FS44

Print post approved pp 100001181

ISSUE: FORTY FOUR JUNE/2013

02-13

#

s urce MAGAZINE OF BRISBANE MARKETS LIMITED

rts Chinese grape expo take off

ON

S CONFERENCE SEA

28

16

Cool conference season underway

for State pride ers Market golf 06

YOUR SOURCE OF FRESH INFORMATION FOR THE FRUIT AND VEGETABLE INDUSTRY

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3

CEO comment National Food Plan The recent release of the Federal Government’s National Food Plan

by Federal Agriculture Minister Joe Ludwig needs to be applauded as an excellent initiative which can work to give guidance and direction to government and industry planning and policy setting.

The plan exists at a high level and covers the whole food sector. It contains a focus on research and development, skills upgrading and reporting.

There is also a focus on health and dietary guidelines which also has the potential to provide a very positive outcome for the industry.

The plan, therefore, does seek to address a number of important parts of the jigsaw puzzle, which represents the future of food production, processing and marketing in Australia.

It allocates funding to these areas without providing any guidance as to how these funds will be apportioned across the many facets of the food industry.

market. Much more could be done to give an insight into the Federal Government’s plans and policies to promote productivity and international competitiveness.

The ongoing approach of throwing buckets of money at industry to address only certain parts of the economic equation has shown again and again to fail, as seen with the car industry.

It is a little rich for governments to preach to industry about the need to develop export markets, while they themselves progressively dismantle Australia’s competitive advantages.

They offer an environment which in relative terms has high labour costs, high electricity costs, high freight costs, and ongoing difficulties negotiating market access.

The plan, therefore, while being an excellent initiative, does not go far enough and does not address a significant number of the issues which are adversely impacting on the growth and financial sustainability of the industry.

Horticulture Code of Conduct The current political debate about the pros and cons of having a mandatory code for the retailing sector would be amusing if it were not such a serious issue.

The Liberal National Party had no trouble imposing the current costly, unworkable code on the wholesaling sector. Now both sides of politics are balking at doing anything further.

It is about time Australia’s politicians showed some ticker - a uniform code for all or no code at all!

Andrew Young, Chief Executive Officer

In terms of the parts of the jigsaw puzzle where the industry is left guessing, there could have been more said about the role and growth in the industry itself, and of the domestic

BRISBANE MARKETS LIMITED ABN 39 064 983 017 PO Box 80, Brisbane Markets, Rocklea, Queensland 4106 e: admin@brisbanemarkets.com.au w: www.brisbanemarkets.com.au ADVERTISING AND EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES The Editor 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

Fresh Source is the magazine of Brisbane Markets Limited.

New editions of the magazine are printed quarterly. 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.

Contents FRESH UPDATES FRESH MARKETS

p4

State of pride for Market golfers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p6 Paniyiri promotion on the trading floor. . . . . . . . . . p6 Mother’s Day biggest on calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p7 Ipad Mini competition a winner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p7 Fresh inspirations in the kitchen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p7

FRESH WHOLESALING Blaze Aid volunteers fed with thanks. . . . . . . . . . . . p8 Fresh Test samples arrive daily. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p8 Kokoda Trail fundraising journey continues . . . . . p9 Healthy Lunchboxes a tasty sensation. . . . . . . . . . p10 Strong start for annual retailer program. . . . . . . . p10 Our kids missing out on their fruit and veg. . . . . p11

FRESH BUSINESS National recognition for our Subway. . . . . . . . . . . p12 New cafe and butcher join Brisbane Markets. . . p12 Having a plan is crucial for long term survival. . . p13 Superannuation changes affect us all. . . . . . . . . . . p15

FEATURE: CONFERENCE SEASON Cool conference season underway. . . . . . . . . . . . p16 Fresh Connections an industry highlight. . . . . . . p16 Call for farming commissioner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p16 Strawberry growers meet Brismark’s GM. . . . . . . p17 Increasing demand a key for mango industry. . . p17 Banana industry issues require a united approach. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p18 Strong turnout for annual AUSVEG Congress. . . p18 AUSVEG Conference snippets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p19

FRESH INDUSTRY Horticulture leaders discuss Queensland’s future. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p20 Horticulture IDG guides Transport Blueprint. . . p20 Brisbane Markets hosts National Food Plan launch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p21 National Food Plan content. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p21 Industry bites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p22 Promising start to growing season. . . . . . . . . . . . . p24 Effective use of email communication. . . . . . . . . . p25 Federal Budget spares agricultural funding cuts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p26 Key Federal Budget new initiatives. . . . . . . . . . . . . p26 Who are my customers? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p27

FRESH EXPORT Fruit and vegetable imports rise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p28 Chinese grape exports take off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p28 Australian farm exports to decline . . . . . . . . . . . . . p28 DAFF Registration increase threatens export viability. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p29

FRESH EVENTS Calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p30 Exploring Australia’s digital economic future. . . . p30

updates 2013/14 Telephone Directory The Brisbane Markets 2013/14 Telephone Directory has arrived.

The A5 publication has all the features of past directories, including

TELEPHONE DIRECTORY

2013-2014 PUBLISHED

M AY 2 0 1 3

our tenants’ contact details, their position on site and where supplied, the main email address.

It also features an updated Brisbane Markets centre spread map, a tenant directory, detailed information on our Market services and colourful advertisements from our service providers.

Request a copy by phoning

Level 2, Fresh Centre 385 Sherwood Road, Rocklea PO Box 80, Brisba ne Markets 4106 T (07) 3915 4200 E admin@brisbanema rkets.com.au ACN 064 983 017 ABN

39 064 983 017

Maintenance Hot

line

1800 610 064 Every effort has been

made to ensure the accuracy of the informati on contained in this publication at the time of printing.

Brisbane Markets Limited gives no warranty regarding this informati on.

(07) 3915 4200 or email admin@brisbanemarkets.com.au.

Kids Go Fresh & Healthy The Brisbane Produce Market Kids Education Program has been rebranded and launched as ‘Kids Go Fresh & Healthy’.

Look out for the bright logo and branding on the “fruit-mobile” that takes the team around to spread the healthy eating message to primary school students.

You will also see it on various kids’ education-related projects, merchandise and local greengrocer initiatives.

Fresh Source on line

5

We had a great reaction to our request last edition if you would prefer you Fresh Source online or hardcopy. Thanks to all those who replied.

The offer is still there. If you prefer future editions of Fresh Source to be emailed to you rather than posted, then email your request to admin@brisbanemarkets.com.au.

You can even check out the publication online at www.brisbanemarkets.com.au/publications/fresh-source/ with plenty of back issues to source if you are looking for something specific.

2013 Aussie mandarin ambassador Sunshine Coast based 4Ingredients chef Kim McCosker has been appointed the 2013 Aussie mandarin ambassador.

For her role Kim has developed some mandarin recipes for Citrus Australia.

The association is predicting mandarins will be more popular than oranges this season, a massive

Tuck into flood-hit fruit Want to help flood battered farmers in Queensland? It’s simple. Buy a Queensland orange or mandarin.

Community Recovery and Resilience Minister David Crisafulli travelled to Bundaberg to make the plea.

“Everywhere I go in Queensland people ask me what they can do to help the people who were hit hard in the disaster,” Mr Crisafulli said.

shift in Aussie consumer trends as

“Here’s a suggestion: buy a

oranges have long been an iconic Aussie fruit.

Queensland orange or mandarin that may not look perfect on the outside, but it’s the sweetest and juiciest fruit on the market today.”

Mr Crisafulli said there were many growers who had been flooded, especially from the Burnett, who were finding it hard to sell produce

i Leng talks to children Brisbane Produce Market’s Vikk ch.

Mun Baa Moo at ” field “in the

that was perfectly good inside but a bit battered outside.

“You might have trouble finding it

Moo Baa then Munch on some fruit

in all supermarkets because of their

Brisbane Produce Market partnered with AgForce and presented to 250

fruit, but unusual circumstances call

primary school-aged children at the 2013 Moo Baa Munch school event in

for unusual solutions,” he said.

May, just down the road at Corinda State High School.

The event was hosted by the school on its extensive farm facilities, with the Brisbane Produce Market stand one of the more popular.

restrictions on the appearance of

“I’m asking every fruit-and-vegie shop to stock our local produce in their shops, and I’m asking every

Kids sat on hay bales to hear the healthy eating message about fresh fruit

Queenslander to buy at least one

and vegetables.

piece of it. We all know looks can be

The program is designed to deliver agricultural messages to urban and

deceiving. The state’s farmers have

metropolitan areas, while creating a fun, educational and interactive

taken enough hits without having to

experience for students.

dump perfectly good fruit.”

markets State pride for Market golfers Ever seen a cane toad and a cockroach go

The inter-Market competition has been

head to head on the golf course?

going since 1976, with Brisbane Markets

If you were in Bonville, near Coffs Harbour, in April, deep inside NSW’s turf, you would have seen the annual locking

taking home the trophy 19 times, and with the Sydney Markets win this year, the trophy has gone south 15 times.

of horns….well, golf clubs and the thrust

It also honours former colleagues with the

and parry of the golfing game of the year:

trophy named the Alex Littman Len Greer

the Fruit & Vegetable Industries Annual

Plate to remember two from the wholesaling

Interstate Challenge.

industry who have passed away.

This is a Brisbane Markets versus Sydney Markets tournament.

It’s a social match that brings old friends and industry competitors together for a week of golf and socializing and is held at a different venue each year. This year introduced some younger industry competitors too which keeps the challenge alive.

Paniyiri promotion on the trading floor The Brisbane Markets trading floor became a Greek party one morning in mid May. There was flag waving, bouzouki music, Greek dancing and a lineup of Brisbane Markets characters interviewed on Radio 4BC and Channel 7 to wish the Greek community “Yassou” in the lead up to the Paniyiri Greek Festival.

It’s the first time the radio and TV stations

her team pose for a The Channel 7 news and weat ng floor. on the Brisbane Markets tradi

shot

have chosen the busy multicultural trading floor to promote the annual festival, held in Brisbane each May. By the sounds, it won’t be the last.

Channel 7 news personalities and the Radio 4BC breakfast crew broadcasting from the site have told organisers that they had so much fun that they want to return in 2014.

Superior Fruit’s Chris Maniatis wears the Greek flag after his Radio 4BC interview during the Markets’ Paniyiri promotion.

7

The Brisbane Markets will celebrate 50 years at its Rocklea site in 2014. If you have any photos or memorabilia from the last half decade of life at the Markets, we would love to hear from you.

Brisbane Flower Market’s Mother’s Day sales bigger have grown bigger than Valentine’s Day and Christmas time.

Mother’s Day biggest on Flower Market calendar Customers queued on Mother’s Day weekend, spilling out of the Brisbane Flower Market, to pick up their posy of appreciation.

Thousands of South East Queenslanders called into the Sherwood Road site to shop where the florists shop, although some slipped across the road to the Saturday Fresh and Sunday Treasure weekend Markets to find even more bouquets.

Mother’s Day has grown bigger on the Brisbane Market’s Flower Market calendar than Valentine’s Day with preparations taking place days before the busy weekend began and extended hours to handle the volume of interest.

Thousands of chrysanthemums had been trucked, including the popular disbud variety that is a fluffy version of the traditional flower.

Other popular Mother’s Day bunches

DID YOU KNOW?

Email Brisbane Markets Limited’s Vanessa Kennedy on vkennedy@brisbanemarkets.com.au or phone (07) 3915 4200.

Ipad Mini competition SPEND $5 OR M a winner ORE

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO...

Thousands of Brisbane Markets customers were given the opportunity to be rewarded through a ‘Win an iPad Mini’ competition held at its Commercial Centre shopping strip and

AN iPAD MINI

The Café, in the Fresh Centre building.

Each week, for four weeks, customers who spent more than $5 had the opportunity to

VALUE D AT $35 0

fill out an entry form and go into one of four draws over a four week period, from 27 May to 9 June.

The weekly winner took home an iPad Mini while the retailers had thousands of opportunities to draw people into their store and reward their clientele with

4 TO WIN - ENTER TODAY DRAWN WEEKLY FROM MONDAY 13TH MAY TO SUNDAY 9TH

SHOP AT ANY BRISB

JUNE

ANE MARKETS COMM ERCIAL CENTRE & FRESH CENTRE RETA IL OUTLET. Brisbane Markets, 385 Sherwood Road, Rockl ea For terms and condi tions, visit www.brisba nemarkets.com.au

great service.

The Commercial Centre features a chemist, stationer, new butchery, seafood shop, post office, convenience store, fast food outlets, barber, aquarium retailer, grocery warehouse and will soon welcome a new café.

A full list of winners is found at www.brisbanemarkets.com.au.

included roses in many colours, white asiatic lilies, alstro, gerberas, asters, carnations, freesias and alstromeria.

the kitchen Fresh inspirations in

has been gathering a Inspirations newsletter Brisbane Markets’ Fresh nthly e-newsletter late last year, with the mo e eas rel its ce sin ing follow . th East Queenslanders reaching hundreds of Sou s on what to buy and it gives the latest new Its focus is on consumers throughout the as and what’s happening when, storage, recipe ide rocer’s stores. season and in our greeng e and email uest, along with your nam To sign up, send your req nemarkets.com.au. address to admin@brisba

wholesaling Blaze Aid volunteers fed with thanks It takes more than saying thanks and

their volunteers, when the chief cook

a cup of to tea to show support to the

and bottle washer farmers’ wives were

Blaze Aid team, a group of volunteers

digging deep out of their own already

who travelled to Laidley to rebuild fences

flood affected bank accounts to feed the

after this year’s ex-tropical Cyclone

volunteer army.

Oswald flood devastation.

The volunteers, who bunked in at the Mulgowie Hall & Recreational Ground for a number of weeks gave their time for free to re-fence flood affected farms but they did need a night time meal to

Gibb Bros was one of the first to provide support.

Blaze Aid volunteers has also helped restore the spirits of people who lost pets, crops, stock, homes and property.

keep them going. That’s where Gibb Bros

The teams have also worked in the

and a range of Lockyer Valley growers

Monto, Mundubbera, Murgon,

stepped in.

Biggenden, Gin Gin and Dululu areas

Vegetable donations have helped the

until this month.

Mulgowie and Laidley farmers feed

Fresh Test samples arrive daily Brismark’s Fresh Test Australia service

The Australian Chamber has negotiated

has grown so much over the past

significant price reductions with a number

12 years that the once fortnightly

of laboratories around the country, saving

collection of samples grew to weekly

up to 50% of the price because of its

collections and in recent months, has

coordination, bulk requests and resulting

expanded to receiving samples on any

in reduced administration fees.

business day.

What is it? Fresh Test is an Australian

through the establishment of a database to

Chamber of Fruit and Vegetable

manage the requests and results.

Industries initiative to provide low cost MRL (chemical residue) and microbial testing for wholesalers and their ks Brismark’s Fresh Test service chec fresh produce for biological and chemical residues.

Duplication of testing has been eliminated

growers in Australia’s Central Markets.

The tests are confidential and are used for verification for food safety and Quality Assurance systems.

For further information, contact Brismark’s Fresh Test coordinator Amanda Green 07 3915 4222 or use the freecall Brisbane Markets Hotline on 1800 631 002.

9

Kokoda Trail fundraising journey continues Brisbane Markets wholesaler, David Keates, Quality Fruits’ Managing Director, was challenged but exhilarated by his latest adventure to help others, this time by trekking the Kokoda Trail to raise funds for Variety.

Mr Keates joined the 10-day trek as part of Team Australia, a group raising funds for the children’s charity that provides equipment and services to Queensland kids who are sick, disadvantaged or have special needs.

The Kokoda Trail is a single-file foot thoroughfare that runs 96km overland — 60km in a straight line — through the Owen Stanley Range, in Papua New Guinea.

Brismark and Brisbane Markets Limited have

negotiated a new tripartite agreement between DID Bowen Gumlu District Growers Association.

YOU The Memorandum of Understanding ensure ?

W O N K strong ties between the growers and Market community to work together on industry issues.

It is the most famous for being the location of the World War II battle between Japanese and Australian forces in 1942.

Mr Keates said that the team raised funds but the mission was not over.

“Together with others on the trek, including people who had a history with Kokoda through relatives who had been stationed there during the war, we raised over $30,000,” he said.

“Completing the trek was a personal ambition. Commemorating Anzac Day at Brigade Hill in the middle of the track was touching with the Last Post playing as the sun rose over the mountains.”

Mr Keates is continuing the raising funds by selling raffle tickets within prizes including Members Tickets for the State of Origin and tickets to The British Irish Lions match in Brisbane.

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Quality Fruit’s David Keates back from raising funds by hiking the Kokoda Trail.

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wholesaling Healthy Lunchboxes a tasty sensation Brisbane Produce Market’s Healthy Eating

five serves of vegetables and provides

Ambassador and footy star, Ben Hannant,

10 examples of Healthy Lunchbox ideas.

headed up the launch of the Healthy

There are extra recipes and tips to spur

Lunchboxes for kids of all ages at Hilder

you on to create your own yummy

Road Primary School, The Gap, in April,

lunchbox combinations.

creating a feast of interest.

The publication is available from

The publication was produced by

independent greengrocers taking part

Brisbane Produce Market to support

in Brisbane Produce Market’s Retailer

independent greengrocers taking part

Program. All are found on the check

in its Retailer Program, and in turn, their

out the Healthy Lunchboxes book store

customers in their local communities.

directory at www.brisbanemarkets.com.au.

The colourful, wire spined recipe book is only available at local greengrocers who can help choose the best seasonal fruit to make the recipes.

Healthy Lunchboxes has been produced to help parents feed their children the recommended two serves and fruit and

Footballer Ben Ha nnant launches the Brisbane Produce Market Healthy Lunchboxes book at Hilder Road Primary School, The Gap. greengrocers who The book is available at local onal fruit to make can help choose the best seas the recipes.

Strong start for annual retailer program Brisbane Produce Market launched its 2013/14 Retailer

new Kids Go Fresh

Program in May to encourage its greengrocers to join the

& Healthy Program.

custom designed program to bolster sales, provide tools and educate independent greengrocers.

Registered retailers

An independent greengrocer talks through the Retailer Program with Brisb ane Produce Market’s Vikki Leng during the official sign up morning.

whose stores are

It’s a free program, paid for by Brisbane Markets

within a three hour driving distance of the Brisbane

Wholesalers, through its service organisation Brismark.

Markets can also opt in for the Mystery Shopping Awards

Participants receive free point-of-sale promotional materials, website store listing and co-promotions with the

Program that rewards excellence in fresh produce retailing.

11

Our kids missing out on their fruit and veg

n children are not More than a quarter of Australia eating enough fruit each day.

A recent Brisbane Produce Market survey

some interesting facts around

lunches, less than half of the parents

reveals a staggering 93% of children were

healthy eating.

(45%) always or often included fresh

“It is encouraging to see that three-

vegetables such as salads, sandwich

quarters of parents make their child’s

fillings and vegie sticks.

lunches on a daily basis,” she said.

“This indicates there is definitely

“However, while healthier

room for including more fresh

That’s according to a Healthy Eating

options such as water, fresh fruit,

vegetables in the lunchbox and

Survey conducted by Brisbane Produce

sandwiches, wraps and bread

helping their children reach their

Market in April, that has backed up

rolls are often included in packed

daily recommended serves.”

eating less than the recommended daily allowance of vegetables.

More than a quarter (26%) were not eating enough fruit each day.

already concerning 2012 Queensland Health figures. It says that by eating just one additional serve of fruit or vegies per day could save the direct health care system over $513 million a year.

Almost half of the parents questioned through the Brisbane Produce Market Healthy Eating Survey were well aware of the Federal Government’s recommended

FINDING IT HARD IN THIS TOUGH MARKET?

DO YOU REALLY KNOW HOW WELL YOU’RE PERFORMING?

number of five serves of vegetables and two serves of fruit per day.

Parents cited their child’s food preferences as the key factor preventing them from preparing healthy meals.

Some 45% said pleasing fussy eaters was the biggest barrier to preparing healthy lunchbox meals with almost half of the

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parents surveyed always or often include pre-packaged foods such as muesli bars and chips to keep their kids happy.

Surprisingly, less than a quarter of parents named the perceived cost of healthy eating as a notable barrier, although 41 per cent said information around healthy eating on a budget would help them prepare healthier meals.

Brisbane Produce Market spokesperson, Vikki Leng, said the survey unearthed

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business National recognition for our Subway Brisbane Markets tenant, Subway, in

Centre with improved paving, seating,

the Commercial Centre, may be the

lighting and signage.

favourite haunt of many Brisbane Markets employees wanting a bite to eat but soon people Australia wide will see the magic of the store.

The outlet was selected from 1,400 others nationally to be the star of the next Subway commercial, expected to hit your TV screens in July.

Franchisee Ian Haseler said that actors and film crew from Two Little Indians took over the store in May for more than 14 hours to film the commercial.

The choice of his store comes after extensive upgrading of the Commercial

A technician pla ys back part of a commercial being made at a Brisb ane Markets Subway film shoot.

New cafe and butcher join Brisbane Markets Brisbane Market’s shopping strip, known

operation was appointed, after showing

as the Commercial Centre, has two new

links to the Market and the commitment

tenants moving their businesses to the site.

necessary to win the bid.

Brisbane Markets wholesaler, Peter Kedwell,

Buzz is an established operation also found

along with sons Cameron and Logan, has

at the Emporium in the Valley and the

taken up the lease to open a Buzz Markets

Tennis Centre at Tennyson.

Cafe in the recently refurbished café space in the Commercial Centre.

The search for an operator took some time,

Meanwhile, butcher, Zac’s Quality Meats, has just finished its fit out and starts trading from this month.

with national franchise groups showing keen interest, before the independent

DID YOU KNOW?

More than 3,500 people do business at the Brisbane Markets site on a daily basis. It has about 7,000 growers sending in produce and welcome more than $1 billion in fresh produce through its front gates annually.

A registered buyer, one of nearly 1,000, checks his stock on the busy Brisbane Produce Market Trading Floo r.

13

Having a plan is crucial for long term survival

BY ANDREW MALINS – AFFINITY ACCOUNTING PLUS Whether your business is highly

The program is specifically

a number of supporting documents

profitable, struggling or somewhere

designed so that Small to Medium

and tools which will assist you to

in between, having a plan or process

Enterprise (SME Owners) can

work on your Business.

on how you are going to improve and

understand and implement it

innovate is crucial to its long term

without needing a Masters degree.

survival or the value you can sell or pass on to the next owners.

The key elements of our Business Success Program are available

As you can see in the diagram, there

to Fruit and Vegetable Industry

are a number of processes and

businesses free of charge and we

The way we all do business has changed

stages which obviously cannot be

are happy to provide an explanation

significantly over the last 10 years and

achieved overnight. Improvement

of how you can utilise these tools

you can expect that in the next 10 years

is an ongoing process and within

within your Business.

the amount of change will increase rather

each of the areas outlined we have

Simply contact our office.

than staying where it is today.

Not improving or adapting in your business practices is a virtual guarantee that the enterprise will eventually wither

Business Success Program

on the vine.

Over the past 25 years as an accountant,

NOW

the businesses I’ve seen be consistently

The Story So Far

successful are those that are always

 Business Health Check  Business Profile  Immediate Wins (to get started)

striving to do better and are not content to simply continue the way we’ve always

GOALS

done things.

Where to?

 Vision and Long Term Purpose  Create Goals and resurrect worthwhile forgotten ones  Be bold, include goals you think are out of reach

Customers and Employees are always

 Alignment of Owners

expecting more, and that trend, in my view, will never change.

Unfortunately, with so much information

WINNING STRATEGY How To Get There

out there on the Internet and TV about

 Competitive strengths  Your client/customer experience  Non negotiable business practices

ideas that you could implement in your business, it is easy to get confounded by an excess of choice.

IMPLEMENTATION The Detail

That abundance of information is,

o Marketing plan – Action Plans

o Operations Plan

problem or issue that you may be facing

what its called our Business Success Program, which is a simplified process that can be adapted to any business and draws on research from many sources.

 Team commitment

o Sales Team Training

searching for the solution to a specific

Affinity Plus Accounting has designed

 Support and Outsourcing experts  Detailed business planning

however, extremely useful if you are

in your business.

 Business Plan Snapshot

o Financial Plan

Disclaimer This information is of a general nature and should not be viewed as representing financial advice.

Users of this information are encouraged to seek further advice if they are unclear as to the meaning of anything contained in this article. We accept no responsibility for any loss suffered as a result of any party using or relying on this article.

ACTION EXECUTION MONITORING MODIFICATION

Focus and Adjustment

 Results Reporting  Coaching  Monitoring Action Plans  Feedback

Because your business matters... there’s Brismark Brismark is committed to Brisbane Produce Market, the Central Market System and the Horticultural Industry. We are dedicated to serving Brisbane Produce Market’s people and their businesses.

We offer excellence in representation and service including: • The Brismark Credit Service • Debt Recovery Solutions • Training • Fresh Test • Quality Assurance/HACCP • Recruitment Service • Industry representation • Human resource management • Industrial Relations Advisory Service • Workplace Health and Safety

To find out more please visit www.brismark.com.au Fresh Centre, Brisbane Markets, 385 Sherwood Road, Rocklea, Qld 4106 PO Box 70, Brisbane Markets, Qld 4106 Tel: (07) 3915 4222 | Fax: (07) 3915 4224 Email: admin@brismark.com.au

15

Superannuation changes affect us all

BY BRUCE WALTISBUHL, AUSTSAFE SUPER From 1 July 2013, the Australian

employees you will need to increase

Government is improving super by

this amount to 9.25% from 1 July

implementing some reforms to help

2013.

protect and grow the retirement savings of working Australians.

If you are an employer, you play

From 1 July 2014, if you have 20 or more employees you must use the

The SG increases are: Financial year starting

New data and e-commerce standard

new data and e-commerce standard SG rate

when making super contributions on behalf of your employees.

an important role in helping your

1 July 2012

9%

employees save for their future.

1 July 2013

9.25%

What MySuper will mean

1 July 2014

9.5%

your employee contributions

1 July 2015

10%

electronically (e.g. online or through

see messages from the Federal

1 July 2016

10.5%

Government about MySuper, your

1 July 2017

11%

1 July 2018

11.5%

You will soon begin to hear and

superannuation obligations and what it means for your business.

From 1 January 2014, if an employee

From 1 July 2019 onwards

12%

doesn’t make a choice of super fund,

This means you’ll have to provide specified information and submit

a clearing house).

If you have less than 20 employees you have until 1 July 2015 to use the new standard for contribution submissions.

The new data and e-commerce

you must pay their Superannuation

New payslip obligations

standard will mean:

Guarantee (SG) contributions into

To give your employees more

a fund with an approved MySuper

• Fewer data quality issues

information about their super, from

offering, such as Austsafe Super.

1 July 2013, you will be required

Not all funds will have an approved

to provide additional details on

MySuper offering so some

their payslips about the super that

employers might have to change

has been paid into their account,

default funds.

including the actual contribution

Removal of Super Guarantee (SG) upper age limit From 1 July 2013, the upper age limit for paying super for an employee will be removed to encourage mature workers to remain in the workforce.

This means you will need to make SG contributions for any employees aged 70 years and over.

Changes to the rate To help grow Australian workers’ savings for retirement, the compulsory SG rate will gradually increase from 9% to 12%.

If you pay the minimum 9% contribution on behalf of your

payment dates and amounts paid.

Please note, the timing of this change is subject to the relevant legislation being passed in Parliament. Information will be updated regularly at ato.gov.au/ yoursuper.

• A simpler, more consistent contribution process • Fewer lost accounts and unclaimed monies • Faster processing of employees’ money into their super account, and • Lower overall processing costs.

For more information please contact AustSafe Super on 1300 131 293 or visit the Australian Taxation Office website at ato.gov.au.

industry C on fe re nc e Se a so n Call for farming commissioner

Cool conference season underway Late Autumn and the winter months are

Association Australia-New Zealand Fresh

traditionally the horticulture industry’s

Connections Conference.

busiest conference season with this year

In July, the Gold Coast is the venue for

Independent Senator

no exception.

Nick Xenophon has been

In May, the industry saw the staging of

Pear Limited Summerfruit and Nashi

unsuccessful in calling

the Queensland Strawberry Growers

conference. Bowen Gumlu District

for an inquiry into fruit

Association Conference Dinner on the

Growers Association will provide a

and vegetable prices

Sunshine Coast, the Australian Mango

warmer wintery venue for its annual gala

Growers Association conference in

dinner in the same month.

Cairns, the start of the Australian Banana

By the start of Spring, the Australian

and wanting to see the appointment of a farming commissioner.

the combined Australian Apple and

Growers Association congress on

Melon Association will hold its

Mr Xenophon said the move

the Sunshine Coast and the AUSVEG

conference in Bundaberg and

by supermarket chains to

Convention on the Gold Coast.

Mushrooms Australia will meet in Cairns.

In June, the who’s who of the

This feature takes a look at the

horticulture industry headed to

conferences, what happened and what

Sydney for the Produce Marketing

is planned for the weeks ahead.

slash vegetable prices is another example of the lack of power for small businesses and farmers.

He said a commissioner would have the power to

Fresh Connections an industry highlight

punish anyone who draws

Up to 1,000 people gathered at the

Brisbane wholesalers joining growers,

up unfair contracts between

Sydney Convention and Exhibition

packers, marketers and other supply

supermarkets and growers.

Centre for the staging of the annual

chain stakeholders at the event.

"The Horticulture Code

Fresh Connections conference as Fresh

of Conduct needs to be

Source magazine went to print.

strengthened and needs

The event has become one of the

to include supermarkets

biggest on the fresh-produce calendar.

otherwise it's just not effective,” Mr Xenophon told ABC Radio.

A full report on this conference will appear in the September Fresh Source magazine.

It is the second year that the Australian Chamber of Fruit and Vegetable Industries has hosted the Produce Marketing Association AustraliaNew Zealand, with up to 900 people attending the Melbourne conference last year.

Brisbane Markets Limited and Brismark are annual attendees and trade show contributors with a strong turnout of

From left, Michael Worthington, CEO, PMA A-NZ, with Australian Chamber of Fruit and Vegetable Industries pres ident Shane Schnitzler organised a strong program for Fresh Connections 2013.

17

Strawberry growers meet Brismark’s GM

Increasing demand a key for mango industry

Brismark General Manager Gail Woods

The biggest challenge for the

thinking – ‘how do we get that up

was the guest speaker at the Queensland

Australian mango industry is to

to eight or nine million a year?’

Strawberry Growers Association (QSGA)

increase the demand for fruit and

conference dinner in May, kicking off the

do what growers need to do to

bountiful strawberry season ahead.

improve fruit quality.

Mrs Woods joined up to 200 growers,

That’s according to Australian

wholesalers and supply chain attendees

Mango Industry Association

at the Pelican Waters Golf Resort and

(AMIA) chairman Mark Nucifora,

Spa on the Sunshine Coast for the

speaking to 180 delegates at

annual event.

the ninth Australian Mango

It was also the staging of the 2nd Annual

most successful in recent years with a field day in the Mareeba area and workshops a highlight.

The AMIA is planning new advertising campaigns in the months ahead.

Conference, held in Cairns in May.

Industry QSGA Awards, to acknowledge

“Customers love our product

growers and associates for their

but we’re a summer fruit and we

contributions to the industry in areas

compete with many other fruits

such as community, retail development,

in season, so we have to work on

innovative farm management and

growing our share market,” Mr

technology.

Nucifora said.

Past QSGA President Lynda Rohlf was

“We’re growing seven million

accepted into the QSGA’s hall of fame.

trays of mangoes a year across

The Queensland strawberry industry is

The conference was one of the

the country and we need to be

ure, Fisheries State Minister for Agricult (left) awards eigh McV John stry and Fore an Industry with s Deli r Pete art AIMA stalw recent mango Development Award at the industry conference.

worth $150 million to the Queensland economy, producing more than 60 million punnets of strawberries each year.

graphic design web solutions branding packaging

eral Manager Gail Guest speaker, Brismark Gen in.

Woods, and her husband Kev

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Celebrating winning QSGA’s innovative farm management award were, from left, Melissa McGruddy and Robyn Stevenson.

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always thinkin

industry Banana industry issues require a united approach The banana industry must address its

He encouraged all growers to

major issues in a united approach,

participate in an upcoming review of

Australian Banana Growers’ Council

the industry’s national levy which funds

(ABGC) Chairman Doug Phillips has told

research and development projects as

the industry’s national conference.

well as banana marketing,

Giving an industry overview during the

“It’s now been five years since the

Banana Industry Congress 2013 earlier

introduction of the levy. It has allowed

this month, Mr Phillips asked delegates

the industry to benefit from key

to participate in discussion and debate

research and development initiatives.

on the issues facing the industry.

It also funds our marketing activities,”

About 360 delegates attended the

Mr Phillips said.

national event on the Sunshine Coast

“While our research and developoment

from 29 May to 1 June 2013 including

and marketing initiatives have been

growers, wholesalers, retailers,

successful, we should never be

researchers and suppliers.

complacent and we should always strive

In his overview, Mr Phillips identified

for improvement. That is why later

major issues for the industry as

this year a review of the existing levy

preparation for and management of

and development of a new strategic

destructive weather events, biosecurity,

investment plan will occur.

pest and disease management, research

“This is obviously an important

and development and banana marketing.

process and I would encourage all

“We are a national industry and the best

growers to get involved – this is your

way we can manage all the issues I have

money that is being invested and this

outlined is through a united, national

is your opportunity to influence how

approach,” Mr Phillips said.

it is spent.”

Strong turnout for annual AUSVEG Congress Brisbane Markets wholesalers and administration teams joined up to 1,000 people at the AUSVEG Convention held on the Gold Coast at the end of May, returning to the Jupiter’s Casino site that hosted the event in 2010.

The 30 May to 1 June event had a busy program including the ever controversial Great Debate, this year discussing genetic modification; a food security panel, trade display, Women in Horticulture breakfast and the Awards for Excellence Gala Dinner.

Brisbane Markets joined the Central Markets Association of Australia to again sponsor the Innovative Marketing Marketing award, which was taken out this year

by Adelaide Produce Market for its children’s education program, Crunch Bunch.

er Andrew Craigie, From left, Tasmanian grow Wendy Helps and Adelaide Produce Market’s chat at the AUSVEG Stanthorpe’s Ross Cannavo Convention.

Co nf er en ce Sn ip pe ts

19

Women in horticulture reminded of their role The annual AUSVEG convention

Australian Senator Anne Rustin to

2013 Women in Horticulture

acknowledged the role of women

speak during the cruise.

Excellence Award.

during its conference with a Gold

“People don’t realise what women

Belinda works between 18 to 20

Coast Broadwater Cruise and a

do but being vocal about it helps.

hours a day, running the growing

Horticulture Excellence Award.

If I have managed to change just one

and processing facility on the

2012 Women in Horticulture

woman’s perception of what she does,

Gold Coast.

Excellence Award winner Tina

it is all worth it,” Mrs Lamattina said.

Lamattina, a mother of six and

Later that evening, Queenslander

women in farming is improving

driving force behind the Lamattina

Belinda Adams, of Coastal

but they need to stand up and

Growing Group was joined by South

Hydroponics, was awarded the

be counted.

Ms Adams said the perception of

GM showdown at AUSVEG debate AUSVEG delegates heard a passionate

improvement it makes to our food

debate between pro and anti

yields, the social and economic

genetically modified (GM) cropping

solutions it offers and testing that

advocates during it’s much publicised

proved its safety.

conference centrepiece.

Four speakers were handpicked for their involvement in the GM debate, each with passionate views on the controversial subject.

Debating for the use of GM was Paula Fitzgerald, manager of biotechnology at Dairy Australia, and Professor T.J. Higgins, executive director at

Debating against the use of GM were Scott Kinnear, director and co-founder at the Safe Food Foundation and Institute, and Dr Maarten Stapper, director at BioLogic AgFood.

Their argument centred on the lack of robust testing, the expansion

Agrifood Awareness and also an

of its use not meaning it was right,

Honorary Research Fellow at CSIRO’s

problems with regulators and data,

Plant Industry department.

and GM contamination into

Argument centred on the level of GM cropping around the world, the

Catching up at the AUSVEG were w (from left) Brisbane Markets CEO Andre Young, Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association Executive Officer Peter Hockings, 6th generation Tasmanian farmer Michael Badcock and Brismark General Manager Gail Woods.

other crops.

The debate will no doubt continue.

Bowen Gumlu Growers Association’s Sarah Simpson (left) and Bowen tomato and vegetable grower Melita Jurgens, of Vee Jays, at the AUSVEG trade show.

International competiveness a concern Growers are increasingly concerned

Victorian vegetable producer Luis

“When it comes to exports, we’re

about international competitiveness

Gazzola said costs of production in

also expected to carry risk to the end

and problems facing exports.

The topics were at the top of the discussion list during an AUSVEG convention breakfast, held during

Australia were squashing growers.

“When farmers in South Africa only have to pay their workers $12 a day

of the line.”

Other topics raised with the Syngenta, Bayer and Dupont panellists included overregulation,

30 May to 1 June conference on the

and we have to pay ours $25 an hour,

improving industry image and a lack

Gold Coast.

we can’t compete,” he said.

of benchmarking data.

industry Horticulture leaders discuss Queensland’s future A group of Queensland’s horticultural

genetic stock, industry marketing of fresh

leaders met to discuss ways they can

produce, consumer focused value chains

progress the future prosperity of the

and opportunities to reduce red tape

industry.

related to quality assurance and interstate

The Horticulture Industry Development

market access.

Group (Horticulture IDG) met in Brisbane

The group has also provided feedback

in April to set the work for the year ahead.

and input into the development of the

It’s members, including independent

Queensland Government’s horticulture

chairman Selwyn Snell, Brisbane Markets

workforce development plan.

CEO Andrew Young, grower association representatives and other horticultural leaders, provided a wealth of experience

Another key area is the development of a transport blueprint (see article below).

to plan for the future.The group was

Queensland’s horticulture sector is

formed in October last year to work

encouraged to provide input to group’s

with the Queensland Department of

activities.

Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.

For further information on the 2013

Discussions centred on mechanisation

work priorities, contact

and robotics, opportunities for improved

HorticultureIDG@daff.qld.gov.au.

Horticulture IDG guides Transport Blueprint Queensland’s Horticulture Industry

Blueprint, once complete, will identify

Group (IDG) has met with Queensland

key impediments to transport and

Government officials to highlight

provide suggestions for improvement

key transport and road infrastructure

in road infrastructure and transport

priorities and issues facing the

systems.

horticulture sector.

Queensland Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFFQ) in collaboration with the Department of Transport and Main Roads, has recognised an increasing portion of

The Horticulture IDG supports this approach and has provided an overview of key limitations in the existing transport network and infrastructure that directly impact horticultural businesses.

producer expenditure is on transport.

Anyone wishing to make a submission to

As a result, it has begun a project to

the blueprint can contact Russ Sangster,

better define the issues impacting the

DAFF, on 07 32393214 or email

transport of agricultural commodities

russell.sangster@daff.qld.gov.au.

throughout the state.

The Queensland Agriculture Transport

The blueprint is scheduled for completion in July 2013.

Brisbane Markets hosts National Food Plan launch

21

Brisbane Markets’ Saturday Fresh

a marquee of fresh fruit with a

long workshop for industry invitees

retail markets hosted the launch of

backdrop of working chefs, using the

at Brisbane Markets’ Fresh Centre

the Federal Government’s National

busy Saturday Fresh Market setting

where the tougher questions were

Food Plan in May, with the Plan

to present his ideas to place Australia

asked.

winning kudos from some sectors of

on the world food map to a sea of

the food industry but being called

recognisable industry heavy weights.

“too little too late” by many.

The initiative is Australia’s first National Food Plan, which is being

The cook up with host, celebrity chef

described as a road map for the

Federal Agriculture Minister Joe

Alistair McLeod from Tank Restaurant

future for both Australia’s food

Ludwig unveiled the new plan under

and Bar, was completed with an hour

businesses and consumers.

National Food Plan content Environmentalists and some farming

‘Australian made’ is a little yellow

AUSVEG spokesman William

groups are lining up to criticise the

kangaroo in a little green triangle,

Churchill said the plan doesn’t

Federal Government’s Food Plan,

and it has for years struggled for

go far enough.

a multimillion-dollar road map of

stricter regulations to ensure

sorts, with all roads leading to Asia.

consumers know they’re buying Australian.

There’s $30 million for researching

“People should be able to identify where their product has actually come from, and the Federal

the Asian diet and food preferences,

Not everyone is over the moon

Government doesn’t want to

and for promoting Australian-grown

about the food plan. The Public

implement those sorts of changes.

and processed food.

Health Association says it makes no mention of tackling obesity and

Almost $6 million will go to

encouraging people to eat more

promoting Australian agriculture, and another $2 million to developing a stronger Australian food brand.

The Australian Conservation Foundation is critical of opening up

One of the 16 recommendations is to establish an Australian council of food to streamline the message from all the producing groups like the Food and Grocery Council and other agricultural councils like horticulture groups, cattle and the National Farmers Federation.

northern Australia to agriculture, saying it will be an environmental disaster, but on the trade front,

changes to anti-dumping legislation.

“The Coalition, on the other hand, is going to change the onus of proof from the instigator having to prove that they’re not guilty of dumping, as opposed to the people that are suffering injury.

Australia still has to develop free trade agreements, but exporters say the paperwork is too hard.

AUSVEG is not happy. The vegetable growers’ peak body, says given

There is $2 million in the Federal

Australia now imports $908 million

Government’s food plan to strengthen existing Australian-made logos and brand Australian-

fresh fruit and vegetables.

“There are also concerns with

worth of fruit and vegetables, there are key elements missing.

made produce overseas.

Celebrity chef Alistair McLeod (left) cooks up a plan with Federal Agriculture Minister Joe Ludwig.

(left) speaks with AUSVEG CEO Richard Mulcahy Young minutes before Brisbane Markets CEO Andrew to better explain the a National Food Plan workshop document to industry.

industry In d us try Bit es ..... .

IROs assist flood recovery Fifteen industry recovery officers (IROs) are working in Queensland to support agriculture as it rebuilds after the flooding that followed ex-Tropical Cyclone Oswald in January.

The funding for this project is being provided jointly by the state and federal governments.

The IRO’s are concentrating on areas most affected by the winds, rain and flooding, and which the government has declared eligible for higher levels of flood assistance.

Growers wishing to speak to IROs in horticulture should call Rowena Beveridge on 4613 1077 (Lockyer Valley, Scenic Rim, Somerset, Southern Downs, Western Downs, Toowoomba, Goondiwindi and Ipswich), Robert Doyle on 4153 255 (North and South Burnett), Lene Knudsen on 0429 000 179 (Gympie, Sunshine Coast, Logan, Gold Coast) or Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers on (07) 4153 3007 (Bundaberg, Central Highlands, Rockhampton, Gladstone, Banana and Fraser Coast).

Train transport package a win for rural Queensland Farmers have welcomed a significant Queensland Government investment in rail infrastructure that is planned for the Darling Downs.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson and Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Minister John McVeigh said up to $50 million in savings would be reinvested in additional passing loops across the Toowoomba Range.

Loophole means Chinese processed food entering Processed foods are now the largest category of food imported into Australia.

According to ABC Rural, the value of processed or package fruit and vegetable imports

Mr McVeigh said the infrastructure would be delivered from savings

increased by $264 million over the past two

negotiated from existing freight contracts over the next two years.

years to make up 15% of food imports.

“Up to 20 additional train paths per week will be made available for

New Zealand and China are the largest

farmers to get crops off road and onto rail and double the current capacity,” Mr McVeigh said.

exporters, although increasingly the “Kiwi” produce is actually grown in China, exported

“Toowoomba is already a freight gateway for western Queensland and

frozen to New Zealand and packaged there,

this will allow us to get the balance right between road and rail.”

according to industry organisation AUSVEG.

16% increase in stonefruit volumes

23

John Moore, CEO of Summerfruit Australia, says that there was a 16% increase in stone fruit volumes in the season just finished.

“The 2012/13 growing season was far superior than in previous years due to the increase chill hours and the excellent weather in the development of fruit set stages,” Mr Moor

Vegetable growers survey to help plan future

said.“The above average warmer weather was

The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences

most pleasing for growers.”

(ABARES) is conducting a survey of vegetable growers that will help identify

Mr Moore said Australia’s proximity to the

challenges and trends across the vegetable industry.

Asian markets gave a little competitive edge

The annual survey of growers is taking place through the winter months and has

over other Southern Hemisphere traders

been co-funded by Horticulture Australia Limited using the National Vegetable

for timely marketing and a quality factor.

Levy with funding from the Australian Government.

However, the larger exporting countries,

The survey will assist the vegetable industry to better understanding the

like Chile, saturate the markets when they

challenges facing growers and to re-direct its Research and Development

are in full production.

investment accordingly.

Domestically the ongoing price wars

Surveyed growers have previously ranked the impediments to future business

amongst large retailers, pushed down

viability as increasing farm input costs and low prices due to imports of fresh,

prices in the favour of the consumer, but at

frozen and processed product, with the bottom 25% of growers experiencing

the expense of the industry as a whole.

negative farm cash income in 2010/11.

Fruit growers to ‘bee’ aware

Delayed strawberry planting may prove fruitful for growers

Tonnes of macadamias this season

Queensland Strawberry Growers

More than 4000 tonnes of new season

Apple and pear growers are being urged to establish better pollination practices to avoid an incursion of varroa mite.

Association (QSGA) says wet weather

macadamia nuts are expected to hit

The mite, which is a widespread problem in

earlier this year has delayed planting of

stores nationwide this season.

New Zealand, destroys hives and reduces

some varieties, but it may be a blessing

bee productivity.

in disguise.

Pollination is an important part of the apple

QSGA Industry development officer

which will translate to 11,500 tonnes of

and pear growing process. Growers need to

Jennifer Rowling said last year’s bumper

kernel, with about 35% going straight to

be vigilant for signs of the pest.

harvest reduced prices and farmers’ profits.

the domestic market.

Anything that can affect the population of

She said delays in planting some varieties

Macadamia Australia advised that when

bees is a concern. Pollination is becoming

this year should help to ensure a more

buying macadamias, consumers should

a really key management factor within the

consistent supply throughout the season.

look for ones that are plump, crunchy

orchards, so people’s awareness is certainly becoming increased.

She said growers were optimistic about a more consistent crop this year.

Local growers have projected a yield of 39,000 tonnes of nut-in-shell this harvest

and light-coloured. The nuts must be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated after opening.

industry Promising start to growing season

BY SARAH SIMPSON, BOWEN GUMLU GROWERS ASSOCIATION (BGGA) The Bowen Gumlu region has had a

of stakeholders from within the

good start to 2013 with some growers

horticulture industry.

kicking into production in the later part of April.

Contributors to this project to date include the Kapiris Brothers, Prospect

Melons coming out of the region have

Agriculture, BGGA, Queensland DAFF,

been of high quality, with some growers

Coles and Woolworths with others

picking earlier than previous years.

currently involved in discussions to

However a prolonged summer in the

commit funding to this project.

southern regions of Australia has led to an average market price.

This study will combine the expertise of plant virologists, entomologists, plant

Late April also saw the first tomatoes

breeders, agronomist and extension

and capsicums leave the region. The

specialists to take a holistic approach to

quality of these commodities has been

fully understand the disease complex.

good and is expected to improve as the season progresses.

This project team will then develop and implement a management program

The Systems Approach for capsicums

through grower engagement across

and tomatoes in the Bowen Gumlu

the region to reduce the impact of the

region has also been progressing with

disease and hence ensure continuity of

the support of the State Government.

product supply to consumers.

Currently the Systems Approach is

This approach will also be transferrable

moving forward with its completion

to other regions impacted by these

and implementation hopefully in this

viruses.

growing season.

Planning is well underway for BGGA

BGGA appreciates the work done by

Annual Gala Night which is set for

Queensland’s Minister for Agriculture,

27 July. This night is shaping up to be a

Fisheries and Forestry John McVeigh

great event and one in which

for providing support and resources

we hope all will enjoy.

to market access issues faced by the horticulture industry.

BGGA will be also be collaborating with Queensland Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) on a Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus and Potato Leaf Roll Virus research study to be conducted this year in the region.

This project will be funded by a range

25

Effective use of email communication

BY SAL TRUJILLO, BRISBANE MARKETS LIMITED HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER The use of email communication is predominant in the

• Consider the tone of your email. Remember that

business arena and the increasing use of mobile devices

your reader can easily misread your tone in the

has given the experience of email a new dimension.

email as your words are not supported by the usual

It is therefore important to use such a powerful tool of communication effectively to maintain healthy business relationships.

Here are some tips to help you communicate effectively through email: 1. Consider when the use of email is appropriate. Email

communication cues such as body language, gestures or voice inflections.

• Always consider spelling and grammar. Although email communication can be a less formal method of communication does not mean that spelling and grammar are any less important. You should always take time to proofread your email before sending it.

communication is appropriate when you need to get

Use spelling and grammar checkers as much

in touch with a person who is hard to reach, you need

as possible.

to send an electronic file, to distribute information to a large group or perhaps you need a written record of your conversation. Email communication is NOT effective if your message is long or complicated, information is highly confidential or when your message can be misconstrued or is emotionally charged.

2. Consider your audience. Email is another form of communicating a message to another person/s. We have different opinions about the use, content, and expectations of emails. Therefore to consider your audience you should ask yourself the following questions: Who is your audience? What is your

• Be aware of the information you are sending.

Be aware of everyone who is likely to see the message and extremely careful when replying to a message.

If you hit ‘reply all’ by mistake, the message will be sent to everyone on the ‘To’ and ‘Cc’ lists of the original message. In addition, be aware of the old mail that is below your new message when you click on the reply button.

Following up with a phone call, or face-to-face communication upon sending an important email can also assist in ensuring that the intended message is communicated and desired outcome achieved.

audience relationship to you? And what impression do you want to make?

When writing emails you should consider the following: • Keep messages short and simple. Avoid causing confusion to your reader/s so keep your writing to a minimum. Try to arrange your message/ information as clearly as possible.

Briefly state the reason for writing the email and don’t forget to state the desired outcome at the end of the message.

@

industry Federal Budget spares agricultural funding cuts Agriculture has been spared major

DAFF officials attributed this year’s

funding cuts in the 2013/14 Federal

increase to a key plank in the Farm

Budget.

Finance package announced on 27 April,

However, Federal Treasurer Wayne Swan outlined “savage hits” to tax receipts “far, far bigger than anyone expected”, in his

comprising concessional loans of up to $650,000 at an anticipated 4% rate, to help struggling farmers restructure debt.

budget announcement in May, which

Another $70 million has been brought

generated a $17 billion revenue deficit.

forward under the $249 million Carbon

Horticulture commentators say that although major agricultural programs remained steady, the result was still disappointing.

Farming Futures program to bolster DAFF’s budget.

The budget papers also detailed other aspects of the Farm Finance package, including an additional 17 Rural Financial

The budget may have other flow-on

Counselors and increasing the non-

effects for farmers with $3.9 billion

primary production income threshold

slashed in assistance measures for

for Farm Management Deposits, from

industries affected by the carbon tax –

$65,000 to $100,000.

including agricultural processors.

Department officials said loan

Despite the grim revenue forecast,

funds would become available on

the Federal Department of Agriculture

July 1 this year – but State and Territory

Fisheries and Forestry’s (DAFF) modest

governments were yet to sign off on

budget was increased from $1.6 billion

how they would be delivered through

to $1.9 billion.

State agencies.

Key Federal Budget new initiatives – Agriculture • $420 million Farm Finance package to alleviate debt pressures and provide targeted financial assistance to farmers, through maximum $165,000 concessional loans ($210 million 2013/14 and $210 million 2014/15).

• $99.4 million Farm Household Allowance to support farmers in hardship under National Drought Program Reform.

• $25.4 million National Monitoring System for Agricultural Chemicals Residues in Food ($5 million in 2013/14).

• $750,000 boost to Rural Financial Counseling services in flood affected regions in Queensland.

Status Quo • $2.1 billion over five years for Caring for our Country ($200 million in second phase of Reef Rescue program over five years, starting 2013/14).

• $238.2 million commitment to Research, Development and Extension funding for relevant research and development corporations.

• $379.9 million for construction of a state-of-the-art post-entry quarantine facility (announced in 2012/13 budget).

Who are my customers and who do I want them to be?

27

BY BRISMARK GENERAL MANAGER GAIL WOODS There is a Chinese proverb that states,

development, building customer

performance indicators and targets

“When planning for a year, plant corn.

relationships and our brand/image

need to be added to monitor

When planning for a decade, plant

to provide my customers with value?

progress. The basic rational here is

trees. When planning for life, train and educate people.”

Processes - Supply chain management (Driver)

Strategic Planning is all about planning

Questions: Do I need to innovate?

the direction of your business and

Can I improve product quality,

building its future capabilities to match

logistics or any part of my

short, medium and long term goals.

operations?

Brismark deals with hundreds of small

Capabilities (Driver)

to medium sized businesses on a daily basis through our wholesaler members and almost 1,000 buyers who use our credit service facilities.

Do you have a strategic plan for your business? Many don’t, and those who do may well tick the box, say that’s done and put in on the shelf. But others use it to lead their business.

In general, businesses do not plan to fail – they fail to plan.

Once developed, the next step is to use the Strategic Plan to direct the business.

So that you know your plan is working it needs to be expressed in such a way

Question: Do I need to up-skill my employees or use technology in a different way?

that well trained employees using appropriate technology (driver) can create excellence in supply chain management (driver) and deliver a satisfied customer mix and operating cost reductions (results).

Much has been written about Strategic Planning, but it does not need to be a difficult process.

Think about where you are now and the direction you want to go and

The answers are expressed

how you are going to get there and

as objectives/goals and key

keep monitoring your progress.

Are you ready for the changes to super?

that it is able to measure performance.

A strategic planning exercise alone will be beneficial to any business. There are many approaches to use – but some fundamental questions need to be

AustSafe Super is and we can help you!

considered about what result you want

To find out how we make super easy call your local Regional Manager.

for the business and then how to drive

Bruce Waltisbuhl 0400 995 824

the business.

For example consider these questions: Financial (Result)

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17/04/13 4:10 PM

export Fruit and vegetable imports rise A Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) report indicates that processed fruit and vegetables contributed the majority of food imports between 2010 and 2012, a figure of around 15%.

According to the report titled Australian food statistics 2011/12, New Zealand continues its reign as the biggest source of the nation’s food imports.

Australian farm exports to decline The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) annual outlook report says the value of Australian farm exports will decline in the next five years.

It will drop from a projected $35.9 billion this financial year to $33.7 billion in 2017 /18, and

New Zealand imports Chinese produce, processes it in New

increases in production elsewhere will keep a lid

Zealand and exports it to countries like Australia under the guise

on prices in the longer term.

of ‘Made in New Zealand with local and imported ingredients’.

Although the global population was set to expand, from almost seven billion today to nine

Chinese grape exports take off

billion in 2050, the major increase in food prices

Exports of Australian seedless grapes into China have skyrocketed

ABARES reported.

this year.

- of about 12% since 2007 - had already occurred,

Growing demand from Asia would still present

The Australian Table Grape Association expects to export

opportunities for Australian farmers but there

400 containers of crimson seedless grapes to China, up from

would be stiff competition from increased

11 containers last year.

production within Asia and in other low-cost

Chief executive Jeff Scott says the goal is to reach 1,000 containers within two years.

“I think the growers are starting to realise that China is a viable and important market,” he said.

“If the quality of fruit is there, then the price’s acceptable to the growers.”

“I can see more planting in crimson happening over the next two to three years with the intent of exporting more to China.”

countries.

The ABARES report shows that fresh fruit imports were close to overtaking exports in 2011/12 as horticultural producers came under pressure from the high Australian dollar and increasing input costs.

29

DAFF Registration increase threatens export viability Brisbane Markets fresh produce

Spreyton Fresh director Michelle

Mr Minnis said the AQIS inspections

exporters are angry at the Federal

Distill said her company only

provided benefit across the

Government’s decision to end part-

exported for about four or five weeks

horticulture industry and community

funding of export inspection fees at a

a year in the summer, to countries

and therefore exporters should not be

time when the industry is struggling.

including Taiwan, China, Japan, Korea

slugged the full cost of running AQIS.

Annual Federal Department of

and Thailand.

“If an industry doesn’t have

Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

Mrs Distill said she couldn’t

an export focus, in years of

(DAFF) fees for registration of

understand the justification behind

underproduction, it faces an import

packing houses that export product

the increase and said the company

threat – it’s important to have an

to certain countries has risen from

would have to consider whether or

export and domestic market. Our

$550 to $1800 this year.

not it was even worth exporting.

domestic market has the most

However, the rises don’t stop there.

“The only thing we’ve heard is

Next year they are increasing from

because they (DAFF) had been

around $1,800 a year to $8,500,

inefficient, they have decided this is

Independent Senator Nick Xenophon

presenting an overall increase of

the way they have decided to recover

weighed into the debate as Fresh

1450% since 2011.

the money,” she said.

Source went to publication.

AS Barr’s Joe Saina said small

Despite the increases, Australian

He said if he’s in a position to

exporters across Australia,

Horticultural Exporters Association

negotiate with the Federal

particularly growers who export on

deputy chair David Minnis said

Government after the election, he’ll be

a seasonal basis, say the massive

the Australian Quarantine and

pushing to have the fees removed.

export charge increases will make

Inspection Service (AQIS) was “still

them unviable.

inefficient and costly”.

He said DAFF had been subsidising

He said exporters had no ability

for our smaller and budding

exporters for some years but was

to increase what they charged for

horticultural producers,” Senator

now planning on recuperating

their produce because “we’re facing

Xenophon said.

those costs, pushing hundreds of

a world market where all of our

businesses to the brink.

competitors are cheaper than us,

Mr Saina estimated about 700

even New Zealand”.

exporters had been paying the $550

“The way we’re going we’ll be

registration but with the massive

importing it all in 10 or 15 years time.

increase expected to close down

If that’s what government wants, tell

export from grower’s packing sheds

us and we can look to do something

and small operations, only as many as

else,’’ Mr Minnis said.

150 may remain.

concentrated retail sector in the world,” Mr Minnis said.

“We need to scrap these fees that are killing off jobs and opportunities

“I’ve said that unless this is changes very soon, I’ll be forced to put in legislation to the Senate to debate this further.”

events JULY

17-19 July INNOVATE OR REAL ESTATE QT Hotel, Surfers Paradise, QLD Contact: Helena Medhurst on (07) 3200 8299, email helena@loudevents.com.au A combined fruit industry conference bringing together the four key deciduous fruit industry sectors (apple, pear, summerfruit and nashi) representing $800 million of farm gate value.

27 July BOWEN GUMLU DISTRICT GROWERS ASSOCIATION GALA DINNER Bowen, QLD Contact: Sarah Simpon on (07) 4785 2860 or email IDM@BowenGumluGrowers.com.au.

The annual gala dinner and networking function for Bowen growers and the horticulture industry.

AUGUST

8-17 August THE EKKA (ROYAL QUEENSLAND SHOW) RNA Showgrounds, Brisbane, QLD Contact: Visit www.ekka.com.au This is Queensland’s biggest show attracting about 500,000 visitors to enjoy more than 3,000 things from displays, ring events, carnival rides, parades, cooking shows and exhibits.

SEPTEMBER

ugh Improving farm productivity thro technology.

smart on-farm

Exploring agriculture’s role in Australia’s digital economic future The Regional Universities Network is holding the inaugural Digital Rural Futures Conference at the University of New England in Armidale from 26-28 June, 2013.

The event will exchange ideas and case studies and explore the opportunities and challenges for

11-14 September

agriculture in Australia’s digital economic future.

40TH AUSTRALIAN MUSHROOM GROWERS' CONFERENCE

It will examine the national broadband

Pullman Reef Casino Hotel, Cairns, QLD

for Australia’s agricultural sector.

Contact: Phone Murray Tonkin (02) 9673 1490 or email murrayt@aimhigherevents.com.au or Deborah Fitzgibbon on deborahf@aimhigherevents.com.au.

Featuring world renowned speakers, farm walks, agribusiness networking day and a range of workshops and social gatherings.

26-27 September AUSTRALIAN MELON ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE Bundaberg, QLD Contact: Dianne Fullelove on 0413 101 646, email idp@melonsaustralia.org.au or visit www.melonsaustralia.org.au/news/Melon-Conference-2013 A conference combining two days of Field Days including crop trials, industry exhibitors and on farm demonstrations, as well as a full conference program with speakers and official dinner.

infrastructure and see what opportunities it offers

The conference will also enable new ways to improve farm productivity through smart on-farm technologies, access a greater range of information and services, help create new market opportunities for our agricultural products and expertise, and improve the quality of life for rural Australians.

Farmers and farmer groups, business leaders, rural advisory services, regional councils and development groups, government agencies and researchers/academics in the higher education sector are being encouraged to take part.

Information on the conference and registration details are at www.une.edu.au/smart.

R

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*Source: Logistik Journal 2009

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