather & Co. J.H. Leavy & Co. LaManna Group Pershouse Produce Pty Ltd R.W. Pascoe Pty Ltd Sun Produce Pty Ltd

It wasn’t the first taste of royal mango success for winning bidder Carlo Lorenti, of Clayfield Markets Fresh, but one of the most satisfying tussles as he took delivery of the Colton Park supplied mango tray from auctioneer Haesley Cush.

Mr Lorenti also took out the Mango King title in 2006, 2008 and watched while his wife, Susan, became the first Mango Queen in 2009.

Hours later, the Lorenti family were at the Brisbane Royal Children’s Hospital sharing their winning mango tray with the young cancer patients and staff members so they could also share the sweetness of the win.

The Mango King crowning topped off an eventful morning for the Mangolicious event, with MC poet and radio personality, Rupert McCall.

Sporting star Brisbane Bronco Ben Hannant and Australian cricket greats Michael Kasprowicz and Andy Bichel joined the Fourex Angels Cheerleader Squad in a grand parade to hail the arrival of the iconic tray before auction.

The event raised more than $65,000.

2010 Mango Auction is proudly sponsored by the Brisbane Markets major mango marketers.

Mango Auction 2010

Monies are donated to Life Education Queensland – the state’s largest non-government provider of drug and health education to children and Redkite – an organisation that provides emotional and financial support to families of children affected by cancer.

Mango Auction 2010

T E MARKETS LEADERS AT THE EVEN SPORTING STARS AND BRISBAN BANE BRIS Z, WIC PRO KAS R MICHAEL INCLUDED (FROM LEFT), CRICKETE IER PREM D LAN ENS QUE MER FOR MARKETS CEO ANDREW YOUNG, KETS R MIKE AHERN, BRISBANE MAR AND BRISBANE MARKETS DIRECTO EL AND BICH Y AND R KETE CRIC PH, LIMITED CHAIRMAN TONY JOSE NANT. BRISBANE BRONCO’S BEN HAN

13

ENTI, 2010 MANGO KING CARLO LOR WITH H FRES KETS MAR LD YFIE OF CLA S. GOE MAN THE $50,000 TRAY OF

D CLAYFIEL ENTI, OF R LO IS LO H CAR ESS OF GO KING E SWEETN REN’S 2010 MAN HARES TH S AL CHILD Y H O ES R E FR H S T ET T K A R A ER M HILY H CHLOE WIN WIT STON. ER H T A L, HOSPITA

ONE OF THE CHARITY AUCTION ITEMS UP FOR GRAB S, HELD BY TWO FOUREX ANGELS.

RY AUSTRALIAN MANGO INDUST L AND ASSOCIATION’S TREVOR DUNMAL TED’S LIMI LIA TRA AUS E LTUR TICU HOR MANGOES JANE WIGHTMAN STAND THEIR AUCTION. THE ING DUR HEEK O-C EK-T CHE

Mango Auction 2010

CARLO LORENTI (CENTRE) CONGRATULATING MANGO KING RTING STARS (FROM LEFT) SPO E WER ELS, ANG AND THE FOUREX EER HAESLEY CUSH TION AUC ANDY BICHEL, BEN HANNANT, Z. WIC PRO AND MICHAEL KAS

CRICKETERS ANDY BICHEL (BAC K CENTRE) AND MICHAEL KASPROWICZ (RIG HT) MET WITH REDKITE FAMILY MEMBERS (FRO M LEFT) DEBIE, SON DYLON, DAUGHTER HANNAH , SON KURTIS AND HUSBAND MATTHEW THOMSO N.

Industry New Horticulture Taskforce The newly formed Horticulture Taskforce (HTF) has had its membership queried by the NSW Farmers Horticulture Committee who wants to see state bodies gain membership.

organisation Brismark, said Queensland’s

The chief executive officers from the major horticulture organisations in Australia established a new taskforce after the closure of the Horticulture Australia Council earlier this year.

seek to have a consultative approach with

Mr Tony Russell, CEO of Apple and Pear Australia, chair of the new body, said that the new taskforce would enable the horticultural industry to continue to have a voice at the political level so that the industry was not overlooked.

AUSVEG moves its office AUSVEG, the national peak industry body representing the interests of Australian vegetable and potato growers, moved offices in September.

Its new premises were opened in Glen Iris, Victoria with an evening event that attracted a host of politicians and about 100 industry stakeholders.

Its new details are: Suite 1, 431 Burke Road Glen Iris VIC 3146 Phone: (03) 9822 0388 Fax: (03) 9822 0688 Email: info@ausveg.com.au

market wholesaling sector was looking forward to working with the HTF in areas where there were mutual interests.

He encouraged the HTF to ensure it did other sectors of the industry.

Members of the committee include AUSVEG, The Australian Mushroom Growers Association, Australian Banana Growers’ Council, Citrus Australia, Apple and Pear Australia, Nursery and Garden Industry Australia, Cherry Growers of Australia, Avocados Australia, Summerfruit Australia, The Australian Mango Industry

Gary Lower, Chairman of the Queensland wholesaling sector representative

Association and The Australian Passionfruit

Growcom on the move

Fuel tax credits available

Part of the vision that Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) has for the Brisbane Markets site is the creation of a fresh food precinct to reinforce its position as the hub for the State’s fresh produce industry.

The Australian Taxation Office is offering fuel tax credits for businesses in selected industries, including agriculture.

Unfortunately, recent efforts by BML to entice Growcom back to the Brisbane Markets were unsuccessful, with the organisation choosing instead to relocate to new offices in Gregory Terrace, Fortitude Valley.

Growcom had been searching for new premises having made a decision to vacate their existing offices in Fortitude Valley given that the site is earmarked for redevelopment.

Industry Association.

That means money back in your pocket for the fuel tax included in the price of fuel you use in your business activities, including machinery, plant, equipment and heavy vehicles.

The amount of fuel tax credits you are entitled to claim depends on your business activities.

For more information visit www.ato.gov.au/ fuelschemes or call the ATO on 13 28 66.

15

Dimethoate, Fenthion and a failed funding model

BY BRISMARK GENERAL MANAGER IAN MAIN The looming release of the reviews into Dimethoate and Fenthion has highlighted the fragmented nature of horticulture in Australia and its unpreparedness to tackle difficult issues.

Dimethoate and Fenthion are widely used in Australian horticulture.

They have been the chief phytosanitary measures enabling the movement of produce susceptible to Queensland fruit fly from areas with fruit fly populations into regions that are free of fruit fly.

Their withdrawal would potentially disrupt the flow of fruit and vegetables from Queensland into southern states with disastrous impacts on Queensland growers and southern consumers.

Yet with only around two months to go, the picture for many industry participants is still unclear.

So how did we get into this situation and what can be done?

The current review of Dimethoate began in 2004 and the Fenthion review began in 1994.

In 2007, the Australian Government and industry bodies tried to raise awareness of the reviews and their implications and attempted to develop a program to prepare industry. However, their efforts failed to convey the seriousness or urgency of the situation to large sections of the industry and to government decision makers.

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) took the lead in developing a National Response Plan.

The plan called upon individual states and territories to develop their own plans which would include “necessary research including analysis of existing research and any additional research needed, particularly verification or validation of the efficacy of regulated trading systems that may be proposed as equivalent to current systems”.

In simple terms, it is up to the states to do the research necessary to get alternative measures approved.

As of 13 October Biosecurity Queensland had still not finalised their action plan.

Over the past 18 months a number of meetings have been conducted involving regulators, scientists and industry bodies.

There are scientists in agriculture departments and private organisations that are capable of doing the research but they have effectively sat on their hands for the past three years because they haven’t had funding to do the work.

With the clock ticking down, Biosecurity Queensland is now focusing on currently approved treatments such as fumigation.

With serious question marks over the use of such alternatives, we still do not have a clear picture of what day one of the post Dimethoate/Fenthion period will look like.

Some industry players are hoping for a political solution to the problem.

Without a “silver bullet” chemical to take the place of Dimethoate and Fenthion they focussed their attention on “systems based approaches”.

They rationalise that no government body would precipitate a situation that would have such a devastating impact on both industry and consumers.

That is, a combination of actions which are not sufficient when used alone but when used together provide the necessary protection from fruit fly. A number of control measures were identified.

However, such a view denies the independence and integrity of Australia’s regulatory system.

In recent months Biosecurity Queensland started conducting workshops in the various growing regions to discuss possible control measures with growers.

However, here’s the rub. Even if the meeting participants agreed on new control systems, they would not get approval from other jurisdictions because the research necessary to verify the effectiveness of the systems has not been done.

Government regulators will try to put short term fixes in place but we cannot afford to further delay putting the scientists to work on longer term solutions.

The existing structure for funding such projects has failed and so government must now step in and get the work started.

It may not be in this year’s budget but neither is the massive economic impact that further procrastination will impose.

Industry

Horticultural leaders plan to meet the Minister Australia’s horticulture leaders have moved quickly to request appointments with Federal Minister for Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Senator Joe Ludwig, after his September appointment.

Minister’s contact details The following are contact details for recently appointed Federal Minister for Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Senator Joe Ludwig:

Senator Ludwig, who is based in Brisbane, is aided by his Parliamentary secretary Dr Mike Kelly AM, Member for Eden-Monaro. Both are part of the Prime Minister’s new ministry.

Horticulture Taskforce chairman Tony Russell said his organisation was seeking a meeting to address the concerns of the Australian horticulture industry.

“There’s some country of origin labelling issues and industrial relations is an ongoing concern, as is resolving the horticulture code of conduct,” Mr Russell said.

“Joe is keen to get out and look in production areas and see the problems affecting our industry – it’s just a matter of finding time.”

Brisbane Markets Limited and Brismark were also quick to issue an invitation to Senator Ludwig to visit the Brisbane Markets as part of the process of gaining an understanding of the supply chain for the fresh produce industry.

Canberra office PO Box 6022 Parliament House Canberra ACT 2600

New Minister no stranger to the bush

Phone: 02 6277 7520 Fax: 02 6273 4120 Email: joe.ludwig@maff.gov.au

Federal Minister for Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Senator Joe Ludwig is no stranger to the bush or Queensland.

Electorate office Waterfront Place, 1 Eagle Street Brisbane Qld 4000 GPO Box 228 Brisbane Qld 4001

He was born in Longreach, has lived in both Boonah and Roma and lives in Brisbane with his wife and two daughters.

Phone: 07 3001 8110 Fax: 07 3001 8118 Queensland Toll Free (outside metro) 1300 301 944

The Senator began his career as an Industrial Inspector and Training Consultant, before moving to the Queensland Branch of the Australian Workers’ Union.

He is also a barrister and served for over 10 years with the Australian Army Reserve.

Senator Ludwig has a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Queensland, a Bachelor of Laws from the Queensland University of Technology and a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice from the Australian National University.

After the 2007 election, Senator Ludwig was sworn in as Minister for Human Services and Manager of Government Business in the Senate.

On 8 June 2009, he was appointed Special Minister of State and Cabinet Secretary.

He retains his role as Manager of Government Business in the Senate.

17

Highs and lows for Bowen growers

BY BOWEN AND GUMLU DISTRICT GROWERS ASSOCIATION INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT OFFICER DENISE KREYMBORG Bowen/Whitsunday growers have experienced some big highs and lows this year.

The beginning of this year started off well with growers predicting a great season but little did they know what was about to happen.

Bowen and Gumlu felt the aftershock of a devastating sabotage and loss of seven million seedlings due to be fully grown and ready for picking in the peak of the season.

The peak of the season for the Bowen/ Whitsunday region is when up to 95% of Australia’s tomatoes and capsicums are supplied from this area.

The loss to the industry was estimated to be around $24 million with a flow on to the local community of around $50 million.

The full impact has yet to be calculated.

fruit and vegetables.

Within a week, Coles organised another meeting and we had secured a deal for growers in Bowen which will see their ‘Grown in the Whitsundays’ produce on Coles Supermarkets shelves throughout Queensland next season, with the potential to go national the following season.

BDGA was proactive in developing a ‘Systems Approach’ to support the region’s horticulture industry in preparation for the removal of dimethoate and fenthion.

After three-and-half years of data collection and research, it looks like we are not far away from having a ‘Systems Approach’ to manage Queensland Fruit Fly in the future.

This is a significant outcome for the industry in this region.

The positives for this year are a testament to the industry and its never-give-up attitude.

Throughout this year and years past, there has been a strong commitment from growers to build a sustainable future for the industry long term.

This is made possible through the support of industry including Brisbane Produce Markets which has been a part of this process.

BDGA would like to thank Brisbane Produce Markets and all those who share the same vision of a sustainable future for the horticulture industry.

Growers in the Bowen/Whitsunday region really can’t complain about not having enough water.

There was unseasonal rain throughout the winter and in some cases rain and storms that flattened corn fields worth an estimated $6 million.

The rain also meant growers were unable to pick produce towards the end of the season.

On a positive note, BDGA and the horticulture industry have been working closely with Enterprise Whitsundays (EW) to develop a regional brand (‘Made in the Whitsundays’, ‘Grown in the Whitsundays’) that was launched in the Brisbane Produce Markets last year.

In a key strategy to support the region’s horticulture industry after the sabotage, I encouraged consumers to look for Whitsunday-grown fresh produce to help growers financially survive the sabotage.

Local growers set up an initial meeting for EW and I to pitch the ‘Grown in the Whitsundays’ brand to Coles to encourage the use of the brand on fresh

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Industry Rains couldn’t wash away gala dinner’s success The threat of another rain deluge couldn’t dampen the spirits of 450 growers, wholesalers and industry representatives at the biannual Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers (BFVG) Gala Dinner in September.

Heavy rains leading up to the event meant the usual pre-dinner drinks in the adjoining parklands were moved inside the Bundaberg Civic Centre, as a precaution.

BFVG chairman David de Paoli, who has now stood down from the role, acknowledged the considerable contribution the horticulture industry made to the region, and he highlighted the various projects undertaken, and the funding secured.

MC for the event was ABC Radio’s Scott Lamond, with entertainment from comedian Scott Williams, aka The Doctor, and Gold Coast band Groove Inc.

While the evening may have started with talk of the weather, by the end of the night’s food and entertainment lineup, it had again cemented itself as the most successful horticulture networking event on the Wide Bay’s social calendar.

Brisbane Produce Market was a ruby sponsor of the evening, which was also heavily supported by Brisbane Markets wholesalers who used the night to forge new relationships and catch up with farming friends.

BRISMARK’S VANESSA KENNEDY AND BFVG BOARD MEMBER MATT DAGAN AT THE BUNDABERG FRUIT AND VEGETABLE GROWERS (BFVG) GALA DINNER.

Bundaberg trainees awarded Sunbeam sponsorships Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers (BFVG) has partnered with local high schools and the Gateway Schools in Agribusiness program to offer six Wide Bay students a school-based horticulture traineeship.

The students from Kepnock and Bundaberg State High Schools and St Luke’s Anglican School, will study the Certificate II in Production Horticulture.

BFVG Executive officer Peter Peterson said the students have been aided by funding from Sunbeam. The funding meant the students could pursue a rural career that would keep the local horticulture industry strong and viable into the future.

The traineeships enable the students to gain a vocational and technical qualification, working in the production horticulture industry while completing their school studies.

19

Orchardists fear continued losses to flying-foxes As the summer fruit season takes hold, Wide Bay orchardists remain fearful of heavy losses from flying-foxes as another year arrives without a solution to the flying pest problem.

The Queensland State Government banned the issuing of Damage Mitigation Permits (DMP’s) in 2009 which previously allowed orchardists to protect their crops by taking out early arrival flying-foxes, known as ‘scouts’.

Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers (BFVG) Executive Officer Peter Peterson said orchardists have since suffered losses of between 30 to 50% over the past two seasons.

He said the State Government established a Flying-Fox Working

Group to identify non-lethal methods of managing flying-foxes and protecting orchardist’s crops.

However, after numerous meetings, including discussions on flying-fox behaviour from eminent scientists and a number of trials using various light and/or noise systems, the working group has failed to identify any long term, economical viable and sustainable method of crop protection.

“They simply seek approval for the ability to humanely take the few early ‘scout’ arrivals that venture towards their orchard, which then discourages the remainder of the flying-fox colony from venturing into the orchard.”

“This is a situation that has seen orchardists’ livelihoods threatened, their family and social lives stressed and disrupted,” Mr Peterson said.

“Orchardists are not requesting permission to eradicate flying-foxes indiscriminately.

BFVG EXECUTIVE OFFICER PETER PETERSON SAYS ORCHARDISTS’ LIVELIHOODS ARE THREATENED.

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Industry Nematode threat for Queensland strawberries Queensland strawberry growers are waging a new war against bud and leaf nematode that has affected Sunshine Coast farms.

Queensland Strawberry Growers Association’s Lourens Grobler said there are only two previous records of the nematode in Australia from the southern states but a wide range of other plant species host it, including ferns.

project at work and speak with Mr Grobler about the potential impact on the industry.

Growers suspecting they have a nematode present can contact DEEDI on 13 25 23.

He said the nematode has the ability to severely affect strawberry production although at this stage it has been identified on only a handful of farms, one seriously.

The Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation’s (DEEDI) Nematology Diagnostic Laboratory identified the problem, which has been confirmed by an independent taxonomist.

THE STUNTED NEMATODE-AFFECTED STRAWBERRY.

“We are unable to confirm the source of the nematode, or how it has come to infect strawberry plants in commercial production, so we are taking a cautious approach to prevent any further spread,” Mr Grobler said.

“It has not been found in the mother plant nurseries or in a wide range of weeds sampled at Stanthorpe.”

Trials are being held at Merv Schiffke’s Bellemere farm to see if a nematicide would work before any permits are applied for to attack the problem.

Brismark’s Industry Liaison Officer Vanessa Kennedy visited the trial site to see the

Recognising a nematode affected plant Strawberry plants affected by the nematode will be smaller than other plants when they are in full production and will have dramatically lower fruit yields than unaffected plants.

When looking down into the crown of the plant, the problem is characterised by stunting and distortion of fruit and leaf buds.

STAWBERRY FARMER MERV SCHIFFKE CHECKS HIS CROP FOR NEMATODES WITH THE AID OF QUEENSLAND STRAWBERRY GROWERS ASSOCIATION’S LOURENS GROBLER WHO PHOTOGRAPHS THE PLANTS AS PART OF THE TRIAL.

21

National citrus quality standards released New national citrus quality standards for the 2011 season were released, just days before the staging of Citrus Australia’s national conference in November.

The standards are a big step toward improving the quality of citrus products and their appeal to consumers.

They were developed in consultation with citrus growers, packers, wholesalers, retailers, researchers and industry bodies from around the country.

The standards will be reviewed and adjusted annually in consultation with industry with the long term aim of achieving consumer taste preferences and increasing consumption of the citrus category.

November was the perfect month to talk about the standards with up to 250 attending the Citrus Australia conference, held in Hervey Bay. Brisbane Produce Market was a bronze sponsor of the event, using the opportunity to hold a trade display and join growers from across Australia on a field trip to farms and a packing shed in Gayndah.

The conference, held at Peppers Pier Resort, included a busy speakers program that involved horticultural guests from outside the citrus industry to teach about their experiences in marketing, export and trade.

CITRUS GROWER GREG PARR, OF SWEETEE, ADDRESSES DELEGATES AT THE VENTURA FARM IN GAYNDAH, MANY WEARING THEIR BRISBANE PRODUCE MARKET CAPS.

A busy social program supported the conference to encourage networking including a pool side barbecue, movie night and conference dinner.

AVOCADOS AUSTRALIA’S ANTONY ALLEN SPOKE TO CITRUS GROWERS ABOUT THE LESSONS LEARNED FOR HIS INDUSTRY OVER THE YEARS.

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CATCHING UP AT THE CITRUS AUSTRALIA CONFERENCE WELCOME RECEPTION WERE (FROM LEFT) MICHAEL JONES OF WAXON COATINGS, CITRUS AUSTRALIA CEO JUDITH DAMIANI, DIRECTOR AND FAVCO QLD’S GENERAL MANAGER GREG DHNARAM AND GROWER BILL RUEDIGER OF ROSEDALE GROVE.

Industry Reducing R&D investment is costing our farmers A reduction in research and development (R&D) may be costing our farmers more than the nation realises.

The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics (ABARE), the Australian government economic research agency, has been examining what is behind the slowing of farm productivity growth since the turn of the century.

The deputy secretary of the Federal Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) Phillip Glyde said $830 million is currently spent on Australian agricultural R&D. That was about the same

as it was in the late 1970s, but the returns on that investment are falling.

“Clearly the drought has had a significant impact,” Mr Glyde said.

“But that alone doesn’t explain the decrease. We think that ABARE has been able to link the decline in productivity to the decline in intensity of R&D expenditure.”

My Glyde said that in the past 30 years “research intensity - research investment” divided by the value of production - had fallen from about 5% to a little over 3%.

Murray Darling’s water issues boil over A furore continues over the release of the Federal Government’s Murray Darling Basin Plan that could see water cut to between 27% to 37% across the basin, angering irrigators.

About 130 rural representatives from three states, including Queensland, have formed a new coalition aimed at convincing the Federal Government that the Plan must save towns as well as the rivers.

A Murray Darling Basin Plan Coalition steering committee will decide how to lobby governments and a Federal Basin inquiry, headed by the independent MP Tony Windsor.

The three areas of concern are the size of the water cuts, the lack of technical data and the economic modeling used.

AUSVEG CEO Richard Mulcahy said the proposed Plan could drive up the level of vegetable imports potentially leading to the loss of farms.

“Our growers can’t take this. Consumers are going to get a shock when they find that these decisions hurt them in the hip pocket.

“From the vegetable industry’s perspective, the proposed Plan does not strike the right balance.”

NSW and Queensland would lose between 600 and 800 jobs and about $100 million a year in farm-gate income under the proposed irrigation water cuts.

Small towns were most at risk.

A website has been set up explaining the Plan and calling for community feedback and is found at http://thebasinplan.mdba.gov.au/.

23

Contamination tests from coal gasification sites Landholders continue to lock heads with mining companies in South West Queensland despite the State Government lauding the benefits of coal seam gas (CSG) mining for the State.

The Federal Government's conditional approval of two central Queensland plants to compress gas taken from rural coal seams into liquid - a world first marks “a coming of age”, according to the Premier Anna Bligh.

“This is a turning point for the Queensland economy. We will look back on this day as the day a whole new industry started,” Ms Bligh told ABC Radio in October.

The gas will be extracted from coal seams through thousands of wells drilled in central and southern country Queensland.

As the Premier made her announcement, more tests for traces of banned carcinogenic chemicals were being undertaken from fluid taken from eight exploration wells near Miles, found during routine tests by Australia Pacific LNG. The discovery added fuel to the fire of concern held by growers, environmentalists and residents who have made repeated calls to end CSG gas extraction in Queensland's southern inland.

New Biosecurity bill in 2011 The Queensland Government will ask stakeholders to comment on the Biosecurity Bill 2010, a document designed to put the building blocks in place for new legislation.

Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland Tim Mulherin announced the first stage of targeted stakeholder consultation “to ensure its maximum benefit for industry and the community”, he said.

Mr Mulherin said the Bill would replace a number of pieces of existing legislation, so Biosecurity incidents can be responded to in a more efficient manner.

"Queensland is the frontline state for Biosecurity in Australia,” Mr Mulherin said.

"We will no longer be required to rely on different pieces of legislation depending on whether the threat was marine or landbased, or whether it is a livestock or plant-related risk."

"It will be designed to suit a client focused approach to delivering biosecurity services with less red tape and aligned to biosecurity risks."

By mid-2011 a complete biosecurity exposure Bill will be released for general consultation, before a finalised Bill will be available for debate.

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The State Government has ruled out a call for a moratorium on mining projects despite the second contamination involving a volatile chemical.

In July, a coal gasification pilot near Kingaroy on the Darling Downs was put on hold after the same chemicals were found in water supplies there.

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Industry Growing industry leaders in 2011 Brisbane Markets will again support an industry-based National Vegetable Industry Leadership Program in 2011 after the success of its association this year.

industry including growing, harvesting, processing, extension, exporters, importers, marketing and employees to learn together.

Thirteen Growing Leaders graduated from the six month course in September, a portion of their studies having included workshops and a tailored tour at the Brisbane Produce Market.

“The program focuses on developing skills that participants can apply at three levels – personal, business and national industry,” Ms Briggs said.

Growing Leaders is the only national industry-specific leadership program for the vegetable industry.

Course facilitator Jill Briggs said the program encouraged all sectors of the

“They are also encouraged to develop and implement plans associated with these three areas.

“The 2010 participants produced a mission statement that inspired industry outcomes such as a clearer picture of the current industry social and financial climate, a new website – loveaustralianvegetable. com.au and plan for a National Vegetable Week.”

A call is being made for interested people to sign up for the 2011 event.

For further information contact Program Manager, Rural Training Initiatives for further information via www.ruraltraininginitiatives.com.au or jill@ruraltraininginitiatives.com.au GROWING LEADERS 2010 GRADUATES, FROM LEFT, ARE LISA CROOKS, EWEN HOLZBERGER, VINCE BRANCATISANO; SIMON BONNER, PHILLIP MCLAUGHLIN; DAVID CAREY, CHERIE GAMBLEY, MARK BOERSMA, MAX HORVATH, LUKASZ GORAJEK, BRODIE WOLFENDEN AND HARRY SINGH TURNA.

New body studies tropical agriculture Queensland’s position as an international leader in tropical and subtropical agriculture and food research was given a boost with the launch of a new body, called the Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAAFI).

QAAAFI is a new Institute of the University of Queensland, formed through an alliance between University of Queensland and the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation.

Plant, animal and food scientists from the organisations will work together to develop new technologies and practices to develop the industries.

Brismark’s COMMITMENT to Growers Our wholesalers have a demonstrated commitment to growers trading in the Brisbane Produce Market.

Just some of the hands-on initiatives to support growers include: • Sponsorships • Conference participation • Grower kits • Grower delegations • Dedicated Industry Liaison Officer • Grower Hotline • Handy publications Brismark and its members have worked hard over many years to put systems in place to provide the highest levels of service for produce marketing and distribution.

Brisbane Markets, Sherwood Road, Rocklea, Brisbane, Qld 4106, PO Box 70, Brisbane Markets, Qld 4106 Ph: (07) 3915 4222 Fax: (07) 3915 4221 Email: admin@brismark.com.au Web: www.brismark.com.au

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To find out more about your Queensland Fruit and Vegetable Wholesalers, visit www.brismark.com.au or phone the free Grower Hotline on 1800 631 002.

Export Nation overrun with veg imports Alarm bells have started ringing after the Australian Food and Grocery Council (AFGC) revealed that the nation is now a net importer of food and groceries.

Industry Minister, Kim Carr, launched the AFGC’s second State of the Industry report in Canberra in October.

Last year’s report warned the industry’s trade surplus for agriculturally-rich Australia had dropped from $4.5 billion in 2004/05 to just $150 million in 2008/09, stressing exports were only slightly exceeding imports.

This year’s report showed total imports now exceed industry exports by $1.8b.

AUSVEG has been raising concern over the issue for some months after the 30 June 2010 Australian Bureau of Statistics figures showed imports continued to saturate the Australian vegetable market.

ongoing concern for the vegetable and potato industries with $555million imported in the past financial year.

New Zealand, China, Italy and the US continued to be the major countries of origin for imports in 2009/10, continuing a five year trend.

AFGC chief executive, Kate Carnell, said the result from the State of Industry report was alarming.

She said the report attributed the blowout to several “interrelated factors” including a strengthening Australian dollar, changes in domestic supply, competitive pressure from foreign producers and broader globalisation trends.

“The situation could improve if Canberra had an overarching strategy with aims

The figures showed the Australia’s balance of trade in vegetables negative at $306 million in the 2009/10 financial year.

including identification of growing

AUSVEG communications manager Hugh Tobin said imports were a serious

quality, nutritional food and grocery

market opportunities for Australian exports in India and Asia where safer, supplies were needed,” Mrs Carnell said.

Aussie dollar hits fresh produce exports The high Australian dollar is making exports to Asian markets difficult and it’s still tipped to rise.

Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers former chairman David De Paoli and well known exporter said Australian produces are now expensive in key Asian markets He suggests growers need a brand in demand to stay in the market.

“If you’re a basic, common, straight commodity product with nothing, no advantages, no benefits, you almost won’t be let through the door because it’s all on price,” Mr De Paoli said.

“If you have a point of difference or you’re a little bit different than the average guy, you’ve got a brand that’s really in high demand, then they’ll buy it.”

27

Kids

Healthy year for Queensland Kids Fresh Net classes A new healthy eating program for the older primary school aged children around Queensland has turned out a winner for Brisbane Market’s Queensland Kids Fresh Net (QKFN) program this year.

It’s the first year the years 5 to 7 students have been included in the program in its eight years of educating kids.

Almost 7,000 school children were educated by the QKFN team through its Apples Ain’t Apples and Crunch Time programs.

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• Waste Verification and Digital Photography

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• Quality Inspections and Loss Assessments

• Established Interstate Network For All Services

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• Outturn and Pre-Export Inspections and Assessments

• Independent Produce Assessments and Downgrading

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This year the Apples ain’t Apples presentation, aimed for the younger students, has travelled to over 85 schools educating close to 6,000 students, and a further 200 students received a guided tour of the trading floor at the Brisbane Markets.

• Historic Market Data and Market Intelligence Reports

• Temperature Monitoring and Logger Recovery

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The success of ‘reality’ cooking shows has also greatly increased children’s knowledge of fruits and vegetables.

Totally Independent and Impartial • Brisbane Daily Fruit and Vegetable Market Reports

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This is down to the increasing social concern with individual carbon footprints and ways in which it can be reduced.

Fruit & Vegetable Marketing Consultants

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Following feedback from teachers who have had the Crunch Time presentation, food miles/globalisation of food will also be included into the presentation.

Fresh market information

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The new program, Crunch Time, includes some of the basics of the Apples ain’t Apples presentation but also discusses specific vitamins and minerals present in fresh produce. It looks at how fruit and vegetables help to keep our bodies healthy and how to use fresh produce in everyday life. More than 600 students have been educated through this new program.

QKFN PRESENTER EVAN BAREA (LEFT) CAUGHT UP WITH BAZZA BANANA AND THE KIDS AT ST OLIVER PLUNKETT SCHOOL, BULIMBA, DURING AN APPLES AINT APPLES SCHOOL PRESENTATION THIS YEAR.

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Originally the program was designed for school aged children in years 2 to 4 with an Apples ain’t Apples presentation talking about the amount of fruit and vegetables we should eat each day, the parts of the plant we eat and enhanced by paddock to plate stories.

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Ph (07) 3379 4576 Fax (07) 3379 4103 Infocall 1902 262 580 E-mail adminmis@ausmarket.net.au Web www.ausmarket.net.au

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Retailing Toowoomba retailer Betros Bros on Russell Street was the Brisbane Produce Market’s Retailer of the Month for July.

THE TOOWOOMBA TEAM (FROM LEFT) DEB LAMBLE, MURRAY BETROS, JABIN GRUTT, BARBIE LYSANOWICZ AND BEVAN BETROS FROM BETROS BROS, TOOWOOMBA.

Brothers Kerry, Bevan and Murray Betros manage the retail stores in Toowoomba and Dalby, aided by about 170 staff members.

“We have been around for a long time

and have seen many changes in the industry but the core values of quality product and customer service will never change,” said Bevan Betros.

JULY

Iconic retailer showcases tradition and modern service

This store has been a finalist in both 2007 and last year in 2009 for the coveted Retailer of the Year accolade, awarded by the Brisbane Produce Market.

Robina Fruit Market’s George and Tsambica (Sam) Manettas are the husband and wife duo behind one of the best greengrocers on the Gold Coast. They were awarded the Brisbane Produce Market’s Retailer of the Month for August.

TSAMBICA AND GEORGE MANETTAS FAR LEFT, WITH THE WINNING TEAM AT ROBINA FRUIT MARKET.

Mr Manettas uses his 20 years of experience to buy the best fruit and vegetables from the Market, while Mrs Manettas is in control of marketing handling display, customer service, pointof-sale and promotions for both stores.

They split their time between the two stores, Robina Fruit Market and their other store Earth Markets, Elanora, but still allocate energy to new marketing ideas.

“We have developed a website www.robinafruitmarket.com.au which provides a great online presence and the e-newsletter enables us to get seasonal information and recipe suggestions directly to our customers,” said Mrs Manettas.

AUGUST

Robina greengrocer shines on the coast

Fresh Sensations, has two families and two generations working hard to offer Capalaba residents the ultimate greengrocer, butchery and fine foods experience.

FRESH SENSATIONS TEAM, FROM LEFT, CHRIS NICOLAOU, CRYSTAL BRYANT, JOHN NICOLAOU, HARRY MOUSIKOS AND HARRY NICOLAOU.

This hard work has paid off with the announcement from the Brisbane Produce Market that they won the Retailer of the Month award for September.

Partners, John Nicolaou and Jim Mousikos, along with four and three sons respectively, all work in the business.

The family group recently bought northside store Garden of Eden which is now called Fresh Sensations, Chermside.

“Everyone has their expertise and I am proud that not only our quality produce but also our staff knowledge and customer service has been rated as one of the best,” Mr Chris Nicolaou said.

“There is some stiff competition amongst greengrocers in the bayside area, so the fact that our mystery shopping experience came out ‘as the best’ has rewarded the whole team of people here.”

SEPTEMBER

Big family, sensational win

29

Boosting sales from juice workshop sweet Brisbane Markets Fresh Tastes team held a ‘boost sales from juice’ development session in November and it all began with the perfect mix that could help greengrocers sweeten their cash register takings.

The perfect mix? Try fresh fruits, vegetables, an industrial strength blender and an entrepreneurial idea from Burleigh Village Greengrocer, Jason Smith.

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SUPPORT ER YOUR ENGROC E R G L A C LO

Mr Smith has created a unique difference with his juices and that is the simple addition of wedges of fruit on each straw which has generated the all important word of mouth in the small coastal community.

“For a fairly reasonable outlay, I have seen results beyond my expectations, with the added bonus of helping my fruit and veg business. I have almost no waste now, it can all be used in juice,” said Mr Smith.

JASON SMITH HANDING OUT ‘GO FOR 2 & 5’ IN A CUP WITH HIS BEETROOT, PINEAPPLE, CARROT, APPLE, LEMON AND GINGER JUICE.

“It appears to be the way of the future with the younger generation. I am noticing they prefer to eat their fruit in a juice as opposed to buying in the whole form.”

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Early this year, Mr Smith installed the blender and from what started out as a small interest, has developed into a generous income stream and a unique marketing strategy.

From the first week back in January Mr Smith began with a slow uptake and now he can sell up to 100 cups a day in peak times on holidays and weekends.

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$1,000 continues to be allocated for owners to spend on store specific marketing and promotions.

The additional $1,000 is used to design and place an advertisement in the store’s local Quest newspaper, in conjunction with a feature article highlighting the winning store and promoting it to the local community.

This arrangement has been negotiated by the Fresh Tastes team which coordinate the publicity on behalf of each Retailer of the Month winner.

Christmas

Special day for the children

Foodbank readying for Christmas

With Christmas just around the corner, Brisbane Markets staff members will again be spreading the fruity, sweet gifts of the season to more than 3,000 special and disadvantaged children.

Brisbane Produce Markets wholesalers will be stepping up their donations leading up to Christmas to aid Foodbank at a time when its warehouse traditionally requires the most donations.

For the past 16 consecutive years, Brisbane Produce Market has handed out fruit and BRISBANE PRODUCE MARKET’S joined in the fun of the Golden Casket BAZZA BANANA MADE CHRISTMAS 4KQ Brisbane Special Children’s Christmas A TOUCH MORE FUN FOR ONE Party, held at the Brisbane Convention and SPECIAL CHILD AT LAST YEAR’S Exhibition Centre.

GOLDEN CASKET 4KQ BRISBANE SPECIAL CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PARTY.

Wholesalers from throughout the Markets donate carton after carton of festive fruit for the event, doing their bit to help make the one day of the year a special one for kids who are terminally ill, intellectually or physically impaired.

The children will again munch on apples and stonefruit while they enjoy rides, face painting, merry-go-rounds, jumping castles, musical entertainment and a visit from Santa Claus.

Holiday Season Trading Hours

Foodbank is feeding over 65,000 people in need per week in Queensland and the number is growing daily.

Over 300 charities are registered with Foodbank Queensland. They collect from Foodbank’s Colmslie based warehouse and distribute the food to the needy.

Growers receive a tax deduction if they forward any of their surplus crop to the organisation.

To make a donation, contact Foodbank on 07 3395 8422, email foodbank@westnet.com.au or visit www.foodbank.com.au.

Brisbane Produce Market will be closed on all public holidays during the festive season.

For further information on fresh produce deliveries and purchases, please contact your wholesaler or check trading hours on line at www.brisbanemarkets.com.au.

ET

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