The Passion Vine Spring 2018

THE

SPRING 2018

VINE

INDUSTRY LOSES A FOUNDING FATHER PAGE 7

TIPS TO HELP YOU Spring Into Action PAGE 14

EXCLUSIVE BENEFITS LAUNCHED Members Only PAGE 17

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P: 07 3379 1041

P: 07 9763 1323

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Stand 189/190 B Shed Sydney Markets

Sean Russell Aidan Hutton 0418 158 331 0419 700 278 sean@jetipper.com.au aidan@jetipper.com.au

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MEET THE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE PRESIDENT Tina McPherson 15 Zinks Road, Bundaberg QLD 4670 07 4159 3001 | 0428 415 930 tina@tinaberries.com.au

VICE-PRESIDENT Jane Richter 160 Judds Road, Glass House Mountains QLD 4518 07 5438 7662 | 0431 700 258 jane@chorizotrading.com

TREASURER Aidan Hutton Sydney Markets, Shed B Stand 189/190 Homebush West NSW 2129 0419 700 278 aidan@jetipper.com.au

SECRETARY Jim Gordon P.O. Box 119, Yandina QLD 4561 07 5446 7536 | 0403 185 961 jill_88@msn.com

CONTENTS 02 PRESIDENT'S REPORT 04 REGIONAL ROUND-UP 07 A TRIBUTE TO NOEL DAY 08 LATEST MARKETING RESULTS 10 GROWER PROFILE:

TRISH HATFIELD & STEVE GRAY

11 WHY CHILLING MATTERS 12 TIPS FOR PLANTING PURPLES 14 BRIDIE CARR: SPRING INTO ACTION 18 REGIONAL FIELD DAY REPORT: BUNDABERG 19

MEMBER Anton Stretch 70 Alfs Pinch Road, Beerwah QLD 4519 0433 632 251 stretcho000@hotmail.com

MEMBER Ian Constable 266 Boyds Lane, Dulguigan NSW 2484 02 6672 6826 | 0428 181 246 ianconstable11@bigpond.com

ADMINISTRATION & MEMBERSHIP ENQUIRIES

07 5438 7662 admin@passionfruitaustralia.org.au www.passionfruitaustralia.org.au

NEW EXCLUSIVE MEMBER BENEFITS

17

Wherever you see this logo, the initiative is part of the Hort Innovation Passionfruit Fund.

Like this publication itself, it has been funded by Hort Innovation using the passionfruit levy and, in the case of R&D, with contributions from the Australian Government. Some projects also involve funding from additional sources.

DISCLAIMER The advice and opinions in the articles published in The Passion Vine are essentially those of contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Passionfruit Australian Incorporated or the Editor. The advice is at the reader’s own risk, and no responsibility is accepted for the accuracy of the material presented. Inclusion of an advertisement in this publication does not necessarily imply endorsement of the product, company or service by Passionfruit Australia Incorporated or the Editor.

Horticulture Innovation Australia Limited (Hort Innovation) makes no representations and expressly disclaims all warranties (to the extent permitted by law) about the accuracy, completeness, or currency of information in The Passion Vine.

Reliance on any information provided by Hort Innovation is entirely at your own risk.

Hort Innovation is not responsible for, and will not be liable for, any loss, damage, claim, expense, cost (including legal costs) or other liability arising in any way, including from

any Hort Innovation or other person’s negligence or otherwise from your use or non-use of The Passion Vine or from reliance on information contained in the material or that Hort Innovation provides to you by any other means.

Copyright © Horticulture Innovation Australia Limited 2018 Copyright subsists in The Passion Vine. Horticulture Innovation Australia Limited (Hort Innovation) owns the copyright, other than as permitted under the Copyright ACT 1968 (Cth). The Passion Vine (in part or as a whole) cannot be reproduced, published, communicated or adapted without the prior written consent of Hort Innovation.

Any request or enquiry to use The Passion Vine should be addressed to: Communications Manager, Hort Innovation Level 8, 1 Chifley Square, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia E: communications@horticulture.com.au | P: 02 8295 2300

THE PASSION VINE | SPRING 2018

1

PRESIDENT'S REPORT TINA MCPHERSON, BUNDABERG

Dear Readers, The great dry winter that was… I suspect that is how we will all look back on Winter 2018… still with a quizzical eye for many of us who have not yet worked out why the fruit didn’t quite come as and when expected! I hope your region fared more successfully than we did! As I write this I am a passionfruit farmer desperate for rain and a strawberry farmer keen for rain, but in the right quantities and only quickly so it dries out again and the berries don’t suffer! Oh, what a contrary lot we are!!

AGM INNISFAIL For those of you who were able to make it to the recent AGM at Innisfail in northern Queensland you will hopefully have noticed the change in energy in our Association. It was inspiring to meet so many growers that I hadn't had the pleasure of meeting before and to see so many completely new faces with a keen interest in joining both the industry and PAI. A huge thank you goes out again to the generous sponsors who made our fabulous dinner at The Queens Hotel in Innisfail possible.

It was also an informative and engaging meeting at South Johnstone with a crowd of more than 50 attendees. And a thank you goes out to Doug Phillips for allowing us all to explore his farm and learn all about his expansion plans.

INDUSTRY SERVICES MANAGER ROLE Jane has worked tirelessly to streamline many of our procedures within the association and we are able to see the results now both as an executive and as an industry body. The membership management software that manages the Association membership renewals is being implemented this year and it will offer the option of payment via credit card as well as a simple on-line signup form.

We hope everyone will find this easy to navigate and it certainly will make processes easier at the administration end!

Jane has also invested a lot of time as part of the Communication Programme, adding information and reference materials to the new industry website, and I hope that many of you have been able to access the website and resources it offers! She is always open to new ideas too so I would encourage you to give her a call with any suggestions you have.

SIAP The passionfruit SIAP (the Strategic Investment Advisory Panel) still has vacancies that will be advertised soon. I urge you to consider filling a position on this panel.

All costs and your time are paid for and the commitment is only for approximately two meetings a year and some input at occasional times via email. Now in their third year of operation, industry SIAPs have shown to be an effective model for engaging with industry and helping to advise on where, when and how levy monies and Australian Government contributions are invested.

The SIAP is looking in particular for input from growers in North Queensland and Northern NSW and any panama growers.

It is important that this group is fully representative of the WHOLE industry. If you’d like to chat about what it involves feel free to call me or any of the other current panel members; Jane Richter, Ross Brindley, Brian Westwood or Melissa Smith.

REGIONAL FIELD DAYS Another highly successful regional field day was held under the Passionfruit Communication Project. The details of the day are on page 18. The value of having growers and supply chain partners together in an informal learning environment is invaluable for all participants and the building of relationships is as important as the knowledge shared. Sometimes simply seeing that the challenges you face are shared by others is the boost that we all need. This year’s Soil Health programme is planned to deliver one more day in NSW before the end of the year and then a new plan for more days – with IPDM as the likely topic – will be put in place for 2019.

I hope you enjoy this edition of The Passion Vine and that spring is kind to you and brings rain!

Best wishes,

Tina

Hort Innovation AGM | Friday 23 November 2018 — Brisbane The week beginning 13 August, 2018, members would have received a hard copy letter as well as an email notification inviting all levy paying members of Hort Innovation to complete an Annual Levy Return, should they wish to obtain voting entitlements at the Annual General Meeting 2018.

There are two ways you can lodge your Annual Levy Return: 1. C omplete the Annual Levy Return form online by Friday 28 September, 2018 by visiting: https://events.miraqle.com/HortInnovation and using your unique member number and PIN that you have received via hard copy post and email (this is a two-step authorisation process to help enhance security and you need both the member number and PIN to log onto the online system) 2. C omplete the hard copy annual levy return form, which members will receive by mail.

The hard copy form must also be received by Friday 28 September, 2018.

If you have any questions about the process, your member number or PIN, please contact Link Market Service on 1800 660 083.

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WHAT IS HAPPENING NOW TO SUPPORT THE FUTURE OF OUR INDUSTRY?

— Potential im pact of this plan is $ Based on a n est total invest imated ment of $ from 2017 to 2021 —

9.7m

1.84m

Australian Passionfruit

STRATEGIC INVESTMENT PLAN 2017–2021

The SIP has been developed in consultation with the passionfruit industry using funds from the Hort Innovation Passionfruit Fund. This plan represents the roadmap for the future development of the industry. This plan drives investment decision-making by Hort Innovation who invest levy funds on behalf of the industry.

_______________________

_______________________

_______________________

_______________________

_______________________

GROW SALES DEMAND

GROW FRUIT QUALITY

BE IN THE KNOW

GROW SALES RETURNS

FARM YOUR BEST

Increase domestic demand and export opportunities that maintain price stability

Improve retail quality of passionfruit to match consumer expectations

Provide access to relevant and timely data that improves industry wide decision-making

Improve pest and disease management and the development of new varieties that increase grower productivity and profitability

Improve farm and industry sustainability from identifying and adopting best practices

__________________________________________________

_______________________

MARKETING CAMPAIGN ‘Add a splash of passion’ Latest results

PF16003: PASSIONFRUIT COMMUNICATION PROGRAM Regional Field Days

__________________________________________________ PF15000: NATIONAL BREEDING PROJECT

PAGE 8 & 9

Export Development First meeting report

PAGE 16

PAGE 18

PAGE 17

MEET YOUR NEW RELATIONSHIP MANAGER

Christian Patterson

G’day, I’m Christian and I support the tropical industries. I’ve run my own business and worked in the fresh produce world. I relate to the daily challenges you all face and I’m now working in horticulture in a role where I can support you – get in touch.

Mobile: 0433 896 753 Email: Christian.patterson@horticulture.com.au

THE PASSION VINE | SPRING 2018

3

REGIONAL ROUND UP DARWIN FAR NORTH QLD

(Mareeba, Daintree, Cooktown)

WIDE BAY (Bundaberg)

SOUTH EAST QLD

(Gympie to Glass House Mtns)

NORTHERN NSW

PERTH

(Tweed Valley)

WEATHER WATCH MAY

JUNE

JULY

May was an exceptionally dry month for Australia. Nationally, it was the driest May since 2008 and the fourth-driest May on record (May 2008 was Australia's driest May on record).

June daytime temperatures were warmer than average across most of Australia, with highest on record mean maximum temperatures experienced in many parts of Australia. Australia-wide, June rainfall was 23% below the long-term average.

Very much below average rainfall was experienced in areas scattered across central and eastern Australia, with the largest dry area observed in north-eastern New South Wales, and the Darling Downs and Granite Belt districts in southeast Qld.

Nationally, it was the driest July since 2002 and below average for most of southern Australia. Temperatures were warmer than average across many parts of the country.

May was warmer than average for Australia as a whole; the national monthly mean temperature was 0.18 °C above average.

Maximum temperatures were particularly warm, with a national anomaly of +0.86 °C.

Despite the month overall being very dry, there were areas that received above average rainfall in the far north coast of Queensland.

Rainfall deficiencies have increased in both area extent and severity for almost all of New South Wales and inland southern Queensland.

RAINFALL OUTLOOK SEP–NOV 2018 CHANCE OF EXCEEDING THE MEDIAN RAINFALL

CLIMATE OUTLOOK OVERVIEW

Chance of exceeding the median rainfall (%)

(Issued 16 Aug 2018)

www.bom.gov.au/climate © Commonwealth of Australia 2018, Australian Bureau of Meteorology

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—— Spring is more likely to be drier than average for southern inland NSW, and parts of central Queensland. Elsewhere, there are roughly equal chances of a wetter or drier than average three months.

—— Spring days are likely to be warmer than average for Australia.

—— Nights are also likely to be warmer than average for most areas, except for parts of northern Australia and the southeast of the mainland.

LONG TERM AVERAGE RAINFALL (MM) WEATHER STATIONS

SEP

OCT

NOV

Mareeba

4.9

15.6

46.6

Bundaberg

36

76.7

85.7

Sunshine Coast Airport

55.5

80.5

85.8

Murwillumbah

40.5

105.4

125

GROWER REPORTS FAR NORTH QLD As winter should be coming to a close, we’ve just experienced another three days of frosty weather across the vast area of the Cairns highland region. Our 2018 crop was planted much later than usual and the cooler weather has not been helpful to get full trellis cover. The weather bureau prediction is for much hotter and drier weather in the near future. Hopefully it will benefit all crops in the Northern region. Lakelands Downs’ season has been difficult, heavy soaking rains and cloudy cool windy days are not ideal for tropical crops like passionfruit.

The Cooktown crop is on track time wise and has also inherited Lakeland Downs’ cloudy, cooler windy weather. Cooktown’s wet weather season finished early and abruptly. It has not been this dry in years. Growers will have to physically use much more water than in previous years to finish their growing season. Thanks to our most northern growers for their input to NQ round up.

Looking forward to the field day & industry meeting in Innisfail.

FAR NORTH QLD

(Mareeba, Daintree, Cooktown)

MAY JUN

Mareeba (station 031210)

JUL

MEAN (mm)

1.0 [12]

1.0 [12.1]

0.2 [6]

MEAN DAYS >1mm

0 [2.1]

0 [1.9]

0 [1.6]

MEAN (MAX ºC)

26.4 [27]

25.0 [25.4]

25.9 [25]

MEAN (MIN ºC)

17.3 13.8 [16.7] [15.3]

13.7 [13.9]

MAY JUN

JUL

Brian Westwood, Mareeba BUNDABERG

WIDE BAY

HHello everyone. Like a lot of Australia, we have had no substantial rain since February with nothing since the end of June. It’s a dust bowl here in Bundy with the dreaded cane haul-out tractors doing their best to be disliked by covering our house & property with dust, even to start harvesting at 4.30am was just delightful, apparently rules & courtesy to fellow farmers doesn’t apply to them!

Moving on, now in late August we are still experiencing 5° mornings with chilly south westerlies to top things off. There has been a good Pandora crop with size & volume & prices also reasonable.

The Misty Gem have been consistently setting flowers & fruit with only an average size crop.

They are forecasting some rain this weekend so we intend to do all things to make it rain, e.g. wash the car, hang the washing out, invite friends around for a bbq & possibly even a rain dance.

Here’s hoping! Until next time. Thanks.

(Bundaberg)

Bundaberg (station 039128)

MEAN (mm)

14.8 4.2 10.4 [68.4] [51.5] [39.6]

MEAN DAYS >1mm

3 [4.5]

2 [3.4]

4 [2.9]

MEAN (MAX ºC)

25.7 [27]

23.8 [25.4]

24.1 [25]

MEAN (MIN ºC)

14.1 10.7 9.8 [16.7] [15.3] [13.9]

Peter Griffiths, Bundaberg SOUTH EAST QLD

SUNSHINE COAST

(Gympie to Glass House Mtns)

We are drawing to the end of yet another season and have managed to survive. The winter crop here has been steady, but far from spectacular. I held out high hopes at the onset of this quarter, but persistent showers in the early part of the season reduced the crop somewhat.

Everyone I have spoken to has said that they appreciated the reasonable prices, but were disappointed in the fruit volume. The more recent dry has meant the disease pressure was low, but we could certainly do with some rain now as we are preparing for the next planting. We have just had a couple of our coldest mornings in a while which is upsetting the new growth and the beginnings of a fruit set. They are predicting a bit of rain later this week so that may be the beginning of some warmer temperatures as well.

Sunshine Coast Airport (station 040861)

MEAN (mm)

MAY JUN

JUL

237.2 87.8 85.4 [151.6] [119.6] [63.1]

MEAN DAYS >1mm

10 [9.9]

7 [9.4]

6 [6.6]

MEAN (MAX ºC)

24.2 21.7 [23.6] [21.4]

22.1 [21.1]

MEAN (MIN ºC)

13.9 11.0 [13.6] [11.4]

10.1 [9.6]

Murwillumbah (station 058158)

MAY JUN

JUL

MEAN (mm)

18.5 41.0 [132.6] [108.1]

32.9 [61]

Most of us on the Sunshine Coast are winding down for the season, but will have a little fruit for a couple of weeks yet. Hopefully I will catch up with some of you at the A.G.M. up at Innisfail.

Good luck with the next season.

Jim Gordon, Yandina

NORTHERN NSW

(Tweed Valley)

TWEED AREA Hello all. This winter we have seen a long steady crop come off our Sweethearts. In my last report I thought that we had a small winter crop due to the amount of lost flowers in March & April however they must have already set. Quality has been reasonable, with the typical poor fruit coming through now at the tail end of the crop (which ironically you get the best money for!).

In our area we have been having some very cold nights and warm days. Some great frosts are followed by fruit burning on the ground! Normally in winter we could leave the fruit on the ground for a number of days, but this year we have noticed the fruit burning after one day left on the ground! Farmers are certainly at the coal face of climate change. On the Northern Rivers we are now heading into our storm season so time to steel the nerves. We had some trouble in our nursery getting the pandora rootstock up. After a slow start we now have them coming along and will be ready to graft in the coming weeks. All the best!

Nick & Nerida Hornery, Newrybar THANK YOU ONCE AGAIN TO BRIAN, PETER, JIM & NICK FOR THEIR REPORTS

MEAN DAYS >1mm

3 [9.6]

6 [7.3]

6 [5.7]

MEAN (MAX ºC)

24.0 21.7 [23.6] [21.3]

22.7 [21]

MEAN (MIN ºC)

12.1 [12.5]

8.3 [8.6]

9.3 [9.9]

Figures in [ ] are long term historical averages.

All weather data from www.bom.gov.au

THE PASSION VINE | SPRING 2018

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Widebay Passionvine Nursery Misty Gem I NEW Tweed Varieties I Panama I Rootstock Servicing all areas – ­Delivery available Order by 1st March for Spring delivery

t 07 4159 7394

Find us here: 408 Dahls Road, Calavos Qld 4670

www.widebaypassionvinenursery.com.au

Samsons_Passionfruit_LS_210x148mm.pdf 1 22.5.2018. 07:08:28

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CM

MY

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CMY

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0429 656 922

e peteandsally4@bigpond.com

NOEL DAY 1926–2018

BY JIM GORDON

CHECKPOINT USEFUL DIARY DATE REMINDERS FOR THE NEXT QUARTER Monday 24th September Queens Birthday (WA)

Monday 1st October Queens Birthday (Qld) Labour Day (NSW, ACT, SA)

Tuesday 6th November Melbourne Cup Day (VIC)

28th October 2018 Quarter 1 BAS direct lodgement deadline Lodgement via a registered BAS agent 25th November if lodging by the BAS Agent Portal, PLS or ECI

28th October 2018* Quarterly payment due date for Superannuation Funds Passionfruit Australia wishes to acknowledge the significant contribution of Noel Day to the passionfruit industry. Mr. Day passed away recently at the age of 92.

Noel Day, his brother Moss, and their families were pioneers of the passionfruit industry.

They started farming in 1946 with pineapples, bananas and green beans initially, and moved into growing passionfruit in the early 1960's on the outskirts of Nambour. Both Noel and Moss were heavily involved with the industry for many decades.

MR. DAY WAS NOT ONLY AN EXCEPTIONAL GROWER BUT THE PRESIDENT OF THE NORTH COAST PASSIONFRUIT GROWERS ASSOCIATION AND A MEMBER OF THE PASSIONFRUIT SUB-COMMITTEE AT THE COMMITTEE OF DIRECTION OF FRUIT MARKETING (THE FORERUNNER TO GROWCOM).

HE REPRESENTED HIS FELLOW GROWERS AND WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF OUR INDUSTRY.

*As this falls on a weekend, you can make the payment on the next working day

24th September – 5th October Queensland State Schools Holidays

1st October – 12th October NSW State Schools Holidays

Noel not only grew passionfruit, but bred new varieties including Purple Gold which was one of the mainstays in the 70's and early 80's.

The Day's brand, "Forest Hills Passionfruit", was the most sought-after fruit on the market floor. Their famous pattern pack was the envy of all growers. Noel also cleaned up all the prizes at the Nambour Show and the Brisbane Exhibition. The number of ribbons he took home was only limited by the number of entries he decided to submit. I have seen "Forest Hills" on 1st, 2nd and 3rd in every category at the Sunshine Coast Show.

Noel Day set a standard to which most of us can only aspire, not only as a fruit grower but as a man. We thank him and his family for their contribution to the passionfruit industry.

THE PASSION VINE | SPRING 2018

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HORT INNOVATION MARKETING UPDATE

BY KELLY McGUINNESS

Welcome to the latest marketing update, where we give you a snapshot of the marketing activity that’s helping Aussie consumers connect with Aussie Passionfruit. This activity is managed by Hort Innovation on behalf of the industry and is funded by the passionfruit marketing levy.

The winter flush was an exciting period for Aussie Passionfruit, with media in particular loving our new recipes and tips and tricks they picked up from the media launch event.

Public Relations Activity Media outreach continued up to and into the winter flush, with the brownie and muffinrecipes shared with media and a season update provided by Melissa Smith.

Aussie Passionfruit also hosted an intimate lunch to celebrate the winter flush at Luke’s Kitchen in Waterloo. A custom-made passionfruit menu was created by head chef Matt Leighton, and Tina McPherson, Jane Richter and Melissa Smith were in attendance, sharing insights from the farm, a seasonal update, varietal information and their own tips and tricks.

Guests were encouraged to post on social media throughout the event, with shareable content (kitchen view, social boards and tags on display).

Each attendee received a take-home hamper filled with fresh passionfruit, engraved spoons and a media kit with all seasonal information. 14 top tier food media and influencers were in attendance, including: Woolworths Fresh Magazine, Australian Women’s Weekly, Bauer Food Studio, Healthy Food Guide, My Body+Soul, Nine Kitchen & New Idea.

Feedback from the event attendees was overwhelming positive, and the event and media outreach for the year resulted in 123 pieces of coverage across traditional and social media, resulting in a reach of over 26.2 million.

Highlights included articles in Women’s Day (readership of 1.2 million) and Women’s Weekly (readership of 1.4 million).

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SOCIAL MEDIA REPORT Aussie Passionfruit continued their social media presence and have seen more than 10,000 fans ‘like’ the Facebook page since July 2017, an amazing increase of 27%. Currently, there are a total of 48,195 fans who like the page, with the aim to continue to build this community of passionfruit lovers. During 2017/18, we reached over 3.6 million people with passionfruit content. These people shared our content over 10,000 times with their friends, showing that was really resonating with our target audience.

FACEBOOK

INSTAGRAM

48,195 fans +27%

1,563 followers +52%

3.6M PEOPLE REACHED WITH PASSIONFRUIT CONTENT

93,564 PEOPLE REACHED WITH PASSIONFRUIT CONTENT

Both the Facebook and Instagram pages continue to be highly engaged, with consumers regularly sharing their love for passionfruit. Farm-related posts are also received well by fans, so if you have any photos you would be happy to share, please send them through to Kelly!

In-Store Demonstrations 115 in-store demonstrations were run for 6 weeks in June and July in Coles and Woolworths stores in NSW, VIC and QLD. Fresh passionfruit was sampled, and recipe brochures handed out. Consumers were also educated around seasonality, storage and handling. Overall, the results were strong and feedback from consumers was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing that they had learnt something new.

Results • 1 3,997 interactions (avg. 122 per session) • 8 ,526 samples (avg. 74 per session) • 7 ,788 passionfruit sold during sessions (avg. 68 per session)

Passionfruit also took part in a syndicated merchandising program; 100 of the top independent grocers on the eastern seaboard were visited, with the aim to set up the display with our point of sale material, and to educate staff around handling/ best practice. These initiatives allowed passionfruit to be more visible right where it is needed – when consumers can immediately buy passionfruit!

Looking Forward We are in the process of developing 6 new delicious recipes that will be photographed and used for media outreach and social media over the next year. Our PR media outreach and ‘always on’ social media activity will continue over the summer flush, encouraging consumers to buy up big. Prior to the winter 2019 flush, we will also be hosting a farm visit with top tier media and influencers for next year’s PR campaign. More details about this will be in the next edition of The Passion Vine.

For more information about the current campaign or any ideas that you have for marketing opportunities, please contact Kelly McGuinness at Hort Innovation: Kelly.McGuinness@horticulture.com.au THE PASSION VINE | SPRING 2018

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GROWER PROFILE:

MEET STEVE GRAY & TRISH HATFIELD

Steve & Trish run a dedicated passionfruit farm at the highly picturesque spot of Wonga Beach, just north of Port Douglas in northern Queensland. With just under 3,000 vines all laid out to overhead trellis, the farm is exceptionally beautiful with the lush green canopy and dangling purple baubles.

Not many people know that Steve was originally a professional fisherman. In fact, fishing is still his first love, but with the loss of his father Steve came back to utilise the family farm many years ago.

Steve and Trish currently grow mostly the purple Misty Gem variety, although Steve is experimenting with some Pandora vines this year. The Misty Gem variety gives two good crops with a small lull in production in between. Like many growers in the northern tropics, Steve replants each and every year in December and his harvesting window falls between July and late November.

When asked what he likes about growing passionfruit, Steve points to the fact that he is his own boss (Trish excepted of course!). He starts afresh every year with 10

www.passionfruitaustralia.org.au

new plants and new optimism, and each year is different. “They can be a right pain in the arse,” Steve admits; and what other grower would not agree?

Some services are still free and the DPI are a great place to start with anything that the Passionfruit Field Guide cannot assist you with.

His most important tip, particularly for the less experienced growers, is to get your disease control measures in place right from the outset. “You can’t leave it until tomorrow as it will come back and bite you very quickly, “said Steve. Left unchecked, some diseases can simply spread like wildfire and once they take hold, they are far harder to manage.

And if he hadn’t become a farmer? Well he would have stayed on a boat for the rest of his life, a line over the side and a cold drink to hand. Maybe that’s something to look forward to once his passionfruit days are done? What a nice way to spend your days.

Steve uses the resources that are available from the DPI stations at both Mareeba and South Johnstone to tap into the experts on the ground who can help with the diagnosis of difficult disease issues.

QUEENSLAND DEPARTMENT OF PRIMARY INDUSTRIES Mareeba Research Facility: P: 07 4017 0700 South Johnstone Research Facility: P: 07 4220 4177

CHILLING OUT

BY JANE RICHTER

In March this year, the largest simulated biosecurity response exercise in Australia in the past 10 years took place, code named: Exercise Border Bridge.

As spring kicks off, one thing to think about is whether you have got your chilling capacity right for the summer that is on its way. It’s not likely to be any hotter than usual. So, what’s your point you’re thinking? Did you know that rapid heat reduction and storage at the correct temperature can extend the shelf life of your passionfruit considerably – particularly in very hot weather or where the fruit has long distances to travel between farm and market?

It may surprise some readers to know that not all passionfruit farms are equipped with chilling capacity at all, instead relying on a pick-pack-same-day-send logistics model. Now this wouldn’t be of that much concern, were it not for the fact that the vast majority of transport refrigeration is only capable of holding an already low temperature, but not of removing large amounts of heat from a fruit consignment.

Research carried out by the Department of Tropical Plant and Soil Sciences at the University of Hawai’i in 2014 highlighted the optimum storage temperatures and relative humidity (RH) for both panama style and purple passionfruit. As with many studies, the report confirms that rapid cooling after harvest can be clearly shown to prolong the shelf life of freshly harvested produce. The report recommended that panama passion fruit be stored at 7 to 10°C with 90 to 95% reative humidity.

The authors also reported that purple passionfruit are more tolerant and can be stored at slightly lower temperatures for up to 3 weeks.

Jenny Jobling from the Sydney Postharvest Laboratory insists the cool chain must begin by cooling the fruit after harvest and holding it at the best possible temperature while it is packed, stored and transported from the orchard to the retail market.

Unfortunately, there are often many breaks along the way and these breaks have an additive effect on reducing the potential shelf life of a fruit product.

Jenny highlights that maintaining the cool chain is important for several reasons, all of which relate to maintaining product quality. For example, temperature has a direct effect on the respiration rate of the product and this is an indication of the rate of deterioration of the product.

Temperature also affects the rate of growth of postharvest rots. If the cool chain is maintained, both these factors can be slowed down and the shelf life can be extended and quality maintained.

It may seem relatively simple, but could improving your on-farm chilling capacity and actually including a night in the cold room pre-packing for each consignment be a way to improve the saleable life of your fruit this summer?

And if you think that cold rooms are prohibitively costly to buy or build, then why not rent one just for the 4-5 months of the really hot part of the season?

For example, a room capable of holding a full pallet of fruit is available to rent from as little as $275 per month. That is a very small investment for what could add significant value to your fruit through quality gains.

RENTAL OPERATORS TWEED & SEQ Kleer Cold Rooms P: 07 5479 3788 www.kleercoldroomhire.com.au Cold Room Hire 1300 66 77 21 www.coldroomhire.com.au

WIDE BAY & NORTH QLD BeCool 07 4979 4455 www.becool.net.au

FAR NORTH QLD Alphacool 1300 325 742 www.alphacool.com.au Evercool 0404 346 582 www.evercoolcoldroomhire.com.au

THE PASSION VINE | SPRING 2018

11

CONSIDERATIONS FOR NEW PLANTINGS AND NEW PASSIONFRUIT GROWERS

BY PATRICK ROONEY, AGRONOMIST, NORTHERN AGRISERVICES

HOPEFULLY A SOIL TEST WAS COMPLETED AT LEAST SIX MONTHS PRIOR TO PLANTING TO DETERMINE PH, ORGANIC CARBON, SALINITY, CALCIUM AND MAGNESIUM NUTRIENT LEVELS, AS WELL AS CALCIUM/ MAGNESIUM RATIO. These are the basic factors to consider in new ground, to allow you to remediate the soil. If a problem is discovered, six months gives enough time to put a correction plan into place before planting. ie: pH correction with Dolomite, salinity correction with Gypsum. Both these products need to be incorporated to a depth of at least 15cm, 3 months prior to planting.

If Lime, Dolomite or Gypsum is applied, there should be a month’s break before adding a fertiliser (especially poultry manures), to prevent ammonia toxicity in the root zone. Young tender roots may be affected by gases created by the interaction of these products in moist soil.

When you have received your new grafted stock from the nursery, an application of a seaweed product like Seasol at 1-3ml/Lt, foliar applied via spray, or watering can, will help alleviate transportation stress, and freshen the plants prior to planting. When you believe the plants have recovered from transport and handling, prepare to transfer the new stock to the field.

Water the trellised field area 24 hours prior to planting. Dig holes slightly larger than the potted plant and scuff the edges of the holes to prevent glazing or smoothing of the clay components of the soil. Glazing or smooth surfaces of the holes may induce root bound syndrome, where roots contact

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the smooth edge and move around the hole rather than penetrating the hole wall and extending out into the field.

Don't start fertilising the young vines until you see new growth enlarge or vine tendrils elongate.

A second or third foliar application of Season may be required until the new growth is achieved.

When new growth has been observed, apply DAP or a poultry manure product at 50gm per plant per fortnight. Increase to 100gm per plant after six months.

Once vines begin to bear (6 – 12 months after planting), a fertiliser program should be established to cater for the nutrient removal from vine growth and fruit production.

Test your water quality for both irrigation and for spray quality. Good quality water will allow your nutrients to work better, and your chemicals to be most effective.

Most importantly, passionfruit will always let you know when they are not happy.

Premature flower and fruit drop, leaf discolouration and lack of vigour are signs of problems in the field. Healthy plants will save you money in the long run, and it all starts before you plant.

Patrick Rooney Agronomist – Northern AgriServices Pty Ltd M: 0427 010 051 E: prooney@northernagri.com.au www.northernagriservices.com.au

NORTHERN AGRISERVICES NORTHERN AGRISERVICES

S

See your local

See your local

N ortherN AgriServiceS NortherN Agri S erviceS branch to discuss your Passionfruit

branch to discuss your Passionfruit packaging needs packaging needs

See your local NortherN AgriServiceS See your local

S ruit

discuss your Passionfruit NortherNbranch AgriStoerviceS

packaging needs branch to discuss your Passionfruit packaging needs

NortherN AgriServiceS BuNdABerg NortherN AgriServiceS 30 BuNdABerg Ellen Drive, Thabeban QLD 4670

30 Ellen Drive, Thabeban QLD 4670 Postal Address: PO BOX 3045, Bundaberg, QLD 4670 Postal Address: PO BOX 3045, Bundaberg, QLD 4670 www.northernagriservices.com.au www.northernagriservices.com.au

NortherN AgriServiceS BuNdABerg

erg

30 Ellen Drive, Thabeban QLD 4670

D 4670

NortherN Agri ServiceS BPO uNdABerg Postal Address: BOX 3045, Bundaberg, QLD 4670

HARPS DEADLINE IS LOOMING

30 Ellen Drive, Thabeban QLD 4670 www.northernagriservices.com.au Postal Address: PO BOX 3045, Bundaberg, QLD 4670

www.northernagriservices.com.au Is your business compliant and ready?

BY JANE RICHTER

For the vast majority of growers, your business is a Tier 3 supplier meaning that you are exempt from the larger HARPS requirements at this point.

As previously advised, you must still ensure that your business is certified to an Approved Base Scheme by 1st January 2019, which means the audit you have this calendar year MUST be to one of the three Approved Base Schemes. Please note HACCP is not an Approved Base Scheme.

The Approved Base Schemes are: R Freshcare: www.freshcare.com.au R Global G.A.P: www.globalgap.org/uk_en R Safe Quality Food Institute (SQF): www.sqfi.com There are a further series of HARPS sessions planned for September across growing regions – please see the UPCOMING EVENTS section at the back of this magazine for more details or visit the website www.harpsonline.com.au THE PASSION VINE | SPRING 2018

13

BY BRIDIE CARR

SPRING INTO ACTION

Development Horticulturalist, Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries

T: 07 5381 1327 | M: 0436 675 740 E: Bridie.carr@daf.qld.gov.au

With the arrival of warmer temperatures, so too comes the stimulation of plant growth and root activity. It is important that your passionfruit vines have what they need in order to sustain healthy and rewarding growth and development – such as the availability of nutrients and water to ensure that the growth is strong and productive as well as protection from pest and diseases.

PANAMAS

PURPLES

Encouraging healthy growth that will support floral bud initiation and fruit development is important. Topping up nutrition (especially nitrogen and potassium) during active periods of growth will ensure there is sufficient levels available in order for the vine to thrive.

Nitrogen is the key element that influences vegetative growth, and potassium influences fruit size and quality.

REPLANTING:

ESTABLISHED PLANTINGS:

Assessing what the nutrient status of your soil is when you are preparing to replant will allow you to work out what your vines need to have the best start.

With growth taking off, keeping up with, as well as topping up plant nutrition and water requirements to support this is important. Particularly to ensure healthy floral development and fruit set occurs with the flowering peak due to arrive in September/October.

As with any nutrient application, it is important to keep in mind the importance of having nutrients in balance. This optimises nutrient uptake and keeps the vines happy. Testing leaf nutrient levels allows you to monitor and respond to the needs of your vines. Collaborating leaf analysis with soil tests helps to create a better understanding of what your vines require for their wellbeing. This also has the added benefit of only having to apply the fertiliser that the vines actually need.

For information on how to test leaves, please refer to Chapter 10 of the ‘Passionfruit Growing Guide’.

Both the Passionfruit Growing Guide and the Field Solver Guide are available to buy online at: www.passionfruitaustralia.org.au

Soil preparation and ameliorating whilst you are preparing the site is much easier to do, than when the plants are in the ground. When preparing the site, try to preserve the soil structure by incorporating organic matter and be mindful of not over using a rotary hoe. Soil compaction and the breakdown of soil structure through the overuse of a rotary hoe can lead to drainage issues and soil erosion.

Soil testing is the best way to assess the nutrient levels of your soil to determine what deficiencies or imbalances exist. Soil tests should be done well before planting so that there is sufficient time to receive results and address those levels that need attention. It is important to incorporate the less-soluble fertilisers (such as horticultural lime, dolomite, gypsum, phosphate, copper and zinc) before planting.

For more information about soil analysis and the nutrient requirements, please refer to Chapter 9 and 10 of the ‘Passionfruit Growing Guide’.

Protecting and managing this growth with increased surveillance and good sound management practices will help this growth be productive. Keep an eye out for any signs of nutrient deficiencies developing, so that you can respond to your vines needs before the issue reaches a stage where it compromises growth and development.

Please remember that bees need our help, just as much as you need theirs! Please take care and only spray when conditions are suitable – and most importantly avoid times when they are active and foraging.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to give me a call!

Best wishes, Bridie Carr

Have a problem with rabbits or hares? Why not try a Solar Owl on your farm?

Available from hardware outlets, a solar powered owl could do the trick for keeping the hares at bay this spring. The owl's motion sensor detects movement and emits a hooting sound; the light sensor activates glowing eyes during the night. Powered by a solar panel and 2 x AA back-up batteries, the owl needs to be placed on the ground where it will catch sun during the day and close to where you are experiencing hare or rodent activity. At approximately $50, these can be a highly cost-effective means to scare away unwanted pests.

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THE PASSION VINE | SPRING 2018

15

NEWS FROM THE NATIONAL PASSIONFRUIT BREEDING PROGRAM Peter Bundock | Southern Cross Plant Science | Southern Cross University | E: peter.bundock@scu.edu.au

PF15000 National Passionfruit Breeding Program is a strategic levy investment under the Hort Innovation Passionfruit Fund.

We’re now two years into the three-year Breeding Program project. I am continuing to work on getting trials for this season established to trial some Panama lines, Rootstock lines and crosses to select promising new scion varieties.

In fact, we were oversubscribed thanks to the response from Queensland. Seedlings for the three trials are being raised by McLeod’s and Widebay Passionvine nurseries and SCU is also raising several hundred seedlings from crosses to be grafted onto rootstock before trial.

ROOTSTOCK TRIALS

In the AUTUMN 2018 edition of the Passion Vine, I mentioned 29 promising selections from the 2016-2017 trials that had been grafted onto rootstock for further evaluation. A considerable amount of effort has gone into evaluating these 29 grafted selections which were planted in triplicate at different locations in November last year.

Four of these 29 had previously gone out to a number of growers to assess (I took some to the AGM in October 2017). This was based on their performance as seedlings.

However, the four original selections did not perform well in further evaluations by both growers or in comparison with the other 25 selections. A number of selections performed much better than these four vines and so we plan to carry out further trialling with around 12 of these selections – some more extensively than others.

The trial of different rootstocks will determine if there is any evidence that there are lines that perform better in some way compared with the current rootstock varieties (Pandora of one extraction or other). We have whittled the numbers down to eight different lines being tested in this trial. Some will have Misty Gem grafted onto them (grown at Bundaberg) and others will likely have Sweetheart or Flamenco (northern NSW sites).

PANAMA TRIALS There are five different lines to compare in this trial. It is early days with regard to breeding any new panama varieties as, at least in theory, it should take some years to carry out a cross, and then generate a new line that is true-breeding. For best results selection would need to be carried out each generation.

FURTHER EVALUATION OF 29 SELECTIONS FROM 2016-17 SCION VARIETY TRIALS

It is looking like we may get around 700 vines or so for trialling from a number of crosses. Unfortunately, germination was very poor from some crosses, so we only got a handful of seedlings from the crosses involving Misty Gem, for example.

These 12 selections have performed particularly well and there are some promising vines amongst them. Most are from crosses involving Pandora and the fruit does resemble Pandora in some respects rather than the typical purple of Sweetheart. But the fruit is of good size, colour and delicious tasting. They are currently our best bet for a new commercial scion variety generated from the project, at least until the results of the 2018-19 trial become available.

There was a great response to the expression of interest sent out to growers for trialling of vines this season.

We have gone back to some of the mother vines where possible, to select tips for grafting for evaluation over the next season.

SCION TRIALS

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ABOVE: Selecting tips for grafting from original mother vines located at Yandina, Qld.

Among the seedlings being raised at SCU are some obtained recently from the USA. According to the labels, there are both flavicarpa (Panama) types as well as a smaller number of purple types. It will be interesting to see how they perform. With a bit of luck (I am something of an optimist!) they will bring something new and good to the Australian breeding program.

We have been in contact with colleagues in Columbia and Taiwan, both of which countries have flourishing passionfruit growing industries. Unfortunately, obtaining seeds from Columbia would not be straightforward as there are now apparently strict rules and regulations governing the transfer of plant genetic resources out of the country.

Finally, many thanks for the help and assistance provided by trialists, growers, nurseries and Passionfruit Australia. Let’s hope there are some good seeds in this next batch of trials and that we get clear information on what are the best rootstock and Panama lines.

Happy planting & harvesting in the upcoming months!

EXPORT UPDATE

FIRST EXPORT MEETING BUNDABERG 24 JULY The Export sub-committee held its first meeting on 24th July in Bundaberg.

The attendees were:

(at home, in a cafe or restaurant) and no real understanding of the supply chains.

Growers: Tina McPherson, Mike Blasco, Jim Gordon, Jane Richter, Brendan Prossliner, Gary Prossliner Supply Chain: Sean Russell and Aidan Hutton – JE Tipper Hort Innovation: Christian Patterson (New Relationship Manager – Passionfruit) and Jenny Van de Meeberg (Trade Manager) The initial discussion centred on the key take-outs from the two export project reports. The presentation summarising the projects and the overall meeting agenda can be accessed on the Project Hub on our website.

The group then discussed the knowledge gaps that were evident from the studies which included no understanding of the volume potential or pricing in export market channels, how consumers would actually eat passionfruit and where

No clear direction was achieved during this first meeting, but there is some determination to take it to the next stage.

There is a sense that everyone involved is waiting for someone else to take the lead, but there are no individuals currently stepping forward to take that leading role.

Jane advised the group that although she has driven the process to this point, she is unable to take it forward given her heavy workload and farm expansion plans.

Advice from Hort Innovation Trade Manager was to ‘forget NZ’ given there is no current export protocol in place. Plus the small size of the market opportunity in a larger horticultural context means that scarce resources within Hort Innovation are unlikely to be allocated to follow up on the protocol development at this time.

Unless we drive it hard as an industry, there is unlikely to be market access to NZ for Australian passionfruit in the near future.

This leaves the open markets of Singapore and Hong Kong as the strongest potential markets.

The sub-committee members confirmed from the meeting are: Growers: Brendan Prossliner, Mike Blasco, Melissa Smith, Tina McPherson, Jane Richter, Shane O’Grady (WA) Supply Chain: Matthew James (Ireland 53), Aidan Hutton (JE Tipper) The next step for this season is to set up a follow-up meeting with the sub-committee and an import broker to explore the two market opportunities further. This will likely take place in Brisbane in early October – date and time to be advised and as before, ALL interested parties are very welcome to join the Sub-Committee and all meeting activities will be shared through the industry communication channels.

Please contact Jane 07 5438 7662 if you would like to get involved.

New Exclusive Benefits

FOR PASSIONFRUIT AUSTRALIA MEMBERS Joining Passionfruit Australia this year will bring you access to THREE great new benefits.

1. The Noel Day Passionfruit

Scholarship programme.

Designed to support the Strategic Plan objective of Improved farm and industry sustainability from identifying and adopting best practices, this years’ Noel Day Scholarship Programme is offering 3 fully funded places for Passionfruit Australia members to attend relevant skills training.

The full details of the programme can be found on-line at www.passionfruitaustralia.org.au and applications are open now for members to apply for this years' places on the programme.

2. An online Growers Forum where you can seek diagnostic assistance for pests & diseases, can raise issues for discussion with fellow members or can search the PAI research report library for past R&D reports.

3. A Biosecurity Planner to guide the production of a biosecurity plan for your farm. Protecting the biosecurity of your farm business is becoming increasingly important and this planner will provide you with a simple templated guide to help you produce a solid plan.

More details will follow direct to Members about these great new benefits.

And if you’d like to join Passionfruit Australia, our easy on-line signup portal is now operational – just select JOIN NOW from the top menu bar at www.passionfruitaustralia.org.au

THE PASSION VINE | SPRING 2018

17

REGIONAL FIELD DAY

EVENT

BUNDABERG REPORT

NEWS

WEDNESDAY 25TH JULY

The day began with Registration and Morning Tea at the Innes Park Country Club, followed by an introduction by President Tina McPherson outlining the objective for the day and introducing the programme. The morning sessions included a talk by Allan Mahoney from MultiKraft on probiotic bacteria, their role in soil health and some of the ways that you can enhance their activity on your farm. Allan presented a protocol that has been developed by MultiKraft specifically for passionfruit and this can be downloaded from our website under GROW FRUIT/FEATURED PRODUCTS or is available direct from MultiKraft.

Bree Grima from Bundaberg Fruit & Vegetable Growers then introduced the group to the AgAlliance which is a group of Wide Bay growers who have banded together to put forward a united view on the potential renewal of exploration licences by Blue Energy. Anyone who is concerned about the impact of exploration in the Wide Bay area is encouraged to talk to Bree at BFVG. After lunch at the club, the group moved a short distance down the road to Tinaberries – the strawberry, passionfruit and macadamia farm owned and operated by Tina & Bruce McPherson. Bruce led the tour of the passionfruit part of the farm, highlighting the different paddocks they have set up and some of the trellis and plant support options they have been trialling.

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After the tour, a number of supportive suppliers had the opportunity to talk about some of their product ranges and talk on a more informal basis with the growers that attended. At the end of the day, a short survey was completed by each participant and a raffle ensured that no one went home empty handed.

Thank you again to our supporters: Northern Agri-Services, MultiKraft, BioFilm, South Pacific Minerals and JE Tipper.

As mentioned in previous editions, the Regional Field Day programme is all about sharing knowledge and encouraging growers to consider new activities or processes that can have a positive impact on yield and profitability. It was again very encouraging to see that all of the grower attendees agreed that they would make some changes back on their farms as a result of attending the day.

What topic would you like to see explored in the next round of Regional Field Days?

Send your suggestions to Jane: E: comms@passionfruitaustralia.org.au T: 07 5438 7662

Grab a cuppa, put your feet up & enjoy!

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE

There are

10 differences between these two pictures!

WORD SEARCH AWAKENING

NEWBORN

SHOWERS

EQUINOX

PLANTING

SPROUTING

CELEBRATION FERTILE FRESH

*** ALL ANSWERS OVERLEAF ***

OPTIMISM RAINBOWS

INVESTMENT

CUT OUT AND KEEP ME

mecolourin!

REGENERATE SEEDLINGS

SPRINGTIME START

SUNLIGHT

SEASONAL TRIVIA-TIME 1. What is the first day of Spring called?

2. Who first conceived the idea of Daylight Savings Time?

3. The word “equinox” means what?

4. The Japanese celebrate the arrival of Spring by hosting mass viewings of which flower?

5. I n Victoria and New South Wales, a festival of which flower is celebrated in Spring?

Riddle Time

1. What has to be broken before you can use it?

2. Almost everyone needs it, asks for it, gives it, but almost nobody takes it.

What is it?

THE PASSION VINE | SPRING 2018

19

Passionfruit

COCONUT & QUINOA MUFFINS MAKES 12 MUFFINS

INGREDIENTS • 2 cups cooked quinoa, cooled (290g) • 1/2 cup buckwheat flour (75g) • 1/2 cup shredded coconut (35g) • 1 tsp baking powder • 1/2 tsp bicarbonate of soda • 1/2 tsp sea salt • 2 eggs • 1/2 cup coconut sugar (80g) • 1/4 cup coconut milk, or milk of your choice (60ml) • 1/4 cup fresh passionfruit pulp (60ml) • 1/4 cup olive oil (60 ml)

FOR TOPPING • 1 tbsp shredded coconut

1. Preheat oven to 180°C. Line a muffin tin with paper cases.

2. Tip dry ingredients into a large bowl.

Stir to combine, then make a well in the centre.

3. Combine remaining ingredients in a jug and whisk until smooth.

4. Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir until fully incorporated. Divide into lined muffin tin holes and top with extra coconut and passionfruit pulp.

5. Bake for 20 – 22 minutes until a skewer inserted in the centre of a muffin comes out clean. Turn out onto rack to cool completely.

ANSWERS

• 1 tbsp fresh passionfruit pulp

METHOD

2. Advice 1. An egg

Riddle Time 4. Simon & Garfunkel 3. Fargo 2. Snow Pea There are

10 differences between these two pictures

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE

WORD SEARCH

1. Chamonix, France

SEASONAL TRIVIA-TIME

www.passionfruitaustralia.org.au

CUT OUT AND KEEP ME

5. Alfred Hitchcock

20

UPCOMING EVENTS 2018

GET INVOLVED Passionfruit Australia Inc. (PAI) is the peak industry body representing passionfruit growers in Australia HOW TO JOIN PASSIONFRUIT AUSTRALIA BECOMING A MEMBER GIVES YOU:

— Access to projects funded by PAI or through competitive grants which provide funds outside of the existing levy system — Grower alerts about immediate threats to your business from weather or pest events provided by our Management Committee

— Representation by an industry body who has your interests as its only priority — Access to useful tools developed exclusively for members

MEMBERSHIP RATES | 2018/19 New Grower Member: Renewal Grower Member: New Associate Member: Renewal Associate Member:

$253 $198 $297 $242

JOIN NOW ONLINE AT www.passionfruitaustralia.org.au

Membership runs from July 1st to June 30th each year, irrespective of the date joined.

Membership lapses if renewal not paid within three months of the start of the fiscal year.

Associate Members receive a 20% discount on advertising packages which include more than one advertising insertion.

HOW TO JOIN HORT INNOVATION IT IS FREE TO JOIN AND BECOMING A MEMBER GIVES YOU:

— Free access to Hort Innovation Final Reports — A monthly e-newsletter, Growing Innovation — Hort link and grower intel alerts — Direct invitations to participate in industry events, as well as Hort Innovation consultations and forums

— The opportunity to exercise voting rights at Hort Innovation’s Annual General Meeting Please remember paying a levy does not automatically make you a member of Hort Innovation. If you haven’t become a member, then now is your opportunity.

To join, visit www.horticulture.com.au/membership-application-form

“Nature is infinitely creative. It is always producing the possibility of new beginnings. ” MARIANNE WILLIAMSON

SEPTEMBER Passionfruit Australia Inc AGM Innisfail, FNQ

7-8

Asia Fruit Logistica Hong Kong

5-7

ChemCert Training Bowen, www.ChemCert.com.au

12

OCTOBER 2018 National Landcare Conference and Awards 10-12 Brisbane, www.nationallandcareconference.org.au Bundaberg Fruit & Vegetable Growers Industry Gala Dinner Bundaberg, www.bfvg.com.au

13

NFF National Congress 2018 Canberra, www.nff.org.au

17-18

Australian National Field Days Orange, www.anfd.com.au

25-27

NOVEMBER ChemCert Training Bowen, www.ChemCert.com.au

6

Australian Biological Farming Conference 9-12 Gold Coast, australianbiologicalfarmingconference.org Agsafe's Agvet Chemical Supplier Course Innisfail, www.agsafe.org.au

12

Agsafe's Agvet Chemical Supplier Course Townsville, www.agsafe.org.au

19

Hort Innovation’s AGM Brisbane, www.horticulture.com.au

23

DECEMBER Agsafe's Agvet Chemical Supplier Course Bundaberg, www.agsafe.org.au

3

Agsafe's Agvet Chemical Supplier Course Brisbane, www.agsafe.org.au

6

BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

FUNDED BY:

www.passionfruitaustralia.org.au