WA Grower Spring 16 by vegetablesWA

$25.00 (inc GST)

WA Grower SINCE 1948 Vol. 51 No 3. Spring 2016

Agricultural Produce Commission

APC-VPC APC-PPC

CGMMV

FEATURE

what you need to know

JUMP ON BOARD BECOME A MEMBER NOW MEMBERSHIP IS FREE AND KEEPS YOU IN THE LOOP OF THE INNOVATIONS HAPPENING IN YOUR INDUSTRY. ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S EASY TO APPLY AND ONLY TAKES A FEW MINUTES AT WWW.HORTICULTURE.COM.AU/MEMBERSHIP OR CALL 1300 880 981 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

WA Grower 18 YOUR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS

Vol. 51 No 3. Spring 2016

20 3

Grower Group R&D Grants program

vegetablesWA Chief Executive Officer

Stable fly and the rapid burial of waste

Vegetable Producers Committee Update

Rockmelon salmonella incident

vegetablesWA President’s Report

Grower profile — Brett Kirkpatrick

Welcome Lauren Thompson

Biosecurity Blitz 2016

PGA President’s Report

2016 stable fly Management Plan

Potato Growers Association of WA Update

WA Grower Leadership Summit

Fresh Potatoes Buy Local Campaign

POMEWEST

From the Executive Officer

2016 National Horticulture Convention

Netted apple demonstration final summary

Alternatives to metham sodium

An apple for the teacher? Well actually for the students 74

Glasshouse trials test fruit fly mating ability

YOUR BUSINESS

New vegetable supply-chain handbook

Right of entry

CGMMV detection sends farm biosecurity warning

Make sure your workers are paid at the right rate

Short-term storage of Royal Blue potato

Farm labour in horticulture

Managing pesticide resistance

Protect your agriculture business from unfair contracts 86

YOUR PRODUCTION

Permits TOOL TIME Foreign body detection robot trialled on QLD farm New packing solution YOUR INDUSTRY

111

Industry Skills Fund

Business grant opportunities

Member Service — insurance broker

New codes: Freshcare FSQ4 & ENV3

Irrigation Australia Ltd conference and expo

Grower profile — Capogreco Farms

National Vegetable Extension Network

Protected Cropping Australia workshop

Solving irrigation sprinkler issues in Baldivis

Growing the Gascoyne

Gascoyne project announces masterplan

Gascoyne Food Festival 2016

YOUR MARKET

Undercover onions

Agribusiness opportunities in Vietnam

Fruit fly arsenal to strengthen through $5M investment

Make me a hero

Reverse Trade Mission

100

Australian Trusted Trader

101

No return to the ice age for East Coast broccoli

102

VIETNAMESE TRANSLATIONS

103

WA Grower SPRING 2016

Produced by

vegetablesWA

Cover photo: Brett Kirkpatrick in Donnybrook hills Contact details for Horticulture House vegetablesWA, Potato Growers Association, HorticultureWA 103 Outram Street West Perth 6005 t: (08) 9481 0834 f: (08) 9481 0024 e: office@vegetableswa.com.au Chief Executive Officer John Shannon m: 0488 111 526 e: john.shannon@vegetableswa.com.au Finance & Communications Manager Rebecca Blackman t: (08) 9481 0834 e: finance@vegetableswa.com.au

Management Committees Vegetable Growers Association President Dan Kuzmicich m: 0408 910 761

Vice President Ken Sue

Carnarvon

Busselton

m: 0417 986 467

Committee M. Dobra K. Edwards M. Grubisa P. Ivankovich A. Natoli D. Nguyen P. Shain H. Shapland P. Wauchope

m: 0417 174 110 m: 0427 724 243 m: 0413 050 182 m: 0428 919 211 t: (08) 9405 4817 t: (08) 9941 8376 m: 0419 041 045 t: (08) 9845 1064 m: 0400 717 600

Gingin Manjimup Metro North Myalup Metro North Carnarvon Carnarvon Albany Gingin

Vietnamese Industry Extension Officer Truyen Vo m: 0457 457 559 e: truyen.vo@vegetableswa.com.au Industry Extension Officer Lauren Thompson m: 0427 373 037 e: lauren.thompson@vegetableswa.com.au Life Members A.J. Anderson*, D.J. Arbuckle, J. Arbuckle Snr*, J.H. Arbuckle* (M.B.E.J.P), H.R. Ashby*, S. Calameri, A. Harris*, A. Ingrilli, G. Kiriros*, R.G. Leach*, F. Natoli, S. Sawle*, R.M. Schultz, C.P. Stevens, W.R. Stevens* (M.B.E.J.P) and J. Turley. * Deceased

Graphic Design Josephine Eynaud, Redtail Graphic Design

Potato Growers Association President Vaughan Carter m: 0417 092 505

Treasurer

Mia Rose

Busselton

Myalup

m: 0409 112 245

Committee C. Ayres G. Bendotti R. Humfrey D. Omodei D. Terrigno

m: 0428 451 014 Albany m: 0427 569 903 Pemberton m: 0427 148 832 Gingin/Dandaragan m: 0427 761 121 Pemberton m: 0417 771 333 Manjimup

This issue of the WA Grower is brought to you by: • APC — Vegetable Producers Committee • Potato Growers Association • vegetablesWA • Pomewest

Articles reflect the opinions of the authors and are not necessarily those of the publisher.

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YOUR

INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS

WA Grower SPRING 2016

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Chief Executive Officer BY JOHN SHANNON CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, VEGETABLESWA

West Australian growers are responding to a range of challenges and opportunities at the moment. The identification of Cucumber Green Mottle Mosaic Virus (CGMMV) at cucumber growing properties in Geraldton and Carnarvon poses a significant threat to cucurbit growers. Growers are now working with government and vegetablesWA to identify any further spread and implement farm biosecurity plans to limit the risk of introduction to additional properties. Concerned growers should contact vegetablesWA for the latest update and technical assistance. This incident, along with the now eradicated QFly incursion of December and more common viral issues around Carrabooda last year have illustrated in the most difficult of ways that growers must incorporate strict biosecurity practices as normal operating procedure

WA Grower SPRING 2016

to protect their businesses, as well as the businesses of their fellow grower. We are also being confronted by government seeking to withdraw resources from this area of spending like all other areas of spending within the portfolio. It is difficult to imagine how industry can easily make up the shortfall.

In very positive news, vegetablesWA is welcoming a new Industry Extension Officer in the form of Lauren Thompson. Lauren comes with an outstanding background in agronomy and extension from which growers can take advantage. She was educated at the University of California, Davis and worked as an agronomist for Simplot both in Australia and the US. She had significant success as the Industry Development Manager with the Australian Processing Tomato Research Council as well as with Netafim and Scholefield Robinson Horticulture Consulting. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re excited about the impact Lauren will have with our industry as she joins us in the coming weeks. Truyen Vo continues in his extremely valuable role as Industry Extension Officer. These positions are funded by the WA Agricultural Produce Commission and Hort Innovation.

Labour continues as another significant issue. vegetablesWA will provide a strong position in the upcoming review of the backpacker tax in line with our active engagement on these issues over the last few years. We certainly hope that the tax regime can be made internationally competitive, that the labour hire sector can be regulated in line with the problematic behavior which appears disproportionately in this sector rather than with direct grower employment, and the introduction of an agricultural visa so growers are not so reliant on workers who are only in place for the requisite three months to earn an extension. Clearly the next few months will be critical for this issue which is so critical to the viability of vegetable growers. vegetablesWA recently hosted a forum with Professor David Hughes, an expert in world food trend, in collaboration with Perth Markets Ltd and Grains Industry WA. David always provides an excellent presentation and I find it useful to put all that we may be doing here in our own WA vegetable industry back into a global food context. For my money, my favourite insight was that Australia has always been good at marketing nouns in export markets, but we need to get a lot better at marketing adjectives to gain full value.

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Agriculture Produce Commission

Vegetable Producers Committee Update BY JOHN SHANNON SECRETARY APC-VPC

INSET LEFT: Typical early CGMMV symptoms on greenhouse cucumber plants. INSET RIGHT: Healthy greenhouse cucumber plants. (Source: www.calseed.org/documents/ CGMMV-Brochure-rev2-Final-4-22-2014-1.pdf)

Projects Approved FY17

Fee for service charge

The following projects were approved for fee for service funding in 2016–17 financial year.

The fee for service will remain the same for financial year ending 30th June 2017:

Project

vegetablesWA will be hosting our annual industry summit on 25th November, where a range of items will be discussed such as consumer alignment with markets and how the WA industry compares to overseas competitors. In addition to the summit with we be holding a Grower Group again, limited to only 15 spots contact Rebecca finance@vegetableswa.com.au to secure your spot. All of these things offer both significant challenges but some significant opportunities. MORE INFORMATION If you would like to discuss any of these items further please call on 0488 111 526 or email john.shannon@vegetableswa.com.au

Fee for service

per individual package of vegetable product weighing 100 kilograms or less

0.05

130,847

per individual package of vegetable product weighing 101 to 1000 kilograms

0.40

4. David Gray US vegetable tour

14,400

tonne contained within trailer/truck

0.70

5. Kingfisher Law — water legal advice

17,273

1. Part funding for vegetablesWA 2. The Great Aussie Crunch — Crunch & Sip 3. Part funding for Industry Extension Officers

Another key insight David offered was that: Aldi and Lidl will consume margin from Woolworths and Coles; small dollar convenience stores will do the same; and home delivery will continue as an area of growth.

6. Aggregated purchasing scheme

400,000 14,620

150,000

Ongoing approved projects 7. Managing stable fly in vegetable crops

15,000

8. University of Adelaide — low skill visa

20,000

9. Disinfestation of tomatoes Total of approved projects

18,202 780,792

APC-VPC Committee Members The Committee consists of five members, representing the main vegetable growing areas covered by the Committee. Committee

The fee for service is to apply to all vegetables sold by producers, except strawberries, mushrooms, potatoes and vegetables grown in the Ord Irrigation area (Kununurra). MORE INFORMATION Finally if you have any enquiries relating to the activities of your APC Vegetable Producers Committee, please don’t hesitate to contact me at Horticulture House on (08) 9481 0834; mobile 0488 111 526; or email john.shannon@ vegetableswa.com.au More information can also be found on the APC website www.apcwa.org.au/index.php/ committees

Date

Maureen Dobra (Chairperson) t: (08) 9575 2086 e: mdobra@looseleaf.com.au

2016–19

Joyce Babun

2015–18

Peter Ivankovich

2016–19

Lisa Tana

2014–17

Dane Capogreco

2014–17

WA Grower SPRING 2016

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President’s Report BY DAMIR KUZMICICH PRESIDENT, VEGETABLESWA

Hello to all fellow vegetable growers and industry, there has been a lot happening since the beginning of 2016. High on the agenda is the Cucumber Green Mottle Mosaic Virus (CGMMV) biosecurity alert which we have all heard about, if you haven’t please check the Your Production section of this edition of the WA Grower or contact vegetablesWA for more information. To help keep growers informed vegetablesWA are providing e-news updates and are working with DAFWA to minimise the risk of further spread of this virus. On farm biosecurity in our region is a must at this stage and is important for all farms regardless of region. Industry as a whole needs to work together on this, NOT just the grower. vegetablesWA produces a newsletter weekly to inform our growers on the status of biosecurity and other important news and events to assist growers. Contact Rebecca on finance@ vegetableswa.com.au to sign up or go to the website www.vegetableswa.com.au. Moving onto good news, vegetablesWA have been fortunate to secure the services of Lauren Thompson. Lauren applied for the vacant position of Industry Extension Officer position and was a standout in the interview process. I have to say the candidates applying for this position were impressive, candidates that applied were from overseas as well as local. Lauren’s experience, knowledge and understanding of on farm processes as well as industries process’s will be a valued asset to vegetablesWA. Lauren’s work with vegetablesWA will begin on the 19th September, please make her feel welcome.

WA Grower SPRING 2016

I attended the National Horticulture Convention in June this year which was held at the Royal Pines on the Gold Coast, I have to congratulate AUSVEG and the convention partners on a successful and very professional event. The Convention gave me the opportunity to meet other growers new and old from around the country to discuss the issues growers have on a day-to-day basis. One of those people was Nick Trandos (Trandos Farms) who I had met the year before. Talking to Nick you can tell that the man is still very passionate about this industry even though he takes more of a back seat now days. His sons Jim, Arthur and brother Steve and their team are running three properties around the state producing corn and beans. Trandos Farms have been operating for 77 years. Engaging with Nick and talking about our industry I see he has still a lot to offer, all you have to do is listen. The convention offers information on all aspects of our industry, guest speakers on a wide range of new products, new research and demonstrations. I urge all growers to make their way to the next

National Horticulture Convention as you always get well informed and guided ideas to improve your business. If you are in export or thinking about exporting your product this is a must event for you. On the 12th August, The Long Table Lunch (Gascoyne Region) was held at Brent Waters Plantation in Carnarvon. Brent Waters Plantation has held this event for the past three years and I have to say Joanne Simmons (the owner) has done a fantastic job of repairing the damage done by Cyclone Olwyn in March 2015. This event was again a success with 220 people attending. This event is growing every year and the Gascoyne Food Council committee need to be congratulated on their work to produce this excellent event which promotes the local produce (vegetables, fish and beef). The Chefs — Don Hancey, Peter Manifis, Greg Farnan and 10 other chefs from Perth — prepare and cook in a tapas style, and they did not disappoint, the food was fantastic. The long table lunch enables the growers and the chefs to work together to promote Gascoyne region product to the world. I look forward to the 2017 Long Table Lunch. MORE INFORMATION

THE Ausveg convention was held during June at the Royal Pines on the Gold Coast.

Contact Dan Kuzmicich on 0408 910 761 or damir.kuzmicich@bigpond.com

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Welcome

Lauren Thompson BY VAUGHAN CARTER PRESIDENT, POTATO GROWERS ASSOCIATION

vegetablesWA are delighted to announce that we have recruited an outstanding new Industry Extension Officer to continue this role as part of the National Vegetable Extension Project now funded by Hort Innovation in addition to the ongoing funding from the APC-VPC. Our new team member Lauren, born in the USA completed a BSc Agricultural Science and Management (with Agronomy emphasis), University of California, and worked in the USA and Australia before moving to Australia full time in 1990.

During the following years working throughout VIC, NSW and SA, Lauren has gained extensive experience in vegetable agronomy and will be a valuable asset to the vegetablesWA team. Lauren is looking forward to meeting everyone when she commences on 19th September and vegetablesWA are looking forward to what we can achieve with Lauren on board.

Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Report Well we are ever so close to the final weeks of regulatory marketing. I look over the Busselton Marybrook district and things are rolling into free market with growers planting for the Christmas period. Some more, some less and some none at all. With the curtains near drawn on a long standing regulation I sense some anxiety with growers and merchants. I can only hope that within a short period things settle and businesses move along with confidence. On the PGA agenda there is still lots going on behind the scenes. By the time this is published all zones will have met with EO Simon Moltoni, zone reps and growers to discuss numerous subjects. Some of the subjects are the role the PGA might play representing commercial growers, seed producers, export and wash packers. For example the PGA will require feedback and submissions on zone restructuring, industry plan and direction, commercial capabilities, industry extension programs, industry funding and seed schemes.

As you can see there is a daunting amount to digest and consider so it is important that we have a wide representation from growers and industries associated to get the very best out of our Association. I hope growers and the PGA can grow and build the industry and provide a healthy prosperous future for farming families.

The PGA has had the AGM in early September and I look forward to lots of positive discussions and decisions on its role moving forward. We have had the final PMC event in Busselton on the 3rd September. It was a great opportunity to catch up and reflect on a long successful regulated industry and all that it has achieved. It was also a fantastic way to thank those that have worked in the industry now and in the past. MORE INFORMATION To contact Vaughan call 0417 092 505 or email marybrook438@gmail.com

WA Grower SPRING 2016

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Potato Growers Association of WA Update SIMON MOLTONI EXECUTIVE OFFICER, POTATO GROWERS ASSOCIATION

The 6th of July was the day the Smiths processing plant processed its last potatoes. This is a significant loss to the potato industry in WA as it represents about 15% of total potato production in this state. This closure means that WA only has one significant processing plant left. It is vital to seed, ware, and export growers that processing continues in WA as many crops that don’t meet specifications can provide some return through processing. The PGA is currently exploring export markets for these chip stock growers. We believe that marketing this chip stock co-operatively as a single block will give growers the best opportunity to compete in these markets long term. Seed growers in Albany have all but finished grading this year’s harvest. Yields have been reasonable and losses from inundation due to a wet autumn have not been as bad as growers initially

SMITHS processing plant processed its last potatoes during July.

feared. Uncertainty in the market place is the major issue with the closure of “Smiths” and de-regulation of the fresh market. The placing of Oakville Produce into administration also affects WA seed growers. Export seed growers in the Manjimup/ Pemberton and Margaret River regions have also mostly finished grading with growers reporting positive marketing outcomes for the season.

Expansion from existing markets and interest from new clients has seen new growers enter the export seed market through existing exporters. We expect this growth to continue.

Seed growers await with interest the outcome of proposed changes to upgrade the National Seed Certification Scheme and also the review of governance arrangements. To compete in export markets it’s important to be on a level playing field with our international competitors whilst maintaining the quality of our seed and the integrity of the scheme. Regulation of the fresh market will be finalised on September 30th. Growers are still in limbo with uncertainty over contracts and no news yet on payments from the grower adjustment package. Growers are anxious that this is finalised so they can move on and make decisions about future business investment. The management of the PGA is currently meeting with growers from all zones to determine the way forward for all industry matters after deregulation. This is a particularly difficult time for growers to be making these medium- to long-term decisions however we need to be prepared, as an industry, for life after deregulation. After careful consideration of grower concerns the Committee of Management will need to make recommendations that restructure our industry to efficiently deal with all industry issues. These are challenging times, however I believe we have experienced, capable leaders who with grower support can position our industry to defend itself against threats and create opportunities going forward. MORE INFORMATION If you would like to discuss the above or any other issue please contact me on 0447 141 752 or simon.moltoni@vegetableswa.com.au

WA Grower SPRING 2016

What are you doing about your waste? Food waste costs a bomb! A recent Australian vegetable industry study showed that over 277,000 tonnes of the major vegetable lines, representing around 25% of production, is wasted each year before it gets to the farm gate. This represents a loss of $155 million to growers. The major reason is that produce does not meet the standards required, which in many cases is more to do with appearance rather than being inedible.

What can be done about this? Composted products can be used to build soil fertility. C-Wise conducted on-farm trials in a cauliflower crop at Baldivis to demonstrate the benefits of applying compost. In addition to improving yield it was found to suppress soil borne disease such as clubroot. The composted crop produced a greater number of export quality cauliflower heads than the untreated crop which resulted in reducing waste. Contact us today to find out how we can help you reduce your production waste.

Please contact Justin Wolfgang on 0419 904 001 or justin.wolfgang@cwise.com.au for more details www.cwise.com.au

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BY REBECCA BLACKMAN FINANCE & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER, VEGETABLESWA

vegetablesWA announces

WA Grower Leadership Summit

THE panel from our Inaugural Leadership Summit, 2015.

WA Grower SPRING 2016

After the success of the inaugural event in July 2015, vegetablesWA have announced this years event will be held on Friday 25th November at Crown Perth. Join us for a briefing on international opportunities and competitors as well as the latest domestic market insights.

Coriolis and Hort Innovation will provide an update on recent projects that have been undertaken of significant importance to the vegetable industry. Coriolis specialise in Farm-to-Plate providing a clear understanding across the total agri-food value chain. Coriolis is the leading Australasian management consulting firm specialising in agrifood, food and beverages, retailing and consumer packaged goods. Coriolis advises clients on growth strategy, mergers and acquisitions, operational improvement and organisational change.

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Coriolis have worked with DAFWA on numerous projects and are currently working with vegetablesWA on a DAFWA Grower Grant project; Finding the Sweet Spot. You can view some of Coriolis work here www.coriolisresearch.com/pdfs/ coriolis_dafwa_growing_the_north.pdf

The Nielsen data which Hort Innovation commissions, will be presented. Nielsen analyse the homescan data on vegetable consumption in Australia and will be providing key consumer insights. These insights are fascinating, and have practical relevance and commercial application for our vegetable growers. These presentations bring the data insights to life and there’s the opportunity to ask questions.

vegetablesWA annual Grower Leadership Summit Friday 25th November Summit 3.00–6.00pm Cocktail/Networking Function 6.00–7.30pm Crown Perth Burswood Botanical Room 1 & 2 In addition to the WA Grower Leadership Summit we will be holding a Young Grower Group Tour similar to last year. The group will be limited to 15 spots and you can register your interest to Rebecca at Rebecca.blackman@vegetableswa.com.au or (08) 9481 0834. The Grower Group Tour will include a trip to see Baldivis Farms automated greenhouse operations and hear from owner Sam Calameri on diversification of his business. The new retractable roof

greenhouse is definitely worth seeing. Sam has been a vegetable grower for over 30 years and with the deregulation of the potato industry has seen the need for diversification. In addition to this there will be the leadership summit and the a dinner for the grower group at Market & Co, Crown Perth with accommodation at Crown Perth being provided for the night of 25th November. This is an opportunity not to be missed! More exciting news to be announced shortly! MORE INFORMATION To stay in touch with what is happening make sure you have subscribed to the vegetablesWA weekly e-news www.vegetableswa.com.au. If you are interested in attending either event please contact Rebecca to ensure you don’t miss out!

vegetablesWA presents the annual

Grower Leadership Summit Save the date Join us for a briefing on international opportunities and competitors as well as the latest domestic market insights. Information will be presented by Coriolis & Hort Innovation. Friday 25th November Summit 3.00–6.00pm Cocktail/Networking Function 6.00–7.30pm Crown Perth, Great Eastern Hwy, Burswood Botanical Room 1 & 2

The panel from our Inaugural Leadership Summit, 2015

THIS EVENT HAS BEEN PARTIALLY FUNDED BY HORT INNOVATION & APC AS PART OF THE NATIONAL VEGETABLE EXTENSION NETWORK PROJECT

WA Grower SPRING 2016

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Fresh Potatoes

Buy Local Campaign +

RECIPES | NEWS | WINE & SPIRITS | REVIEWS

Coffee art. P4

Unfried fish and chips Baked fish and chips are healthier than the fried version and by coating the fish in lupin flakes it adds extra fibre and protein to your meal. Lupin flakes are a WA product that contain magnesium, calcium, antioxidants and are gluten free. Serves 6 6 potatoes (ruby red or royal blue are best) 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp paprika 1 tsp salt flakes

6 firm white fish fillets 1 ⁄2 cup rice flour 1 tsp paprika 1-2 eggs, whisked 1 cup lupin flakes 2 tbsp olive oil

Preheat oven to 200C. Cut the potatoes into fat chips and place in a pot of boiling water for 5 minutes to blanch. Drain in a colander. Toss in the olive oil, paprika and salt and place on a baking tray and into the oven for 20 minutes. Cut the fish into two or three portions, toss in the rice flour and second lot of paprika, dip in the egg and then press into the lupin flakes that have been tossed with the second lot of olive oil. Turn the chips over and add lupin-coated fish on another tray. Bake for a further 10-15 minutes or until crispy and browned. Serve with mayonnaise mixed with chopped green olives and capers.

Oven baked Warming recipes for cool autumn nights

Photo available at westpix.com.au

IN THE GROUND TODAY. ON YOUR PLATE TOMORROW. NOTHING’S AS FRESH AS WA POTATOES

RARE_PMC26985C

Freshpotatoes.com.au

BY LAURA BERNHARDT BRAND MANAGER

Phase One – April to June 2016 The Fresh Potatoes ‘Buy Local’ campaign was designed to stimulate high demand for WA grown potatoes while reinforcing consumer preference for locally grown produce. The strategy was two fold; create a loyal buy local movement amongst WA potato consumers and, celebrate all WA retails who source local produce. The campaign results delivered over five million impressions through a range of digital, social media and food bloggers initiatives and over one million people saw our press advertising at least seven times or more. The campaign has also been successful to engage with Woolworths, Coles, IGA and Aldi to sign up to the 100% Local Club retailer membership.

WA Grower SPRING 2016

THIS COPYRIGHT MATERIAL MUST NOT BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT PERMISSION OR PASSED ON TO ANY THIRD PARTY. CONTACT: SYNDICATION@WANEWS.COM.AU

May 17, 2016

Activity included ‘Freshness’ strip adverts in The West Australian, digital adverts across thewest.com.au, sponsored news articles across major news sites and a mass competition through The West Australian. Retailer activity included front page ‘Thank You’ adverts in The West Australian, point of sale in all IGA, Woolworths and Coles and cooking demonstrations across 25 retail stores.

Social media activity included weekly posts on Fresh Potatoes AU to over 18,500 fans, food blogs and Instagram posts from three major WA food bloggers plus a competition to drive engagement with a younger target audience. Rob Broadfield, food writer and critic for The West Australian supported the campaign as an ambassador writing a range of opinion pieces urging his readers to source and by local potatoes.

Overview of results Sponsored articles • 1 5,857 page views with a 10 minute view time average

Facebook • 130,000 people reached across west. com.au Facebook posts • 5 8,300 unique people engaged across Fresh Potatoes Facebook page

Native advertising • 4,500,000 impressions delivering 17,744 clicks to sponsored articles and 228,000 impressions delivering 543 clicks to sponsored articles

Print advertising • 1 ,000,000 people reached with a frequency of 7.6

Competition • 2 ,366 entries across major and minor draw

Food bloggers • 331,000 people reached via 13 Facebook posts • 750 engaged people via 11 Instagram posts

POS • Buy Local point-of-sale in all IGA and Woolworths + Coles WA Grown posters distributed to all Coles stores.

Phase Two — August to September 2016 Phase two of the Fresh Potatoes Buy Local campaign launched August and will continue till the end of September. The purpose of the campaign is to continue the strategy and objectives of phase one while extending the campaign reach to a wider audience through new digital initiatives (see Table 1). Activities include a series front page adverts in The West Australian thanking retails for being members of the 100% Local Club campaign and reinforcing consumers to purchase fresh potatoes from participating stores. Point-of-sale running in all WA Woolworths store for a four week period to further reinforce our message at point of purchase. Our digital display has a high percentage of mobile placement activity with Perth Now, Taste.com.au and NewsCorp news sites. Mobile and desktop roadblocks and sponsored articles around freshness across these networks will create increase our reach as we target under 35 year-olds who don’t consume traditional press media.

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TABLE 1 Phase Two activity plan 2016 August Title

Execution

September 28

Press The West Australian

25 26

Front page 5x7 + EGN page 2 10x7

Digital — content PerthNow

Sponsored article advert

PerthNow Facebook

Facebook post — traffic driver

8 days 2

News digital network

Freshness message

200,000

News digital network

Safety message

200,000

News digital network

Grower message

800,000

Digital — display Taste.com.au mobile

Freshness message

136,000

News digital network

Audience targeting: Foodies aged 18–34

100,000

PerthNow

Safety message

Extension opportunity — promotion PerthNow social promotion

'Sculptures of the Spud' / 'SpudArt'

PerthNow

Competition landing page

PerthNow Facebook/Instagram

Editorial

POS Woolworths

4 weeks, all WA stores

Facebook Fresh Potatoes AU

3 to 5 posts per week

3–5

Source: Starcom Media

200 150 100 50

15 Ju l1 5 Au g 15 Se p 15 Oc t1 5 N ov 15 De c 15 Ja n 16 Fe b 16 M ar 16 Ap r1 6 M ay 16

Contact Potato Growers Association on (08) 9481 0834.

250

Ju n

MORE INFORMATION

Sunday Times / perthnow.com.au (Mobile) (L4W) West Australian / thewest.com.au (Mobile-Web) (L4W)

300

This is the final burst for the PMC Fresh Potatoes campaign however various stakeholders are currently exploring taking the campaign in the long term with view for a decision by the end of the year.

The PerthNow mobile audience has been growing month on month, with a unique audience at almost 250,000 per month! See Figure 1.

To enter people submit a potato sculpture, share it on social media to go in the draw to win restaurant and grocery vouchers. Video content of a famous artist crafting potato sculptures will be shared on PerthNow and Fresh Potatoes AU Facebook page.

FUN FACT:

Unique audience

A dedicated PerthNow social promotion ‘Sculptures of the Spud’ aims to engage the younger generations and young families.

Month FIGURE 1 PerthNow mobile — unique audience per month Source: PerthNow

WA Grower SPRING 2016

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Fresh Logic Update BY PAUL GRAHAM MARKETING MANAGER

2011/12

2012/13

2013/14

2014/15

2015/16

As of June 2016 the Potato Marketing Corporation of WA now has four years of robust Freshlogic data with the latest results released this month. The June quarter results show an increase in volume sold at retail level compared to the previous quarter and an overall increase of 4% year on year. This is a function of number of WA households, weekly penetration and quantity purchased per trip and is a positive indicator the WA category in growth.

Thousand (t)

10 8 6 4 2 0

Sep

Dec

Mar

Jun

Month FIGURE 1 Potato volume sold â&#x20AC;&#x201D; retail

MORE INFORMATION

Source: Freshlogic

Contact Paul Graham on 0414 382 738 or paul@marketstrategy.com.au

Freshlogic conducts independent market analysis across a range of consumer shopper measures and is a robust measure of actual market activity and volume of potatoes sold in WA and National.

Grower Group Tour Friday 25th November 9.30am to 2.30pm Tour Baldivis Farms automated greenhouse operations and hear from owner Sam Calameri on diversification of his business More exciting tour components to be announced shortly! Accommodation on 25th November at the Crown Resort provided.

Hurry! Limited to

15 spots

Contact Rebecca if you are interested in participating on (08) 9481 0834 or email Rebecca.blackman@vegetableswa.com.au

THIS EVENT HAS BEEN PARTIALLY FUNDED BY HORT INNOVATION & APC AS PART OF THE NATIONAL VEGETABLE EXTENSION NETWORK PROJECT

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Alternatives to

metham sodium Metham sodium (MS) is a broad-spectrum fumigant used to control a variety of soil-borne pests and diseases including nematodes, fungi, insects and weeds. Key messages • Sole reliance on fumigants like MS often changes soil conditions and reduces inherent disease suppressive soil properties, reinforcing continued reliance on fumigation to deal with soilborne diseases, pests and weeds. • The environmental and human health impacts of MS are other good reasons to look for effective, commercially viable alternatives. • There is no direct ‘drop-in’ product to replace MS. • Alternatives to MS (such as biofumigation) will work most effectively as part of a broader, integrated crop protection approach. • Changing established systems involves uncertainty and risks while new practices are adapted to existing production systems. • New ICP strategies must be developed within a local context that considers: −− local soil types and production systems −− disease pressures −− environmental conditions.

Why we need an alternative It is not environmentally friendly — MS is highly mobile in the soil and may move through the root zone faster than it is able to convert to its active form. This can lead to increased leaching and/or runoff to nearby waterways causing toxicity to fish and other water life.

MS also results in long-term changes in the composition and activity of soil organisms and has the potential to alter important functions like nutrient cycling and pollutant degradation.

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Chemical alternatives to MS are limited: • Some new generation nematicides are under development and new fungicides have been registered overseas. However few alternative broadspectrum fumigants are registered for use in Australia and they are not considered viable substitutes due to their toxicity • Reviews of chemical soil fumigants in the Unites States and Europe have led to a tightening of regulations and

It can hurt humans In the United States, MS is listed as a carcinogen and toxicant. Respiratory, eye and throat irritation, diarrhoea and rashes are some symptoms of exposure to MS. Poisonings have been reported at some distance from the application site. Diminishing chemical options The increasing cost and decreasing availability of agricultural chemicals means options for growers are becoming more limited. Consumer demand and trade restrictions Consumers are increasingly driving a shift away from broad spectrum pesticide use. Tightening international regulations around the use and application of MS may also restrict future trade and exports.

LETTUCE after biofumigation.

Enhanced biodegradation Biodegradation is the process by which organic substances are broken down by living organisms. Repeated application of MS can lead to enhanced biodegradation of the active methyl isothiocyanate (MITC), substantially reducing the efficacy of MS for control of soilborne pests and diseases. This occurs when there is an increase in soil microorganisms that are capable of rapidly degrading MITC. Enhanced biodegradation can be prevented by using an integrated approach to pest and disease management.

Are there suitable chemical alternatives to MS?

LETTUCE without biofumigation affected by Sclerotinia.

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Enzymes break these down further into isothiocyanates that act like fumigants — these are the same chemicals that are released from MS. Biofumigant crops also: • Improve soil structure • Add organic carbon to soil • Reduce weeds and soilborne pathogens • Do not persist for long in soil.

Integrated crop protection (ICP): the way forward INCORPORATING a biofumigant crop (Caliente 199TM) into which a lettuce crop will be planted.

the development of other resources to improve the safe use of MS. The general use of MS in Europe is to be phased out by December 2014. These moves make the future use of such chemicals in Australia uncertain • Biopesticides could replace MS but none are currently available in Australia

ICP moves away from sole reliance on fumigants and offers alternative options for management of pests and soilborne diseases.

It requires changing some practices and trying multiple approaches. In doing so, you may avoid pesticide resistance or enhanced biodegradation of soil-applied plant protection products.

management generally all fit well into an integrated crop protection approach. Remember that any single one of the ICP alternatives, by itself, will lack the cost effectiveness, broad efficacy, and reliability of chemical fumigants. But it is possible to combine a range of integrated approaches to achieve a viable production system. A range of ICP approaches is recommended, including: • Biofumigation • Proven amendments or ‘soil/plant health enhancers’ • Rotation or break crops such as seed crops and pasture breaks • Biocides/biological control.

Things to consider There are some challenges for ICP to replace MS, including: • The availability of suitable land for crop rotation • Resources and time required to implement monitoring and multiple management approaches

• Solarisation and soil steaming are not considered good alternatives to MS due to their high costs and lack of environmental benefits

Integrated crop protection:

• In the US the use of anaerobic soil disinfestation (ASD) and mustard seed meal methods are currently being investigated as practical and sustainable options.

• takes a proactive risk management approach (not a blanket approach)

• There may still be a need for weed control.

• is a long-term economically and environmentally sustainable option

These challenges are offset by the reduced cost and environmental benefit of less pesticide usage.

Biofumigant crops may be the most promising replacement for MS Biofumigation is the suppression of soilborne pests and diseases by growing plants that contain inhibitory chemicals, which are then ploughed back in as green manure. Plants from the mustard family (such as mustards and oil seed radish) or sorghum and rocket species have shown potential. Mustards produce chemicals called glucosinates in the plant tissue, which are released when cut or chopped.

• can reduce costs of unnecessary chemical applications (by being more targeted)

• may withstand external changes such as increasing chemical regulation • allows marketing of food produced in an environmentally responsible manner. An integrated approach relies on monitoring for early detection of pests, weeds and diseases. It is based on the use of cultural methods and selective products that protect crops while minimising negative effects on water, air and soil, and on pollinators and beneficial insects. Biopesticides, biological control, biofumigation and sitespecific nutrition

• Costs associated with different products required in an ICP system

MORE INFORMATION For further information on biofumigation have a look at our fact sheet: www.rmcg. com.au/media/Projects/RID/SW-ICP%20 biofumigation%20factsheet%20150216%20 FINAL.pdf To find out more about ICP, alternatives to metham sodium or biofumigation please contact: • Anne-Maree Boland at RMCG on (03) 9882 2670 or anne-mareeb@rmcg.com.au • Gordon Rogers at AHR on (03) 86271040 or gordon@ahr.com.au

This project has been funded by Horticulture Innovation Australia Limited using the vegetable levy and funds from the Australian Government.

Horticulture Innovation Australia Limited (HIA Ltd), Applied Horticultural Research Pty Ltd (AHR), RM Consulting Group (RMCG) and IPM Technologies Pty Ltd make no representations and expressly disclaims all warranties (to the extent permitted by law) about the accuracy, completeness, or currency of information in this article. Users of this material should take independent action before relying on it’s accuracy in any way. Reliance on any information provided by HIA Ltd, AHR, RMCG or IPM Technologies Pty Ltd is entirely at your own risk. HIA Ltd, AHR, RMCG or IPM Technologies Pty Ltd are 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 HIA Ltd, AHR, RMCG, IPM Technologies Pty Ltd or any other person’s negligence or otherwise) from your use or non-use of information from projects VG13076 Soil condition management — Extension and capacity building, or VG13078 Extension of Integrated Crop Protection information in this article or from reliance on information contained in this material or that HIA Ltd, AHR, RMCG or IPM Technologies Pty Ltd provides to you by any other means.

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Glasshouse trials test fruit fly mating ability BY JODIE THOMSON DAFWA

A high tech fruit fly mating trial is underway at the Department of Agriculture and Food (DAFWA) in an effort to find a new way of controlling the destructive pest, Mediterranean fruit fly (Medfly). The department is testing the rearing and mating performance of an imported fruit fly which is designed to break the breeding cycle of the WA pest.

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Department Horticulture Director David Windsor said Medfly was a serious horticultural pest in Western Australia, attacking a wide range of cultivated fruits and some fruiting vegetables such as capsicums and chillies.

“We are testing whether a new Medfly strain sourced from United Kingdom-based company, Oxitec, could offer our growers a better way to control fruit fly and reduce the need for chemicals,” Dr Windsor said.

“These new flies were imported as eggs last year and have been reared in a specialised rearing facility at the department. We now have a small colony of flies that are being used for these trials.” Dr Windsor said the trials were examining whether the Oxitec male flies were compatible with the WA female Medfly.

L–R: Dr David Windsor, DAFWA, with Ben Granville and Dr Neil Morrison, of Oxitec, in glasshouse trials examining the mating performance of fruit fly as part of efforts to find a new way of controlling Mediterranean fruit fly.

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“We will also be comparing their mating performance against the sterilised male Medfly produced using the current sterile insect technique (SIT),” he said. Dr Windsor said while the sterile insect technique worked well to disrupt the breeding cycle, the use of radiation could reduce mating competitiveness. The Oxitec technology is based on the sterile insect technique already used in WA, but instead of using radiation to render the male flies sterile, the fly is genetically modified to include a self-limiting gene. “When these male flies mate, they pass on a specific gene to their offspring which prevents females from reaching reproductive age,” Dr Windsor said. “This means that the females cannot ‘sting’ or lay eggs in the fruit, or damage the fruit in any way. They also don’t breed which dramatically reduces the fruit fly population.”

Dr Neil Morrison, research and development group leader at Oxitec, said: “With our Medfly, we hope to offer growers a powerful alternative to insecticides to protect their fruit crops in an environmentally sustainable way.” The research is funded by DAFWA and Horticulture Innovation Australia Limited. The flies are contained in approved laboratory and glasshouse facilities and the trial is subject to strict quarantine and regulation conditions required by the Australian Government and the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator. MORE INFORMATION More information about the trial is available from the department website agric.wa.gov. au/fruit-fly-trial-western-australia or through David Windsor, Horticulture Director on 0404 819 615.

FREE

to all vegetable supply chain stakeholders!

New vegetable supply-chain handbook out now BY KELLY VORST-PARKES COMMUNICATIONS, HORT INNOVATION

A new, free handbook outlining the best and most cost-effective ways for handling vegetables during the postharvest period is now available to industry. Commissioned by Horticulture Innovation Australia (Hort Innovation) using the vegetable levy and matched funds from the Australian Government, the Postharvest management of vegetables: Australian supply-chain handbook comprises more than 150 pages of valuable information.

The handbook includes technical information on general postharvest principles, from understanding the effects of storage atmosphere to how to evaluate and manage produce quality.

It also includes best-practice guides for 23 key vegetable crops, and quick reference tables for storage and transport. In the creation of the book, Hort Innovation and research partners Applied Horticulture Research (AHR) consulted with more than 50 postharvest specialists and growers, through platforms such as a workshop in Melbourne, industry meetings and events, and farm visits.

Hort Innovation chief executive officer John Lloyd said the handbook will be a useful guide for all parts of the supply chain, from suppliers to growers to retailers.

MORE INFORMATION

“This book is the culmination of more than 20 years of vegetable supplychain-related-research and includes a great depth of information that up until now, has not been collated and made available to industry in one resource,” he said. “It is a unique resource, specific to the Australian market.”

Copies of the handbook will also be available at an associated postharvest roadshow planned for major vegetable growing regions in November this year — dates and locations to be announced soon.

To order a copy of the handbook which is free to all vegetable supply chain stakeholders, go to the Horticulture Innovation Australia website http://horticulture.com.au/

Department of Agriculture and Food

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CGMMV detection sends farm biosecurity warning The recent detection of Cucumber green mottle mosaic virus (CGMMV) in Western Australia is a stark reminder of the need for strict on-farm biosecurity measures to prevent both entry and the spread of pests and diseases. The virus was detected for the first time in Western Australia in July 2016 in a cucumber crop in a tunnel house in Geraldton, when a symptomatic leaf sample was submitted to the Department of Agriculture and Food, Western Australia (DAFWA). Since then, CGMMV has been detected on another six commercial cucumber properties in the Geraldton area, in close proximity to the first detection. The virus has also been detected on two properties in Carnarvon — in a commercial cucumber crop and in an endemic cucurbitaceous weed (Mukia maderaspatana) growing on a fenceline between two properties. Further targeted sampling of this weed species is being carried out around Carnarvon. DAFWA Chief Plant Biosecurity Officer John van Schagen said the detections highlighted the importance of strict farm biosecurity practices.

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CARNARVON

GERALDTON

“Growers should be thinking at all times how to protect the crops on their properties, because without good biosecurity a threat such as CGMMV could affect their livelihood,” he said. “Growers shouldn’t wait until there is a biosecurity risk before implementing farm biosecurity measures.

“The principles of good biosecurity should not only be about preventing pests and diseases getting off the farm once they are there, but also in the first instance preventing pests and diseases from coming onto the farm.” Mr van Schagen said there had been good cooperation between the affected growers and DAFWA since the initial detection, which will go a long way to minimising the risk of further spread.

PERTH

DAFWA hosted a workshop on 27 July 2016 in Geraldton and 29 July in Carnarvon, with support from vegetablesWA, for local cucurbit growers and industry stakeholders. This focused on technical advice, disease management and appropriate on-farm biosecurity measures. A further workshop was held on 23 August 2016 at the DAFWA research facility in Geraldton, to provide all local growers with a practical demonstration of farm biosecurity. “DAFWA is looking at a number of ways to prevent further spread of the virus, but most importantly we will be working with those affected growers to develop personalised biosecurity strategies for their farms. This may include assisting growers to transition to crops that are not susceptible to the virus, as it can remain infectious in the soil for two to three years.”

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CGMMV in a watermelon.

Mr van Schagen said there were many pathways through which the virus can be spread, and re-iterated the most practical solution was to implement biosecurity measures to remove these pathways. Pathways of spread include the movement of soil and plant debris on machinery, vehicles, equipment, clothing and packaging materials, and the transfer of potentially contaminated plant sap through regular pruning, staking and handling. DAFWA virologist Brenda Coutts said initial infection could come from transplanting potentially infected seedlings or seedling rootstocks purchased from nurseries, and sowing potentially contaminated seed lots. “This virus remains dormant yet still infectious in the seedcoat, and dormant yet still infectious in contaminated soil and plant debris for two to three years. Therefore once a farm is contaminated, the virus can invade plant cells via wounds that occur during transplanting, or by root contact with infected soil, root-to-root contact, or from water and nutrient solutions that have been in contact with infected materials," Ms Coutts said. Mr van Schagen said DAFWA would be assessing all possible pathways through which this virus can spread. This will include off-farm activities such as transport companies moving pallets from farm to farm, nurseries supplying seedlings to growers, seed producers supplying contaminated seed lots, and also the possibility of the virus being spread through bee pollination.” A meeting was held in Geraldton on 10 August with local transport companies, to alert them to CGMMV and provide advice on biosecurity measures.

TOP CGMMV on cucumber leaves. ABOVE CGMMV on melon leaves.

In relation to bees, Mr van Schagen said DAFWA was evaluating recent research undertaken in the Northern Territory that focused on honey bees maybe having the ability to carry the virus. Mr van Schagen said DAFWA will be meeting regularly with representatives from vegetablesWA, AUSVEG and growers to discuss current issues and proposed actions. The first meeting was held on 3 August 2016.

Email updates on the detections and response activities will be provided regularly to all stakeholders. To subscribe to updates go to DAFWA’s CGMMV web page — agric.wa.gov. au/cgmmv.

What can I do to protect my crop? Above anything else, implement strict onfarm biosecurity measures. Farm biosecurity information, in both English and Vietnamese, specific to CGMMV is available from DAFWA’s CGMMV web pages — agric.wa.gov.au/cgmmv.

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The farmbiosecurity.com.au website also has information on how to put in place biosecurity measures that are appropriate for your farm. Cucurbit growers should seek certification from their seed and seedling suppliers stating that representative samples of seeds and seedlings have been tested for virus infection, and found to be free from the virus. This assurance should be obtained for both cultivars and rootstocks. Report suspect CGMMV cases to DAFWAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pest and Disease Information Service on 1800 084 881. Cucurbit samples showing signs of the disease or suspected of being infected can be tested for presence of the virus at DAFWAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Diagnostic Laboratory Service (DDLS) located at South Perth. DDLS can be contacted on (08) 9368 3351. Clients submitting samples should use the submission forms available on agric.wa.gov. au/bacteria/plant-disease-diagnostics.

What are the symptoms? Seedlings and plants Typical CGMMV foliage and fruit symptoms can be mistaken for similar symptoms caused by other cucurbit viruses. Additionally, foliage from infected plants may not show any obvious symptoms and the absence of

CGMMV symptoms on a watermelon.

symptoms may be more common in some varieties of cucurbit hosts. Therefore, visual identification of CGMMV can be unreliable. The virus infects watermelon, cucumber, melons, zucchini, pumpkin, squash, bitter gourd, bottle gourd and other cucurbit species. Different cucurbit species differ in their sensitivity to the virus, e.g. cucumber tends to express symptoms readily while zucchini is often infected without symptoms. Symptoms on young seedlings may be indistinct and not apparent until more mature leaves emerge. Affected plants may wilt and then runners, or the whole plant, may die prematurely. CGMMV tends to spread from an initial virus infection source through an affected crop in a wave like manner, with infected plants showing symptoms gradually progressing across a paddock/tunnel house. Leaves On young leaves, vein clearing and crumpling may be apparent. More mature leaves may display mottling or mosaic patterns, or be pale, yellow, or yellowwhite. Fruit In some cases, fruit showing no external symptoms may be internally discoloured or necrotic. This can be especially pronounced in watermelon.

Symptoms on fruit can include internal yellowing, breakdown of the flesh, and possibly a dirty red discolouration internally. The internal yellowing may either occur just inside the white outer flesh, and/or in patches further into the centre. The breakdown of flesh may occur in patches or cavities surrounded by otherwise normal flesh. Infection may also cause fruit malformation or fruit may fail to develop and abort.

CGMMV in other states CGMMV was detected in Australia for the first time in the Northern Territory in 2014, and then in Queensland in 2015. During these outbreaks watermelon, pumpkin and other cucurbit crops were infected. The virus was also found in a number of weeds.

A national response to CGMMV was launched in late 2014 to manage the spread of CGMMV in Australia and mitigate economic impact. The Federal Australian Government Department of Agriculture and Water Resources imposed emergency measures on imports of cucurbit host seeds, tissue cultures and nursery stock to prevent further entry of the virus into Australia. The most likely way CGMMV came to Australia is via infected seed. Since November 2014 only cucurbit seed lines that have been tested and found free of CGMMV are allowed entry into Australia. The National Management Group, on advice from the Consultative Committee on Emergency Plant Pests made a decision in 2015 that CGMMV was not technically feasible to eradicate. The virus is now a pest of national significance and a national management plan is being prepared by AusVeg and the Australian Melon Association, with assistance from State and Commonwealth Governments. DAFWA will assist growers to implement the CGMMV National Management Plan which is nearing completion.

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CGMMV

Frequently asked questions Q

What will be the damage to my crop if infected with Cucumber green mottle mosaic virus (CGMMV)?

The combined effects of the virus can cause substantial crop losses. Fruit symptoms include fruit abortion, uneven ripening, internal rotting, yellowing or dirty red flesh discolouration. External symptoms on fruit can be lesions on the stem or malformation of fruit shape, and mosaic-like mottling of leaves.

If my crop is infected with CGMMV, can I still market my crops?

If CGMMV is confirmed on your property, you will still be able to harvest and market crops. There are currently no interstate movement restrictions specific to CGMMV in cucurbit produce. This risk is deemed minimal. Infected fruit is a potential source of infection, but infected fruit is likely to be symptomatic (distorted, uneven skin colour, stunted) and not marketable. Any symptomatic fruit should be destroyed in an appropriate manner (incineration or deep burial) following biosecurity guidelines.

Will you quarantine my property if infected with CCGMV?

The risk of CGMMV spread between farms is best managed by on-farm biosecurity practices. To limit further spread, DAFWA is looking at a number of options to ensure biosecurity strategies for each affected farm are developed and implemented. DAFWA will assist growers to develop these strategies. DAFWA is also looking at the Northern Territory’s CGMMV management plan and the regulations put in place following their CGMMV detection in 2014, to see what elements can be brought into use in WA.

Can I continue to grow the same crop if infected with CGMMV?

Affected growers may need to identify alternative crops not susceptible to

CGMMV, as part of crop rotations, as the disease can remain infectious in the soil for 2–3 years. With the right management practices growers can work towards control the virus on their property — thereby enabling them to resume growing cucurbit crops. DAFWA has made resources available to work with affected growers to develop biosecurity strategies that can help achieve this goal, which will be based on strict farm biosecurity guidelines. This will include guidelines to remove all risk pathways, including removal and destruction of infected materials, conditions relating to sourcing of seeds/ seedlings, and guidelines for movement on and off properties.

Will DAFWA test other crops in WA for CGMMV?

DAFWA is developing a surveillance plan to detail all planned surveillance activities across WA. This will include surveillance of all cucurbit growing properties in Kununurra, Broome and Baldivis, and in the summer, the south west and melon crops in Geraldton and Carnarvon. Targeted sampling of the weed species found infected in Carnarvon will be undertaken in and around Carnarvon.

How are plants infected by CGMMV?

CGMMV multiplies inside plant cells and spreads to all cells of an infected plant including those in root, foliage and fruit tissues. Plants and seedlings must be wounded before they can be infected. Virus particles infect plant cells through minute wounds in superficial cells. The virus can also be seed-transmitted though contamination of cucurbit seed coats.

What crops can be infected by CGMMV?

Plants of watermelon, cucumber, melons, zucchini, pumpkin, squash, bitter gourd, and bottle gourd — long melon can become infected. A few other cucurbit species are also hosts.

A few weeds are reported to be hosts of the virus. Known weed hosts include nightshade blackberry nightshade (Solanum nigrum), portulacca (Portulaca oleracea), amaranth (Amaranthus sp.), and fat hen (Chenopodium album). Testing needs to be undertaken to determine if seeds of non-cucurbits can carry the virus. There are at least five strains of the virus known to occur world-wide, and symptoms vary between infected hosts. Other mosaic diseases, caused by two members of a different virus group (potyviruses) occur commonly in northern Australia and can cause similar symptoms. This makes it difficult to identify CGMMV by sight. It can only be conclusively established as being present by laboratory testing.

Is CGMMV a notifiable pest? If so, what are the reporting obligations of growers?

CGMMV is a notifiable disease. Under the Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act 2007 (BAM Act), growers are required to report the presence of the virus, or suspected presence of the virus to DAFWA.

Has DAFWA communicated with the bee industry about the virus and restricting the movement of bees?

In Israeli research under greenhouse conditions, spread from infected to healthy plants by bees was recorded. However, no spread was recorded to healthy plants when bees emerged from hives to which bees had carried the virus. There are no published reports of transmission by bees in the open field. This topic is currently under investigation in the Northern Territory.

Can insects carry the disease?

Aphids are not known to carry (vector) CGMMV. Cucumber leaf beetles might be able to vector CGMMV from infected to healthy WA Grower SPRING 2016

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plants through wounding of the healthy plant when feeding but this remains to be proven.

What are the compliance obligations of nursery stock and seeds in relation to CGMMV?

• Infection of roots in soil that is contaminated with infected plant debris. The virus can spread through root-to-root contact provided wounds are present. • In water or in nutrient solutions in soilless culture causing infection of roots.

The onus is on industry to source healthy seed and healthy seedlings from nurseries. Seedling nurseries should adopt stringent hygiene measures to avoid dissemination of infected seedlings.

• Packaging materials such as bins used for harvesting, storage or marketing fruit — avoid recycling packaging materials.

Since November 2014 only cucurbit seed lines that have been tested and found free of CGMMV are allowed entry into Australia.

• No sucking insects have been proven to carry the virus — but needs to be verified for Australia.

Cucurbit growers should ensure that any seed line they purchase or use has been tested using a representative sample size of 9,400 seeds. DAFWA has the diagnostic capability to test leaf, fruit, seedling and seed samples for CGMMV infection.

What are the pathways through which CGMMV can spread?

Where the virus is present, further spread can occur through a number of pathways: • Mechanical transfer, especially in protected or high-input culture and seedling nursery systems where plants are frequently pruned, staked, handled or touched. This can occur via contaminated machinery, clothing, or even the hands of people who have come in contact with infected plants.

• Infected rootstock plants and grafts. • Seed harvested from infected plants.

• Honey bees can transmit in green houses, but there is no evidence of transmission from hives.

What is farm biosecurity?

Farm biosecurity involves measures taken to prevent spread of the virus through the various pathways. This includes use of CGMMV free seed stocks and seedling transplants; removal and destruction of all infected host material; disinfection of equipment, tools and clothes; and strict control on the movement of potentially infected material from affected farms. Disinfection of pruning and harvesting tools with trisodium phosphate will reduce mechanical transmission of the virus, but will not prevent transmission through leaf contact between infected and healthy plants.

• In the open field through crop foliage damage caused by machinery, people and animals.

Refer to the CGMMV farm biosecurity information sheet, available from the DAFWA website (agric.wa.gov.au/cgmmv) for a checklist.

Are there legislated requirements in the Northern Territory to implement farm biosecurity relating to CGMMV?

The following restrictions apply in the Northern Territory (NT), which were introduced in response to the detection of CGMMV: • No movement of propagating host material (including seed) out of the NT unless approved by the Chief Plant Health Manager. • All cucurbit growers must have a farm biosecurity plan — this is a regulated requirement. This also applies to nursery growers. • Normal regulations apply for movement of soil and machinery. • No movement of bee hives out of NT without approval. • No regulations on movement of plant material within NT — this is industry managed. • No restrictions on fruit movement in or out of NT. • No restrictions on seed coming into NT — grower managed.

Are there provisions under the BAM Act to legislate farm biosecurity compliance in WA — such as we do for stable fly?

It may be possible to do so. Options are currently being assessed.

Should farm biosecurity compliance apply to transport companies?

Yes, however this will have to be managed by industry. DAFWA is alerting transport companies to the CGMMV detection and what biosecurity measures should employed by drivers when moving between farms.

Q Seedling nurseries need stringent hygiene measures!

What CGMMV research is being undertaken? Is WA’s research linked to the research in the Northern Territory (NT)?

WA has a minor component in a Horticulture Innovation Australia (HIA) project led by the NT. IN Israeli research under greenhouse conditions, spread from infected to healthy plants by bees was recorded.

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WA has a separate Royalties for Regions research project to help combat both CGMMV and Zucchini Yellow Mosaic Virus (ZYMV). The research on GCMMV management and epidemiology will be done in a quarantine glasshouse at Murdoch University but has not yet commenced. The project is being led by Virologist Dr Roger Jones. Aims of the project are listed below: • Study the survival period of CGMMV infectivity when infective melon sap is dried on common surfaces (metal, rubber tyre, human skin, clothing, hessian, wood, etc), and identify the most effective disinfectants to use to inactivate its infectivity in sap. • Investigate how long CGMMV infectivity persists in soil, plant debris and ‘live’ roots under fallow (host free) conditions using soil from cucurbit growing farms in the Ord River Irrigation Area (ORIA). Also, establish how long its infectivity persists in irrigation water and whether any common ORIA weeds are potential alternative hosts.

• Evaluate a real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) procedure for low-cost, rapid and sensitive detection of CGMMV in large numbers of melon or pumpkin leaf, fruit and seed samples to be delivered routinely from WA plant disease diagnostic laboratories. • Devise and deliver comprehensive, user friendly biosecurity protocols for farmers, contractors, seed producers and seedling nurseries to avoid inadvertently introducing CGMMV to new regions. Also, develop and deliver comprehensive user-friendly biosecurity protocols designed to contain and manage CGMMV outbreaks in new regions should they become introduced.

Are growers aware of what they need to do to prevent CGMMV infection and spread?

DAFWA staff have visited Geraldton, Kununurra and Carnarvon to talk about CGMMV and what is needed to prevent infection and spread. They have also talked to northern Metropolitan area growers. This has included offers to assist with farm biosecurity planning, including

guidelines and sample plans to use as a basis. Growers in Broome and to the south of Perth will also be provided with this advice and assistance. The Australian Melon Association has also developed a biosecurity plan in conjunction with vegetablesWA that is available to growers, to assist with creating individual farm biosecurity plans.

Are growers located in the non-affected Geraldton areas implementing biosecurity practices?

Some may be doing so voluntarily, although it is expected that all growers should have proper plans in place. The CGMMV detection is a reminder of the vital need for farm biosecurity measures. MORE INFORMATION Contact Truyen Vo at vegetablesWA on 0457 457 559 or truyen.vo@vegetableswa. com.au for assistance. Alternatively DAFWA has a range of resources on their website www.agric.wa.gov.au/cgmmv

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Short-term storage of Royal Blue potato for the fresh market Royal Blue is a cultivar with strong consumer demand but year-round production of quality material has proved difficult in Western Australia. From early spring to autumn there is a drop of around 25% in Class 1 product (Figure 1). Production for delivery in March and April is particularly challenging with the percentages of Class 1 product falling below 40%. Major retailers require consistency of supply and quality around the year. Inability to reliably deliver commodities that meet expectations may compromise commercial relationships. Cool storage of potatoes for table consumption is widely used in other countries and other states of Australia. To date it has not been used in the Western Australian system; potatoes are being produced fresh every week of the year for delivery to retailers. Short-term cool storage would allow potatoes grown in a more favourable time of the year to be delivered when the quality of fresh material being delivered from the field declines.

In the 2015–16 production year the PMC conducted a trial to evaluate the benefits of short-term cool storage of Royal Blue in WA. Commercially produced material was harvested over the Christmas/New Year period, stored and then washed and assessed in March.

To quantify the impact of storage on product quality, we compared the pack-out of the material after storage to the pack-out that had been obtained for material harvested from the same planting at the same time and delivered directly to the wash-packer. To evaluate the benefit of storage as a method of overcoming poor quality of autumn deliveries, we compared the pack-out of the material after storage to the average pack-out of Royal Blue being delivered from the field in the same week.

Field material and storage conditions Commercial plantings from four growers in the Busselton/Marybrook region and one from the Myalup region were originally designated for the storage trial. However, for a range of reasons, material from only two plantings was finally assessed at the time of delivery to market. Planting took place on 27 July 2015 (delivered to storage on 8 January 2016) and on 1 August 2015 (delivered to storage

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on 23 December 2015). Crops were grown using the normal commercial practice of each grower for that time of year except that sprout suppressant was applied approximately two weeks prior to defoliation. Currently, there are no storage facilities in WA that have been specifically designed for storage of bulk quantities of potatoes for the fresh market. Modifications were made to the set-up of an existing agricultural cool store. Air temperature in the store was 3°C with a relative humidity of 82%. Air circulation was by fans at both ends of the chamber. There was no capacity for forced ventilation through the stack.

60 50 40 30 20

Week of production year FIGURE 1 Variation over the production year (Wk 1 = 1st week of July) in the percentage of Class 1 Royal Blue in weekly deliveries in WA. Each point is based on total deliveries for the week using data from the 2014–15 and 2015–16 production years Source: Potato Marketing Corporation

CURRENTLY, there are no storage facilities in WA that have been specifically designed for storage of bulk quantities of potatoes for the fresh market.

Class 1 (%)

BY LARRY HEGARTY 1 , JOEL DINSDALE 1 AND DR STEVE MILROY 2 1 POTATO MARKETING CORPORATION, WA 2 POTATO RESEARCH WA

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Effect of cool storage on quality Short duration cool storage had little impact on the quality of Royal Blue. For example, the weight of Class 1 material was reduced by an average of only 2.6% across the three consignments. Comments from wash-packers on the quality of the stored product and its suitability for the fresh market were positive. The cool stored consignments averaged 40.9% Class 1 at delivery in March which compared to only 28.5% for material delivered directly from the field at the same times. That is, even though the initial proportion of Class 1 was not high, and there was a slight reduction in pack-out during the short term storage, the consignments averaged 12.4% more Class 1 than material being supplied directly from the field to the wash-packer in March.

Thus, storage of Royal Blue under these conditions proved successful in terms of product quality. However, it should be noted that no assessment was made of performance further along the value chain, e.g. shelf life or cooking performance.

The calculations made are based on the costs and returns per tonne of material delivered by the grower. It does not take into account the fact that yields may differ between crops dug in December and March. Also, no attempt was made to take into account any changes in the cost of transport as this will be very variable depending on the relative location of the grower, the cool store and the wash-packer. However, any additional costs of transport and handling (per tonne) are expected to be small relative to the size of change in the gross margin. In this trial, bins were hired for storage. In the case were appropriate bins are already available, the changes in GM are more positive with the reduction of the GM for Consignment 1 being $21.08 and the increase in GM for Consignments 2 and 3 being $228.44 and $116.96 respectively. By and large, then, the economics of storage were positive.

Outcomes The trial demonstrated that Royal Blue can be stored for two to three months with only a minor reduction in quality (averaging 2.6%). This is small compared to the 25% variation between early spring and autumn. The change in gross margin (GM) showed that the approach is economically viable under the pricing structures prevalent at the time.

The change in GM was less effected by the duration of storage than the quality of the material coming out of storage relative to the supply from the field. Therefore, to maximise economic benefit to the grower, it will be important to ensure: 1. Only good quality potatoes are placed into storage; 2. The storage program is designed to target critical periods for the quality of supply from the field; and 3. Storage conditions are optimised to maintain quality for the fresh market. There is a good deal of technical knowledge and international experience on optimising storage conditions for potatoes destined for the table market. With deregulation, the use of cool storage may become an important tool to assist in maintaining the availability of quality product around the year, particularly for key varieties. However, it will be important to account for the new pricing structures that emerge within the state. MORE INFORMATION Contact Potato Research WA Dr Stephen Milroy at S.Milroy@murdoch.edu.au

ROYAL Blue potatoes during washing after three months cool storage.

Economics of storage Of the three consignments for which the change in gross margins (GM) was calculated, the data showed that storage gave substantial positive economic benefit in two cases but a reduction in GM occurred in the third case, Consignment 1. Although Consignment 1 was stored the longest, the poor economic result was mainly due to the lack of difference in quality between the stored product and that being delivered from the field rather than the greater cost of storage. For example, comparing Consignment 1 to Consignment 2, the extra cost of storage was some $56.67/t, but the benefits of storage were $220.81/t less than Consignment 2. WA Grower SPRING 2016

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Managing pesticide resistance

SCOUTING crops for pest damage.

What is pesticide resistance? Pesticides have been used as the mainstay of the control of invertebrate insects, weeds and diseases for many years. One of the problems with a pesticide based approach is the development of resistance, where the pest can tolerate the rate of pesticide that is applied. The initial response by many when reaching this scenario is to increase either or both the rate and frequency of pesticide application. This approach will only provide a short-term solution because every application will select for resistant individuals.

How pesticide resistance arises Pesticides are used to combat insects, weeds and diseases of crops, and have been the main method of controlling pests since the 1950s. However when pests are exposed to the same chemical (or chemical group) a small percentage of the population of the insect, disease or weed can tolerate and survive the spray. So although the farmer applying the spray will be very happy with the 99% kill rate, the 1% of the surviving population (because they can tolerate that spray) will be the only individual insects, mites, weeds or fungi that will pass their genes on to the next generation (see Figure 1).

Farmers need to think about the population of pests that are present and not the individuals. Although the kill rate can be very high, it is the survival of a very small percentage of the population that is the problem. This part of the population has the genetics to survive the spray that killed the bulk of the initial pest population and so will form the basis of a resistant population.

FIGURE 1 How pesticide resistance develops Source: IPM Technologies

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Basically, every time the same pesticide is used (or the same group of pesticides are used), then the resistance levels to the pesticide will increase and the effectiveness of the insecticide will decrease.

ICP tips for managing pesticide resistance: • Know your pest — are you sure the problem is what you think it is. • Use all tools available (chemical, biological and cultural) to help you manage your pests. • Select the most appropriate chemical. • It is important to look at both the active ingredient and the chemical group when choosing a product. • Use a resistance management strategy — rotate between chemical groups! • When using a chemical product: — Don’t use more than the recommended rate — Don’t use more often than recommended.

What happens when the pesticide hasn’t been used for a while? Depending on the type of resistance, what usually happens is that the target population consists mostly of susceptible individuals. Then, when the pesticide is applied it kills the susceptible portion of the population and all that is left are the individuals with the resistant gene. So the spray may seem to work incredibly well, but then fail totally if it is applied again shortly after.

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What is happening here is that a pesticide is being used to select the type of individuals present in a population. When that selection pressure is removed then susceptible individuals will survive. Once that selection pressure is applied again then the genetics of the population shifts to those being able to survive. The more a pesticide is used then the quicker resistant populations will develop.

Control options Every grower (and advisor) has a choice in terms of how to control invertebrate and other pest problems. There are only three options — biological, cultural and chemical. ICP (Integrated Crop Protection) is an approach that uses all three options in a compatible way. For growers choosing to rely solely on chemicals, using a resistance management strategy is really important. But also, for those growers using an ICP approach it is also really important to make best use of the very few ICP compatible pesticides available. “A reduction in the use of Group 28 insecticides can be achieved by using an ICP approach. In broccoli and cauliflower crops, a biological approach using the release of the parasitic Diadegma wasp in conjunction with one spray each of Belt, XenTari and DiPel can control Diamondback Moth at a similar level to a

conventional spray program which uses six or more foliar sprays. This combination works as Belt is ‘soft’ on the naturally-occurring Diadegma wasp, which works alongside other important biological control agents. The other chemicals used allow for the beneficial species to build their numbers early on in the crop cycle”. Lachlan Bird, Bayer Vegetable Product Manager

How to minimise pesticide resistance If growers are using a pesticide-based strategy then they are relying totally on the pesticides. To prolong their efficacy and give growers better results, a Resistance Management Strategy is necessary. This approach relies on shifting from one chemical group to another to delay the development of resistance (i.e. using pesticides from different chemical groups (as listed on the label)).

Growers using IPM should be aware that not all chemical groups are compatible with beneficial species or an ICP approach. Examples of Resistance Management Strategies can be found on the Crop Life Australia website (www.croplifeaustralia. org.au). These strategies provide a guide

for the rotation of crop protection products via different product groups. The strategies are designed to manage a specific pest in a specific crop (such as Diamondback Moth in Brassicas). To download a copy of the resistance management strategies for a range of fungicides, herbicides and insecticides go to www.croplife.org.au/industry-stewardship/ resistance-management

There are many products on the market, and often they are marketed as new (implying that they belong to a new chemical group). Too often the truth is that they do not, and at best may belong to a sub-set of the existing chemical groups. For growers using IPM, there is still a very real need to not overuse the very few compatible insecticides that are available.

Where can I find out more? Infopest Infopest is a comprehensive guide on registered agricultural and veterinary chemicals and their permitted uses plus Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS). You can search Infopest for pesticide products registered to control weeds, insects or diseases in crops and animals. Infopest also includes information on pesticide resistance management. Infopest is regularly updated and available free online. For further information go to www.infopest.com.au

Cross resistance Pesticides are allocated to different groups based on their chemistry and mode of action. This allocation is done by independent assessors within the chemical industry. Regulatory authorities in Australia consider the type of chemical and which group it should be placed in to help with resistance management. An example of insecticide grouping is shown in Table 1. TABLE 1 Insecticide grouping Main mode of action group

Chemical sub-group

Active constituent

Trade name examples

1 Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors

1A Carbamates

Carbaryl, Methiocarb, Pirimicarb

Carbaryl®, Mesurol®, Pirimor®, Aphidex®

1B Organophosphates

Chlorpyrifos, Diazinon, Trichlorfon

Lorsban®, Diazinon®, Chlorofos®

2G ABA-gated chloride channel antaganists

2A No registered actives

No registered actives

2B Phenylpyrazoles (Fiproles)

Fipronil

Regent®

3 Sodium channel modulators

3A Pyrethroids/Pyrethrins

Bifenthrin, Cypermethrin, AlphaCypermethrin

Bifenthrin®, Cypermethrin®, Fastac Duo®

3B No registered actives

No registered actives

There may be several closely related pesticides within the same chemical group (e.g. Confidor, Actara, Crown, Transform) but they may be within different sub-groups of the chemical grouping. Cross-resistance is a problem when pests develop resistance to one type of chemical group and then can more rapidly and easily develop resistance to chemicals in closely related groups. It is important to look at both the active ingredient and the chemical group and not just the trade name when choosing a product. For example, Vertimec and Gremlin both have abamectin as the active ingredient. Pirimor and Aphidex both have pirimicarb as the active ingredient.

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What does the label tell me? Information on resistance management is present on herbicide, insecticide and fungicide labels. The information provided can vary from detailed (as shown on this label for Transform Insecticide) through to just a reference to the Crop Life Australia website.

It’s important to remember the following principles: • Rate: Don’t use higher than recommended • Frequency: Don’t use more often than recommended.

APVMA Gazette

Minor use permits

The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) Gazette is published fortnightly and contains details on the registration of agricultural and veterinary chemical products, notices as required by the Agvet Code and a range of regulatory material issued by the APVMA.

Some products are not registered for use in particular vegetable crops i.e. the crop is not listed on the product label. The APVMA registration process requires extensive data collection on product efficacy, crop safety (phytotoxicity) and required withholding periods (freedom of residues) which can be very expensive.

The APVMA Gazette, and information about subscribing to the gazette alert service, is available on the APVMA website at www.apvma.gov.au

If a product is not registered for a crop, it is possible for industry to obtain a minor use permit. For minor use permits it is not required to undertake efficacy and crop safety trials; only withholding periods have to be determined in field trials in major

production areas. Generally the permits specify the maximum number of applications per crop or season to manage resistance development. The APVMA website includes a permit search facility for minor use and emergency use permits issued by the APVMA (www. apvma.gov.au/permits/search.php) — a copy of the permit, including conditions of use, can be downloaded. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Information contained in this fact sheet was provided by Dr Paul Horne, IPM Technologies Pty Ltd and edited by RMCG.

This project has been funded by Horticulture Innovation Australia Limited using the vegetable levy and funds from the Australian Government.

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Foreign body detection robot trialled on QLD farm

A Gatton farm was used to trial a robotic prototype in August as industry and researchers worked together to limit the risks caused by pests and foreign bodies found in farm produce, and to increase productivity. The robot, named RIPPA (Robot for Intelligent Perception and Precision Application), has the ability to collect data using sensors that can map an area of a crop and detect weeds as well as highlight foreign objects. The University of Sydney’s Australian Centre for Field Robotics director of innovation and research Professor Salah Sukkarieh said on top of that, it can also use this data to estimate yield and fertilise crops.

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“RIPPA was developed six months ago and for the first time will be trialled outside of a site in New South Wales,” he said. “At Gatton, the robot will experience new soil types and new crops for the first time.” Professor Sukkarieh said the robot has a collection of sensors and sophisticated algorithms that can detect weeds from amongst the crop as well as foreign objects such as a stone, glass or metal. The next step is to build systems that can remove the weed and the foreign object. Horticulture Innovation Australia, the organisation that commissioned RIPPA using industry funds and matched funding from the Australian Government, said food safety is a huge priority for growers and the whole supply chain.

“RIPPA gives us an insight into a future not too far away where growers can have increased assurance that no foreign matter has slipped through the cracks. Currently there is only so much that can be detected with the human eye, and the results can be devastating,” Research and Development Lead Dr Anthony Kachenko said. “It’s also great to be watching the capacity of this farmbot steadily increase. At the moment it can estimate yield, spray weeds and fertiliser, and it can run up to 21 hours straight. “It’s exciting to think that such robots could be available to growers in Australia in about five years’ time.” The 250 kilogram solar-powered robot will spent three hours moving up and down vegetable growing rows, during which time it will convey extensive data live to the laptop of Sydney university researchers.

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Rugby Farm co-owner Dan Hood said when offered the opportunity to trial the machinery on his farm which produces 14,000 acres of vegetables a year, he jumped at the chance.

“We are very keen to see new technologies come online that make the business of producing vegetables easier,” he said. “Managing weeds can be a difficult and time consuming activity, and if not controlled can be detrimental to both the yield and quality of our crops. Weeds can be removed by hand, chipping hoe, mechanical scuffling or by sprays. All are expensive and we are struggling to find people with the skills and the perseverance to do this type of work. We are hoping RIPPA will provide a cost effective solution to this challenging problem.

“An autonomous system that has the capacity to do all this 24-hours-a-day could save money and improve accuracy — and we are extremely excited to be part of this trial.” MORE INFORMATION Contact Hort Innovation: Phone (02) 8295 2300 or go to http:// horticulture.com.au/foreign-body-detectionrobot-trialled-on-gatton-farm/ Sydney University: Victoria Hillock phone 0401 711 361 or email victoria.hollick@sydney.edu.au http://horticulture.com.au/wp-content/ uploads/2016/07/Hort-Innovation-mediarelease_robot-gatton-20.7.16.pdf

RIPPA has the ability to collect data using sensors that can map an area of a crop and detect weeds as well as highlight foreign objects.

What we do:

- Bulk Feeders - Washing - De-Stoning - Polishing - Optical Size and Quality Graders - Weighing - Plastic and Net Bag Filling - VFFS and HFFS Packaging - Flow Wrapping - Checkweighing - Casepacking - Palletising

DNL Australia Pty Ltd W

www.dnl-aus.com

info@dnl-aus.com

07 5574 5538

07 5594 9771

TOLL FREE

1800 783 229

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New packing solution for delicate fruits UK For time-pressed Britons, pre-washed bags of salad, prepared vegetables and readyto-eat fruit are becoming more and more appealing. Sales of pre-prepared fruit and veg in the UK are estimated to account for as much as £1 billion. While automation continues to flourish amongst food suppliers, fresh food producers have been more hesitant to adopt due to concerns about bruising of delicate fruits and bags of product bursting — which can increase wastage and lead to hefty retailer penalties. Pacepacker Services has developed a range of fully integrated turnkey systems that can be interlocked into existing lines and specifically address the issue of fresh produce wastage.

FlexaPac a first for handling delicate netted fruits Automating the labour intensive activity of manually loading netted fruits and delicate vegetables from a rotary table into crates, trays and cartons, Pacepacker’s FlexaPac system is a first for fruit packing. Handling in excess of 60 nets of fruit and vegetables per minute, the FlexaPac virtually eliminates product bruising and waste and has the ability to reduce labour costs by 85%. With a footprint equivalent to existing rotary table operations, Pacepacker’s patented FlexaPac system comprises two parallel conveyor belts that transport bags of fruit from a packing machine onto a set of landing platforms. Without human handling, the system evenly distributes layers of either netted or bagged fruit, below the level of the tray bale arms or carton lips, until the required quantity is met. “The patented FlexaPac technology is completely different from anything else on the market,” explains Paul Wilkinson, Pacepacker’s Business Development Manager. “While it has been designed to

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automate and overcome issues relating to the packing of both netted and bagged fruit it also offers manufacturers of other goods, such as nuts, plant bulbs, onions, cheeses and shell fish, a fast and waste efficient automated packing option.”

Stacks of fresh potential Pacepacker’s Shingle Tray Loader (STL) is the first fully automated vertical packing solution of its kind, reducing waste and presenting fresh form, fill and seal packs uniformly into retail trays. Incorporating the very latest FANUC M-710iC/45M robot and Pacepacker’s own-design shingle feed end-effector and tray denester, the STL vertically packs everything from fresh bags of salad to chopped vegetables, stir fry mixes and packs of sliced pineapple. Previously a conventional ‘turntable style’ operation employing multiple people to manually load supermarket trays vertically, the STL reaches 90 packs per minute, ensuring consistent presentation. Typical ROI is less than 12 months The STL’s end effector adjusts its position to catch fresh produce packs as they shoot off the end of a conveyor, stacking packs on top of each other. Once full, the robot arm then tilts the end effector into a horizontal position above a waiting full or half-sized crate, releasing the entire product collection uniformly into the tray. Upright stacking means that

products maintain their freshness for longer and are more visually appealing to consumers. In addition, more packs can be fitted into each tray, reducing supply chain and distribution costs. Built to a compact footprint, the STL also features a multi-tasking pack diverter to count and index packs, while the tray denester separates the stacks of crates for filling, pushing them along the conveyor to the shingle packing operation. Up to 20 half trays per line per minute can be processed, ensuring no packing bottlenecks. “Hand packing is a labour intensive process. Previously, robots and automation were considered too harsh for handling delicate produce. Yet now there are numerous viable automation options that enable fresh produce suppliers to maintain freshness, respond faster to retail orders and reduce waste and workforce costs. Ultimately suppliers that deliver high quality premium veg, minimal waste and consistent presentation will be clear winners in this next battle to engage shoppers.” MORE INFORMATION For more information: www.pacepacker.com Source: Freshplaza 02/8/16 www.freshplaza. com/article/161337/UK-New-packingsolution-for-delicate-fruits

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Rave reviews for Irrigation Australia Ltd conference and expo BY ANNE CURREY IRRIGATION AUSTRALIA LIMITED (IAL)

Organisers of this year’s Irrigation Australia International Conference and Exhibition, Irrigation Australia Limited (IAL) and Exhibitions and Trade Fairs (ETF), couldn’t be more pleased with the feedback from participants, conference presenters and exhibitors. “The hard work by the conference organising committee, as well as the effort by ETF to promote the exhibition and ensure it offered something of value for all sectors of the industry, certainly bore fruit,” said IAL CEO Bryan Ward. “The exhibition was one of the largest we have ever organised, the conference program was broadest in terms of topics and speakers, and the educational program was our biggest ever,” he added. The exhibition and co-located AgriTech Australia attracted more than 140 exhibiting companies from Australia and around the world. Reaction to the conference and exhibition from visitors has been extremely upbeat.

“Conference participants were able to rate speakers and their presentations using a downloadable app, giving us instant feedback, which was generally very positive,” said Bryan. ANDREW Ogden, IAL chairman, welcomed conference delegates.

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Irrigation Australia journal spoke with a number of exhibition visitors, all of whom said they were enjoying being able to see

what the industry had to offer in the one location, while many of them commented on the variety of exhibitors and technology on display. The exhibitors also were very happy with quality of attendees and amount of business generated. Throughout this year's events, exhibitors made contact with existing and new customers from across the spectrum of Australia's irrigation industry.

Awards recognise commitment and innovation Commitment to and innovation in the irrigation industry are recognised at every Irrigation Australia International Conference and Exhibition through the MacLean-Iedema Award and Best New Product Award. The MacLean-Iedema Award, which recognises the contribution to the irrigation industry of an individual or team and is supported by ETF, went to Robin Weaver from WA.

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• Liaisons and a great co-operative relationship with IAL’s industry partners especially with the Water Corporation who have given the irrigation industry great support in helping IAL. • Working with other industries to raise the profile, relevance and importance of the ‘garden’ industries in the minds of politicians. Robin has been a part of delegations to many a ‘Water’ minister’s office over the years.

The winner of the Best New Product Award, also supported by ETF, was the Player Proximity control system. The system takes a new approach to solving a common problem of control sprinklers on busy golf courses. Seventeen products were entered in the competition, and the judges, Simon CowlandCooper, Jeremy Cape and Kathryn Eden, said that assessing the wide range of products was a challenging task as they potentially impact almost every aspect of irrigation management.

THE exhibition and co-located AgriTech Australia featured more than 140 exhibitors from around the world. More than 3000 visitors took up this unique opportunity to find out the latest in irrigation technology and have their technical questions answered by the experts.

Robin has a long background in promoting professionalism and over the years has committed much time to the IAL, especially the WA regional committee. It was fitting that Harry Iedema, Don’s brother, presented Robin with his award. Some of Robin’s other achievements within WA include: • The local industry magazine, The Overflow, which started as The Flow. Initially all advertising sales and production was done ‘in-house’ which was a daunting undertaking. • The establishment of an Industry Development Officer for IAL (WA Region)

The judges also commended the Antelco punch cutter, the Summit Information Management system, the Skydrop control system, the Psitec soil tension probe and the Nelson 3NV nozzle and said that any of these products would have been worthy winners of the competition.

Work starts on 2018 event The success of the event has laid a solid foundation for Irrigation Australia 2018 International Conference and Exhibition, with organisers, ETF, having already received a large number of expressions of interest to exhibit at it. The event will be once again co-located with Agritech Australia. Location and dates are soon to be announced. MORE INFORMATION For more information about participating in either Irrigation Australia International Exhibition or AgriTech Australia, contact Andew Orr, aorr@etf.com.au or visit http:// irrigation.org.au/.

THE Maclean-Iedema Award, which pays tribute to the commitment to the industry by an individual or team, was presented to Robin Weaver (right) by Harry Iedema (left) and Gary Day from ETF.

IRRIGATION AUSTRALIA 2016 CONFERENCE PAPERS ONLINE Interested in catching up on a presentation from the conference or checking out the range of papers? Download them from the IAL website: http://irrigation.org.au/2016-conferencespeaker-presentations

Exhibitors give event a big tick “I have attended numerous events over the past two years and this without a doubt has been a stand out event. From our perspective it was an awesome event with good foot traffic across the three days and a high level of interest, not to mention numerous irrigation industry contacts.” Rod Best Sales Manager, Isuzu Engines

“I was extremely impressed with the calibre of interest and with winning the Best New Product Award. The quantity and quality of attendees in our specific industry and associated industries were very good.” Rick Smythe Player Proximity Systems

“The exhibition has been going well for us with quality customers and hot leads. There has been a very targeted focus with promoting the event and the response to our brand has been good.” Anshul Gupta Shakti Pumps WA Grower SPRING 2016

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PERTH

Capogreco Farms:

Business Capogreco Farms Location Hamel Size 160 hectares Enterprises Rockmelons, honeydew melon, watermelon, broccoli & butternut pumpkin

Growers and suppliers of fresh quality produce, nationally and internationally Fresh quality will always find a market. From his family owned and operated farm business in Hamel, Dane Capogreco is closing a deal with one of New Zealand’s largest supermarket chains who want to drop their East Coast supplier and bring across his melons. On the heels of one of the worst bushfire disasters ever to impact the district, Dane is quietly confident — and grateful. “We lost fencing and a few machines in the Waroona bushfires, but we consider we were pretty fortunate in comparison,” he says softly. Capogreco Farms’ reputation for excellence outpaces the fires’ impact and Dane is practically back to business as usual, fielding new enquiries like this one which come in weekly.

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“They saw our fruit in Perth and say the extra distance to New Zealand is no barrier whatsoever; they just want to offer their customers our B.J. Melons,” he says. Hamel, just off the South Western Highway between Waroona and Yarloop, is the perfect location for both growing and logistics. Just an hour south of Perth, transport, airfreight and shipping are easily arranged to Capogreco’s national and international markets.

Since the farms were established by the family in 1988, most of their direct customers can receive their fruit and vegetables within 24 hours of harvest. Capogreco is a business built for export and doesn’t just rely on great produce. Branding and marketing has played a significant role in their success. Their main export brand, B.J. Melons, is well established in markets in the Middle East and Asia where exposure at tradeshows has consistently supported and enhanced the farm’s quality offer.

Capogreco Farms is also accredited in three major food quality assurance systems, giving buyers and customers constant independent verification of on-farm environmental practices and sustainable production. “February, March and April are when we are in full swing,” explains Dane. And it’s not just the butternut, pumpkin, honeydew, watermelon, rockmelon and broccoli that are selling. Capogreco Farms has a fully equipped fabrication workshop which produces agricultural machinery for their own use as well as for other farms. Production evolved organically from the knowhow and expertise accumulated from almost 50 years’ experience in the industry. “We’re about to send a big harvester down to Manjimup that will do broccoli and cauliflowers, and we’ve just sent a slasher up to Queensland to a Bowen grower,” Dane says. Capogreco make plastic mulch equipment, harvesting and planting equipment, spray applicators and other machinery which

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matches the challenges of farming in 2016 and adds to the wide array of jobs the business supports. “We do employ a wide variety of people — we can have up to 60 staff at any given time.” Careful attention to detail coupled with a desire to stand out — and stand behind — the strength of their established brand are major contributing factors to Capogreco’s success. Dane says the key ingredients however have been ‘hard work and the parents being willing to let the next generation take up the reins and learn by making their own mistakes!’ The dynamism of a young, spirited company is evident when Dane speaks of future plans,

“Currently, we are looking to upgrade our packing line with new technology and new machinery which will guarantee sweetness in each fruit we pack.”

Expansion — in some form — is also on Dane’s mind. Currently, the farm has 160 hectares under cultivation and the combined yield of fruit and vegetables is almost 7,000 tonnes, of which 90% is earmarked to be exported in 2016. “It would be great to find more land to expand. And extending the harvesting season from five to 10 months — that would be a good challenge too!” he says. MORE INFORMATION Article and images originally written for the Peel Development Commission.

BRUNO and Dane Capogreco, Capogreco Farms, won the 2015 Industry Export Award.

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National Vegetable Extension Network

vegetablesWA partners with Hort Innovation BY REBECCA BLACKMAN FINANCE & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER, VEGETABLESWA

Horticulture Innovation Australia (Hort Innovation) recently invested more than $6 million into a targeted program which aims to bolster vegetable production in key growing areas throughout the nation. The funds will be used to inform growers about current research and development activities and help them adopt best-practice, Hort Innovation Chief Executive John Lloyd said. “Over the past year, Horticulture Innovation Australia has worked with its research partners to deliver more than 130 vegetable industry related research and development projects,” he said. “And we currently have almost 100 more in the pipeline.” “Hort Innovation has listened to its vegetable grower-owners in developing this national program, which will ensure the nation’s vegetable industry has access to the outputs from this research, and growers are helped where possible to adopt best-practice methods to improve their farm-gate returns.”

The program comprises the employment of dedicated professional staff in key areas, the delivery of specialised events and distribution of R&D materials, and information gathering on future research and development R&D project requirements. These capacity building projects are being rolled out in the following areas through multiple service providers: • Queensland (Bowen Gumlu, Bundaberg, Lockyer Valley and Far North QLD) • New South Wales • Northern Territory • South Australia • Victoria (East Gippsland, South East, West and Northern Regions) • Tasmania The Hort Innovation project in WA, with vegetablesWA will be run with funding partnership from the APC-VPC. We look forward to continuing the strong relationships we have with growers. MORE INFORMATION For further information contact Rebecca Blackman on (08) 9481 0834 or rebecca. blackman@vegetableswa.com.au

vegetablesWA will be undertaking this project with staff members: Truyen Vo — Vietnamese Industry Extension Officer Truyen has worked with vegetablesWA for over four years and has a great understanding of our Vietnamese growers and how to extend R&D and provide assistance. In addition to working with growers Truyen also provides translation for industry events to ensure the Vietnamese growers don’t miss out. Contact Truyen on 0457 457 559 or email truyen.vo@vegetableswa.com.au

Lauren Thompson — Industry Extension Officer Lauren will commence with vegetablesWA on 19th September. Lauren comes from an extensive agronomy and extension background, with her knowledge we are sure she will be a valued asset to the team. Contact Lauren on 0427 373 037 or lauren.thompson@vegetableswa.com.au

THE program aims to bolster vegetable production in key growing areas throughout the nation.

This project has been funded by Horticulture Innovation Australia Limited using the vegetable levy and funds from the Australian Government.

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Protected Cropping Australia workshop Baldivis Farms BY REBECCA BLACKMAN FINANCE & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER, VEGETABLESWA

In July Protected Cropping Australia (PCA) held their first WA workshop at Baldivis Farms to great success. The workshop which featured the new greenhouse set up for Baldivis Farms, an automated leafy green facility under a 7,000m2 retractable roof which was a joint effort between Cravo, Powerplants, HydroCoaster and Baldivis Farms.

The workshop was one of the most popular events which vegetablesWA has been a part of with over 100 growers and stakeholders attending. At the workshop four speakers spoke on a range of topics which included Bede Miller talking about the benefits of a Cravo retractable greenhouse in mild to hot climates.

PCA Director and NSW DPI Senior plant pathologist Len Tesoriero spoke about fusarium and pythium wilt in greenhouse cucumbers. Jamie Pickford of Amiad explained how filtration had progressed over the years and how now everyone wants automated systems with minimal water loss. PCA Deputy Chair Michael Mifsud from HydroCoaster explained the efficiency and cost savings of an automated moving growing system compared to fixed benches or NFT tables. After speaking with numerous growers at the event they were interested in the labour savings which Sam Calameri, Baldivis Farms would benefit from. Baldivis Farms are looking to diversify their production from field grown potatoes and carrots which can be labour intensive, with the retractable roof system on the greenhouse, the monitoring, automatic irrigation and moving bench system for lettuce and herbs.

7,000m2

retractable roof!

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Sam and his team will require minimal labour to pack however the process from planting the seedling through to harvest is all mechanical. Diversification in today’s agriculture age is increasingly important with weather events effecting crops and quality of produce.

MORE INFORMATION For more information on Baldivis Farm’s set up refer to the article in the Winter 2016 edition of the WA Grower.

GROWERS listening to Michael Mifsud explain Baldivis Farm's set up.

The success of the event could not have been achieved without the support of all the sponsors; vegetablesWA, E.E.Muir & Sons, Powerplants, Amiad, HydroCoaster and Baldivis Farms. The PCA looks forward to another WA grower’s workshop next year at another with the location yet to be confirmed.

ORGANIC

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ADVERTORIAL

Solving irrigation sprinkler issues in Baldivis BY GREG STEWART NELSON IRRIGATION

Baldivis market gardener Joe Garbin was noticing an increased wave type growth pattern in his crops over time. Joe, a second generation farmer in the region, has been growing potatoes, carrots and onions for 26 years. Endeavouring to correct the issues he increased irrigation run times which lead to leaching of nutrients and wasting expensive chemicals. Electricity prices increased due to longer pumping times and too much water seemed to be wasted. The crops did WITH the regulators installed every sprinkler had the same pressure and the same water output.

show a slight improvement though it was an expensive exercise for little gain. He noted that the main irrigation problems were: • bad impact sprinkler uniformity • wave look effect in crop growth due to poor uniformity • over watering to compensate for under watered areas • leaching of nutrient’s due to overwatering • wasting expensive chemicals • excessive pump use • excessive water use • overall poor crop outcomes

There were two options Joe considered, number one was the very expensive exercise of an entirely new irrigation system design and install.

The second option was to get the existing irrigation uniformity correct or at least improve on what he had on the property. Having heard of pressure regulation on centre pivots Joe starting doing research on the internet. The internet search found the Nelson Irrigation Pressure Regulators, which became a possible solution to fix the problem with the existing irrigation system. In conjunction with Steve Rodgers at Think Water Bunbury and Nelson Irrigation, Joe conducted a trial on one block, fitting Nelson 40 PSI Mini Regulator ½” male x ½” male below his existing ½” impact sprinklers. By doing this each sprinkler was working at 40 PSI (280kPa), where before they varied from 350kPa to 150kPa on the lateral line. Before installing Nelson pressure regulators beneath each individual sprinklers on the lateral line there was a gradual decline in water volume coming out of the each sprinkler nozzle, hence the wave look in the crop. With the regulators installed every sprinkler had the same pressure and the same water output. Prior to fitting the Nelson 40PSI Mini Regulators Joe made sure that all the sprinklers were the same model and the nozzles were the same output and correct for the entire block, this part is crucial to ensure good uniformity. The trial block fitted with the Nelson regulators had a massive improvement in sprinkler uniformity.

NELSON Irrigation Pressure Regulators.

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NELSON PRESSURE REGULATORS

The block's crop growth was now consistent and uniform unlike the previous wave effect. Watering run times were reduced, resulting in less pump run times for the block and no over watering.

THE trial block's crop growth is now consistent and uniform.

Having seen the positive results in the trialpressure block Joe then went about fitting over The regulators adjust varying water on the 2,000 x 40PSI Nelson Mini Regulators to Irrigation Sprinkler, Rotator or Drip System. the remainder of the property. Now all the benefits are being seen across the entire The result is consistant flow & uniform irrigation. property not just one block.

If your irrigation system has poor MORE uniformity resulting INFORMATION in irregular growth patterns then the Nelson Mini For more details contact Greg Stewart at Regulators may be the solution forNelson you! Irrigation on Mobile: 0437 348 488 or greg.stewart@nelsonirrigation.com.au

Nelson Irrigation Corporation of Australia Pty Ltd Greg Stewart - 0437 348 488 | greg.stewart@nelsonirrigation.com.au Jeff Sullivan - 0448 112 816 | jeff.sullivan@nelsonirrigation.com.au

NELSON PRESSURE REGULATORS

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The regulators adjust varying water pressure on the Irrigation Sprinkler, Rotator or Drip System. The result is consistant flow & uniform irrigation. If your irrigation system has poor uniformity resulting in irregular growth patterns then the Nelson Mini Regulators may be the solution for you!

Nelson Irrigation Corporation of Australia Pty Ltd Greg Stewart - 0437 348 488 | greg.stewart@nelsonirrigation.com.au Jeff Sullivan - 0448 112 816 | jeff.sullivan@nelsonirrigation.com.au

NICA_Minireg_190x130.indd 1

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THE master plan will coordinate work already underway as part of the State Government's response to irrigation water challenges identified by the Carnarvon Ministerial Advisory Committee.

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the Gascoyne BY PETER COLLINS DEPARTMENT OF WATER

A new plan is being developed to guide the future expansion of the Gascoyne district by securing irrigation water supply, coordinating new land release opportunities, and opening up investment opportunities in new crops and markets. The Gascoyne Master Plan is part of the State Government’s $40 million Water for Food program, made possible by the Royalties for Regions, and follows on from the Middle Gascoyne: Ground Water investigations project. The master plan will coordinate work already underway as part of the State Government’s response to irrigation water challenges identified by the Carnarvon Ministerial Advisory Committee.

full potential. The Master Plan will be for the community and designed by the community to provide answers about the steps required to get there,” Minister Davies said. Regional Development Minister Terry Redman said the project would align with the Gascoyne Regional Development Blueprint vision of expanding the existing 1,200 hectare horticultural area to 3,600 hectares over the next 35 years. “This could see annual horticultural production increase to a value of $230 million from $80 million and the related regional workforce increase from 375 to 1,100,” Minister Redman said. “The value of pastoral production could increase from $35 million to $60 million annually by identifying suitable groundwater for irrigated fodder production and intensive grazing,” Mr Redman said. GROWERS with Water for Food staff in Carnarvon.

Agriculture and Food Minister Dean Nalder said the master plan would harness the work of the Gascoyne Food Bowl initiative into a bigger plan for lifting productivity in the existing irrigation footprint, providing new land release opportunities and innovative ideas for local food processing and value adding. The master plan is being developed by the Departments of Water, and Agriculture and Food, in consultation with other government agencies and the Gascoyne Community Reference Group. It is envisaged the Gascoyne Master Plan will be released early next year. The $2.6 million Gascoyne project is one of eleven projects under the $40 million Water for Food program as part of the $350 million Seizing the Opportunity Agriculture initiative. MORE INFORMATION For more information go to www.waterforfood. wa.gov.au

The project will go beyond water investigations, with a focus on the horticultural and pastoral potential of the district. It will define market development strategies, export logistics requirements, and ways to create uplift in the pastoral sectors, including the feasibility of re-opening the Carnarvon abattoir. Water Minister Mia Davies said the Gascoyne Master Plan would create a framework to consolidate ideas and development models providing certainty for existing growers and future investors. “There is much to do to take the Gascoyne district to the next level and realise its WA Grower SPRING 2016

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Gascoyne project announces masterplan BY REBECCA BLACKMAN FINANCE & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER, VEGETABLESWA

The Gascoyne region is set to benefit from a master plan that will be developed to guide the future expansion of the region’s food bowl as part of the $2.6m Water for Food Gascoyne Master Plan project. The launch of the master plan process was held on Monday 11 July at the Heritage Precinct in Carnarvon, and was attended by a range of local stakeholders, as well as Water Minister Mia Davies MLA and Member for North West Central, Vince Catania MLA. Speaking at the launch, Ms Davies said the master plan aimed to lift productivity in the existing irrigated footprint while exploring new land release possibilities, and innovative concepts for local food processing. THE Gascoyne Master Plan builds on existing development models and strategic assessments to create a long-term framework for growth and investment in the region.

"The proposed Gascoyne Master Plan will go beyond water investigations to focus on the horticultural and pastoral potential of the district” she said. Minister Davies also took the opportunity to announce the establishment of the Gascoyne Community Reference Group who would oversee the development of the master plan. Chaired by Parliamentary Secretary and North West Central MLA Vince Catania, and assisted by former National Water Commission chairwoman Karlene Maywald, membership of the group also includes local grower representatives, the Gascoyne Food Council, Gascoyne Development Commission, the Department of Agriculture and Food and the Department of Water. Taking on work already identified by the Carnarvon Ministerial Advisory committee, the Gascoyne Master Plan project will also align with the Gascoyne Regional Development Blueprint vision of expanding the existing 1,200 hectare horticultural area to 3,600ha over the next 35 years. Find out more about the Gascoyne Master Plan project or read the Master Plan Discussion Paper.

Understanding the Gascoyne Master Plan The Gascoyne agricultural industry is of critical importance to the State’s economy and is a major source of regional employment and productivity. The Gascoyne Master Plan is a Royalties for Regions funded Water for Food project, led by the Department of Water and Department of Agriculture and Food that builds on existing development models and strategic assessments to create a long-term framework for growth and investment in the region.

The Carnarvon agricultural district is situated on the Gascoyne River delta and supplies approximately 60% of Perth’s winter fruit and vegetables with a current value of $80 million annual production. The district also has an important pastoral sector with a gross value of $25 to $35 million a year. The Master Plan process will focus on lifting productivity in the existing irrigation footprint and consider local challenges and opportunities for irrigation, infrastructure, water security, land release, local food processing and value adding. The Gascoyne Master Plan will build on the work and recommendations of the Carnarvon Ministerial Advisory Committee and the Government’s response to these recommendations, and will align with the Gascoyne Food Bowl Initiative and Gascoyne Development Commission’s Gascoyne Regional Development Blueprint.

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water resources of the alluvial aquifer system upstream of the Carnarvon horticultural district. Initial findings from airborne electromagnetic surveys (AEM) and on ground monitoring in the Middle Gascoyne area revealed different geology to the areas below Rocky Pool and limited options for accessing water of the same quality found in the lower Gascoyne.

WATER Minister Hon Mia Davies MLA and Member for North West Central Vince Catania MLA launch Gascoyne Community Reference Group.

A Community Reference Group will oversee the development of the Master Plan and will include representatives from State and local government, industry, businesses, grower groups, freight and logistics, banking and the education and training sectors.

The funding originally allocated to this project will be reinvested in the Gascoyne Master Plan project to support the growth of the lower Gascoyne irrigation area. The findings from these investigations will be released shortly. MORE INFORMATION Contact Water for Food on waterforfood@ water.wa.gov.au or (08) 6364 7600 or check the website: www.waterforfood.wa.gov.au/NewsEvents/2016/Gascoyne-project-announcesmaster-plan

Middle Gascoyne water investigations The Water for Food Gascoyne Master Plan project draws on the previous Water for Food Middle Gascoyne project, which investigated the scale and quality of

Department of Agriculture and Food

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Gascoyne Food Festival

2016

Record numbers flock to taste the sunshine and celebrate top produce in Carnarvon and Exmouth

BY GEORGIA BEER FRESH CREATIVE

Once again the Gascoyne Food Festival has been deemed a massive success for the region. The line-up of 15 top Chefs and stunning local produce has attracted patrons from all over Australia and as far as China to attend. Spanning four days, the festivals’ five events hosted over 700 guests, making this festival the biggest one yet. THE premier Long Table Lunch was the biggest yet with 210 guests enjoying a unique finedining menu.

In a great boost for the local industry, several of the Perth Chefs involved in the festival have already added Gascoyne produce to their menu’s including Petition Kitchen, The Mantle and Young George. Many of which found inspiration from joining the chefs-only tour of the tour of plantations and fishing operations around Carnarvon. Executive Chef Greg Farnan from The Old Brewery and BWG Steakhouse said “Every time I come to the Gascoyne the quality amazes me, the diversity of produce is just incredible.”

This year the organisers also added a showcase element where all local growers could bring samples for the Chefs to taste. Chefs also had the opportunity to sample second grade produce with only slight imperfections that could potentially find a home in restaurants and reduce waste. Executive Chef Stuart Laws of Don Tapa and The Mantle commented, “All the chefs here are passionate about local produce and want to get the timing right for the best seasonal produce. Quality and taste are king and sustainability is its kingdom. Times are changing and we all need to be more aware and have less waste,” he said.

Ningaloo New Season Onion grower Michael Nixon said that the event is a really important part of establishing and developing export markets for the industry. “The festival is a great opportunity to display our produce and get the attention of government, buyers and retail customers to show them what we do and how we do it — in a really enjoyable way. The festival shifts the focus of the region from production to showcase something really special that we can offer,” he said. Events included the relaxed and familyfriendly BBQ on the Beach held at the iconic Carnarvon Yacht club, which doubled to 240 guests this year. The premier Long Table Lunch was the biggest yet with 210 guests enjoying a unique finedining menu along with Clairault-Streiker wines. The Chefs outdid themselves with dishes that ranged from crowd pleasing ribs to challenging savoury bananas — truly something for everyone. Next up was the Carnarvon Growers Market where hundreds of visitors sampled free samples of local produce prepared by a team of Chefs from the Gascoyne along with Don Hancey’s crew.

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Photos: Anton Blume

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CHEFS from a range of Perth eateries travelled to the Gascoyne to prepare a once in a lifetime, fine dining menu for around 700 guests at several events. The chefs were, Don Hancey (WA Food Ambassador & Panorama Catering), Peter Manifis (Passion Meets Purveyor), Greg Farnan (The Old Brewery), Nathan Tulip (Panorama Catering), Daniel Hansen (Clancys Fish Pub & Hansens Gourmet & Panorama Catering), Ben Jacobs (The Kings Above & Henry on Eighth, Shannon Whoitmore (Kent Street Deli), Stuart Laws (Showcase WA and Don Tapa), Melissa Palinkas (Young George), Kenny McHardy (Manuka Woodier Kitchen), Oliver Gould (The Shorehouse), Jessie Blake (Petition Kitchen), Jerolina Rankin (Gascoyne Foodie), Paul Kelly (Gascoyne Foodie).

Photos: Anton Blume

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THE BBQ on the Beach event makes the most of the stunning Carnarvon sunsets with a fantastic menu of local food and family friendly prices. This year the event attracted double the crowd of last year at 240 people.

One of the best outcomes continues to be a greater appreciation and connection between growers and the trend-making chefs. This was summed up perfectly by Head Chef and Owner of Manuka Woodfire Kitchen, Kenny McHardy, who said “Chefs can try a new dish and if it doesn't work out we can just change the menu the following week, whereas growers can’t do that. They still have to sell the crop and wait to try something else next season”. MORE INFORMATION To keep up-to-date with what is happening in the Gascoyne go to our website www.gascoynefood.com.au.

THE farmers markets on Saturday morning were a huge hit with tourists and the chefs alike. Everyone made the most of the food samples on offer and grabbed some goodies to take home.

Photos: Anton Blume

The final event was held in Exmouth with popular Chefs Peter Manifis and Greg Farnan preparing a Surf and Turf on the beach at the Novotel Ningaloo Resort. The benefits of the festival are farreaching, with media exposure reaching new heights this year. Not only has the festival been promoted through Community News, Scoop and popular bloggers Perth Munchkin and Breakfast Confidential, this year the Chefs and guests themselves are sharing all of their experiences extensively on social media. It is estimated that through Facebook and Instagram the event has been exposed to over 100,000 people.

Photos: Ben Teo Photography

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Grower Group R&D Grants program vegetablesWA a successful recipient TABLE 1 Horticulture projects awarded funding Organisation

Project title

Western Australian Farmers Federation

Certifiable compositional chemistry that promotes sustainable growth in the market value of iconic WA honey floral brands

500,000

Congratulations to the successful recipients for Round 1 of the Department of Agriculture and Food WA, Grower Group R&D Grants Program.

WA Citrus

Improving the capability of the citrus value chain and expanding markets for WA citrus fruit

263,500

Carnarvon Growers Association

Investigation of cost and feasibility of Artesian water desalination for Carnarvon

50,000

Wines of WA

Building a pathway to premium wine markets and consumers

500,000

Truffle Producers of Western Australia

Value-adding to Truffles in Western Australia

360,000

Twenty new projects are set to benefit from grants announced as part of Departments of Agriculture and Food, Western Australia’s (DAFWA) $22.1m Agricultural Sciences Research and Development Fund project, with investment from Royalties for Regions.

vegetablesWA

Growing Horticultural Exports — Finding the sweet spot

150,000

vegetablesWA

Creating a high value processed food industry in Western Australia

340,000

Ord River District Cooperative Limited

Ord River Irrigation Area Pulse Product and Market Research Project

440,560

DAFWA Irrigated Agriculture Executive Director John Ruprecht said the first round of funding from the Grower Group R&D Grants program was focused on increasing economic growth in regional communities to drive agricultural growth.

West Midlands Group Pty Ltd

Developing new commercial opportunities in the Northern Valleys region

449,928

BY REBECCA BLACKMAN FINANCE & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER, VEGETABLESWA

Competition for the grants was intense, with more than 90 Expressions of Interest received. “The 20 grants totalling $6.7 million are spread across the state and cover the grains, livestock and horticulture sectors,” John said.

“They include mature and emerging industries and capitalise on increasing world demand for safe, high-quality food.” John said the fact that the Grower Groups are required to co-invest in the projects means they have a strong sense of ownership and commitment to their success.

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Grant amount ($)

Source: DAFWA, www.agric.wa.gov.au

The first round of Grower Group R&D Grants has now concluded. A second round of grants through this program will open in early 2017.

Following is an update on each project:

Coriolis Research

Table 1 lists grants which have been distributed in relation to Horticulture. You can view the full list on the DAFWA website

At the time of writing are putting together the full scope of the project and this will be carried out between September and December 2016. The aim is to develop a strategy to grow West Australian vegetable exports to Asia by develops an understanding of the most attractive growth markets and vegetable categories.

www.agric.wa.gov.au/crops/grower-group-rdgrants-program-successful-recipients

vegetablesWA was fortunate to be awarded two projects:

Key activities:

1 Growing Horticultural Exports — Finding the sweet spot working with Coriolis Research due for completion by 31st October 2016 2 Creating a high value processed food industry in Western Australia working with Fresh Produce Alliance due for completion by 31st Mary 2019

• Develop a peer group to compare export performance into target markets • Assess the import metrics of target markets

—

Which sectors are growing?

— Which are the high value categories?

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— What is the consumption per capita in key markets?

— Who are the peers in the market?

— Who are WA key competitors in these markets?

— Which sectors are the most attractive?

• Assess key markets to compare on-shelf presence, positioning & pricing • Leverage and add to existing sector research • Develop two page profiles (qualitative and quantitative) on the key vegetable products (with available data)

This project will be finalised in October and will form part of the discussion at the vegetablesWA Leadership Summit on 25th November.

Fresh Produce Alliance New technologies are now available to preserve the true flavours of fresh foodstuffs in a hygienic and practical manner. This project is about applying those new technologies to the preservation and valueadding of vegetables to develop new products for domestic and export markets. This project seeks to identify the options for value adding vegetables, in a manner that will make the product available to value-adding. In the first instance this will focus on the innovative food technologies now being installed at Fresh Produce Alliance in Manjimup, WA. This project is seeking to develop innovative value added, uniquely West Australian food products and develop diverse options for the use of vegetables to increase the value of the food industry in Western Australia. The aim of Wayne and Jennie Franceschi is to take nutritionally sound but currently unmarketable fruit and vegetables and turn them into value-added products.

As at the end of June Fresh Produce Alliance had developed 13 different ranges of baby foods and five different ranges of smoothies and juices. Based on the research they have developed a produce plan based on current vegetables and fruits that are currently in oversupply. Due to the global trend information found in their research, they are putting a larger emphasis on vegetables and a more savoury palate, as the global trend is moving away from sugar and looking for healthy wholesome food. MORE INFORMATION For more information on either of the projects contact Rebecca Blackman on (08) 9481 0834 or email finance@vegetableswa.com.au

Department of Agriculture and Food

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Detecting crop health is possible as all plants both absorb and reflect radiation in the near infrared band. This specific colour range indicates a healthy plant, outside of this a plant is “under stress”. This technology and imaging is called “NDVI”. NDVI imaging from a UAV allows for a 3rd dimension of the entire crop, vineyard or plantation giving a broader picture and the ability to make informed decisions on treatment. Crop: Vineyard ALT: 400 ft Rows: 195 ft Size: 0.4 x 0.7 Kms 28 Hectares

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Department of Agriculture and Food

Stable fly and the rapid burial of waste

BY DR DAVID COOK SENIOR RESEARCHER, DAFWA

In recent years research by the Department of Agriculture and Food Western Australian (DAFWA) and the University of Western Australia (UWA) has concentrated on mulching, turning water off, and spraying vegetable residue to control stable flies in horticulture precincts.

Soil compaction

@ 3t/m2

prevents stable fly emergence!

RAPID burial of waste after harvest prevents stable flies being able to access and develop in the residues.

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The focus of the latest research into dealing with vegetable crop residues has switched to rapid burial of waste after harvest to prevent stable flies being able to access and develop in the residues. Below we look at the research into the use of machinery to bury crop residues and prevent stable fly development. We also look at controlled experiments (laboratory and field) where residues are buried and in some cases compacted for extra prevention of stable fly emergence. Stable flies emerge from their pupal case, which are normally 5–10cm underground. The newly emerged adult fly digs its way to the soil surface, where it rests for an hour before flying off in search of animal blood (livestock and humans) (Figure 1). Machinery such as counter rotating (contravator) rotary hoes or stone buriers and mouldboard ploughs are capable of completely burying material up to a depth of 30cm. This is done in a single operation and leaves a clean layer of soil ready for the next planting. This machinery will save time and money to vegetable growers, which should be a huge incentive for its adoption and a bigger driver for change than stable flies alone; the benefits to growers include: • Less mechanical working of the soil • Retain the organic matter from the crop residue • No need to apply a pesticide for stable fly control

FIGURE 1 Scraping away the top 5cm of soil showing stable fly pupae (a) and an adult fly emerging from the pupal case (b) Source: DAFWA

• Single operation ready for planting of the next crop Residues need to be buried to a sufficient depth to totally ensure that stable flies cannot access the material; and must be buried quickly enough after harvest, before stable flies are able to lay eggs onto the residue. Field assessment of the use of Stone Burier (Figure 2) showed some excellent results in terms of the numbers of adult stable flies that developed from the areas treated by the machinery (see Figure 3), in particular when the residues were treated within 24 hours of harvest. Whilst doing this work we also got our first indication that compaction of the soil was having a major impact on the ability of adult stable fly to dig their way out of the soil. When we measured stable fly emergence over an area where cabbage residue were first buried and then run over by the tractor several times (see Figure 3).

Leaving residue for up to one week was too late to have any impact on reducing stable fly emergence over and above standard Best Practice Management of mulching, drying and spraying of residues. Laboratory trials were done on adult stable fly emergence to measure the exact amount of soil compaction needed, as well as simply smoothing or polishing the soil surface, when either stable fly pupae or fully developed larvae were buried in soil within tubes for easy recovery and measurement (see Figure 4). We showed in laboratory studies that the polishing of the soil surface (smoothing of surface with no compaction) and soil compaction severely restricted adult stable fly emergence (less than 2% survival of adult flies).

Soil compaction at or above 3t/m2 completely prevented any stable fly emergence (see Figure 5).

FIGURE 2 Stone burier machine putting celery crop residue into the soil within 24 hours after harvest (a) and burying freshly mulched cabbage crop residues (b) Source: DAFWA

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Number of flies emerged

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Cabbage

200 150

Lettuce

Celery 80 60

100 5

50 0

Mulched & dried

Buried

Buried & compacted

20 Mulched & dried

Buried

Mulched & dried —fresh

Buried — fresh

Buried — 1 week old

FIGURE 3 Field trial assessment of the impact of burial of vegetable crop residues on stable fly development Source: DAFWA

b FIGURE 6 Stone burier with polishing roller (a) and mouldboard plough going through celery crop residues (b)

Source: DAFWA

Stable fly emergence (%)

FIGURE 4 Soil with either stable fly pupae (a) or larvae (b) prior to being covered in 15cm of moist sand. The sand was then either polished (c) or compacted to 2t and 3t/m2 (d) and subsequent adult stable fly emergence recorded

We will be making field assessments this fly season (October to May) on the use of machinery that both compact and polish the soil surface in a single operation (stone burier with polishing roller) and/or bury residues beyond 30cm, such as the deep mouldboard plough (see Figure 6).

50 40 30 20 10 0

MORE INFORMATION Control (D)

Control (W)

Polished (W)

Compacted Compacted Compacted Compacted (1t) (2t) (3t) (4t)

FIGURE 5 Per cent adult stable fly emergence in dry (D) or wet (W) soil following either polishing of the soil surface or compaction at either 1, 2, 3 or 4t/m2 Source: DAFWA

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For more information on Stable Fly or queries on the research contact David Cook david. cook@uwa.edu.au or visit the DAFWA website www.agric.wa.gov.au/vegetables/stable-flywestern-australia.

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Rockmelon

217,000t

of fresh melons are grown each year.

BY DIANNE FULLELOVE IDP AUSTRALIAN MELON ASSOCIATION

All other melon farmers across the country have re-tested their produce and confirmed their fruit is safe to eat.

Aussie rockmelon-lovers can now rejoice. Fresh supplies of their favourite fruit are safe to gobble up following the isolation and containment of a rare strain of salmonella on one farm in the Northern Territory.

Queensland grower, Sib Rapisarda, who together with his father and brothers owns Australia’s biggest melon farm located in Burdekin near Townsville, said the Australian melon industry is committed to producing the best quality fruit through sustainable farming practices.

All rockmelons from the affected farm have been removed from supermarket and greengrocer shelves nationwide. The grower is working with the Northern Territory Health Department to review its operations and will not resupply the market until the all-clear has been given.

“The industry has best practice guidelines in place to prevent on-farm contamination including regular testing of fruit, soil and water, and we are audited by a range of independent third party certifiers,” Mr Rapisarda said. “Australians can confidently buy rockmelons right now and savour their sweet and juicy taste,” he said.

Some 300 melon farmers supply more than 217,000 tonnes of fresh fruit to Australian shoppers each year for use as sweet fresh treats and in savoury and sweet recipes. They also export their produce to countries such as New Zealand, Hong Kong and Singapore. Melons are grown across most states and territories within Australia. Queensland, Northern Territory, Western Australia and New South Wales are major producers of melons with Victoria and South Australia producing lower but still significant volumes. MORE INFORMATION For more information contact Dianne Fullelove, Australian Melon Association on 0413 101 646 or idp@melonsaustralia.org.au

WA Grower SPRING 2016

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of profitable biodynamic farming

PERTH

BRETT leaves his compost to mature for about six months for it to develop an earthy smell.

Growers Brett Kirkpatrick and Leonie Inger Location Donnybrook Size 80 hectares Enterprises Cabbage, cauliflower, pumpkin & potatoes

WA Grower SPRING 2016

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BY PETER CLIFTON SOUTH WEST CATCHMENT COUNCIL

Donnybrook farmer Brett Kirkpatrick has been growing vegetables and pastures using compost and biodynamic preparations for about 20 years. His experience is a valuable insight for growers considering a partial or complete adoption of biological farming principles. Brett Kirkpatrick and Leonie Inger are fourth generation Donnybrook farmers and pioneers in the organic industry. They started growing biodynamic-certified potatoes in 1994 and four years later added cabbage, cauliflower and pumpkin to the rotation. Their small operation is in hilly country where large scale growing is difficult. Nevertheless, prices received for organic produce means that their small holding is viable. To supplement vegetable production, 80 hectares of pasture is also utilised for rotational grazing of cattle. While being a certified biodynamic grower, Brett is open to any form of sustainable farming. “I used to be really passionate about biodynamics, but what’s happening now is that there’s so many different paradigms under ‘sustainable farming’. A lot of today’s biological products are based on biodynamic preparations that we use to activate soil biology. Biodynamic farming is now just one tool in the toolbox.”

Brett agrees that it’s certainly a challenge to get the growth that a lot of farmers are used to. But for him, yield comes in behind profitability, sustainability and health. His system relies heavily on soil biology, but that requires a good understanding of how biological activity is reduced by low temperatures and waterlogging. “Each planting of brassicas (on 1,000m2 plots) gets about four tonnes of compost during the warmer months (40t/ha), but as it gets colder we’ve found you’ve got to ramp that up to 12 tonnes (120t/ha). In winter you are literally supplying all the nutrients, whereas in the warmer months the biology is more active and able to make more available per tonne. So I think biodynamics works better with irrigation. When you have soil moisture and warmth you will get more development of the biology. But if we have a leak in summer irrigation we get a yellowness where there is excess water because it has upset the nitrogen cycling.

“We use clover and lupins or peas in green manure mixes that we pre-plant, but the main focus is feeding the soil with compost and getting nitrogen out of the atmosphere.” Nitrogen content in dry compost is typically around 1–3%, and that is slowly released over several years. To speed up the release, Brett adds biodynamic preparations into his compost to increase biological activity and the rate of nitrogen mineralisation. Rock dusts

WITH taste a key attribute, Brett’s cabbages are sprayed with a silica preparation if they begin to develop any bitterness.

required to supply other nutrients are also put through the compost to make them plantavailable more quickly. And Brett likes to give his compost plenty of time to mineralise. “A lot of people put compost out too soon when it hasn’t broken down sufficiently. You want to put a compost out that doesn’t smell like ammonia anymore, but smells like earth.” Patience is indeed a key to biological farming, especially in the transition phase, and making drastic changes may lead to failure. “I have to say that with biodynamics it takes time. So in the early stages of transitioning you may need to buffer your activities. But if you are going to put out nitrogen, put sugar or molasses with it to support the biology.” Brett believes that balancing the soil carbon to nitrogen ratio will help to achieve a more functional soil biology.

BRETT and Leonie Inger-Kirkpatrick farm in the Donnybrook hills.

WA Grower SPRING 2016

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“I think the main opportunity for conventional farmers is that compost can help buffer their nitrogen use. When they put out nitrogen they are consuming their carbon, which is going to be slowly eaten away. Compost or other carbon-based inputs can be applied with nitrogen to support the biology.”

In terms of pasture and hay paddocks, Brett’s rates are much more conservative, and he has learnt the importance of longterm monitoring for deficiencies in soil fertility. “I’m putting out about a tonne to the acre of compost (2.5t/ha) once a year when there’s still a bit of rain to wash it in. This is combined with rotational grazing of 100 Angus and Murray Greys in 38 paddocks over 80ha. “When we first changed over to biodynamics one of the first things my father noticed was that the calves on average were 50–60kg

heavier than on his farm. But that doesn’t seem to be the case now. Its almost like the biodynamics complemented the nutrients that my father had been putting on for years, for a period, and then it started to decline.” In 2014 Brett took part in a whole farm nutrient mapping project funded by South West Catchments Council. “That was a real insight and the first time we did tissue testing.” Results showed that potassium levels were pretty good in most places, sulphur was needed, and that the huge buffer of phosphorus from the days of conventional farming was starting to get low. “We hadn’t put any phosphorus on for probably 15–20 years. Trace element deficiencies were also starting to show up.” It is an incredible example of the time it can take before deficiencies start to appear. While realising that he could have started a nutrient monitoring and maintenance programme earlier, it seems he didn’t leave it too late, and it turned out to be a useful learning experience.

Soil Moisture Monitoring Complete online package with sensor, 5 year battery and Telstra 3G connectivity from $299+GST 1300 WILDEYE (Perth office) info@mywildeye.com www.mywildeye.com Mention you saw us in WA Grower and receive a discount!

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“A lot of the farms around me have stopped using any inputs. It was interesting to see how their farms declined much faster than mine did. Other than a few lime and dolomite amendments I was using biodynamics solely. Since I started putting other inputs in, trying to get the mineral balance right, my farm is starting to stand out again.” MORE INFORMATION For further information contact Peter Clifton on Phone (08) 9724 2469 or email peter. clifton@swccnrm.org.au The South West Catchments Council nutrient mapping project was supported through funding from the Australian Government.

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Biosecurity Blitz 2016

BY ANNA MICHA ENGAGEMENT AND COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER, DAFWA

Western Australia’s annual celebration of biosecurity community surveillance; The Biosecurity Blitz, will run from 18–30 September 2016.

Following the successful inaugural event in 2015, The Biosecurity Blitz will continue to support Western Australian biosecurity by running a two week event to increase community surveillance and pest reporting using the MyPestGuide Reporter app.

The Department of Agriculture and Food, Western Australia (DAFWA), activity aims to improve community engagement in science and build a community belief that biosecurity is a shared responsibility. DAFWA development officer, Laura Fagan said the event will follow the Pantry Blitz, which saw approximately 3000 traps sent to participants to place in their kitchen cupboards, pantries or sheds to check regularly over a one month period. Participants were asked to photograph and report the resulting trapped insects to DAFWA via the free MyPestGuide Reporter app.

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“After reviewing the Biosecurity Blitz 2015, we acknowledged that some people didn’t know what to look for and where. “This year we hope to assist people by using the Pantry Blitz as a prelude for the Biosecurity Blitz and create a reporting relationship between the department and the community. “Data from New Zealand suggests that almost 40% of agricultural pests are first found in urban areas, so encouraging people to look for pests in their homes and gardens is a great place to start. “Every report we receive, whether it is an exotic pest or not, supports WA biosecurity and the state’s access to export markets.” Ms Fagan said. The MyPestGuide Reporter app is a reporting tool that allows people to take up to four photographs of an insect, weed, animal or disease and then sends the report directly to DAFWA for expert identification.

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Participants without a smartphone or tablet can submit photos of pests using the department’s online MyPestGuide reporting tool. Participants of the Biosecurity Blitz will be supported with a web page, media releases, social media activities, and department involvement in school and community group activities on common pests and biosecurity threats.

At the conclusion of the Biosecurity Blitz, department staff will identify all subjects reported via the app, collate the data and publish a report on the Biosecurity Blitz website.

The MyPestGuide Reporter app Since its launch in 2014, over 12,000 reports of insects, animals and weeds have been received by DAFWA via the MyPestGuide Reporter app. This includes reports of exotic pests such as the Sweet potato weevil, the Asian long-horn beetle and the Citrus gall wasp. The MyPestGuide Reporter app has been used extensively by DAFWA staff for pest surveillance activities such as Q-fly and stable fly surveillance.

The MyPestGuide team have promoted the app at a multitude of community events such as regional field days, garden and wild life festivals and classroom activities. MORE INFORMATION For more information about the MyPestGuide Reporter app, visit www.agric.wa.gov.au/ biosecurity/mypestguide-suite

MYPESTGUIDE team members, Laura Fagan and Rob Emery.

All reports of potential pests or diseases help safeguard Western Australia’s biosecurity status and support access for our quality and safe agriculture and food products to international markets. The Biosecurity Blitz is part of DAFWA’s Boosting Biosecurity Defences project and made possible by Royalties for Regions.

MORE INFORMATION To download a free reporting app, or for more information about how to participate in the Biosecurity Blitz 2016, please visit the Biosecurity Blitz webpage.

Biosecurity Blitz 2015 review The first annual Biosecurity Blitz was a success for the Department of Agriculture and Food, Western Australia. Downloads of the pest surveillance reporting tool, The MyPestGuide Reporter app, increased by over 200% which resulted in over 500 reports submitted to the department.

The most common reports during the 2015 Blitz were native stinks bugs, aphids and ladybirds. A citrus gall wasp, an exotic pest, was reported during the Blitz. MORE INFORMATION For more information about the Biosecurity Blitz, visit www.agric.wa.gov.au/ biosecurity/biosecurity-blitz-2016

CITRUS gall wasp.

The Boosting Biosecurity Defences project The Biosecurity Blitz is an activity of the department’s Boosting Biosecurity Defences project made possible by a $20 million investment through the State Government’s Royalties for Regions program. MORE INFORMATION For more information about this project, please visit www.agric.wa.gov.au/ invasive-species/boosting-biosecuritydefences-royalties-regions

Department of Agriculture and Food

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2016 stable fly Management Plan

changes affecting all producers BY DON TELFER STABLE FLY PROJECT MANAGER, DAFWA

The Stable Fly Management Plan was created under the Biosecurity and Agriculture Management (BAM) Act 2007 for the control and management of stable fly breeding in horticulture and livestock production. The plan has been in operation since 2013, however recent research by Dr David Cook from the Department of Agriculture and Food, Western Australian (DAFWA), funded by growers through Horticulture Innovation Australia and the Agriculture Produce Commission — Vegetable Producers Committee, has identified new and better ways to reduce stable fly breeding in Western Australia. DEEP burial of vegetable waste using a counterrotating rotary hoe or rock burier.

Changes that reflect these improvements were gazetted by the State Government on the 23 August 2016. The changes include: • The treatment of vegetable production waste has altered so that within three days of the end of harvest, the waste must be: −− mulched, water turned off, and the area sprayed with insecticide as per the current management plan, or −− deeply buried by stone burier with compaction or soil smearing, or by mouldboard plough, or −− treated with an approved measure of deep rotary hoeing five times in five consecutive days. • Restriction on the approved processes for treating poultry manure. All poultry manure used in the stable fly affected shires will need to meet the Australian Standard for composting (4454-2012) unless treated by an approved measure. • Reject vegetable waste in pits must be sprayed with insecticide and buried at least 50cm deep (burial was previously 30cm deep).

changes

Department of Agriculture and Food

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−− treated by insecticide and left for two weeks; or −− covered with plastic sheeting until no stable fly larvae or pupae are observed. The use of the term ‘Approved Measure’ in the new Stable Fly Management Plan is a measure approved by the Director General of DAFWA, for the control of stable fly, and is published on the DAFWA website, www.agric.wa.gov.au/vegetables/stable-flywestern-australia.

The use of approved measures will enable a more responsive reaction to latest research or other developments. Changes or new Approved Measures will be regularly published to ensure industry is kept up to date. MORE INFORMATION Producers with questions regarding these changes should contact Don Telfer at the DAFWA on (08) 9368 3553 or don.telfer@agric.wa.gov.au. Alternatively contact Truyen Vo on 0457 457 559 or truyen.vo@vegetableswa.com.au For any further information on stable fly, view the DAFWA website www.agric.wa.gov.au and search Stable fly.

2016 stable fly Management Plan

• Animal manure, soiled bedding, rotting hay and feedstuffs must immediately be piled into a mound and

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Pomewest Committee Members Harvey Giblett — Chair E: newtonbros@wn.com.au

From the

Executive Officer

Mario Casotti E: mario@casottigroup.com John Gregorovich E: raelene.gregorovich@bigpond.com Sam Licciardello E: sam@orchard1sixty.com.au Mark Scott E: markpscott@bigpond.com Nardia Stacy — Executive Officer E: nardia@fruitwest.org.au

APC-Pomewest major projects 2016–17 and their funding allocation Project Commercialisation for WA (FW Co-operative Ltd)

$ 120,000

Note less 50% salary reimbursed for professional services of Nardia Stacy as executive officer as in 15–16 financial year.

Dormancy and New Technology Project (Susie Murphy White)

68,500

Medfly Surveillance Trapping Network (Ashmere Consulting)

52,750

Codling Moth (DAFWA)

35,000

Maturity Standards legislation and compliance (Ashmere Consulting)

25,000

Natural Mite control Project (shared with the Stone Fruit Subcommittee) (Stewart Learmonth DAFWA)

25,000

Natural Mite control Project (shared with the Stone Fruit Subcommittee) (Stewart Learmonth DAFWA)

18,300

Promotion & Publicity Local Project (Fresh Finesse)

16,000

Biosecurity fund balance

65,000

APC Fee for Service POME Fruit effective from 1 January 2015 Type of fruit

$/kg

Fresh fruit — Apples, Pears, Nashi, other

0.015

Processing fruit

0.005

Biosecurity FFS for fresh fruit

0.002

Biosecurity FFS for processing fruit

0.001

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After a robust 2015–16 season with good supply and well coloured fruit, we have started the new season with a cold winter making chill accumulation better than average and tracking along just below the coolest 10% of years. APC FFS data indicates a season of sales and production is line with previous years with no major growing incidents to report.

Whilst growers enjoy some respite after harvest, we look to the future and the pursuit of excellence in our quality to continue to increase demand for our product. Sam Licciardello

Note after deducting $28,500 contribution to Q Fly eradication

BY NARDIA STACY EXECUTIVE OFFICER, POMEWEST

We welcome Sam to the Pomewest Committee, we are very fortunate to have third generation Donnybrook orchardist on board. Sam’s family has been growing on the Golden Mile site since 1950. Sam and his father Cirino run 45 hectares of orchard which is now known as Orchard 1 Sixty. The orchard comprises of mainly apples and pears with plums, nectarines, peaches and cherries. Sam is passionate about growing fruit and he has joined with the vision encourage the growth of the WA industry and to offer assistance to growers. He believes in pursuing excellence and growing the best fruit possible, and believes working harder to improve each year is the key to progression.

SAM Licciardello.

Horticulture Conference Gold Coast 22–25 June WA growers, Committee members and staff had a great time at the Horticultural Conference in June and it was great to see so much buzz about the new Bravo™ apple which performed admirably in the sensory tastings of new varieties. The conference as always was a great way to network with other growers and researchers, gather information, fresh ideas and innovations. Committee representative Mark Scott will report on the conference in this edition.

Hort Innovation/APAL roadshow July 25–27 July Pomewest have supported Hort Innovation and APAL by organising various lunch and dinner meetings with John Dollison APAL and Mark Spees Hort Innovation in the three major growing areas. Discussion surrounded APAL’ current work around backpacker tax, work place relations, waxing were discussed along with Hort Innovation plans for marketing and strategic planning for research and development. More details on these Roadshow will be available in the APAL publication the Australian fruitgrower.

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Online registration for apple, pear exporters Fumigation Workshop 28 July Pomewest organised for an information session from DAFWA Manager of Border Biosecurity — Grant Jackson to explain the processes and protocols of fumigation of Eastern States imports at the borders. This workshop clarified the roles biosecurity responsibilities, processes and audits undertaken. Assurances were given that the current biosecurity practices undertaken by DAFWA pre and post border (cold storage and fumigation) will remain stringent underpinned by good science and fruit imported into WA from the Eastern States via sea container is subject to the same level of inspection and fumigation harbours and airports. Growers also were present from the DAFWA regional office in Manjimup.

Opportunities for growers to ask questions rounded off the session. A future article for this publication is planned. This edition We present articles on the Horticulture Conference, promotions, Medfly glasshouse trials, online registration for apple, pear exporters and Netting Orchard Update. I hope that you are continuing to find the subscription to the WA Grower magazine beneficial, I welcome any feedback or suggestions for future editions. MORE INFORMATION Contact Nardia Stacy on (08) 9368 3869 or nardia@pomewest.net.au

Apple and pear growers will soon be able to register online to export, thanks to the Australian Government who have granted APAL $117,810 to deliver an online export registration process and prepare market access documentation. The funding from the Package Assisting Smaller Exporters (PASE) will also be used to develop market access documentation that will assist the industry negotiate technical market access and respond quickly and effectively to any future market disruptions.

Work has commenced on this project and APAL aims to have the online registration system up and running for the 2017 export season.

As it currently stands, the registration process for export accreditation for the apple and pear sector is a manual process. Growers/packhouses complete the paperwork and then scan and send it to APAL for checking. APAL then compiles the data and sends it to the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources (DoAWR) who complete the desk audit and issue the respective export registration numbers.

• Standard Operating Practices (SOP) — a description of management along the supply chain of major pests of concern to China, Vietnam and Taiwan, and;

Not only is this current system very time consuming for all concerned, the quality of information received is of varying standard because it may include handwritten forms and unclear maps, or lack GPS indicators or complete block-identifying data. The system is labour intensive, unprofessional, and subject to human error. Other industries, namely Citrus Australia and Australian Table Grapes Association, have developed online registration programs. Rather than re-invent the wheel, this project will allow APAL to review the two existing systems, select the most appropriate system and work with the chosen entity to adapt the software to incorporate apple and pear data. APAL will work with the service provider on the administration process and roll-out a training program to all current and potential apple and pear exporters on how to use the online export registration system. The move to an online export registration program will deliver: • process efficiencies • consistency in data collection

The market access documentation project will deliver two outputs:

• Hierarchy of Preferred Treatments (HOPT) — a description and ranking of preferred phytosanitary treatment schedules for apple and for pear exports. The SOP document provides DoAWR a central ‘go to’ place that describes how the industry manages major pests of concern to trading partners (where we seek new access or improved access). The SOP will describe pest management along the export supply chain, from budwood, nursery, orchard, packing shed, cool store, and air or sea shipment. The comprehensive document can be used by DoAWR to help expedite trade negotiations. The HOPT document will ascertain the cost of alternate treatment schedules, cost per container/pallet and the perceived impact of treatments on fruit quality and shelf life. This includes the primary apple and pear treatments and their schedules, including on-shore and in-transit cold disinfestation, methyl bromide fumigation, irradiation and T108a. The rankings will provide DoAWR and APAL a platform to negotiate, moving down ‘the list’ until a mutually satisfactory outcome can be resolved. MORE INFORMATION For more information contact Olivia Tait, APAL, (03) 9999 2702 or go to apal.org.au

• traceability and transparency • professionalism WA Grower SPRING 2016

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2016 National Horticulture Convention BY MARK SCOTT POMEWEST COMMITTEE MEMBER

The 2016 Horticultural Convention in the Gold coast was vibrant affair of technical information, across industry topics and networking opportunities for the 1,500 people attending from the pome, persimmon and vegetable industries. Thursday, for the pome fruit attendees, started with an industry breakfast with a presentation by John Dollisson, APAL CEO, who after discussing the current state of the industry went on to challenge the industry in two ways, the first by showing modelling showing that exporting only 5% of our crop at cost could add millions to the end returns to growers pockets and the second to challenge the industries perception of where we carry out our production — that maybe we could grow apples in glass houses in semi-arid areas, using the sunlight to power heating and cooling systems to grow our crop to exact environmental conditions.

A series of presentations from research and innovation partners continued through the morning and included topics such as robotics (the robot had been used to measure crop yield in an 80t/ha block and showed a variation per tree from 42t/ ha to 140t/ha), future orchards, artificial bud extinction, winter chill and dormancy breakers. The PIPS 2 project including; tree structure, IPM, nutrition, pear production and biennial bearing. Nicola Dallabetta from San Michele all’Adige, Italy, gave an insightful presentation on the growing techniques used in his area of Italy and the reasoning behind how they prune apples. Garry Langford provided an update on the activities of Prevar. The afternoon session started with a tasting lesson by wine writer for “The Age” Richard Cornish, followed by a tasting session of ten new varieties on offer including Kalei, Bravo, Honey Crisp, Modi, Rocket, Kanzi and Papple. Bravo was described as green, grassy Lucerne, cut hay with sweet aromas. A couple of different presentations in the afternoon included a company that works with inventors to further solutions MARK and Catherine Scott investigating Trac Map precision agriculture at the trade show.

to problems presented to them — they have a billion dollar back ground funding (including Bill Gates). They are working with Hort Innovation to come up with solutions to various industry problems. The Food Revolution group presented on their innovative new smoothies, juices and dried products made using new technology that they market through Coles. Stuart Burgess and Graeme Yardy from Hort Innovation presented on the Hort Innovation Research and Development Program and Marketing Program respectively. Whilst there was recognition of a slow start since its inception, shown by the level of reserves built up in industry funds, a more structured approach is now being taken. The marketing program has a new Manager who believes we will see a renewed vigour in their program in the near future. The APAL annual general meeting was held. The motion to change the constitution in relation to the numbers of Directors needed for a quorum was defeated, due to concern that a there may not be a majority of growers, only professional Directors making a decision. The other motions were passed.

APAL is in a strong financial position and is looking to drive the industry forward particularly with marketing and exports. Friday was a combined program for all areas of horticulture.

Photo: Good Fruit and Vegetables

WA Grower SPRING 2016

Martin Kneebone from Fresh Logic discussed the opportunities and challenges of marketing fruit and vegetables in the snack food market, which is worth $9 billon separately from our usual markets. Jon Entine talked on GMO and the need for farmers of all types to tell their story to allow the rest of the world to understand what we do. Rachel Mackenzie from Growcom talk on the Queensland industry best practice program Hort360 and labour hire issues. The afternoon allowed delegates to attend a huge 103 stand trade display.

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Photo: Good Fruit and Vegetables

CATHERINE Scott (Nannup Fresh Fruit), Shemia Turbett (Erceg Holdings Donnybrook), Tania Chapman (Voice of Horticulture), Niki Wood (APAL) and Paul Good (APAL Director) at the Gala dinner.

Friday night was the night of the masquerade dinner, which provided a great chance to network in a social environment complete with jazz band for entertainment. Saturday morning again was down to technical pome presentations. Ross Wilson form Agfirst talked on the 14 points of good growing, Marcel Veens talked on plant bio regulators and harvesting quality aids. Rachel Mackenzie talked on labour hire and the risk to the industry image of getting it wrong. Tienie Du Preez from South Africa talked on the South African industry and their techniques for making it work in difficult situations. Scott Paterson talked about succession planning. Martine Kneebone talked on the change to marketing, including amazon installing refrigerated letter boxes so households can have perishables delivered. Nathan Bishop, Costco, gave a presentation of their retail model which sells anything from tyres to apples and even coffins in the one store. Denise Hamblin talked on marketing research work on pears in Indonesia. Saturday afternoon’s panel session was putting the technical into practice. The first “Disrupt your orchard” — was about future design of orchards and the risk management about them.

The second was Changing Varieties — the opportunities and considerations in a changing varietal access world.

SUSIE Murphy-White (Pomewest), Dan Kuzmicich (vegetablesWA) & Nardia Stacy (Pomewest) at the masquerade dinner.

The third was New Technologies — from soil mapping, harvest platforms, bin traceability and robotic crop load monitoring what is the future and what do we have to consider.

The Conference as always was a great way to network with other growers and researchers, gather information, fresh ideas and innovations.

The main outcome of all the sessions was leave your farm and look what others are doing!

MORE INFORMATION Contact Mark Scott markpscott@bigpond.com or Nardia Stacy nardia@pomewest.net.au

The last night was the Gala dinner with awards for many categories including researcher of the year, young grower, women in horticulture, grower of the year and lifetime achievement awards to name a few. It would be good to see a few more nominations for WA growers in more categories. WA Grower SPRING 2016

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Netted apple demonstration final summary

Significant reduction in water use in the second season and reduced vigour with no decrease in yield prompted the whole site to be converted to a single line of drip irrigation per row for the 2015â&#x20AC;&#x201C;16 season. All irrigation was managed using a separate pump and irrigation controller reducing the number of treatments to three being: 1. Black net, drip irrigation 2. White net, drip irrigation 3. No net, drip irrigation The netted treatments consisted of four row of Cripps Pink, separated by two rows of Fuji between the next treatments. The remainder of the area became one single outside net treatment in the final year.

BY ROHAN PRINCE 1 , SUSIE MURPHYWHITE 2 AND LISA STARKIE 1 1 DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND FOOD WESTERN AUSTRALIA 2 POME WEST

The final harvest of the netted apple demonstration site at the Lyster Orchard in Manjimup is complete. Established in October 2013, the demonstration aimed to show the value of netting to improve water use efficiency and productivity in high density orchard production systems. The 1.2 hectare site has 0.5ha of permanent net constructed over an established Cripps Pink and Fuji orchard. Sections of black and white 16mm quad netting were installed, each covering 0.25ha. The remaining area contained two comparison blocks, a DAFWA-managed

WA Grower SPRING 2016

NETTED apple demo site at Lyster Orchard.

no netted area, and a grower practice no netted area as control treatments. Particular attention was given to assessing the impact of netting on fruit quality parameters such as sunburn, blush and background colour development along with assessing bird and hail damage if recorded in the outside treatment. Water use was measured using water metres on individual lines within each treatment.

Demonstration treatments Initially there were four treatments comparing, black, white and no net areas. One no net area was the control demonstration while the other no net area was current grower practice In response to high vigour and excessive sod culture in the first season a small test area using drip irrigation was installed either side of four rows of trees under the changeover from black and white net.

All thinning, pruning and tree management was undertaken as per normal practice by the Lysters. Nutrition was applied via a Dosatron positive displacement fertiliser injection system, as advised by the Lysters and their agronomist. Harvest was undertaken on a commercial basis starting the last week of April and continuing through mid-May. The last fruit diameter measurement was taken for each treatment on the 29th of April.

Results 2015â&#x20AC;&#x201C;16 Irrigation water applied to netted treatments was recorded at 1.7 mega litres (ML) per hectare (ha), while 2.0 ML/ ha was applied outside the netted area. Rainfall from September to April was 378mm while evaporation for the same period was 1190mm. Average fruit diameter measured was 71.9mm under the black net, 72.9mm under the white net and 72mm in the outside netted area. While there was minor hail during the season, no hail damage, bird damage or significant sunburn was recorded in any of the treatments.

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Discussion and comparison between seasons

13–14

75 72.3 71.7 71.9

To remove the difference between evaporation and rainfall between seasons, water applied to each treatment was compared to net evaporation (evaporation minus rainfall). A lower proportion of evaporation replacement indicates a lower application of water. Between 2013–14 and 2015–16 seasons irrigation water applied to the site was reduced from 0.78 of net evaporation to 0.23 in the DAFWA managed outside net treatment and slightly less in the grower outside net area 0.64 to 0.23 (5.8 to 2.0ML/ ha). Inside the netted area irrigation water applied was reduced from 0.63 of net evaporation to 0.21 (5.3 to 1.7ML/ha).

Assuming all rainfall was effective within the growing period, the total water applied to the crop, irrigation plus rainfall was reduced from 9.42ML/ha to 5.78ML/ha, a reduction of 40% over the three year demonstration Fruit diameter during the demonstration was relatively constant in the DAFWA managed treatments, but an increase was seen in the grower section over the three seasons (68mm to 72mm). Results indicate that the 15–16 season using drip irrigation led to better fruit size in all but the black net treatment (see Figure 1). Reduction in sod culture led to less mowing and maintenance in the orchard. While lower light and excess vigour in the first two seasons under the netted area required increased thinning and pruning during the season. In the 2015–16 season, increased pruning and earlier installation of Extenday reflective mat resulted in better colour development under the net than experienced in previous years. While pack-out data is not available, the Lysters have commented that using drip irrigation led to reduced vigour and will most likely result in the best harvest of the three-year demonstration under all treatments.

Fruit diameter (mm)

The difference in rainfall of the three growing seasons September to April was only 28mm (362mm, 390mm and 378mm for 2013–14, 14–15 and 15–16 respectively), while evaporation was measured at 1258mm, 1231mm and 1190mm.

71.8 72.0

72.9

70.4

71.2

72.0

71.7

72.0

14–15

15–16

70.7

68.0

65 60 55 50

Black net

White net

No net

Grower

Drip

FIGURE 1 Fruit diameters prior to harvest at the netted apple demonstration site in Manjimup Source: DAFWA

The 66% reduction in water applied from 2013–14 to 15–16 resulted from the introduced drip irrigation on the site. Water was only applied in a narrow strip along the tree rows, reducing sod culture and therefore water use on the site. It is estimated the wetted area was reduced from full coverage of four metres between rows to a wetted area of 80cm diameter. The reduced storage capacity for the plant to extra water required frequent irrigation as many as three times a day during the peak of summer. Confidence to reduce irrigation was gained from employing evaporation based scheduling as a reference to crop water requirements and fine-tuning applications using soil moisture sensors. Data form the soil moisture sensors allowed decisions to be made such as when to start the season’s irrigation, reduce irrigation prior to rainfall and re-commence irrigation after rainfall, with the confidence that the crop had available soil moisture and was not stressed. An example using soil moisture monitoring to guide irrigation was following 100mm of rainfall in January. Irrigation was reduced from 9.6L per tree per day to 0.9L per tree per day for three weeks following the downpour. Irrigation was only being applied to replace nutrients lost to leaching until soil moisture had returned to levels prior to the rain.

Summary Using drip irrigation will significantly reduce irrigation requirements but requires a more rigorous method of scheduling and monitoring. Following evaporation

and using soil moisture monitoring should be part of any irrigation practice and is especially important when implementing a new practice to a business. Netting reduced water requirement by approximately 20% more than a nonnetted orchard. Change in practices, including summer pruning, pest control and time of colour enhancing was required to achieve fruit colour and quality of fruit inside the net While there was little sunburn during the demonstration, netting did reduce the incidence of damage and resulted in lower fruit surface temperatures in extreme heat events. When bird damage occurred, there was none under netting compared with outside netting. Hail enough to damage fruit was not experienced at the demonstration site during the demonstration, but it is thought that small enough diameter netting would reduce the velocity and therefore the damage caused by large hail. MORE INFORMATION A special thanks to Mauri, Ann, Tim and Michelle Lyster for hosting the demonstration site over the last three seasons, along with DAWFA and the funding partners, Department of Regional Development Royalties for Regions, Horticulture Innovation Australia, Department of Parks and Wildlife and the Australian Department of Agriculture without their support and assistance this work would not have been possible. Also thanks to staff at DAFWA’s Manjimup Horticultural Research Institute for assistance whenever it was required, this was much appreciated.

Department of Agriculture and Food

WA Grower SPRING 2016

POMEWEST

An apple for the teacher? Well actually for the students

BY NOELENE SWAIN FRESH FINESSE

Contrary to the old adage “an apple for the teacher” apples were the highlight for the students at two Perth high schools in recent months. Promoting apples to school canteen managers at the WA School Canteen Association training workshops fired up the enthusiasm of a high schools to improve school based apple consumption and led to prominent promotional activities in a number of schools. Over 700 students at Cyril Jackson Senior Campus where delighted to grab an apple as part of their annual Health Festival on 11 May. Apples featured prominently amidst the 50 health related stalls when staff from Women’s Health & Family Services and Edith Cowan Uni Health Promotion students introduced new apple varieties and encouraged teenagers to eat well. Kennedy Baptist College integrated a Grab a GREENSTAR promotion into their canteen menu in June. Whilst initially planned for a single day, the celebration’s success lead to the program being extended over two

WA Grower SPRING 2016

weeks. The highly motivated canteen team went all out to create a fun and festive vibe with banners, costumes, and prominent signage to ensure all 1,200 high school students were included.

The GREENSTAR apple was extremely well received as the teams put Slinky machines into action to prove even ‘cool’ teenagers are over joyed by an apple spiral! Students were heard to positively comment “those GREENSTAR apples are awesome, they are so fresh and juicy” and “I’m telling my friends to eat them too!” They loved the idea that they didn’t go brown when cut and those with braces on their teeth were impressed they could cut the fruit at home and eat it happily for lunch or a snack at school. Supporting schools to run this style of healthy eating programs is an effective opportunity to ensure kids are enjoying apples as a regular part of their snack menu — both now and in their years ahead. MORE INFORMATION Thanks to Newton Bros Orchards for their support of these activities.

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BUSINESS

WA Grower SPRING 2016

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Australia’s new workplace relations system

Right of entry

From 1 July 2009, most Australian workplaces are governed by a new system created by the Fair Work Act 2009. The Fair Work Ombudsman helps employees, employers, contractors and the community to understand and comply with the new system. We provide education, information and advice, help to resolve workplace complaints, conduct investigations, and enforce relevant Commonwealth workplace laws.

What is right of entry? Right of entry refers to the part of Commonwealth workplace laws which regulate the rights of organisation officials (such as a trade union) to enter premises. These laws seek to balance: • the right of organisations to represent their members in the workplace, hold discussions with potential members, and investigate suspected contraventions of workplace laws and instruments, including occupational health and safety laws • the right of occupiers of premises and employers to go about their business without undue inconvenience • the rights of employees and textile, clothing and footwear award workers (‘TCF award workers’) to receive, at work, information and representation from organisation officials.

The Fair Work Ombudsman is committed to providing you with advice that you can rely on. The information contained in this article is general in nature. If you are unsure about how it applies to your situation you can call our Infoline on 13 13 94 or speak with a union, industry association or a workplace relations professional. © Copyright Fair Work Ombudsman FWOFS9.06

WA Grower SPRING 2016

For the purpose of the right of entry provisions under The Fair Work Act 2009, an organisation must be federally registered by the Fair Work Commission in accordance with the Fair Work (Registered Organisations) Act 2009. An organisation can be an employee association (e.g. a trade union), employer association, or an enterprise association (an association where the majority of members are performing work in the same enterprise).

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There is a special set of rights and obligations for organisation officials when seeking to enter premises and whilst on premises in relation to TCF award workers under the Fair Work Act 2009. For more information about right of entry provisions and entry permits, visit www.fwc.gov.au.

Who can enter a workplace? Organisation officials In order to enter premises, an organisation official must have a valid and current entry permit from the Fair Work Commission. When issuing a permit, the Fair Work Commission may impose certain conditions, which limit the use of the entry permit. The Fair Work Commission can only issue an entry permit to an official of an organisation if they are satisfied they are a fit and proper person. In deciding whether to issue a permit, the Fair Work Commission must take into account factors such as whether the official has received training about their rights and responsibilities as a permit holder, and whether the official has ever been convicted of an offence against an industrial law. The Fair Work Commission can revoke, suspend or impose conditions on an entry permit. Government officials Fair Work Inspectors are Commonwealth Government officials. Their job is to ensure compliance with workplace rights and obligations under relevant Commonwealth workplace laws, including the Fair Work Act 2009, the Fair Work Regulations 2009, or a fair work instrument (e.g. an award or an industrial agreement, including agreements made under the former Workplace Relations Act 1996). Fair Work Inspectors are appointed by the Fair Work Ombudsman in accordance with the Fair Work Act 2009.

The powers of a Fair Work Inspector to enter premises are not regulated by the right of entry provisions under the Fair Work Act 2009. Rather, their powers to enter premises are regulated under separate provisions of the Fair Work Act 2009. For more information on the powers of Fair Work Inspectors, including the ability to enter premises and the conditions surrounding these powers, please see the Fair Work Ombudsman Fact Sheet – Powers of Fair Work Inspectors.

What rights can be exercised whilst on the premises by an organisation official? An organisation official who has a right of entry permit (called a permit holder) may enter premises, and exercise rights whilst on the premises, for the purpose of investigating a contravention of the Fair Work Act 2009, the former Workplace Relations Act 1996, or a fair work instrument. The permit holder must have reasonable grounds for suspecting a contravention has occurred or is occurring.

WHILST on the premises, the permit holder may interview any person about a suspected contravention.

The permit holder can only exercise these rights if all the following are met: • the suspected contravention relates to or affects at least one member of the permit holder’s organisation • the organisation is entitled to represent the industrial interests of that member • the member performs work on the premises • unless the Fair Work Commission has issued an exemption certificate, an entry notice is given to the occupier of the premises and any affected employer, during working hours at least 24 hours, but not more than 14 days, before the entry. RIGHT of entry regulates the rights of organisation officials to enter premises to investigate suspected contraventions of workplace laws and instruments, including occupational health and safety laws.

Fair Work Inspectors are authorised to enter premises, without force, when the Fair Work Inspector has reasonable cause to believe that: • people are performing work under the Fair Work Act 2009 or a fair work instrument • there are records or documents that are relevant to compliance with relevant Commonwealth workplace laws.

WA Grower SPRING 2016

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If an exemption certificate has been issued, although notice does not need to be given, the certificate must be given to the occupier and the affected employer as soon as practicable after entry.

In limited circumstances, a permit holder may be able to enter premises, or exercise certain rights on premises, if the right is conferred by a State or Territory Occupational Health and Safety law.

Note: the forms relating to entry to premises such as an entry permit, entry notice or exemption certificates are available at www.fwc.gov.au.

For more information, visit www.fwc.gov.au.

The entry notice must specify: • the premises to be entered • the day of entry • the organisation the permit belongs to • the section of the Fair Work Act 2009 that authorises the entry • particulars of the suspected contravention • a declaration by the permit holder that they are entitled to represent the industrial interests of an employee who performs work at the premises • the provision of the organisation’s rules which entitles the organisation to represent the member or TCF outworker. Whilst on the premises, the permit holder may do the following: • inspect any work, process, or object relevant to the suspected contravention • interview any person about the suspected contravention: –– who agrees to be interviewed and –– whose industrial interests the permit holder’s organisation is entitled to represent. A permit holder must not enter any part of a premises that is mainly used for residential purposes. An organisation official is not authorised to remain at a premises if they fail to: • produce the permit holder’s authority documents for inspection when requested to do so by the occupier of the premises or an affected employer, or when seeking records as set out below • comply with any reasonable request by the occupier of the premises to: –– comply with a work health and safety (WHS) or occupational health and safety (OH&S) requirement that applies –– take a particular route to reach a particular room or area.

What records can be accessed? Whilst on the premises, the permit holder may require the occupier or affected employer to allow the permit holder to inspect, and make copies of, any record or document that is directly relevant to the suspected contravention, and that: • is kept on the premises • is accessible from a computer kept on the premises. A permit holder may give a written notice to an affected employer requiring them to produce, or provide access to, a record or document that is directly relevant to the suspected contravention on a later day or days specified in the notice. The notice must: • be provided on the premises or within five days of the entry to the premises • allow at least 14 days from the date of the notice for the records or documents to be provided. However, records relating solely to employees who are not members of the permit holder’s organisation may only be accessed with the written consent of those non‑members, or by order of the Fair Work Commission. The Fair Work Act 2009 provides generally that information or documents collected in the course of investigating a suspected contravention can only be used or disclosed in relation to the investigation or rectifying the suspected contravention. However, there are some other limited circumstances where the disclosure is allowable. These include where the disclosure is: • necessary to lessen or prevent a serious threat to an individual or the public’s health and safety • necessary for crime investigation, prevention, prosecution, or for the enforcement of proceeds of crime legislation • necessary for the investigation of other unlawful activity or improper conduct • necessary to protect the public revenue

WA Grower SPRING 2016

• necessary for the preparation of court proceedings • required or authorised by or under law • with the consent of the individual. Further, the use or disclosure of information or documents collected is strictly controlled subject to the above exceptions and is regulated under the Privacy Act 1988. Finally, an affected employer is not required to produce, or provide access to, a record or document if this would contravene a Commonwealth or State or Territory law.

Can an organisation official hold discussions with employees at the workplace? An organisation official who is a permit holder may enter premises to hold discussions with one or more employees: • who perform work on the premises • whose industrial interests the permit holder’s organisation is entitled to represent • who wish to participate in those discussions. A permit holder must provide an entry notice to the occupier providing at least 24 hours notice, but no more than 14 days notice, before entering premises to hold discussions.

A permit holder may only enter premises during working hours and may hold discussions only during mealtimes or other breaks. A permit holder must hold discussions or conduct interviews in rooms or areas of the premises agreed to with the occupier of the premises. If an agreement can’t be reached the discussions or interviews may be held in the room or area that is provided by the occupier for taking meals or other breaks. There are specific provisions that apply to the provision of accommodation and transport for permit holders travelling to remote locations. See sections 521A–D of the Fair Work Act 2009 for more information.

What can permit holders and employers not do? The Fair Work Act 2009 sets out certain rights and obligations of both permit holders and employers in relation to right of entry provisions.

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A permit holder must not: • intentionally hinder or obstruct any person or otherwise act in an improper manner when exercising or seeking to exercise their rights • misrepresent themselves by intentionally or recklessly giving the impression they are authorised to do things they are not authorised to do. An employer (or other person) must not: • refuse or unduly delay entry to a permit holder’s entitled to enter the premises • refuse or fail to comply with a permit holder’s request to produce or provide access to records or documents • intentionally hinder or obstruct a permit holder who is exercising their right of entry powers • misrepresent themselves by intentionally or recklessly giving the impression they are authorised to do things they are not authorised to do.

What can be done if there are right of entry contraventions? A person, such as an employer, occupier of a premises, workers, or organisation officials who believe that the right of entry provisions have been contravened can contact the Fair Work Commission for assistance.

The Fair Work Commission can deal with a dispute about right of entry, including by arbitration. In dealing with the dispute, the Fair Work Commission may make any order it considers appropriate, including by making one or more of the following orders: • an order to suspend or revoke an entry permit • an order to impose conditions on entry permits • an order about the future issue of entry permits to one or more persons.

If you are in the building and construction industry, Fair Work Building & Construction (FWBC) may investigate and seek penalties for right of entry contraventions. Contact FWBC on 1800 003 338 or online at www.fwbc.gov.au. Right of entry provisions are provided for by sections 481–521 of the Fair Work Act 2009. MORE INFORMATION Contact us: Fair Work Online: www.fairwork.gov.au Fair Work Infoline: 13 13 94 NEED LANGUAGE HELP? Contact the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) on 13 14 50 HEARING & SPEECH ASSISTANCE Call through the National Relay Service (NRS): • For TTY: 13 36 77. Ask for the Fair Work Infoline 13 13 94 • Speak & Listen: 1300 555 727. Ask for the Fair Work Infoline 13 13 94

The Fair Work Ombudsman may inquire into or investigate right of entry complaints. Penalties can apply for proven contraventions of right of entry laws.

NEED HARVEST WORKERS? A no cost Australian Government suitable workers, manage enquiries and provide information on your rights and responsibilities as an employer.

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You’re responsible!

Make sure your workers are paid at the right rate BY DI GRAHAM SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

No matter who you ask “how much do you get paid?”, it’s likely the answer will be “not enough”. But all jokes aside, it’s important to make sure your workers are paid at least the minimum wage — regardless of whether you pay them directly, or through a labour hire company. At the end of the day, it’s your responsibility and if wage commitments are not met, it’s you who will be held accountable.

As an employer, you need to know that on 1 July 2016, State and National minimum wage rates were increased. Who’s entitled to the increase? For businesses covered by the federal FairWork system, the increase was 2.4% for all employees who are paid under a new award rate, the national minimum wage, or in certain cases, a registered agreement. For those businesses covered by the State Industrial Relations system, there has also been an increase to the State minimum wage.

WA Grower SPRING 2016

$672.70

In most cases, employees get Easy-to-use pay tools on the their pay rates from an award Fair Work Ombudsman website — new national or enterprise agreement, have been updated with minimum wage! but if there is no award or the new pay rates for each enterprise agreement that award, so you can use the Pay covers an employee’s job, they are Calculator tool to work out entitled to the national minimum wage. how much your employees should be paid. Visit fairwork.gov.au/pay However, the increase does not apply to employees who are already being paid To confirm which industrial relations more than their applicable award rate or system applies to your business or for registered agreement. more information on new minimum wage rates, visit commerce.wa.gov.au and search How much is the increase? for ‘WA industrial relations’. From 1 July 2016, the new national minimum wage for employees covered by MORE INFORMATION the federal FairWork system is $672.70 For more information about employing others, (up from $656.90) per week or $17.70 per or rates of pay, visit fairwork.gov.au and hour (up from $17.29). search for ‘penalty rates’. For employees covered by the State Industrial Relations system, the increase is 1.9%, bringing the State minimum wage to $692.90 per week.

How do I make sure my employees are being paid correctly? Whether you’re paying your employees yourself, or through a labour hire company, it’s your responsibility to ensure they are being paid properly. Free pay tools are available for you to check that your employees are receiving what they should.

For more information on employing people and making sure they’re being paid correctly, visit the Small Business Development Corporation website at www.smallbusiness.wa.gov.au, or call 13 12 49. The WA Department of Training and Workforce Development also provides small- to mediumbusinesses with useful information, templates, links and resources to help you plan, attract, develop and retain a skilled workforce. Visit the website at www.workplaceessentials.dtwd.wa.gov.au

W H A W T H A T YO OU UN Y NEEEED D TTO O K NO OW KN W A A quad bike can be useful A quad quad bike bike can can be be aaa useful useful piece of equipment but, piece as with piece of of equipment equipment but, but, as as with with any any farm equipment, can have any farm farm equipment, equipment, ititit can can have have serious serious safety risks when used serious safety safety risks risks when when used used incorrectly. incorrectly. This poster highlights incorrectly. This This poster poster highlights highlights things things you need to consider things you you need need to to consider consider before purchasing a before quad bike before purchasing purchasing aa quad quad bike bike for on-farm use. for for on-farm on-farm use. use.

BEFORE YOU BUY BEFORE YOU BEFORE YOU BUY BUY Find out whether a quad bike

C C A U CA AU UTTTIIIO O N ON N

Find whether quad bike is theout best vehiclea for your farm. Find out whether aoption quad bike is the best vehicle option for your farm. is the best vehicle option for your farm. • Identify your needs and relevant operator safety issues – • Identify your needs and relevant operator safety issues – eg riders must not carry passengers (unless specifically • Identify your needs and relevant operator safety issues – eg riders must not carry passengers (unless specifically designed) and must be aged 16 or over. eg riders must not carry passengers (unless specifically designed) and must be aged 16 or over. designed) and must be aged 16 or over. • Compare vehicle options to your needs. • Compare vehicle options to your needs. Compare vehicle options to your needs. • Talk to your dealer and others with relevant knowledge. • Talk to your dealer and others with relevant knowledge. • Talk to your dealer and others with relevant knowledge.

TRAINING TRAINING TRAINING Due to the specific design features and handling

Due to the specific features and handling characteristics of a design quad bike, all riders should undertake Due to the specific design features and handling characteristics of a quad bike, all riders should undertake an accredited training course. characteristics of a quad bike, all riders should undertake an accredited training course. anYou must ensure that anyone using a quad bike on accredited training course. • • You must ensure that anyone using a quad bike on your farm has appropriate information, training and • You must ensure that anyone using a quad bike on your farm has appropriate information, training and supervision. This includes employers, workers and others your farm has appropriate information, training and supervision. This includes employers, workers and others – eg visitors. supervision. This includes employers, workers and others – eg visitors. – eg visitors. • Ask your dealer about trainers in your local area. • Ask your dealer about trainers in your local area. • • Ask your dealer about trainers in your local area. Supervise inexperienced operators. • Supervise inexperienced operators. • Supervise inexperienced operators.

HELMETS AND OTHER PPE HELMETS AND OTHER PPE HELMETS AND Quad bikes are no OTHER different PPE to any other motorcycle when Quad bikes are no different to any other motorcycle when it comes to personal protective equipment (PPE). Always Quad bikes are no different to any other motorcycle when it comes to personal protectiveaequipment (PPE). Always wear a helmet when operating quad bike. it comes to personal protective equipment (PPE). Always wear a helmet when operating a quad bike. wear a helmet when operating a quad bike. It is important to meet your legal requirements when it It is important to meet your legal requirements when it comes to wearing PPE in the workplace – ensure you It is important to meet your legal requirements when it comes to wearing PPE in the workplace – ensure you comply with the advice provided in the owner’s manual. comes to wearing PPE in the workplace – ensure you comply with the advice provided in the owner’s manual. comply with the advice provided in the owner’s manual. Typical PPE other than helmets include: Typical PPE other than helmets include: Typical PPE other than helmets include: • eye protection • eye protection • eye protection hand protection • hand protection hand protection • long-sleeve shirt and • long-sleeve shirt and full-length pants • long-sleeve shirt and full-length pants full-length pants • sturdy footwear.ATTACHMENTS • sturdy footwear.ATTACHMENTS • sturdy footwear.ATTACHMENTS

ATTACHMENTS ATTACHMENTS ATTACHMENTS Before purchasing attachments, ensure they are suitable

Before purchasing attachments, ensure they are suitable for use with your quad bike. Attachments on your quad bike Before purchasing attachments, ensure they are suitable for use with your quad bike. Attachments on your quad bike can reduce the stability, operator control and performance for use with your quad bike. Attachments on your quad bike can reduce the stability, operator control and performance of the vehicle. can reduce the stability, operator control and performance of the vehicle. of the vehicle.

This poster was developed by the Trans-Tasman quad bike industry solutions program This poster wasunder developed by the Trans-Tasman quad bikeSafety industry solutions program working party, the auspices of Heads of Workplace Authorities. This poster wasunder developed by the Trans-Tasman quad bikeSafety industry solutions program working party, the auspices of Heads of Workplace Authorities. working party, under the auspices of Heads of Workplace Safety Authorities.

WA Grower SPRING 2016 Catalogue No. WC02834 ISBN: 978 1 74218 650 4 © WorkCover NSW Catalogue No. WC02834 ISBN: 978 1 74218 650 4 © WorkCover NSW Catalogue No. WC02834 ISBN: 978 1 74218 650 4 © WorkCover NSW

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YOU must develop a written labour hire agreement with each labour hire contractor setting out responsibilities and obligations.

— be part of the good farm labour story in horticulture BY CHRIS WALKER GROWCOM

RACHEL Mackenzie

WA Grower SPRING 2016

Rachel Mackenzie, Chief Advocate for the peak Queensland horticulture body, Growcom, told growers at the National Horticulture Convention on the Gold Coast recently that the industry needed to get better at telling its positive stories about working on farms. “We do not condone underpayment of employees under any circumstances — no excuses. But we know the majority of growers do the right thing and treat their workers incredibly fairly. And we understand as an advocacy organisation how important it is for the industry to get on the front foot and promote our good work on farm stories.

“For example, a vegetable grower in the Lockyer Valley told me she hopes that when her kids got older they will be backpackers around Europe; she would never dream of treating her staff in a way that she wouldn’t want her own children to be treated.

“A strawberry grower who has employed backpackers for the last 20 years recently went to a reunion in Japan of all the backpackers he has ever worked with. These are just two stories of the many good stories about work on farms.” Ms Mackenzie said the industry also needed to talk more loudly about the particular and unique needs of the industry.

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“It shouldn’t matter what day of the week it is when a crop is ready to be picked and packed. We are price takers who operate on very low margins and must continue to fight against penalty rates on the weekend to survive. That is not an excuse to do the wrong thing by our workers but it is our right to ensure we lobby for a sustainable deal for our industry.” Ms Mackenzie emphasised that the most important place for action and reform in workplace relations must take place on farm. “It is the responsibility of individual growers to make sure they are compliant with the law,” she said. “We know that this can be a confusing area. But your growers’ organisation can help. “Growcom supports our members by undertaking risk assessments with them and providing them with individualised support to help them through the workplace relations maze.” Ms Mackenzie said that labour hire contractors were important and useful in the horticulture industry and could save farming businesses time in finding labour, reducing the need to invest in HR staff. “But it is important that you understand you cannot just hand over your labour responsibilities to the contractor,” Rachel said.

“It is also important for growers to engage with some of the larger issues affecting their industry such as the backpacker tax and the Modern Award review. The backpacker tax review is now under way and industry has recently made submissions about the effect of the tax on farm businesses. Growers should talk to vegetablesWA if they want more information. Ms Mackenzie welcomed the review which was announced by the Coalition during the recent election campaign after a collaborative media effort to raise the issue across industry.

“Most growers I speak to are absolutely reliant on backpackers as a key labour source. They want to be sure their workforce is coming for the next harvest, not deterred by a new tax on their earnings from 1 January. “The Federal Government hopes to finalise the review by October so that a determination on the tax can be made in time for January.

Ms Mackenzie said that every four years the Fair Work Commission must by law review all modern awards of which the Horticulture Award 2010 is one of more than 120. The process began on 1 January 2014. “By next month hearings for a number of ‘Common issues’ including casual and part-time employment will be completed,” she said. “Growcom is among key agricultural groups, led by the National Farmers’ Federation, which have been working to state the industry’s position. Twenty eight witnesses presented evidence to FWC hearings in July. All evidence will be submitted by 2 September by the National Farmers Federation. After that, we will await a decision which will hopefully allow us to retain necessary flexibility in our industry.” MORE INFORMATION For more information contact the horticulture industry’s Growcom Workplace Relations Team, email wrteam@growcom.com.au or phone 1800 654 222.

“As an industry we need to be able to provide the best information that we can to this review and we have to do it quickly.”

“You have an obligation to work with legitimate operators. You must do your due diligence to establish their legality. “You must develop a written labour hire agreement with each labour hire contractor setting out responsibilities and obligations. Growcom has a template for members to use. “A farmer who has used a labour hire contractor who is not doing the right thing by their workers is considered an accessory to the wrong doing by the Fair Work Ombudsman. You are under risk of significant reputational damage as you have the likelihood of being publicly named in any litigation. It can have quite significant impacts on your supply chain relationships and there are personal penalties of up to $10,800 per breach. “We have heard where growers are absolutely certain they are doing the right thing — paying the right money; ticking all the boxes; but the money is not going to the workers. I advise that you ask the workers regularly whether they have received their money and if they are being paid correctly and appropriately.

YOU have an obligation to work with legitimate operators. You must do your due diligence to establish their legality.

WA Grower SPRING 2016

WORKPLACE RELATIONS ISSUES? Don’t battle on your own Contact the horticulture industry’s Workplace Relations Team

FOR A MODEST FLAT FEE* YOUR FARMING BUSINESS RECEIVES: direct and prompt advice on a current problem facing your workplace an informative bi-monthly industrial relations e-newsletter a range of ready-made HR products at a discounted fee available through the Growcom online shop. Products can be tailored to your workplace.

CONTACT GROWCOM TODAY EMAIL

wrteam@growcom.com.au

PHONE

1800 654 222

Growcom has an extensive understanding of workplace relations issues in the horticulture industry, whether for sole traders and partners or corporate farmers. Growcomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Workplace Relations Team has a proven capacity to work with growers to interpret laws, awards and agreements affecting their farms. We are ready to assist production horticulture businesses meet their regulatory requirements and best practice employment standards in industrial relations, human resources and work health and safety. Our advice and products are tailored specifically to meet the needs of horticulture producers, whether the farm business is family managed or a corporate structure. Contact the Growcom Workplace Relations Team for confidential advice and instruction on how to solve the issues affecting your farming business. Growcom is the peak body for Queensland production horticulture. Growcom Workplace Relations advice and work is covered by professional indemnity insurance to the value of $10 million. *$275.00 annual fee which gives you professional and tailored advice for the price of a local call â&#x20AC;&#x201C; as many times as you need.

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Protect your agriculture business from unfair contracts Don’t be forced into accepting unfair contracts! There’s a new law that might help you… Small businesses will soon be protected from unfair contract terms due to a new law that comes into place from 12 November 2016. If you’re a farmer or an agriculture business, you should find out about how the new law can help you.

• the contract wasn’t for more than $300,000 (or $1 million for contracts longer than 12 months). What is an unfair contract term? Terms that may be unfair terms are terms that let one party but not the other: • avoid or limit their obligations under the contract • terminate the contract • vary the terms of the contract

What is the new unfair contract law?

• be penalised for breaching or terminating the contract.

Under the new law small businesses will be able to have an unfair term in a contract declared void by a court if at the time of agreeing to a standard form contract:

Only a court or tribunal can decide that a term is unfair.

• you had less than 20 employees and

A standard form contract is an agreement where:

What is a standard form contract?

• the terms and conditions are set by the other business, and

Why is this new law important to your business? Many small businesses enter into contracts with larger businesses and have no option but to accept all the terms of the standard form contract, even if they are unfair. This kind of imbalance in bargaining power is common in the agriculture industry.

Under the new law, a court or tribunal will be able to cancel a contract term it finds unfair which helps provide protection to businesses in the agriculture industry. What should you do? Farmers and agriculture businesses should: • make sure they’re aware of these new protections

• you have little or no opportunity to negotiate the terms of the contract.

• review the standard form contracts they receive and make sure they get a fair deal when entering into these contracts with larger businesses.

In other words, they’re offered on a ‘take it or leave it’ basis.

If you’re concerned about the terms of a contract you have received, you should: • visit the unfair contract terms information on the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) website • contact the ACCC’s Agriculture Unit. MORE INFORMATION For more information on unfair contract terms see: • t he new laws on unfair contract terms on the ACCC website • check out our unfair contracts information. Details taken from www.business.gov.au/ news/protect-your-farming-or-agriculturebusiness-from-unfair-contracts for further general business information check their website www.business.gov.au.

WA Grower SPRING 2016

Landmark Harcourts WA (08) 9318 8260

WANERIE / GINGIN WEST 19.1 Ha – 47.19 Ac

COWALLA/GINGIN 48.84 Ha – 120.68 Ac

‘Tumamo Orchards’ — 227 Rangeview Drive • Purposely selected prime property for fruit-food production • Excellent opportunity to own an income producing rural investment • 2400 mango, 600 mandarin and 400 peach trees (15–18yrs) • Water licence 71,900 KL (exp 4th May 2024) • Production bore and irrigation dam • Perfect country for orchards, tuart soils, north facing slope • 4x2 custom design homestead, views over orchard and countryside • Storage shed and cool room • Plant and equipment by negotiation • So much more to list, must see

$1,200,000

For more information and private viewings please call or email our local horticulture real-estate specialist: Adam Shields M. 0429 104 760 E. adam.shields@landmarkharcourts.com.au

Web ID:LEP23958

YOUR BUSINESS

Industry Skills Fund

If you are an existing business that has identified an opportunity to grow, such as a new product, a new process or a new market, and your employees need training so that your business can take advantage of this opportunity, the Industry Skills Fund may be able to help you. The Industry Skills Fund helps eligible businesses to invest in training to take advantage of new business growth opportunities.

You may be able to receive free independent skills advice and access Government funding to support your training efforts. The Industry Skills Fund can help your business: • access an opportunity to grow outside of your normal day-to-day operations; and • offer training to your employees to assist the business to take up new opportunities.

WA Grower SPRING 2016

Does your business have access to the skilled and productive workforce it needs to turn good ideas into great commercial outcomes? • Are you an existing business that has identified an opportunity to grow, such as a new product or a new market? • Do your employees need training so that your business can take advantage of this opportunity? • Perhaps you need to hire and train more employees in order to grow? • Could you benefit from some expert advice on the skills your workforce needs to help your business meet its growth opportunity? • Do you want to know what training may be available?

The Industry Skills Fund is here to help Australian businesses grow and prosper. The first step in seeking assistance through the Industry Skills Fund is to: • call Navitas Professional on 1300 856 549 or • call the single business service on 13 28 46 or • complete a simple online enquiry form available on business.gov.au/industryskillsfund

YOUR BUSINESS

Business grant opportunities BY REBECCA BLACKMAN FINANCE & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER, VEGETABLESWA

There are some fantastic opportunities for agricultural businesses in relation to grants from the Government. On the www.business.gov.au website there are a range of opportunities for businesses to take advantage of funding. business.gov. au is an online government resource for the Australian business community. business. gov.au offers you simple and convenient access to all of the government information, assistance, forms and services you need. It's a whole-of-government service providing essential information on planning, starting and growing your business. business.gov.au provides a range of free tools and resources useful to businesses.

The website focuses on all areas of planning, starting, running and exiting your business, and sends you to government websites to help you find the business answers you're looking for. The News items are written regularly to keep you in the loop about new initiatives, programs, grants, events and other government information. Sign up to their free email update service to receive our news and feature items emailed directly to your inbox. They've developed a set of free tools and resources to help your business start and grow: • Advisory Services can help you find advice in your state or territory. • Find Grants & Assistance to help you. • Find Events for business held throughout Australia, including seminars, training courses and workshops.

The Business apps help you develop business, marketing, and emergency management and recovery plans for your business.

Business Evaluation

The Checklists guide you through the various stages of your business, whether you're just starting out or ready to grow.

Experienced Business Advisers review business operations, including business direction and strategy. The outcome of the review is an Evaluation Report with suggestions for business improvement. Business Evaluations are free for eligible businesses.

Available grants and assistance Agricultural Trade and Market Access Cooperation (ATMAC) • Open (accepting applications) • Applications close: Ongoing Provides funding to individuals and organisations to open, improve and maintain access to overseas markets for Australian agricultural products.

Efic Small Business Export Loan

• Open (accepting applications) • Applications close: Ongoing

Business Growth Grants • Open (accepting applications) • Applications close: Ongoing Business Growth Grants provide financial help for businesses to improve their operations and grow.

Supply Chain Facilitation • Open (accepting applications)

• Open (accepting applications)

• Applications close: Ongoing

If you'd like to improve your supply chain performance, Supply Chain Facilitation can provide you with practical advice.

Provides loans to support small businesses looking to export.

Drought Concessional Loans WA • Open (accepting applications) • Applications close: 31 October 2016

Efic Export Finance Guarantee • Open (accepting applications) • Applications close: Ongoing

If you’re running a farm business in WA that is affected by drought conditions, this program can help you recover by offering concessional loans.

Export finance guarantees can be provided to a bank to guarantee a loan to an overseas buyer to help them with the purchase of capital equipment or services from an Australian exporter.

Export Market Development Grants (EMDG)

MORE INFORMATION

• Open (accepting applications) • Applications close: 30 November 2016

For more information see their website www.business.gov.au and search for the tools or grants you might require.

Reimburses expenses incurred for export promotional activities to existing and potential Australian exporters. WA Grower SPRING 2016

YOUR BUSINESS

ADVERTORIAL

Member Service — insurance broker In an exciting new initiative Centrewest Insurance Brokers have partnered with vegeablesWA to provide you with excellent and responsive service as your Insurance Brokers. We work for you and not the insurer. Growers who participated in the pilot program received an initial reduction in premium of between 10% to up to 40%! Growers this meant a saving of between $4,000 and $10,000 a year!

Whether you’re a small or large grower operation, they help you review and manage risks on your property. Their service is personal and they will offer you an insurance package that is tailor made to suit your specific requirements. The package will provide you with financial protection against the main and even the less likely insurance events, giving you peace of mind.

Types of insurance available: • Farm Pack • Crop Insurance • Workers Compensation • Corporate Travel • Professional Indemnity • Management Liability • Cyber Risk & Liability • Caravan Insurance • Boat Insurance • Home Building &/or Contents Insurance • Motor Vehicle • Landlords Insurance • Marine Transit • Aviation Insurance • Income Protection Insurance Centrewest Insurance Brokers can select from Australia's leading business insurance companies to get the right farm insurance cover for you. Established in Perth, Western Australia in 1987, their local team of insurance brokers have over 25 years of experience finding the

SPARAXIS PTY LTD | TRADING AS CENTREWEST INSURANCE BROKERS | ABN 44 009 265 105 AFS LICENCE NO. 245406 | INCORPORATING E.D’A INSURANCE SERVICES

WA Grower SPRING 2016

right insurance cover for your operation. You can be assured that you are dealing with a company who works to represent you and not the insurer. Centrewest Insurance Brokers deals with Australia’s leading insurers, underwriting agencies and Lloyds of London agencies. MORE INFORMATION To take advantage of the great rates on offer from Centrewest Insurance Brokers, contact your local broker, Gavin Statham and mention you saw the article in the WA Grower. You will need to provide a copy of your most recent insurance with all details remaining completely confidential. Gavin Statham, Senior Insurance Broker T (08) 9349 7900 | M 0488 988 697 Website: www.centrewest.com.au Or go to our website www.vegetableswa.com. au/members-services/#insurance

We work for you and not the insurer Centrewest Insurance Brokers, have partnered with vegetablesWA, will provide you with excellent and responsive service as your Insurance Brokers. Whether you’re a small or large grower operation, we help you review and manage risks on your property. Our service is personal and we will offer you an insurance package that is tailor made to suit your specific requirements. Our package will provide you with financial protection against the main and even the less likely insurance events, giving you peace of mind. Types of insurance available: Farm Pack Crop Insurance Workers Compensation Corporate Travel Professional Indemnity

Management Liability Cyber Risk & Liability Caravan Insurance Boat Insurance Home Building &/or Contents Insurance

Motor Vehicle Landlords Insurance Marine Transit Aviation Insurance Income Protection Insurance

Growers who participated in the pilot program received a reduction in premium of between 10% to up to 40%! Contact Gavin Statham today to review your insurance. Gavin Statham Senior Insurance Broker | T 08 9349 7900 | M 0488 988 697 | E Gavin.Statham@centrewest.com.au

SPARAXIS PTY LTD TRADING AS CENTREWEST INSURANCE BROKERS ABN: 44 009 265 105 AFSL: 245406

YOUR BUSINESS

New codes:

Freshcare FSQ4 & ENV3 BY REBECCA BLACKMAN FINANCE & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER, VEGETABLESWA

When the Freshcare Code reviews were initiated in 2014, the intention was to simply update content in response to participant and stakeholder feedback to create more practical, streamlined standards.

Timeframes for transition to FSQ4 and ENV3 All audits from 1 January 2017 must be to the FSQ4 and ENV3 Codes of Practice. As with any new Code editions, there will be a transition period for participating businesses currently certified to Freshcare Codes of Practice — Food Safety & Quality 3rd Edition and Environmental 2nd Edition to upgrade to Food Safety & Quality Edition 4 (FSQ4) and Environmental Edition 3 (ENV3). From 1 June to 31 December 2016, existing Freshcare participating businesses will have the choice of either a: • 3rd Edition or Edition 4 FSQ audits; and/or

As the process got underway, it was evident that the new standards would also need to: • ensure structural alignment between the Freshcare Codes • provide improved access to guidance material — each code element now has clear references to records, Freshcare resources and external resources For the Food Safety & Quality Code: • ensure compliance with the requirements of GFSI • align with the ‘go-to’ food safety resource for the Australian fresh produce industry, ‘The Guidelines for Fresh Produce Food Safety’ All these objectives have been achieved in the Food Safety & Quality Edition 4 (FSQ4) and Environmental Edition 3 (ENV3) Freshcare Codes that deliver practical compliance solutions for all stakeholders. Note: in some areas the requirements of the Freshcare FSQ4 Code exceeds those stated in The Guidelines for Fresh Produce Food Safety’.

• 2nd Edition or Edition 3 ENV audit. Businesses must comply with all requirements relevant to the Edition of the FSQ/ENV Codes they are audited to. For instance, all FSQ 3rd Edition requirements must be met for a 3rd Edition FSQ audit, and all Edition 4 requirements must be met for an FSQ4 audit. You will not be able to have a FSQ 3rd Edition audit whilst meeting FSQ4 requirements, or vice versa.

FSQ4 and ENV3 Training There is no mandatory training requirement to transition to the new Codes. All Code and manual resources will be available for download on FreshcareOnline for growers. Please email info@freshcare.com.au or contact the Freshcare Office to have your logon reissued. For those who require assistance to transition, or require additional staff to undertake training, FSQ4 and ENV3 training is available. For more information on training options, please visit the Freshcare website, www.freshcare.com.au

Freshcare Rules The Freshcare Rules, previously Certification Rules, is a document that explains everything

WA Grower SPRING 2016

you need to know about how the Freshcare Program works, as well as your rights and responsibilities and those of other stakeholders. The Freshcare Rules cover everything from initial registration with The Freshcare Rules are available for download on the Freshcare website. Should you wish to receive a hardcopy of the Freshcare Rules, please contact the Freshcare Office.

How do I transition to FSQ4 and ENV3? To ensure your business is fully compliant to the new Code requirements, you must complete the FSQ4 and/or ENV3 M4 Form — Internal audit report. To assist with the transition to FSQ4 and ENV3, Feshcare Newsletter 27 (link below) includes: • an explanation of the new Code format and resources; and • a summary of changes in FSQ4 and ENV3 is provided to assist with identifying changes and new records requirements. The release of FSQ4 and ENV3 is the culmination of over two years work for the Freshcare Office, Technical Committees and extended stakeholder network. The contribution of all Code contributors, reviewers and editors is very much appreciated. MORE INFORMATION The Freshcare Newsletter 27 is available at: www.freshcare.com.au/wp-content/uploads/ Freshcare-Newsletter-27-June-2016.pdf More information is also available on the Freshcare website www.freshcare.com.au or through the Freshcare Office, phone 1300 853 508 or email info@freshcare.com.au

YOUR MARKET

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WA Grower SPRING 2016

YOUR MARKET

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Horticulture Innovation Australia (Hort Innovation) launched the Australian Onions ‘Secret Serve’ campaign aimed at helping parents give their kids an extra serve of vegetable — without them knowing — in May 2016. Australian’s already love onions, but the campaign wants to encourage parents and meal preparers to include onions in even more meals by inspiring them with new ways to serve the vegetable and accustom kids to their taste. The national initiative focuses on the creative use of onions in everyday meals and includes family friendly recipes, tips and tricks for storing and preparing onions, as well as recipe cards and in-store cooking demonstrations. Hort Innovation’s Marketing Manager Craig Perring said the campaign hopes to make it easier for parents to ensure their children are getting the recommended five serves of vegetables by showing them how easy it is to add onions into family favourite recipes.

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“Australian children aren’t consuming nearly enough vegetables. Onions can help: they are a versatile, delicious and nutritious vegetable you can add to any meal without the kids even knowing. “The Secret Serve Campaign is designed to show that preparing onions the right way they can become a reliable, and hassle free serve of vegetables at your children’s mealtime to ensure well nourished kids without the nightly argument — which we see as a big win in the kitchen!”

This often-overlooked everyday vegetable is actually a ‘wonder vegetable’ containing many health benefits. An anti-oxidant, antiviral, anti-inflammatory vegetable, onions contain high levels of biotin, manganese, vitamin B6, vitamin C and fibre. Other attributes include boosting the immune system and helping to maintain good gut and heart health. The recipe card will include a seven day meal planner of recipes containing a Secret Serve of onion including: • Secret spaghetti bolognese • Vanishing vegetarian fried rice

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An alarming 94.6% of Australian children aged 2–18 years are not getting the recommended daily serves of vegetables*, and, that is where the humble onion can give parents an easy win in the kitchen as they count towards your daily intake.

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The recipe booklet also features tips on how to dice, store and cook onions as well as how to stop the tears when cutting them. The Secret Serve campaign has also recently established its Secret Serve Society and engaged some of Australia’s most loved and well-known food personalities to create and showcasing the versatility of this unique and nutritious vegetable, including: • Lyndey Milan — Onion and Cheese Quesadilla • Magdalena Roze — Potato Rosti • Darren Robertson — Beef Rissoles • Mike McEnearney — Old School Fish Cakes As part of the campaign roll out, Australian Onions has partnered with the Mushroom industry to bring their in-store cooking demonstrations to 470 Woolworths, Coles, and independent supermarket and green grocer stores across Australia. Spaghetti bolognese was on the menu and shoppers were able to sample a recipe containing both vegetables, showcasing how easy it is to sneak a serving of each into every meal. For more information on the campaign see the website www.secretserve.com.au or email info@secretserve.com.au * The Australian Bureau of Statistics National Health Survey 2014–15

• Hidden homemade beef burgers • Undercover beef stroganoff • Masked minted lamb rissoles • Camouflaged chicken san choy bau • Incognito sizzling steak fajitas WA Grower SPRING 2016

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Agribusiness opportunities

in Vietnam BY EMMA FIELD THE WEEKLY TIMES

Australia has a strong bond with Vietnam. Australian men fought in the Vietnam War, then there was mass migration of Vietnamese to our shores in the following decades. Vietnam became the fifth-largest source of immigration to Australia. Australian Horticultural Exporters’ Association chair David Minnis says Australia’s early trade links after the war have not been forgotten. “We were one of the first countries to recognise them after the war and Australia is looked at favourably for this,” Mr Minnis says. Opening up the economy has paid off, with Vietnam becoming the poster child of the World Bank when it spectacularly reduced its poverty rate from almost 60% in 1993 to about 10% in 2010. This was assisted by Vietnam’s entry to the World Trade Organisation in 2007 and its

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recently signed series of trade agreements, including the ASEAN — Australia — New Zealand free-trade agreement and the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement. Most recently it also signed an FTA with the European Union, which may present strong competition to Australian exporters in the future. There are 94 million people in Vietnam, with the country now considered lower middle class, with an average income of US$2100 per capita. Vietnam’s economic growth is outstripping that of all other South-East Asia countries, and is catching up on its neighbour China, whose economy has slowed, dragging down many South-East Asian economies with it. China’s GDP growth peaked at 14% in 2007 but last year posted its slowest growth in 25 years, of 6.9%. In the 15 years to 2015 Vietnam’s GDP growth averaged 6.15%, averaging 6.7% in 2015. ANZ Bank has tipped Vietnam’s growth to be 6.5–7% in the next four years, yet ANZ’s Singapore-based ASEAN economist, Weiwen Ng, says this is well below its potential.

“Vietnam’s GDP growth prospects are bullish,” Mr Ng says. “We are tipping it has the potential for 8% growth.” He says labour costs in Vietnam are about half that of China, with manufacturing moving into Vietnam. “Vietnam could be the new factory of Asia,” he says.

IHS Global Insight Asia-Pacific chief economist Rajiv Biswas says Vietnam’s economy is still relatively small, at about US$200 billion. In comparison China’s is US$9180 billion, Indonesia’s US$870 billion and Australia’s US$1505 billion. Mr Biswas says growth industries are increasing incomes and spending power, especially in the cities, creating a higherincome population that will provide opportunities for Australia. “The middle class is growing very fast. It will double in size by 2030 to 30 million and the spending power will grow as well,” Mr Biswas says.

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IN January tariffs on many Australian food and beverage exports to Vietnam fell significantly, and will be removed completely on some items over the next two years.

“With a bigger middle class we expect to see rapid growth in processed agriculture products.” Horticulture trade between Australia and Vietnam is a sore point, after the Vietnamese Government banned the $40 million fruit export trade in January last year citing fruit-fly concerns. The ban was partially lifted in July, with citrus and table grapes allowed back in, but stonefruits and cherries remain embargoed while trade official in both countries continue negotiations. Austrade Vietnam trade commissioner Katharine Heather says the ASEAN FTA, which started last October, will also deliver benefits.

In January tariffs on many Australian food and beverage exports to Vietnam fell significantly, and will be removed completely on some items over the next two years. Ms Heather has lived in Vietnam for nine months and says she constantly sees opportunities, with many locals eating out every day.

Fruit fly arsenal to strengthen through $5M investment BY KELLY VORST-PARKES COMMUNICATIONS, HORT INNOVATION

Horticulture Innovation Australia (Hort Innovation) has been successful in securing a $1.65 million grant to strengthen the agriculture industry’s fight against a species of fruit fly that is stifling the nation’s export trade.

Mr Lloyd said before agreeing to accept imports, countries such as Japan and China require evidence that postharvest treatments such as Cold Treatment — where flies expire after extended exposure to low temperatures — work to control Medfly risk.

Awarded through the Australian Government Rural Research and Development for Profit program, the grant will facilitate a five-year program which aims to erase trade partners’ concerns about Mediterranean Fruit Fly (Medfly) in Australia.

A dedicated facility in Western Australia conducted such treatments until it closed in 2015, and as part of this project, a state-of-the-art laboratory at Murdoch University will be equipped to continue that work.

Hort Innovation Chief Executive Officer John Lloyd said the funding complements a further $3.4 million toward the project from Hort Innovation, Murdoch University (Western Australia) and research partners.

• Develop ‘data packages’ for key export commodities such as apples, capsicum, avocados, blueberries, cherries, pears and strawberries. This will involve a series of trials using treatments, repeatedly, to convey clear patterns in results. The aim is to demonstrate the treatments are effective against Medfly

Also part of the project, researchers will:

• Develop new technologies to help treat produce prior to export, including the aim to create small-scale, mobile equipment for growers to use cost effectively in packing sheds

“They want to try new foods and enjoy their newfound prosperity,” she says. “I think many Australians are not aware of the transformation under way in Vietnam, and I urge businesses to take a closer look.”

• Identify treatments that can become standard protocols for use by fruit and vegetable exporters.

You get the feeling the Australia-Vietnam relationship, which started decades ago in war, is starting a new brand new and tastier chapter.

MORE INFORMATION For further information go to Hort Innovation website http://horticulture.com.au/fruitfly-arsenal-to-strengthen-through-5minvestment/

MORE INFORMATION Read the fully Weekly Times Now article www.weeklytimesnow.com.au/ agribusiness/decisionag/agribusinessopportunities-in-vietnam/news-story/ c59b9afb4815352556926fb70af14f0e

“This hard-fought Rural Research and Development for Profit program grant is a win for the $9 billion Australian horticulture industry as it will help open up access to trade partner countries that have stringent Medfly requirements,” he said.

HORT Innovation Chief Executive Officer John Lloyd.

WA Grower SPRING 2016

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BY REBECCA BLACKMAN FINANCE & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER, VEGETABLESWA

WA vegetable growers have finalised their project Make Me A Hero which vegetablesWA partnered with the Eat Brighter Live Lighter campaign to put vegetables firmly in the spotlight on menus around Perth. The project has capitalised on the national growth of a foodie culture and the ability of modern chefs, restaurants and cafes to influence home diets. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s challenging chefs across the state to make a statement.

ABOVE LEFT Jenny Atkins (Live Lighter), Paul Graham (Project Manager) and Anna Finch (Live Lighter). ABOVE Anthony Craven & Alicia Ryan, Comestibles.

WA Grower SPRING 2016

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The chefs were challenged to make the dining experience in WA one that showcases the vegetable. To make people understand that stunning centrepiece dishes can focus on a vegetable as its core ingredient. To let people discover how to add sensational tasting, easy to prepare side dishes to their main course. To change a mentality that eating vegetables is a chore, to a mentality that sees eating vegetables as a tasty, healthy food solution. We managed communications through our Instagram page (@wavegies) which showcased WA vegetable meal inspiration, making vegetables the hero of your next dish! Instagram has been grown over the past nine months to 287 followers and our existing Facebook page www. facebook.com/wavegies, which has 8,400 + likes grown organically from 8,000 at the commencement of the project. Both user names are wavegies and use the #makemeahero. In addition to this we ran a social media competition for chefs to upload pictures of their creations which we could then share and they would win a free vegetable box from GetFresh Merchants.

The competition ran over 12 weeks and was a brilliant success with each of our pilot restaurants showing what they could make with fresh WA vegetables! The final wrap up event was held at Theo & Co Pizzeria in Leederville to show case how versatile vegetables could be. The event featured all vegetarian pizzaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s including a special Theo creation of spiced pumpkin, potato, zucchini & ricotta. After eating an array of vegetarian pizzas, Paul Graham and Jenny Atkins, Live Lighter discussed the project with the chefs. The chefs who attended voiced how important they think using local produce is and they were pleased to see a reduction in their food costs. Chef Matt Leahy from Ultimo Catering would like information on what is in season so they can refresh menus through seasonal prompting for each growing region in WA.

MELISSA Palinkas (Young George), Peter Manifis (Passion meets Purveyor), Stuart Laws (Don Tapa), Sophie Budd (Taste Budds Cooking Studio) and Susan Whelan (Young George).

Overall the project has created a buzz amongst the industry and has highlighted how versatile the humble WA vegetable can be. MORE INFORMATION For further information on the project please contact Paul Graham, Marketing Manager on 0414 382 738 or paul@marketstrategy.com.au

Member

of people want to integrate more veg into their diets (Source: Consumer research by Colmar Brunton 2015)

Global protein consumption will triple from 200m tonnes in 1990 to 750m tonnes in 2030 (Source: Rabobank 2014)

of people are overweight or obese costing the health system $57 billion per year

FOLLOW WA VEGIES facebook.com/wavegies @wavegies

(Source: Government Health Department statistics 2015)

WA Grower SPRING 2016

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INSET: Troy Cukrov from Supafresh with a potential exporter.

Reverse Trade Mission: Aussie produce takes centre stage BY REBECCA BLACKMAN FINANCE & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER, VEGETABLESWA

The 2016 Reverse Trade Mission (RTM) has been hailed as a great success, with new trade partnerships between buyers from Asia and the Middle East and Australian vegetable producers being established. The RTM, which ran from 19â&#x20AC;&#x201C;26 June, brought over 40 buyers from Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Thailand and the United Arab Emirates to Australia to learn more about the Australian vegetable industry and meet with Australian vegetable growers interested in exporting their produce.

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The program for the delegation was jam packed, with buyers meeting leading producers and government trade officials in South Australia, Victoria and Queensland, as well as visiting wholesale markets and growing operations. Buyers received a first-hand look at the high quality and innovative production methods within the Australian vegetable industry and were hugely impressed with our growers and their operations and the high quality of their produce. Feedback that was received from Reverse Trade Mission delegates indicated that 94% of buyers who participated in the mission are likely to increase the amount of Australian vegetables they currently import. With 35% of buyers estimating that they will do over $500,000 of trade with Australia following the 2016 Reverse Trade Mission, there are significant opportunities for export ready Australian growers to capitalise on the

networks and relationships built during this trade mission. The delegation also met with vegetable growers from across Australia during a Produce Display event held on the Gold Coast as part of the 2016 National Horticulture Convention. This event provided growers the opportunity to connect directly with buyers to discuss business opportunities and enhance trading relationships. Western Australian growers who participated in Reverse Trade Mission events such as the Produce Display included: Trandos Farms, Sumich, Supafresh, Centerwest, Riverlodge Produce, Glavovich P&L showcasing a range of WA vegetable produce including carrots, sweet corn, sweet potato, parsnips, leafy salad lines, onions and pumpkin. MORE INFORMATION If you are interested in exporting and would like more information contact vegetablesWA (08) 9481 0834 or office@vegetableswa.com.au

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Australian Trusted Trader BY REBECCA BLACKMAN FINANCE & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER, VEGETABLESWA

Australian Trusted Trader is a voluntary trade facilitation initiative. It recognises businesses with a secure supply chain and compliant trade practices, rewarding accredited businesses with a range of trade facilitation benefits. Australian Trusted Trader is an Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme. AEOs work to secure the international supply

chain, while facilitating the movement of Eligibility requirements legitimate trade. • an Australian Business Number (ABN) Australian Trusted Trader application process • two years history of participation in Benefits What is Australian Trusted Trader? The Australian Border Force (ABF)international has implemented a trade voluntaryactivities trade facilitation initiative: Benefits to Trusted Traders include: the Australian Trusted Trader (ATT) programme. The programme recognises businesses

the ability to demonstrate theybusinesses are with a secure supply chain and• compliant trade practices, rewarding accredited • a dedicated Account Manager with a range of trade facilitation benefits. financially solvent. • priority trade services Who can apply?

ATT is free to join and is open to all Australian businesses active in the international supply

• differentiated examinationschain, have an Australian Business Number (ABN), two years of trading history, and are MORE INFORMATION

financially solvent. This includes importers, exporters and service providers such as ports,

brokers and freight companies.Apply at https://online.immi.gov.au/lusc/login • use of the Australian Trusted Trader logo

or for further information visit www.border. gov.au/Busi/Trus.

How to apply • Mutual Recognition Arrangements. To become a Trusted Trader, your business must:

visit www.border.gov.au/trustedtrader and obtain a login More information about current and future For more information on ATT visit www.border. complete an expression of interest (EOI) questionnaire (SAQ) gov.au/trustedtrader. For more information programme benefits is available. complete the self-assessment

Eligibility

 

be verified through an on-site validation on Known Consignor enter into an ATT agreement.

visit www.border.gov.au/ Busi/Trus/benefits or register your interest

Depending on the size and complexity of your business, submitting your EOI and SAQ may take between 20 hours and 200and hours. Your business is not required to use a consultant to receive updates by providing your details complete any part of the application process. The ABF will provide assistance and support at https://infrastructure.gov.au/security/airthroughout the process. This will include a contact officer to work with you to complete your SAQ. cargo/registration-known-consignor.aspx

Australian Trusted Trader is free to join and accreditation is available to all Australian Individuals applying on behalf of a business will be required to acknowledge they have been businesses that are active in the international Download the at the granted authority to do so by the business. You are Trusted encouragedTrader to becomeToolkit familiar with (Australian Programme) Rule 2015 (the Rule). You can access the trade supply chain, and meet Customs or exceed the Trusted Trader www.border.gov.au/AustralianTrustedTrader/ Rule via www.border.gov.au/trustedtrader Documents/att-toolkit-web.pdf required standards. Expression of interest (EOI)

The login registration and EOI should take around 15 minutes to complete in the online portal. It establishes the name of your business, ABN, contact details and a brief description of your business’ international trade activities. The EOI will help you to determine if ATT is right for your business.

FROM CONCEPT DESIGNS TO OPERATIONAL PROJECTS Once you have submitted an EOI, your business will be placed in a queue and an ABF officer will contact you to discuss the next steps.

FRUIT AND VEGETABLE GRADING AND HANDLING EQUIPMENT.

AUSTRALIAN MADE

International AEO and trade facilitation

edp australia pty ltd 31-37 O’Brien Street Mooroopna VIC 3629 Phone (03) 5820 5337 Fax (03) 5825 2758 Email sales@edp.com.au

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LEFT Airfreight iceless broccoli being sold in Carrefour store Dubai. ABOVE Iceless broccoli at packing in Gatton Queensland June, 2016.

No return to the ice age

for East Coast broccoli BY MARK HODDER QUEENSLAND GOVERNMENT, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES

Iceless air freight is allowing super fresh Australian broccoli to be served up in Dubai supermarkets just days after leaving Queensland. Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) senior horticulturist Clinton McGrath said last year Australia had less than 7% of the market share for cabbages, cauliflower and broccoli being imported by the United Arab Emirates (UAE). “DAF championed the use of air freight instead of sea freight, and organised three trial shipments of locally-grown broccoli out of Brisbane and Melbourne International Airports,” he said. “We want to increase that share for our local producers and one way of doing that is through innovative packaging and transport methods such as iceless air freight.

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“Normally Australian broccoli is shipped using polystyrene cartons packed in 2–4kg of ice per carton. “By using a new plastic liner and especially-made cardboard cartons we can take advantage of a well-developed chain of cold storage between Australia and the UAE and eliminate the need for ice, resulting in potential savings in freight and packaging costs.

“DAF contributed to the design and development of these new cartons and our efforts have paid off. Recent shipments using this method have resulted in no losses in product quality on arrival in the UAE. “DAF tracked these airfreight consignments of broccoli to two importers during the heat of summer in the UAE, assessing maintenance of the cold storage chain along the way using temperature loggers and assessment of out-turn quality of the produce upon arrival and at retail display. “The modified atmosphere plastic liner with the plastic impregnated cardboard carton

performed well. We’ve been able to provide the logger records and photographs to local broccoli exporters to support our case for continuing with this approach. “Interestingly, we found the UAE retailers preferred broccoli with a larger diameter broccoli head and a shorter stalk when compared to the domestic product specification which many broccoli producers would be familiar with. “In September we’ll repeat the process with shipments being arranged to go to Singapore and Indonesia.” MORE INFORMATION The Australian Department of Agriculture and Water Resources supports this project through its grants package to assist small exporters. The aim is to help small exporters of broccoli and leafy vegetables to increase market access and competitiveness through innovative packaging.

YOUR PRODUCTION

ALTERNATIVES TO METHAM SODIUM — VIETNAMESE TRANSLATION

Các giải pháp thay thế cho Metham Sodium Metham Sodium (MS) là loại hóa chất xông hơi phổ rộng dung để khống chế hàng loại các loại sau bệnh hại có nguồn gốc trong đất bao gồm tuyến trùng, nấm, sâu bọ và cỏ dại.

Những thông điệp chính • Sự lệ thuộc vào các chất xông hơi như MS thường gây thay đổi môi trường đất và làm giảm đặc tính trấn áp bệnh hại vốn có của đất, làm cho sự lệ thuộc vào các chất này càng ngày nặng hơn để đối phó với sâu bệnh hại trog đất và cỏ dại. • Tác hại của MS đến môi trường và sức khỏe con người là những lý do chính đáng để tìm kiếm phương cách thay thế hiệu quả và phổ biến trên thị trường. • Hiện nay không có sản phẩm thay thế MS ngay. • Các biển pháp thay thế MS (chẳng hạn như xông hơi sinh học) sẽ có tác dụng tối đa chỉ khi nào là một khâu trong chiến lược bảo vệ cây trồng tổng hợp.

• Thay đổi hệ thống canh tác đã quen thuộc thường bao gồm những rủi ro kèm theo trong lúc các biện pháp mới đang được tích hợp dần vào hệ thống canh tác hiện có. • Chiến lược mới bảo vệ cây trồng tổng hợp phải được xây dựng trong bối cảnh hiện tại ở địa phương có xem xét các yếu tố: - Điều kiện đất đai và hệ thống canh tác hiện tại - Áp lực bệnh hại

- Điều kiện môi trường

Lý do chúng ta cần có các giải pháp thay thế Chất này không thân thiện với môi trường — MS là chất di động nhanh trong đất và di chuyển xuyên qua vùng rể nhanh hơn khả năng chuyển hóa thành dạng hoạt của nó (chất có tác dụng tiêu diệt sâu bệnh hại). Điều này tới hậu quả là nó có thể trực di hay chảy lan ra nguồn nước gần bên gây đọc cho cá và các sinh vật khác trong nước. MS còn gây ra sự thay đổi lâu dài

về thành phần và hoạt tính của hệ vi sinh vật trong đất và có tiềm năng thay đổi các chức năng quan trọng như chu trình dinh dưỡng và sự phân rả các chất ô nhiểm.

Chất nầy có thể gây hại cho con người — Ở Hoa kỳ chất này bị liệt vào hạng chất có khả năng gây ung thư và chất độc. Khó thở, rát mắt và họng, tiêu chảy, nổi mẩn là một vài triệu chứng bị nhiểm MS. Các trường hợp ngộ độc còn được báo cáo cách xa nơi sử dụng. Các chọn lựa dung chất hóa học thu hẹp dần — Giá cả tăng và suy giảm khả năng mua được nông dược có nghĩa rằng các chọn lựa của nông dân cũng đang hạn chế bớt.

Yêu cầu của người tiêu dùng và các cấm đoán thương mại — Người tiêu dung ngày càng tránh xa việc sử dụng loại nông dược phổ rộng. Các qui định thương mại ngày càng xiết chặt việc sử dụng MS cũng góp phần hạn chế thương mại và xuất khẩu trong tương lai.

Xà lách sau biofumigation.

Sự phân hỷ sinh học được tăng cường — Sự phân hủy sinh học là quá trình các hợp chất hửu cơ bị phá hủy bởi vi sinh vật. Việc áp dụng MS lặp đi lặp lại có thể dẫn tới sự tăng cường phân hủy sinh học của hợp chất methyl isothiocyanate (MITC), dần dần làm giảm hiệu lực của MS đối với việc kiểm soát sâu bệnh hại trong đất. Điều này xảy ra khi có sự gia tăng của thành phần vi sinh vật trong đất có khả năng phân hủy nhanh chóng hợp chất MITC.

Có loại hóa chất nào phù hợp thay thế MS không? Hóa chất thay thế MS chỉ có hạn chế:

• Một vài thế hệ thuốc diệt tuyến trùng mới đang được nghiên cứu và các loại thuốc diệt nấm mới đã được đăng ký ở nước ngoài. Tuy nhiên ít có loại chất xông hơi phổ rộng nào được được đăng ký sử dụng trong nước Úc và chúng cũng không được xem như các biện pháp thay thế lâu dài do độ độc của chúng. • Các rà soát về các chất xông hơi trong đất tại Hoa kỳ và châu Âu đã dẫn đến tình trạng xiết chặt các qui định và sự phát triển các tài liệu giúp tăng cường việc sử dụng an toàn chất MS. Việc áp dụng thông thường MS ở châu Âu bị

Xà lách mà không bị ảnh hưởng bởi biofumigation Sclerotinia.

loại bỏ từ 12/2014. Chyển biến này làm cho tương lai của việc sử dụng MS ở Úc trở nên bấp bênh.

• Thuốc trự sâu bệnh hại sinh học có thể thay thế MS nhưng hiện nay không có loại nào được phổ biến ở Úc.

• Xử lý đất bằng ánh nắng hoặc hơi nước nóng không được xem là biện pháp thay thế tốt cho MS vì chi phí cao và không có lợi cho môi trường. • Tại Hoa kỳ xử lý đất bằng biện pháp yếm khí (ASD) và các biện pháp sử dụng dầu mù-tạt hiện đang được nghiên cứu như là một lựa chọn phù hợp và thực tế.

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ALTERNATIVES TO METHAM SODIUM — VIETNAMESE TRANSLATION

Các loại cây trồng xông hơi sinh học có thể là biện pháp có triển vọng nhất Xông hơi sinh học là biện pháp trấn áp sâu bệnh hại trong đất bằng cách trồng các loại cây có chứa các hóa chất ức chế rồi cày vùi vào trong đất như một dạng phân xanh.

Các loại cây họ mù-tạt chẳng hạn như cây cải dầu, và các loại cây họ cải cho thấy có triển vọng. Các loại cây mù-tạt sản sinh ra hợp chất gọi là glucosinates trong mô cây và được phóng thích ra khi bị băm nhỏ. Các chất kích thích tố tiếp tục phân giải hợp chất này thành isothiocyanates có tác dụng như chất xông hơi – cùng một loại chất do MS sinh ra. Các loại cây xông hơi sinh học còn giúp: • Cải thiện cấu trúc đất

• Thêm chất hửu cơ cho đất

• Giảm cỏ dại và mầm bệnh trong đất • Không tồn tại lâu dài trong đất

Hảy đọc thêm thông tin trong bảng tin của chúng tôi dưới đây

Bảo vệ hoa màu tổng hợp (ICP): Hướng đi cho tương lai ICP tách ly khỏi sụ lệ thuộc vào chỉ các loại hóa chất xông hơi và trao cho người sử dụng các biện pháp thay thế trong việc phòng trừ sâu bệnh hại trong đất. Biện pháp này đòi hỏi phải thay đổi một số tập quán canh tác và cố gắng áp dụng nhiều chiến thuật khác nhau. Để làm như vậy quí vị phải tránh gây ra sự kháng thuốc hay gia tăng sự phân hủy sinh học của các loại thuốc bảo vệ cây trồng được áp dụng vào trong đất.

Biện pháp bảo vệ hoa màu tổng hợp giúp: • Giảm chi phí áp dụng các hóa chất không cần thiết (do nó có tính đặc trị) • Có một chiến thuật quản lý rủi ro chủ động

• Là lựa chọn phù hợp lâu dài về mặt kinh tế và môi trường

• Có thể chống chịu với sự thay đổi của các yếu tố bên ngoài chẳn hạn như gia tăng luật lệ sử dụng hóa chất

• Cho phép bán ra thị trường thực phẩm được sản xuất theo phương cách cá trách nhiệm với môi trường.

Một chiến thuật tổng hợp tùy thuộc vào việc thường xuyên theo dõi để phát hiện sâu bệnh hại sớm. Điều này dựa vào việc áp dụng các biên pháp canh tác vad chọn lựa sản phẩm bảo vệ được hoa màu cùng với việc giảm thiểu tác động tiêu cực lên nguồn nước, không khí, đất đai, và trên các loaifi côn trùng giúp thụ phấn và các loài côn trùng có ích.

Thuốc bảo vệ thực vật sinh học, phòng trừ sinh học, xông hơi sinh học và quản lý dinh dưỡng cây trồng chuyên biệt theo đặc tính đất đai của trang trại ttaast cả nói chung đều tương thích tốt với chiến thuật bảo vệ hoa màu tổng hợp.

Nên nhớ rằng mỗi biện pháp đơn lẻ nào của các chọn lựa thay thế cho chiến thuật phòng trừ tổng hợp đều sẽ thiếu đi hiệu quả về chi phí, hiệu lực tổng quát và độ tin cậy của các loại hóa chất xông hơi. Nhưng kết hợp một loạt các chiến thuật tổng hợp là hoàn toàn khả thi để đạt được hệ thống sản xuất bền vững. Các chiến thuật tổng hợp được khuyến cáo bao gồm:

Kết hợp một vụ biofumigant (Caliente 199TM) vào đó một cây rau diếp sẽ được trồng.

• Cần có thời gian và nguồn lực để thực hiên việc theo dõi và áp dụng các chiến thuật quản lý tổng hợp

• Chi phí phát sinh cùng với các sản phẩm khác nhau đòi hỏi phải có trong hệ thống bảo vệ hoa màu tổng hợp

• Xông hơi sinh học

• Cần phải có thêm biện pháp quản lý riêng đối với cỏ dại.

• Luân canh hay tạm thời ngưng canh tác hoa màu thay bằng các loai cây lấy hạt

THÊM THÔNG TIN

• Các sản phẩm cải tạo đất và tăng cường sức khoe cây trồng đã qua kiểm chứng

• Thuốc bảo vệ thực vật sinh học/biện pháp phòng trừ sinh học

Các vấn đề cần cân nhắc Có một số thách thức đối với chiến thuật phòng trừ tổng hợp thay thế cho việc áp dụng MS, bao gồm: • Thiếu đất để áp dụng biện pháp luân canh

Tuy nhiên các thách thức này được bù trừ bằng lọi ích giảm được chi phí, thân thiện môi trường do ít sử dụng thuốc sâu. Muốn tìm thêm thông tin về bảo vệ hoa màu tổng hợp, các giải pháp thay thể cho metham sodium hay biện pháp xông hơi tổng hợp, xin vui lòng liên hệ: • Anne-Maree Boland tại RMCG theo số (03) 9882 2670 hoặc anne-mareeb@ rmcg.com.au • Gordon Rogers tại AHR on (03) 8627 1040 hoặc gordon@ahr.com.au

This project has been funded by Horticulture Innovation Australia Limited using the vegetable levy and funds from the Australian Government.

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YOUR BUSINESS

NEW CODES: FRESHCARE FSQ4 & ENV3 — VIETNAMESE TRANSLATION

Bộ qui tắt mới: Freshcare FSQ4 & ENV3 BY REBECCA BLACKMAN FINANCE & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER, VEGETABLESWA Khi người ta bắt đầu rà soát lại bộ qui tắt Freshcare vào năm 2014 thì ý định ban đầu chỉ là để cập nhật phần nội dung đáp ứng các góp ý từ những người tham gia nhằm tạo ra các tiêu chuẩn rỏ ràng, dể áp dụng. Trong khi tiến hành người ta mới thấy rằng tiêu chuẩn mới cần phải: • Đảm bảo sự thống nhất về cấu trúc giửa các phiên bản Freshcares

• Dễ dàng truy cập tài liệu hướng dẩn — mỗi qui tắt đều có tài liệu tham khảo rỏ ràng để ghi chép, nguồn tài liệu Freshcare và các nguồn liên quan đối với qui tắt an toàn vệ sinh thực phẩm. • Đảm bảo tương đồng với các đòi hỏi của GFSI

• Thống nhất với các tài liệu an toàn thực phẩm tươi hiện hành của nước Úc — Hướng dẩn an toàn dành cho thực phẩm tươi. Ghi chú: Trong một số lảnh vực yêu cầu của Freshcare phiên bản FSQ4 cao một số mặt nêu trong hơn Hướng dẩn an toàn dành cho thực phẩm tươi. Tất cả các mục tiêu nầy đều đạt yêu cầu trong Bộ qui tắt an toàn thực phẩm phiên bản 4 (FSQ4) và phiên bản 3 về môi trường (ENV3) đang phổ biến các giải pháp thực hành tương đương cho tất cả những người áp dụng.

Thời biểu chuyển tiếp cho FSQ4 và ENV3 Tất cả các cuộc thanh tra từ 01/01/2017 phải theo qui chuẩn FSQ4 và ENV3

Như với mọi phiên bản mới, người ta sẽ bố trí thời gian chuyển tiếp cho các doanh nghiệp đang được chứng nhận tiêu chuẩn Freshcare phiên bản 3 và tiêu chuản môi trường phiên bản 2 để họ nâng cấp lên tiêu chuẩn Freshcare phiên bản 4 (FSQ4) và tiêu chuản môi trường phiên bản 3 (ENV3). Từ 01/6 đến 31/12 năm 2016 tất cả những doanh nghiệp đang tham gia Freshcare được quyền lựa chọn:

• Kiểm tra theo tiêu chuẩn Freshcare phiên bản 3 và tiêu chuản môi trường phiên bản 2, hoặc

Làm thế nào chuyển lên phiên bản FSQ4 và EVN3?

Và phải đảm bảo tuân thủ đúng tất cả các yêu cầu của loại phiên bản tiêu chuẩn mà mình lực chọn để được kiểm tra.

Nhằm hổ trợ chuyển đổi sang FSQ4 và EVN3, dưới đây là đường dẫn vào trang thông tin gồm có:

• Kiểm tra theo tiêu chuẩn Freshcare phiên bản 4 và tiêu chuản môi trường phiên bản 3

Chẳng hạn như ai chọn kiểm farm theo bộ tiêu chuẩn V3 (FSQ 3nd) thì phải đáp ứng tất cả các yêu cầu của bộ tiêu chuẩn V3 và nếu chọn kiểm farm theo bộ tiêu chuẩn V4 (FSQ 4) thì phải tuân thủ mọi yêu cầu của bộ FSQ4.

Tập huấn FSQ4 và ENV3 Không yêu cầu phải tham gia tập huấn chuyển đổi sang bộ qui tắt tiêu chuẩn mới. Tất cả bộ qui tắt và tài liệu thực hành đều có và cho tải về trên trang internet của Freshcare cho nông dân. Vui lòng gởi email cho info@freshcare.com.au hoặc liên hệ văn phòng Freshcare để được tái đăng nhập. Những ai cần sự hổ trợ để chuyển đổi hay yêu cầu tập huấn cho nhân viên mới thì chương trình tập huấn FSQ4 và EVN3 sẽ có từ 6/2016. Tập huấn Freshcare cũng có trên internet thông qua Freshcare eLearning (Xem trang 8 của bài Freshcare eLearning để biết them chi tiết).

Nguyên tắt Freshcare

Để đảm bảo doanh nghiệp của quí vị tuân thủ đầy đủ yêu cầu của bộ qui chuẩn mới quí vị bắt buộc phải điền bộ mẩu FSQ4 và EVN3 M4 – Báo cáo kiểm tra nội bộ.

• Một diển giải cách bố trí bộ qui tắt và các nguồn tài liệu (trang 4-5) và

• Tóm tắt những thay đổi trong FSQ4 (trang 6-8) và EVN3 (trang 9-10) để giúp nhận biết các thay đổi và các yêu cầu ghi chép. Trang thông tin đầy đủ có trong đường dẫn internet www.freshcare.com.au/ wp-content/uploads/FreshcareNewsletter-27-June-2016.pdf

Việc phát hành phiên bản FSQ4 và EVN3 là thành quả tren 2 năm làm việc của căn phòng Freshcare, Hội đồng kỹ thuật và mạng lưới cộng tác rộng khắp. Sự đóng góp của tất cả những người tham gia xây dựng, rà soát và biên tập bộ qui tắt này được hết sức trân trọng. THÊM THÔNG TIN

Thông tin chi tiết còn có tren trang internet của Freshcare www.freshcare. com.au hoặc thông qua văn phòng Freshcare 1300 853 508, Fax (02) 8004 0732, Email: info@freshcare.com.au

Bộ Nguyên tắt Freshcare, mà trước đây gọi là Nguyên tắt chứng nhận, là tại liệu giải thích mọi thứ quí vị cần để hiểu chương trình Freshcare làm việc như thế nào, cũng như quyền lợi và trách nhiệm của quí vị và những người tham gia. Bộ nguyên tắt này bao gồm tất cả mọi thứ từ đăng ký cho đến chọn lựa hội đồng chứng nhận và qui trình thanh tra hàng năm. Bộ nguyên tắt được cho phét tải về trên trang internet FreshcareOnline kể từ 6/2016. Mọi doanh nghiệp đều bắt buộc phái có bản tài liệu này. Nếu quí vị muốn có bộ tài liệu in trên giấy thì liên hệ văn phòng Freshcare.

WA Grower SPRING 2016

105

YOUR INDUSTRY

GASCOYNE PROJECT ANNOUNCES MASTERPLAN — VIETNAMESE TRANSLATION

Dự án Gascoyne công bố qui hoạch tổng thể BY REBECCA BLACKMAN FINANCE & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER, VEGETABLESWA

vi điều tra nguồn nước để chú trọng vào tiềm năng rau quả và chăn nuôi của vùng”

Bộ trưởng Davies cũng nhân cơ hội này tuyên bố thành lập Nhóm Tham vấn cộng đồng Gascoyne — là những người sẽ giám sát quá trình phát triển qui hoạch tổng thể. Dưới sụ chỉ đạo của ngài MLA Vince Catania cùng vói sự trợ giúp của bà cựu chủ tịch Ủy ban tài nguyên nước quốc gia Karlene Maywald nhóm Tham vấn cộng đồng Gascoyne còn bao gồm các thành viên là đại diện nông gia địa phương, Hội đồng thực phẩm Gascoyne, Ủy ban phát triển Gascoyne, Bộ Nông Nghiệp và thực phẩm và Bộ Tài nguyên nước.

Tiếp nhận các công việc đã được Ban tư vấn cấp bộ cho vùng Carnarvon, dự án qui hoạch tổng thể Gascoyne sẽ đồng hành với tầm nhìn của Thiết kế phát triển khu vực Gascoyne trong việc mở mang 1200 mẩu đất trồng trọt rau quả hiện tại lên 3600 mẩu trong 35 năm.

Hảy tìm hiểu thêm về dự án qui hoạch tổng thể Gascoyne hoặc đọc bản thảo luận qui hoạch tổng thể. Bộ trương tài nguyên nước Mia Davies MLA và thành viên của Trung tâm Tây Bắc Vince Catania khai trương Nhóm Tham Vấn cộng đồng Gascoyne.

Vùng đất Gascoyne được tạo điều kiện để hưởng lợi ích của một qui hoạch tổng thể được xây dựng để định hướng việc mở rộng vùng sản xuất thực phẩm trong tương lai như là một hợp phần của qui hoạch trị giá 2,6 triệu đô la được gọi là Qui hoạch tổng thể khai thác nguồn nước cho sản xuất. Lể khởi công tiến trình qui hoạch tổng thể đã được tiến hành hồi thứ hai 11/7/2016 tại Heritage Precinct ở Carnarvon với sự có mặt của nhiều thành phần địa phương cũng như bà Bộ trưởng Tài nguyên nước Mia Davies MLA, thành viên của Trung tâm tây Bắc (North West Central) và ngài Vince Catania MLA. Phát biểu tại buổi lể, bà Mia Davies nói rằng qui hoạch tổng thể nhằm mục đích nâng cao năng lực sản xuất trong khu vực đang được tưới trong khi khám phá khả năng mở ra diện tích đất mới và các khái niệm tiên tiến đối với chế biến thực phẩm. Bà Mia Davies phát biểu: “Qui hoạch tổng thể được đệ trình sẽ vượt lên khỏi phạm

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WA Grower SPRING 2016

Am hiểu về qui hoạch tổng thể Gascoyne Nền nông nghiệp Gascyne nằm trong những trọng điểm kinh tế của tiểu bang và cũng là nguồn năng lực sản xuất và tạo việc làm chính của vùng. Qui hoạch tổng thể Gascoyne là dự án do chương trình Chính phủ liên bang đối với sự phát triển các khu vực tài trợ dưới sự điều hành bởi bộ Tài nguyên nước và Bộ Nông nghiệp và thực phẩm. Dự án xây dựng trên các mô hình phát triển và các đánh giá chiến lược để tạo ra cơ cấu dài hạn cho sự tăng trưởng và đầu tư trong khu vực.

biến thực phẩm địa phương và gia tăng giá trị.

Qui hoạch tổng thể sẽ xây dựng dựa vào công việc và các khuyến nghị của Ban tư vấn cấp bộ cho vùng Carnarvon và phản hồi của chính phủ đối với các khuyến nghị này và sẽ đồng hành cùng với Sáng kiến dựa lương thực Gascoyne, Kế hoạch phát triển khu vực Gascoyne của Ủy ban phát triển Gascoyne. Nhóm tham vấn cộng đồng sẽ giám sát sự phát triển của qui hoạch tổng thể và sẽ bao gồm các đại diện từ chính quyền tiểu bang và chính quyền địa phương, ngành, doanh nghiệp, các nhóm nông dân, vận tải và hậu cần, ngân hàng, và các tổ chức giáo dục và rèn nghề.

Các nghiên cứu tài nguyên nước Trung Gascoyne Dự án qui hoạch tổng thể nguồn nước cho sản xuất thực phẩm Gascoyne vẻ ra trên cơ sở dự án Nguồn nước cho sản xuất thực phẩm Trung Gascoyne – dự án đã nghiên cứu qui mô và chất lượng nguồn nước của hệ thống địa bồn trên thượng nguồn của quận nông nghiệp Gascoyne. Các kết quả ban đầu của công tác viển thám địa từ (AEM) và theo dõi trên thực địa trong khu vực Trung Gascoyne đã tiết lộ tầng địa chất khác của các vùng bên dưới Rocky Pool và những lựa chọn bị giới hạn đối với việc tiếp cận nguồn nước có cùng chất lượng đã được tìm thấy ở hạ lưu Gascoyne. Nguồn quĩ lúc đầu phân bổ cho dự án này sẽ được tái đầu tư vào dự án qui hoạch tổng thể Gascoyne để hổ trợ sự tăng trưởng của diện tích đang được tưới tiêu hạ lưu Gascoyne. Các kết quả nghiên cứu này sẽ sớm được công bố.

Quận nông nghiệp Carnarvon tọa lạc trên đồng bằng sông Gascoyne cung cấp khoảng 60 phần trăm tổng rau quả mùa đông của Perth với giá trị sản xuất hàng năm hiện khoảng 80 tiệu đô la. Quận cũng có một mảng chăn nuôi quan trọng với tổng giá trị khoảng 25 triệu đến 35 triệu đô la một năm. Quá trình qui hoạch tổng thể sẽ nhắm vào việc nâng cao năng lực sản xuất của khu vực có tưới hiện tại và xem xét các thách thức cũng như cơ hội của địa phương đối với việc tưới tiêu, cơ sở hạ tầng, đảm bảo nguồn nước, mở thêm đất canh tác, chế

Department of Agriculture and Food

YOUR PRODUCTION

CGMMV DETECTION SENDS FARM BIOSECURITY WARNING — VIETNAMESE TRANSLATION

Sự phát hiện bệnh CGMMV phát đi cảnh báo an toàn sinh học

CARNARVON GERALDTON PERTH

Sự phát hiện bệnh khảm vi-rút bầu bí dưa (CGMMV) tại WA là một lời cảnh tỉnh mạnh mẻ sự cần thiết của các biện pháp an ninh sinh học nghiêm ngặt trong trang trại để ngăn ngừa sự xâm nhập và cả sự lây lan của các loại sâu bệnh hại. Mầm bệnh vi-rút bệnh CGMMV đã được phát hiện hồi tháng 7/2016 trên cây trồng là dưa leo trông nhà bầu tại Geraldton khi một mảu lá có triệu chứng bệnh được gởi đến bộ Nông nghiệp và lương thực tiểu bang Tây Úc (DAFWA) để xét nghiệm. Kể tự đó bệnh CGMMV tiếp tục được phát hiện trên 5 trang trại trồng dưa khác nằm gần trang trại được phát hiện bênh đầu tiên.

Vi-rút gây bệnh này cũng đã được phát hiện tại Carnarvon trên 2 trường hợp: Trong một trang trại trồng dưa và trên một loại cây dại thuộc họ bầu bí dưa (Mukia maderaspatana) mọc tên hàng rào giủa hai trang trại khác. Công tác thu thập thêm mẩu về loại cây dại này cũng đang được tiến hành quanh Carnarvon.

Trưởng ban An ninh sinh học của DAFWA John Van Schagen đã cho rằng các phát hiện bệnh CGMMV càng nhấn mạnh tầm quan trọng của việc áp dụng nghiêm ngặt các biện pháp an ninh sinh học trong trang trại. Ông nói: “Nông dân nên thường xuyên lưu tâm làm thế nào bảo vệ hoa màu trong trang trại của mình bởi vì không thực thi tốt an toàn sinh học thì các nguy cơ như CGMMV có thể ảnh hưởng đến đời sống của họ”. “họ không nên dợi đến khi nhìn thấy các rủi ro trước khi thực hiện các biện pháp an toàn sinh học”. Nguyên tắt của an toàn sinh học hửu hiệu không chỉ là ngăn chặn sự lây lan một khi mầm bệnh đã xâm nhập mà phải là phòng tuyến đầu tiên ngăn chặn sâu bệnh hại tấn công vào trang trại của mình”. Ông Van Schagen cũng nới rằng đã có sự hợp tác chặt chẽ giửa nông dân bị ảnh hưởng với DAFWA ngay từ khi phát hiện vấn đề và điều đó sẽ tiếp tục dyu trì lâu

dài để giảm thiểu ruủi ro mầm bệnh lây lan xa hơn.

TRÊN: CGMMV trên lá dưa.

DAFWA cùng với sự hổ trợ của Hiệp hôi rau cải Tây Úc (VegetablesWA) đã tổ chức hội thảo tại Geraldton vào 27/7/2016 cho nông dân địa phương và các bên có liên quan với nọi dung taajp trung vào các hướng dẫn kỹ thuật, quản lý bệnh hại và các biện pháp an ninh sinh học thích hợp.

móc, xe cộ, quần áo và các đồ đựng sản phẩm, và sự lan truyền mủ cây có thể đã nhiểm bệnh theo công việc tỉa lá, hái trái, quấn dây.

“DAFWA đang xem xét một số phương cách để ngăn chặn sự lây lan của bệnh này, nhưng điều quan trọng nhất là cùng phối hợp với các nông dân bị ảnh hưởng để xây dựng các biện pháp an ninh sinh học cho trang trại của họ. Công việc này có thể bao gồm việc hổ trợ nông dân chuyển đổi cây trồng không bị ảnh hưởng bởi bệnh này bởi vì mầm bệnh có thể lưu tồn trong đất 2-3 năm”.

Nhà nghiên cứu Brenda Coutts nói rằng “Loại vi-rút này ờ trạng thái mien trạng nằm ngoài vỏ hạt giống nưng vẫn có khả năng gây bệnh và tồn tại trong trạng thái tương tự như vậy trong đất và xác bả cây trồng trong 2-3 năm. Chính vì vậy một khi trang trại đã bị nhiểm bệnh thì vi-rút có thể xâm nhập vào vào tế bào cây trồng qua các vết thương xảy ra khi trồng cây, hay khi rể cây tiếp xúc với đất nhiểm bệnh, với rể cây nhiểm bệnh, với nước tưới đã tiếp xúc với các tác nhân đã nhiểm bệnh”.

Tiếp theo đó một hội thảo tương tự củng được tổ chức tại trạm nghiên cứu của DAFWA tại Geraldton vào ngày 23/8/2016 để trình bày cho tất cả nông dân địa phương phần thưc hành áp dụng các biện pháp an ninh sinh học.

Ông Van Schagen cũng đã nói rằng có nhiều con đường cho vi-rút lây lan và nhắc lại rằng giải pháp thực hành hửu hiệu nhất là thực hiện các biện pháp an ninh sinh học để loại trừ các con đường lay lan.

Các con đường lây lan của vi-rut gây bệnh bao gồm sự di chuyển đất và xác bả cây trồng theo các phương tiện máy

Nhà nghiên cứu vi-rút của DAFWA Brenda Coutts nói rằng nguồn lây nhiểm đầu tiên có thể là từ việc trồng từ các lô hạt giống nhiểm bệnh, cây giống tự hạt giống nhiểm bệnh hay gốc ghép nhiểm bệnh từ các vườn ươm.

Ông Van Schagen nói rằng “DAFWA đang truy tìm tất cả các con đương khả dĩ là đường lây lan của loại vi-rút này. Chúng có thể là các hoạt động ngoài phạm vi trang trại như việc di chuyển pa-lệt từ vườn này sang vườn khác do các dịch vụ vận chuyển, các vườn ươm cung cấp cây giống cho nông dân, các nhà sản xuất

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hạt giống cung cấp lô hạt giống bị nhiểm bệnh và cũng có thể qua con đường thụ phấn do ong”.

Một cuộc họp với các công ty vận chuyển, đà được tổ chức tại Geraldton vào ngày 10/8 để báo động họ về bệnh CGMMV và đưa ra các khuến cáo về an ninh sinh học. Liên quan đến vấn đề ong. Ông Van Schagen nói rằng DAFWA đã đánh giá các nghiên cứu gân đây được thực hiện ở Bắc Úc chuyên chú trên vấn đề ong có khả năng mang mầm vi-rút gây bệnh.

Ông Van Schagen cho biết DAFWA tiếp tục các các cuộn họp định kỳ với các đại diện của Hiệp hội rau cải Tây Úc, AUSVET và nông dân để thảo luận các vấn đề hiejn thời và các hành động được đề xuất. Cuojc họp đầu tiên đã được tiến hành vào ngày 03/8/2016. Thư điện tử cập nhật việc phát hiện và các hoạt động đối phó sẽ đueọec cung cấp thường xuyên cho các bên liên quan. Dể nhận được tin cập nhật hảy vào trang thông tin về CGMMV của DAFWA: agric. wa.gov.au/cgmmv.

Tôi cần làm gì để bảo vệ hoa màu của mình? Điều quan trọng hơn hết là phải nghiêm túc thực hiện các biện pháp an ninh sinh học. Thông tin về các biện pháp an ninh sinh học trang trại cả tiếng Anh và tiếng Việt, đặc biệt là về CGMMV, có trong trang internet của DAFWA CGMMV: agric. wa.gov.au/cgmmv

Trang internet khác farmbiosecurity.com. au cũng có thông tin hướng dẩn thực hiện các biện pháp an ninh sinh học phù hợp cho trang trại của quí vị. Người trồng dưa nên đòi hỏi các vườn ươm và người bàn hạt giống các chứng nhận ghi rỏ rằng các mẩu đại diện đã được kiểm tra vi-rút và không bị nhiểm bệnh. Phải có giấy chứng nhận cho cả giống trồng và giống gốc ghép.

Hảy báo cáo các trường hợp nghi ngờ về bệnh CGMMV đến dịch vụ thông tin sâu bệnh hại số 1800 084 881. Các mẩu cây có triệu chứng nghi ngờ có thể gởi tới phòng thí nghiệm giám định bệnh (DDLS) tại DAFWA tọa lạc tại South Perth, số liên lạc là (08) 9368 3351.

Ngưới gởi mẩu giám định bệnh nên điền vào hồ sơ có trên trang internet: agric. wa.gov.au/bacteria/plant-diseasediagnostics.

Triệu chứng bệnh CGMMV như thế nào?

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Cây con và cây trưởng thành Nhận dạng CGMMV bằng mắt có thể không đáng tin cậy. Triệu chứng bệnh thay đổi tùy theo loại cây và giống trồng và có thề nhầm lẩn với triệu chứng các loại bệnh do tác nhân vi-rút khác trên dưa hoặc do các vấn đề dinh dưỡng. Một số giống không biểu lộ triệu chứng khi đã nhiểm bệnh. Trong trường hợp nhiểm bệnh nặng lá mầm có thể chuyển sang màu vang. Cây nhiểm bệnh có thể héo, rủ chết một phần hoặc chết sớm cả cây. Lá

Tùy theo loai cây trồng mà khi bị nhiểm bệnh lá non có thể thấy triệu chứng gân trong và bị nhăn nhúm trong khi lá già có lốm đốm mất mầu xanh không đồng đều hay bị khảm, nhợt nhạt, vang hay gần như trắng bạch tạng. Lá thường bị biến dạng. Trái

Trong nhiều trường hợp trái không biểu hiện triệu chứng bên ngoài mà chỉ biến màu nhợt nhạt trong ruột hay hóa vang nâu. Triệu chứng này thường thấy rỏ trong trái dưa hấu.

Các triệu chứng còn có thể là chuyển vàng hay đỏ loang lổ trong ruột dưa hấu. Ruột trái bị hư hại cấu trúc từng lỏm trong khi các phần khác xung quanh vẩn bình thường. Trái có thể bị dị dạng, không lớn, thui sớm.

Bệnh CGMMV trên các tiểu bang khác Bệnh CGMMV trên nước Úc được phát hiện đầu tiên tại Bắc Úc năm 2014, rồi đến Queensland năm 2015. Trong khi bệnh bùng phát trên cây trồng họ bầu bí dưa thì một số loại cỏ dại cũng được phát hiên nhiểm vi-rút. Một chương trifnh đối phó với CGMMV đã được khỏi động từ năm 2014 để quản lý sự lây lan trên nước Úc và giảm thiểu tác động đến kinh tế. Bọ Nông nghiệp và tài nguyên nước liên bang áp đặt các biện pháp khẩn cấp lên hạt giống bầu bí dưa nhập khẩu, cây cấy mô và cây giống để ngăn chặn nguồn bệnh xâm nhập thêm vào trong nước.

Khả năng gàn như chắc chắn nhất là Bệnh CGMMV xâm nhập vào nước Úc qua con đường hạt giống nhiểm bệnh. Kể từ 11/2014 thì chỉ nhũng đường dây nhập khẩu đã được giám đinh không nhiểm bệnh mới được cho nhập vào. Nhóm quản lý quốc gia dựa trên khuyến cáo của Ủy ban tư vấn sâu bệnh hại khẩn cấp trên cây trồng đã ra qyueest định hồi 2015 rằng Loại trừ hẳn bệnh CGMMV là không khả thi về mặt kỹ thuật.

Vi-rút này hiện nay được xếp vào loại tác nhân gây hại nghiêm trọng cấp độ quốc gia và kế hoạch quốc gia quản lý bệnh nầy đang được Hiệp hội rau cải Úc (AUSVEG), Hiệp hội dưa soạn thảo gần xong với sự hổ trợ của chính phủ tiểu bang và chính phủ liên bang. DAFWA se trợ giúp nông dân thực hiện kế hoạch quốc gia quản lý bệnh CGMMV.

Câu hỏi thường gặp Thiệt hại gì khi cây trồng nhiểm bệnh CGMMV? Casctasc động kết hợp của bênh CGMMV gây ra những tổn thất đáng kể cho hoa màu.

Các triện chứng trên trái như hư trái non, chin không đều, hư ruột trái, loang lổ màu đỏ vang trong ruột dưa hấu. Các triệu chứng ngoài vỏ trái gây mất màu, dị dạng và triệu chứng lốm đốm khảm mất màu trên lá.

Có thể tiếp tục bán sản phẩm ra thị trường Khi trang trại bị nhiểm bệnh hay không? Được. Hiện thời không có lệnh cấm di chuyển sản phẩm giửa các tiểu banh liên quan đến bệnh CGMMV. Rủi ro này được đánh giá là thấp. Mặc dù trái nhiểm bệnh là nguồn lây lan nhưng thương thì trái nhiểm bệnh gàn như có triệu chứng (Dị dạng, màu không bình thường, đèo) nên không thể bán được.

Tất cả trái nhiểm nên bị tiêu hủy bệnh đúng cách (thiêu trong lò thiêu hoặc chôn sâu) theo hướng dẫn an ninh sinh học. Trang trại nhiểm CGMMV có bị cách ly không?

Rủi ro lây lan bệnh CGMMV giửa các trang trại là quản lý được bằng việc áp dụng các biện pháp an ninh sinh học. Để hạn chế lây lan rộng thêm DAFWA hiện đang cân nhắc một số chọn lựa để đảm bảo rằng các chiến lược an ninh sinh học cho từng trường hợp được xây dựng và tuân thủ. DAFWA sẽ giúp nông dân xây dựng các chiến lược này. DAFWA cũng tham khảo kế hoạch quản lý bệnh CGMMV và các qui định đã được áp dụng sau khi phát hiện bệnh năm 2014 dể xem các yếu tố nào có thể tiếp thu cho Tây Úc. Tôi có thể tiếp tục trồng cùng loại cây trồng với loại đã bị nhiểm bệnh không? Các nông gia đã bị ảnh hưởng có thể cần phải tìm kiếm loại cây trồng thay thế mà không bị nhiểm bệnh này để luân canh vì mầm bệnh có thể lưu tồn trong đất 2-3 năm. Với các biện pháp thích hợp nông dân có thể tìm cách kiểm soát mầm bệnh trong trang trại – vì thế mà có thể trở lại

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trồng các loai hoa màu thuộc họ bầu bí dưa.

DAFWA đã phân bổ nguồn lực cùng làm việc với nông dân bị ảnh hưởng để xây dựng chiến lược an ninh sinh học có thể giúp đạt được mục tiêu này và điều này dựa trên các hướng dẫn an ninh sinh học nghiêm ngặt. Các hướng dẫn này bao gồm cách loại trừ những con đường lây lan, loại bỏ và tiêu hủy xác bả cây trồng nhiểm bệnh, các điều kiện liên quan đến nguồn hạt giống, và các chỉ dẫn liên quan đến việc di chuyển ra vào trang trại. Liệu DAFWA có giám định bệnh CGMMV cho các loại hoa màu khác trong tiểu bang?

DAFWA đang xây dựng một kế hoạch giám sát để chi tiết hóa các hoạt động giám sát trên toàn tiểu bang. Công tác này bao gồm việc điều tra tất cả các trang trại trồng bầu bí dưa ở Kununura, Broom và Baldivis trong mùa hè và các trang trại dưa ở Geraldton và Carnarvon. Các loại cỏ cùng họ với loại cỏ đã tìm thấy nhiểm bệnh ở Carnarvon cũng sẽ được tiếp tục lấy mẩu xung quanh khu vực này để theo dõi.

DAFWA đã liên hệ với ngành nuôi ong về bệnh này chưa và có cấm di chuyển ong không? Nghiên cứu ở Israel trong điều kiện nhà kính thì sự lây lan từ cây bệnh sang cây khỏe do ong đã được ghi nhận. Tuy nhiên không có sự lây lan bệnh sang cây mạnh khi ong bay ra từ tổ ong trong đó ong đã mang mầm bệnh.

Làm thế nào cây bị nhiểm bệnh CGMMV?

Vi-rút CGMMV nhân mật số bên trong các tế bào cây và lan truyền đến toàn bộ các mô cây bao gồm thân, rể, lá và quả. Cây bị vết thương mới bị nhiểm bệnh. Các phần tử v-rút xâm nhiểm tế bào cây theo các vết thương li ti trên các tế bào ở bề mặt. Vi-rút cũng có thể lan truyền qua hạt khi disng trên vỏ hạt. Làm thế nào cây bị nhiểm bệnh CGMMV?

Vi-rút CGMMV nhân mật số bên trong các tế bào cây và lan truyền đến toàn bộ các mô cây bao gồm thân, rể, lá và quả. Cây bị vết thương mới bị nhiểm bệnh. Các phần tử v-rút xâm nhiểm tế bào cây theo các vết thương li ti trên các tế bào ở bề mặt. Vi-rút cũng có thể lan truyền qua hạt khi bao phủ ngoài vỏ hạt. Loại cây trồng nào có thể bị nhiểm bệnh CGMMV?

Cây trồng thuuojc họ bầu bí dưa như dưa hấu, dưa leo, các loại dưa khác, bí ngồi, bí rợ, khổ qua, bầu…đều có thể bị nhiểm bệnh này. Một vài loài cỏ dại củng được báo bị nhiểm như nightshade blackberry nightshade (Solanum nigrum), portulacca (Portulaca oleracea), amaranth (Amaranthus sp.),and fat hen (Chenopodium album)

TRÊN VÀ INSET: CGMMV trong một quả dưa hấu.

Cần phải giám định hạt của các loài không thuộc bầu bí dưa xem chúng có khả năng mang mầm bệnh không. Hiện có 5 dòng vi-rút của bệnh này được ghi nhận trên toàn thế giới, triệu chứng cũng thay đổi tùy theo loại ký chủ.

Các loại bệnh khảm khác gây ra do 2 thành viên của một nhóm vi-rút khác (Potyviruses) xảy ra phổ biến ở Bắc Úc cũng có thể gây ra triệu chứng tương tụ. Điều này gây khó khăn cho việc chẩn đoán bệnh CGMMV qua quan sát triệu chứng. Chỉ có thể khẳng định kết quả bệnh thông qua giám định trong phòng thí nghiệm. Bệnh CGMMV có phải là loại bắt buộc phải báo cáo? Nếu phải thì trách nhiệm báo cáo của nông dân như thế nào?

CGMMV là bệnh thuộc loạiphải báo cáo. Theo điều luật Quản lý nông nghiệp và an ninh sinh học 2007 (BAM Act) nông dân bắt buộc phải báo cáo sủ hiện diện của bệnh hay nghi ngờ bệnh cho DAFWA.

Hiện không có báo cáo nào về sự lây lan bệnh do ong trên dồng. Vấn đề nầy đang được nghiên cứu ở Bắc Úc.

Côn trùng có khả năng manh mầm bệnh không? Hiện không biết Rầy mềm (Aphids) cqua việc gây ra vết thương trên cây ó mang mầm bệnh không. Bọ cắn lá dưa (cucumber leaf bettle) có thể lây truyền bệnh từ cây bệnh sang cây khỏe thông qua vết thương khi ăn lá nhưng vẫn còn cần phải kiểm chứng.

Vấn đề gì mà cây giống, hạt giống của vườn ươm cần phải tuân thủ liên quan đến CGMMV? Trách nhiệm của ngành này là phải bảo đảm cung cấp cây giống, hạt giống sạch bệnh từ vườn ươm. Vườn ươm là phải tuân thủ các biện pháp vệ sinh nghiêm ngặt để tránh lan truyền cây giống nhiểm bệnh.

Kể từ 11/2014 chỉ những lo hạt giống nào đã qua kiểm dịch không có nhiểm bệnh CGMMV mới được nhập vào Úc. Nông dân cũng cần phải tin chắc rang hạt giống mình mua đã qua kiểm dịch với lượng mẩu 9400 hạt.

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DAFWA có khả năng xét nghiệm lá, trái, cây giống, và hạt đối với bệnh CGMMV. Bệnh CGMMV lây lan theo con đường nào? Khi có sự hiện diện của vi-rút rồi thì chúng có thể lan truyền qua:

• Lan truyền cơ học, đặc biệt là trong môi trường thâm canh có mái che và vườn ươm khi cây thường xuyên được cắt tỉa, quẩn dây, đụng chạm…điều này xảy ra thông qua máy móc dính mầm bệnh, quần áo, tay chân có tiếp xúc với mầm bệnh.

• Trên đồng thì lây lan qua bộ lá theo máy móc, nhân công, và xúc vật. • Nhiểm qua rể khi chúng tiếp xúc với xác bả cây trồng nhiểm bệnh và qua con đường tiếp xúc • Trong dung dịch dinh dưỡng hay nước trong môi trường thủy canh lây vào rể. • Các loại thùng, bin chứa đựng khi thu hoạch tồn trử, buôn bán – tránh tái sữ dụng lại các loại này. • Gốc ghép/đọt ghép bị nhiểm lây cho nhau. • Hạt giống từ cây bệnh.

• Không loài côn trùng chích hút nào đã được chứng minh mang mầm bệnh – nhưng cần phải được kiểm chuwsch trên nước Úc. • Ong mật có thể truyền bệnh trong nhà kính, nhưng không có bầng chứng lây truyên từ tổ ong. An ninh sinh học trang trại là gì?

An ninh sinh học trang trại bao gồm các biện pháp được thực hiện nhằm ngăn chặn sự lan truyền của vi-rút theo nhiều con đường khác nhau. Điều này bao gồm việc sữ dụng cây giống sạch bệnh, loại bỏ tất cả xác bả cây nhiểm bệnh; tẩy rửa dụng cụ, quần áo; và quản lý nghiêm ngặt sự di chuyển các thứ có thể nhiểm bệnh tự các trang trại đã bị nhiểm.

Tẩy rửa dụng cụ thu hoạch và cắt tỉa bằng Trisodium Phosphate sẻ giảm sự lây lan cơ học của mầm bệnh nhưng vãn không thể ngăn chặn sự lây bằng con đường tiếp xúc giửa lá và lá giửa cây bệnh và cây khỏe. Tham khảo tờ thông tin an ninh sinh học trang trại có tại trang internet của DAFWA (agric.wa.gov.au/cgmmv) để xem danh mục cần làm. Ở Bắc Úc có yêu cầu pháp lý nào trong việc thực hiện an ninh sinh học trang gtraij liên quan đến CGMMV không?

Dưới đây là các điều cấm áp dụng ở Bắc Úc, những điều này được đưa vào để đối phó khi phát hiện ra bệnh CGMMV:

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WA Grower SPRING 2016

• Không di chuyển các vật liệu nhân giống (kể cả hạt) là ký chủ của bệnh ra khỏi Bắc Úc trừ khi có chứng nhận của trưởng ban quản lý bệnh cây trồng.

• Tất cả nông gia trồng bầu bbis dưa đều phải có qui hoạch an ninh sinh học trang trại — đây là yêu cầu bắt buộc, áp dụng cho cả vườn ươm.

• Áp dụng qui tắt bình thường cho việc di chuyển đất và máy móc. • Không di chuyển ong ra khỏi tiểu ban mà không có chứng nhận

• Không ngăn cản di chuyển vật liệu thực vật trong phạm vi tiểu bang — Việc này do ngành quản lý. • Không ngăn cản vận chuển trái cây ra vào tiểu bang • Không ngăn cản mang hạt giống vào tiểu bang — Nông dân tự lo việc này.

BAM Act có cho phép luật hóa việc thực thi an ninh sinh học trang trại trong tiểu bang WA như đang làm trong trường hợp ruồi trâu không? Có thể. Việc nầy đang được xem xét

Việc thực thi an ninh sinh học trang trại có áp dụng cho vận tải không?

Có. Tuy nhieenvieejc nầy phải do ngành đảm trách. DAFWA đang cảnh báo ngành vận tải vấn đè bênh CGMMV và các biện pháp an ninh sinh học nên được lái xe thực hiện khi di chuyển giứa các trang trại. Công việc nghiên cứu gì về CGMMV đang được tiến hành? Các nghiên cứu của ƯA có liên hệ với nghiên cứu ở Bắc Úc không?

Tiểu bang Tây úc có một hợp phần (nhỏ trong dự án nghiên cứu của HIA do Bắc Úc chủ trì. WA cũng có dự án nghiên cứu riêng do chính phủ liên bang tài trọ cho vùng để chiến đấu với bệnh CGMMV và bệnh vi-rút trên Zucchini (ZYMV) Nghiên cứu quản lý bệnh CGMMV và dịch tể học sẽ được thực hiện trong phàng thid nghiệm cashc ly tại đại học Murdoch nhưng chưa bắt đầu. Dự án nghiên cứu này do tiến sỹ vi-rút học Roger Jones chủ trì. Mục tiêu của dự án là:

• Nghiên cứu độ dài thời gian của khả năng lây nhiểm của CGMMV khi nhựa cây dưa bệnh được làm khô trên các bề mặt thông thường (kim loại, vỏ xe cao su, da người, vải, bố, gổ…) và xác định loại chất tẩy hửu hiệu nhựa cây nhiểm bệnh.

• Nghiên cứu Khả năng lây nhiểm kéo dài bao lâu trong đất, xác bả cây trồng, và “rể tươi” trong đất, lấy đất từ nơi trồng

dưa ở Ord River Irigation area (ORIA). Tương tự là xem Khả năng lây nhiểm kéo dài bao lâu trong nước và xem liệu cá loại có dại phổ biến nào ở ORIA là ký chủ thay thế tiềm năng.

• Đinh lượng thời gian thực qui trình PCR (qPCR) cho chi phí thấp, nhanh, và nhạy phát hiện CGMMV trong các mẩu số lượng nhiều lá, trái, hạt bí rợ được giao liên tục tự phòng xét nghiệm bệnh của WA

• Thiết lập và chuyển giao cho nông dân, các dịch vụ, người sản xuất hạt giống, vườn ươm… qui trình an ninh sinh học dể hiểu, dể áp dụng để tránh vô tình đưa bệnh vào vùng trồng mới. Đồng thời thiết lập và chuyển giao qui trình an ninh sinh học dể hiểu, dể áp dụng để khồng chể và quản lý CGMMV bùng phát trong một vùng nếu có trường hợp bệnh xâm nhập.

Liệu nông dân có ý thức họ cần phải làm gì để ngăn chặn CGMMV xâm nhiểm và lây lan? Chuyên viên DAFWA và Hiệp hội rau cảy tây Úc đã dến Geraldton, Carnarvon và chuyên viên DAFWA đã đến Kununurra để phổ biến thông tin về CGMMV cà các công việc cần làm để ngăn chặn bệnh xâm nhập và phát tán. Việc nầy cũng đã được thực hiện cho khu vực phía bắc thành phố Perth. Công việc nầy cũng kết hợp với việc cung caaso chỉ dẫn về xây dựng kế hoạch an ninh sinh học bao gồm các chỉ dẫn và kế hoạch minh họa làm ví dụ căn bản. Nông dân ở Broom và phía Nam Perth cũng sẽ được hổ trợ tương tự. Hiệp hội dưa Úc cùng với Hiệp hội rau cải Tay Úc cũng đã xây dựng một kế hoạch an ninh sinh học cho nông dân và hổ trọ họ xây dựng kế hoạch an ninh sinh học cho từng hộ. Nông dân Geraldton không nằm trong vùng ảnh hưởng bệnh có thực thi các biện pháp an ninh sinh học không?

Một số người rất tự nguyện thực hiện mặc dù mong rằng ai cũng nên có kế hoạch phù hợp. Phát hiện bệnh CGMMV là một lời nhắc nhở về tầm quan trọng sống còn cần phải thiết lập các biện pháp an ninh sinh học tại chổ. THÊM THÔNG TIN

Liên Võ Thế Truyền tại vegetablesWA trên 0457 457 559 hoặc Truyen.vo@ vegetableswa.com.au

YOUR PRODUCTION

Permits Permit No. Description

Minor Use Permits can also be searched by specific crop or pest types at https://portal.apvma.gov.au/permits Virus

Status

Expiry date

Alternaria

CURRENT

30-Jun-20

Propyzamide

Weeds

CURRENT

30-Nov-16

PER14701

Pyriproxyfen

Silverleaf whitefly

CURRENT

30-Jun-20

PER81196

Bifenthrin

Specified whitefly and mite species

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER14245

Score Foliar Fungicide

Leaf Spot

CURRENT

31-Aug-18

PER14184

Phosphorous (phosphonic) acid

Damping off and downy mildew

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

PER14043

Chlorothalonil

Various diseases

CURRENT

30-Nov-18

PER81260

Imidacloprid

Aphids & thrips

CURRENT

30-Sep-20

PER14891

Trifloxystrobin

Alternaria leaf spot

CURRENT

30-Sep-19

PER11949

Lambda-Cyhalothrin

Various insects

CURRENT

31-Mar-20

PER14456

Tebuconazole

Sclerotonia rot

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

Acramite Miticide (bifenazate)

Two-spotted mite

CURRENT

31-Mar-21 30-Nov-20

Apple varieties PER12864

Polyram (metiram)

Artichoke â&#x20AC;&#x201D; globe PER14203 Beans

Beetroot

Bitter melon PER82341

Brassica leafy vegetables PER12008

Propachlor

Annual grasses and broadleaf weeds

CURRENT

PER11990

Chlorothalonil

Downy mildew, alternaria spot & grey mould

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

PER14127

Pendimethalin

Weeds

CURRENT

31-Aug-18

PER14864

Pirimicarb

Aphids

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

PER14184

Phosphorous (phosphonic) acid

Damping off and downy mildew

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

PER10845

Barmac Zineb Fungicide

Cercospora leaf spot & downy mildew

CURRENT

31-May-20

PER13154

Dual Gold Herbicide

Various broadleaf and grass weeds

CURRENT

31-Mar-17

PER14907

Emamectin

Various pests

CURRENT

30-Nov-19

PER14584

Imidacloprid

Aphids, whitefly and thrips

CURRENT

31-Mar-19

PER11848

Clethodim

Grass weeds

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER14045

Mancozeb + Metalaxyl

Various fungal diseases

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

PER14958

Dimethomorph & Mancozeb (Acrobat Fungicide)

Downy mildew & other diseases

CURRENT

31-Oct-19

PER81196

Bifenthrin

Specified whitefly and mite species

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER14596

Chlorpyrifos

Vegetable beetle adults

CURRENT

30-Sep-19

PER14045

Mancozeb + Metalaxyl

Various fungal diseases

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

PER14164

Clethodim

Rye grass, winter grass

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

PER11951

Phosphorous acid

Downy mildew

CURRENT

31-Mar-20

PER14051

Iprodione

Rhizoctinia

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

Broccoli

Brussels sprouts PER14432

Pendimethalin

Weeds

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

PER11951

Phosphorous acid

Downy mildew

CURRENT

31-Mar-20

PER80910

Iprodione

Grey mould

CURRENT

31-Jul-20

PER14164

Clethodim

Rye grass, winter grass

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

PER14045

Mancozeb + Metalaxyl

Various fungal diseases

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

Phosphorous

Downy mildew

CURRENT

30-Sep-17

Frontier-P

Nut grass and other Cyperus spp.

CURRENT

31-Jul-18

Imidacloprid

Aphids

CURRENT

31-May-20

PER12712

Applaud Insecticide

Greenhouse whitefly, silverleaf whitefly and leafhoppers

CURRENT

31-Mar-17

PER14326

Captan

Grey mould

CURRENT

30-Nov-16

PER81408

PHOSPHOROUS ACID

Phytophthora soil fungus

CURRENT

30-Sep-20

Bulb (allium) vegetables PER13698 Bulb onions PER80060

Cape gooseberry PER12489 Capsicum

WA Grower SPRING 2016

111

YOUR PRODUCTION

Permits (cont.) Permit No. Description

Virus

Status

Expiry date

PER12565

Scala Fungicide

Botrytis rots

CURRENT

30-Sep-17

PER14722

Abamectin

Tomato red spider mite

CURRENT

30-Sep-20

PER14725

Paramite Selective Miticide

Tomato spider mites

CURRENT

30-Jun-18

PER13031

Maldison

Fruit fly

CURRENT

31-May-17

PER11564

Switch Fungicide

Botrytis & sclerotinia

CURRENT

30-Nov-17

PER14050

Flint 500 WG Fungicide

Powdery mildew

CURRENT

30-Jun-23

PER14184

Phosphorous (phosphonic) acid

Damping off and downy mildew

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

PER10918

Imidacloprid

Greenhouse whitefly and aphids

CURRENT

31-May-18

PER14816

Azoxystrobin

Powdery mildew, sclerotinia rot (white mould), black rot

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

PER12048

Prometryn

Weeds

CURRENT

30-Sep-20

PER11747

2,2-Dichloropropionic Acid

Promotion of bolting and grass weed control

CURRENT

30-Nov-19

PER14045

Mancozeb + Metalaxyl

Various fungal diseases

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

PER14535

Clethodim

Grass weed control

CURRENT

31-Mar-19

PER13305

Glyphosate (shielded sprayer)

Certain broadleaf and grass weeds

CURRENT

30-Jun-20

PER14164

Clethodim

Rye grass, winter grass

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

PER11951

Phosphorous acid

Downy mildew

CURRENT

31-Mar-20

PER13147

Lontrel

Capeweed and clover

CURRENT

30-Nov-19

PER14037

Alpha-Cypermethrin

Staphylinid beetle

CURRENT

31-Mar-23

PER14045

Mancozeb + Metalaxyl

Various fungal diseases

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

Applaud Insecticide

Greenhouse whitefly, silverleaf whitefly and leafhoppers

CURRENT

31-Mar-17

PER14043

Chlorothalonil

Various diseases

CURRENT

30-Nov-18

PER10875

Pirimor WG Aphicide (pirimicarb)

Aphids

CURRENT

30-Sep-20

PER13114

Prometryn

Grass weeds listed on label

CURRENT

31-Mar-17

PER13323

Score Foliar Fungicide (difenoconazole)

Cercospora leaf spot & septoria leaf blight

CURRENT

31-Oct-20

PER13367

Linuron

Grass and broadleaf weeds

CURRENT

30-Apr-21

PER14353

Rovral Aquaflo Fungicide (iprodione)

Sclerotinia rot

CURRENT

31-Mar-17

PER13673

Ridomil Gold MZ WG

Late blight, septoria leaf blight & downy mildew

CURRENT

30-Sep-21

PER14494

Trifloxystrobin

DM, cercospora & septoria

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

PER12489

Imidacloprid

Aphids

CURRENT

31-May-20

PER14436

Applaud Insecticide (buprofezin)

Greenhouse whitefly

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

PER14341

Chess Insecticide (pymetrozine)

Aphids

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

PER14843

Indoxacarb (Avatar Insecticide)

eliothis, lightbrown apple moth, lucerne leaf roller and H vegetable weevil

CURRENT

30-Sep-19

PER13496

Linuron

Range of weeds

CURRENT

30-Apr-17

PER14049

Permethrin (Ambush )

Helicoverpa and looper

CURRENT

31-Mar-23

PER14812

Score Fungicide

Cercospora & septoria leaf spots

CURRENT

30-Sep-20

PER11686

Nufarm Regent 200SC Insecticide

Western flower thrips (celery) & onion thrips (lettuce)

CURRENT

31-Mar-17

PER11127

Nufarm Filan Fungicide

Sclerotinia rot

CURRENT

30-Jun-18

PER14071

Pirmicarb

Aphids

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

PER14456

Tebuconazole

Sclerotonia rot

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

PER11848

Clethodim

Grass weeds

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER14045

Mancozeb + Metalaxyl

Various fungal diseases

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

PER80282

Alpha-cypermethrin

Red-legged earth mite, onion thrips

CURRENT

30-Nov-17

PER11951

Phosphorous acid

Downy mildew

CURRENT

31-Mar-20

PER14494

Trifloxystrobin

DM, cercospora & septoria

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

PER14841

Walabi Fungicide

Botrytis and alternaria

CURRENT

30-Sep-19

PER14457

Alpha-cypermethrin

Red-legged earth mite, onion thrips

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

PER14864

Pirimicarb

Aphids

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

PER81241

Phenmedipham (Bental)

Broadleaf weeds

CURRENT

31-May-20

Carrot

Cauliflower

Choko PER12712 Celeriac

Celery

Chicory

112

WA Grower SPRING 2016

YOUR PRODUCTION

Permit No. Description

Virus

Status

Expiry date

Chilli PER14722

Abamectin

Tomato red spider mite

CURRENT

30-Sep-20

PER14326

Captan

Grey mould

CURRENT

30-Nov-16

PER13397

Clethodim (Select Herbicide)

Fops annual ryegrass and winter grass

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER13254

Dimethoate

Queensland and Mediterranean fruit fly

CURRENT

5-Oct-17

PER12823

Trifluralin

Various broad leaf and grass weeds

CURRENT

30-Jun-21

PER14536

Abamectin

Two-spotted mite

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

Triadimenol

White rot (sclerotium)

CURRENT

31-Oct-19

Triadimenol

White Rot (sclerotium)

CURRENT

31-Oct-19

PER14722

Abamectin

Tomato red spider mite

CURRENT

30-Sep-20

PER12447

Teldor 500 SC Fungicide

Botrytis rot

CURRENT

31-May-21

PER12489

Imidacloprid

Aphids

CURRENT

31-May-20

PER14043

Chlorothalonil

Various diseases

CURRENT

30-Nov-18

PER7909

Scala 400 SC Fungicide

Botrytis rot

CURRENT

30-Sep-17

PER81196

Bifenthrin

Specified whitefly and mite species

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER82341

Acramite Miticide (bifenazate)

Two-spotted mite

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER12391

Prodigy Insecticide

Lepidopteran pests

CURRENT

30-Sep-17

PER14077

Eco-Oil (Botanical Oil)

Silverleaf whitefly

CURRENT

30-Sep-23

PER14326

Captan

Grey mould

CURRENT

30-Nov-16

PER14050

Flint 500 WG Fungicide

Powdery mildew

CURRENT

30-Jun-23

PER12712

Applaud Insecticide

Greenhouse whitefly, silverleaf whitefly and leafhoppers

CURRENT

31-Mar-17

PER13031

Maldison

Fruit fly

CURRENT

31-May-17

PER81702

DOMINEX DUO EC INSECTICIDE

Loopers

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER14046

Mancozeb

Grey mould

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

PER80891

Pyranica Miticide

Two-spotted mite & European red mite

CURRENT

30-Sep-20

PER14765

Hexythiazox (Calibre 100 EC miticide)

Tomato spider mite, two-spotted mite, broad mite, tomato russet mite

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

PER14725

Paramite Selective Miticide

Tomato spider mites

CURRENT

30-Jun-18

PER80138

Alpha-cypermethrin

Cucumber fruit fly

CURRENT

31-Mar-20

PER14840

Bupirimate

Powdery mildew

CURRENT

30-Sep-19

PER80101

Sumitomo Samurai Systematic Insecticide

Cucumber fruit fly

CURRENT

30-Sep-18

PER13304

Paramite

Two-spotted mite, red spider mite

CURRENT

30-Jun-18

PER12823

Trifluralin

Various broad leaf and grass weeds

CURRENT

30-Jun-21

PER12712

Applaud Insecticide

Greenhouse whitefly, silverleaf whitefly and leafhoppers

CURRENT

31-Mar-17

PER13397

Clethodim (Select Herbicide)

Fops annual ryegrass and winter grass

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER80910

Iprodione

Grey mould

CURRENT

31-Jul-20

PER14722

Abamectin

Tomato red spider mite

CURRENT

30-Sep-20

PER81196

Bifenthrin

Specified whitefly and mite species

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER82341

Acramite Miticide (bifenazate)

Two-spotted mite

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER12391

Prodigy Insecticide

Lepidopteran pests

CURRENT

30-Sep-17

PER14036

Bupirimate

Powdery mildew

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

PER12506

Dimethoate

Queensland fruit fly & Mediterranean fruit fly

CURRENT

31-Oct-18

PER13351

Pirimicarb

Aphids

CURRENT

31-Mar-19

PER14186

Success Neo (spinetoram)

Melon thrips

CURRENT

30-Sep-18

PER14484

Fluazifop

Grass weeds

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

PER11451

Chlorothalonil

Various fungal diseases

CURRENT

30-Jun-18

PER14047

Methidathion

Rutherglen bug

CURRENT

30-Jun-18

PER14839

Zineb

Anthracnose (Colletotrichum spp.)

CURRENT

30-Sep-19

PER80717

Trichlorfon

Fruit fly

CURRENT

31-Oct-20

Chinese onions PER14906 Chives PER14906 Cucumber

Cucurbits

Eggplant

Endive

WA Grower SPRING 2016

113

YOUR PRODUCTION

Permits (cont.) Permit No. Description

Virus

PER14456

Tebuconazole

Sclerotonia rot

CURRENT

Status

Expiry date 30-Jun-19

PER14045

Mancozeb + Metalaxyl

Various fungal diseases

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

PER11951

Phosphorous acid

Downy mildew

CURRENT

31-Mar-20

PER81241

Phenmedipham (Bental)

Broadleaf weeds

CURRENT

31-May-20

PER11848

Clethodim

Grass weeds

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER14494

Trifloxystrobin

DM, cercospora & septoria

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

PER14841

Walabi Fungicide

Botrytis and alternaria

CURRENT

30-Sep-19

PER13036

Bravo 720 SC

Downy mildew, purple blotch

CURRENT

31-Jul-21

PER13698

Phosphorous

Downy mildew

CURRENT

30-Sep-17

Mediterranean fruit fly & Queensland fruit fly

CURRENT

30-Sep-18

Fennel

Fruiting vegetables excluding cucurbits PER80100

Sumitomo Samurai Systematic Insecticide

Fruiting vegetables PER14765

Hexythiazox (Calibre 100 EC miticide)

Tomato spider mite, two-spotted mite, broad mite, tomato russet mite

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

PER80101

Sumitomo Samurai Systematic Insecticide

Cucumber fruit fly

CURRENT

30-Sep-18

Chlorothalonil

Various fungal diseases

CURRENT

30-Jun-18

Fluazifop

Grass weeds

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

Metolachlor

Various broadleaf and grass weeds

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

Eco-Oil (Botanical Oil)

Silverleaf whitefly

CURRENT

30-Sep-23

PER14336

Prodigy

Cluster caterpillar, looper and light brown apple moth

CURRENT

30-Sep-17

PER14696

Abamectin

Two-spotted mite

CURRENT

31-Mar-19 31-May-18

Garden peas PER11451 Garlic PER14484 Green beans PER13626

Greenhouse & hydroponic capsicum PER14077 Head lettuce

Leafy lettuce PER10918

Imidacloprid

Greenhouse whitefly and aphids

CURRENT

PER14958

Dimethomorph & Mancozeb (Acrobat Fungicide)

Downy mildew & other diseases

CURRENT

31-Oct-19

PER12712

Applaud Insecticide

Greenhouse whitefly, silverleaf whitefly and leafhoppers

CURRENT

31-Mar-17

PER12391

Prodigy Insecticide

Lepidopteran pests

CURRENT

30-Sep-17

PER14326

Captan

Grey mould

CURRENT

30-Nov-16

PER12351

Confidor Guard Soil

Silverleaf whitefly

CURRENT

30-Jun-20

Leafy vegetables PER14958

Dimethomorph & Mancozeb (Acrobat Fungicide)

Downy mildew & other diseases

CURRENT

31-Oct-19

PER14837

Mandipropamid (Revus Fungicide)

Downy mildew

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

PER14906

Triadimenol

White rot (Sclerotium)

CURRENT

31-Oct-19

PER14457

Alpha-cypermethrin

Red-legged earth mite, onion thrips

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

PER13367

Linuron

Grass and broadleaf weeds

CURRENT

30-Apr-21

PER14473

Dimethomorph & Mancozeb

Downy mildew, purple blotch & botrytis rots

CURRENT

30-Jun-18

PER13653

Maldison

Onion thrips

CURRENT

31-Oct-18

PER14742

Methabenzthiazuron (Tribunil Herbicide)

Various broadleaf and grass weeds

CURRENT

30-Jun-21

PER80282

Alpha-cypermethrin

Red-legged earth mite, onion thrips

CURRENT

30-Nov-17

PER13257

Select Herbicide (clethodim)

CURRENT

31-Mar-17

PER14484

Fluazifop

Grass weeds as per label including winter grass (Poa annua) Grass weeds

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

PER81196

Bifenthrin

Specified whitefly and mite species

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER12008

Propachlor

Annual grasses and broadleaf weeds

CURRENT

30-Nov-20

PER11686

Nufarm Regent 200SC Insecticide

Western flower thrips (celery) & onion thrips (lettuce)

CURRENT

31-Mar-17

PER14077

Eco-Oil (Botanical Oil)

Silverleaf whitefly

CURRENT

30-Sep-23

PER14210

Acramite Miticide

Two-spotted (red spider) mite

CURRENT

30-Sep-18

PER13301

Alpha-cypermethrin

Red-legged earth mite & vegetable weevil

CURRENT

31-May-20

Leek

Lettuce

114

WA Grower SPRING 2016

YOUR PRODUCTION

Permit No. Description

Virus

PER14430

Azoxystrobin (Amistar 250 SC)

Bottom rot

CURRENT

Status

Expiry date 30-Jun-17

PER14351

DC-Tron Plus

Various bugs

CURRENT

31-Mar-17

PER14318

Metalaxyl-M

Damping off

CURRENT

30-Sep-18

PER14431

Rizolex Liquid

Bottom rot

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

PER81136

SWITCH FUNGICIDE

Anthracnose

CURRENT

30-Sep-18

PER12447

Teldor 500 SC Fungicide

Botrytis rot

CURRENT

31-May-21

PER81241

Phenmedipham (Bental)

Broadleaf weeds

CURRENT

31-May-20

PER12846

Abamectin

Two-spotted mite

CURRENT

30-Sep-17

PER13698

Phosphorous

Downy mildew

CURRENT

30-Sep-17

PER12565

Scala Fungicide

Botrytis rots

CURRENT

30-Sep-17

Lettuce seedlings PER13332

BALAN (benfluralin)

Grass and broadleaf weed control

CURRENT

31-Mar-22

PER14964

Chlorothalonil

Antracnose (shot hole)

CURRENT

30-Nov-19

Applaud Insecticide

Greenhouse whitefly, silverleaf whitefly and leafhoppers

CURRENT

31-Mar-17

PER14649

Acramite (bifenazate)

Two-spotted mite

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

PER14650

Paramite (etoxazole)

Two-spotted mite

CURRENT

31-May-18

PER13170

Dimethoate

Various fruit fly species

CURRENT

5-Oct-17

Confidor Guard Soil

Silverleaf whitefly

CURRENT

30-Jun-20

PER14602

Boscalid, Iprodione & Chlorothalonil

Botrytis neck-rot

CURRENT

30-Sep-18

PER14773

Basagran (bentazone-sodium)

Broadleaf weeds

CURRENT

30-Jun-18

PER80282

Alpha-cypermethrin

Red-legged earth mite, onion thrips

CURRENT

30-Nov-17

PER14722

Abamectin

Tomato red spider mite

CURRENT

30-Sep-20

PER12823

Trifluralin

Various broad leaf and grass weeds

CURRENT

30-Jun-21

PER13397

Clethodim (Select Herbicide)

Fops annual ryegrass and winter grass

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER14536

Abamectin

Two-spotted mite

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

PER14045

Mancozeb + Metalaxyl

Various fungal diseases

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

PER14184

Phosphorous (phosphonic) acid

Damping off and downy mildew

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

PER11348

Clethodim

Grass weeds

CURRENT

31-Mar-22

PER14858

Pendimethalin

Grasses and broadleaf weeds

CURRENT

31-Mar-20

PER12048

Prometryn

Weeds

CURRENT

30-Sep-20

PER14484

Fluazifop

Grass weeds

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

PER12357

Linuron

30-Sep-20

Ridomil Gold 25G (metalaxyl-M)

PER13696

Trifluralin

PER11935

Triadimenol

PER14043

Chlorothalonil

Grass and broadleaf weeds Pythium Spp. and Phytophthora Spp. Wintergrass Powdery mildew Various diseases

CURRENT

PER14695

PER81196

Bifenthrin

PER14035

Diflufenican

PER13397

Marrow PER12712 Melons

Okra PER12351 Onions

Paprika

Parsnip

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

CURRENT

30-Nov-18

Specified whitefly and mite species

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

Broadleaf weeds

CURRENT

31-Mar-23

Clethodim (Select Herbicide)

Fops annual ryegrass and winter grass

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER12712

Applaud Insecticide

Greenhouse whitefly, silverleaf whitefly and leafhoppers

CURRENT

31-Mar-17

PER81196

Bifenthrin

Specified whitefly and mite species

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER82341

Acramite Miticide (bifenazate)

Two-spotted mite

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER12391

Prodigy Insecticide

Lepidopteran pests

CURRENT

30-Sep-17

PER14840

Bupirimate

Powdery mildew

CURRENT

30-Sep-19

PER11440

Sumiclex 500 (procymidone)

Sclerotinia rot

CURRENT

31-Jan-20

Peas

Peppers

WA Grower SPRING 2016

115

YOUR PRODUCTION

Permits (cont.) Permit No. Description

Virus

Status

Expiry date

PER14353

Rovral Aquaflo Fungicide (iprodione)

Sclerotinia rot

CURRENT

31-Mar-17

PER14047

Methidathion

Rutherglen bug

CURRENT

30-Jun-18

PER11127

Nufarm Filan Fungicide

Sclerotinia rot

CURRENT

30-Jun-18

PER12378

Acephate

Western flower thrips

CURRENT

31-Oct-20

PER12489

Imidacloprid

Aphids

CURRENT

31-May-20

PER82359

Pirimor (pirimicarb)

Aphids

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER12447

Teldor 500 SC Fungicide

Botrytis rot

CURRENT

31-May-21

Calypso Insecticide

Mediterranean fruit fly

CURRENT

30-Nov-18

PER14722

Abamectin

Tomato red spider mite

CURRENT

30-Sep-20

PER80344

Chlorpyrifos

lack beetle, wingless grasshopper, red-legged earth B mite

CURRENT

30-Sep-20

PER10822

Sodium hypochlorite

Various insect and fungal pests

CURRENT

30-Nov-19

PER12612

Alpha-cypermethrin

Garden weevil

CURRENT

30-Apr-21

PER14765

Hexythiazox (Calibre 100 EC miticide)

omato spider mite, two-spotted mite, broad mite, T tomato russet mite

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

CURRENT

30-Jun-19 31-May-21

Pome fruit PER14562 Potato

Protected cropping — cucumber PER14694

VectoBac WG Biological Larvicide

Protected cropping — capsicum PER14694

VectoBac WG Biological Larvicide

Protected cropping — eggplant PER14694

VectoBac WG Biological Larvicide

Protected cropping — lettuce PER14694

VectoBac WG Biological Larvicide

Protected cropping — tomatoes PER13721

Switch

Grey mould (Botrytis)

CURRENT

PER13716

Abrade Abrasive Barrier Insecticide

Various insect pests

CURRENT

31-Jan-20

PER13717

Amistar Top (azoxystrobin + difenoconazole)

Powdery mildew

CURRENT

31-May-21

PER13723

Avatar

Heliothis (corn earworm), looper, cluster caterpillar, leafhoppers, green mirid

CURRENT

31-May-18

PER13725

Chess

Greenhouse whitefly, silverleaf whitefly, green peach aphid

CURRENT

31-May-18

PER13724

Previcur

Root rot

CURRENT

31-May-21

PER13720

Pristine

Powdery mildew

CURRENT

31-May-21

PER80216

Torque Insecticide (fenbutatin oxide)

Two-spotted mite

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

PER13726

Trifloxystrobin

Powdery mildew

CURRENT

31-May-21

PER80210

Pyrimethanil

Botrytis

CURRENT

30-Jun-20

Chlorpyrifos

African black beetle

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER14045

Mancozeb + Metalaxyl

Various fungal diseases

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

PER11951

Phosphorous acid

Downy mildew

CURRENT

31-Mar-20

PER11848

Clethodim

Grass weeds

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER14841

Walabi Fungicide

Botrytis and alternaria

CURRENT

30-Sep-19

PER81241

Phenmedipham (Bental)

Broadleaf weeds

CURRENT

31-May-20

PER14864

Pirimicarb

Aphids

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

PER14456

Tebuconazole

Sclerotonia rot

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

PER11949

Lambda-Cyhalothrin

Various insects

CURRENT

31-Mar-20

PER11451

Chlorothalonil

Various fungal diseases

CURRENT

30-Jun-18

PER14126

Methomyl

Various

CURRENT

30-Sep-17

PER11441

Propachlor

Grass and broadleaf weeds

CURRENT

31-Dec-19

PER14048

Pendimethalin

Various broadleaf and grass weeds

CURRENT

31-Mar-23

PER11935

Triadimenol

Powdery mildew

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

PER13444

Propiconazole

Cercospora

CURRENT

31-Mar-17

Pumpkin PER11768 Radicchio

Radish

116

WA Grower SPRING 2016

YOUR PRODUCTION

Permits (cont.) Permit No. Description

Virus

Status

Expiry date

Rhubarb PER13441

Ambush Emulsifiable Concentrate Insecticide

Green peach aphid, green looper, light brown apple moth and budworms

CURRENT

31-Mar-17

PER13300

Abamectin

Broad mite

CURRENT

31-Dec-16

PER14744

Clethodim

Grass weeds listed on label

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

PER14212

Imidacloprid

Aphids

CURRENT

30-Jun-18

PER14493

Phos acid

Downy mildew

CURRENT

31-Jan-19

PER12384

S-metolachlor (Dual Gold Herbicide)

Various weeds

CURRENT

31-Aug-20

PER14045

Mancozeb + Metalaxyl

Various fungal diseases

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

PER12008

Propachlor

Annual grasses and braodleaf weeds

CURRENT

30-Nov-20

PER14127

Pendimethalin

Weeds

CURRENT

31-Aug-18

PER14864

Pirimicarb

Aphids

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

PER14906

Triadimenol

White rot (sclerotium)

CURRENT

31-Oct-19

PER14473

Dimethomorph & Mancozeb

Downy mildew, purple blotch & botrytis rots

CURRENT

30-Jun-18

PER13653

Maldison

Onion thrips

CURRENT

31-Oct-18

PER14742

Methabenzthiazuron (Tribunil Herbicide)

Various broadleaf and grass weeds

CURRENT

30-Jun-21

PER13626

Metolachlor

Various broadleaf and grass weeds

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

PER12008

Propachlor

Annual grasses and broadleaf weeds

CURRENT

30-Nov-20

PER14842

Copper Oxychloride, Cuprous Oxide or Cupric Hydroxide

Downy mildew

CURRENT

30-Sep-19

PER14073

Diazinon

Thrips (excluding WFT) and onion seedling maggot

CURRENT

30-Jun-18

PER14890

Methomyl (Lannate-L)

Western flower thrips

CURRENT

31-Oct-19

PER13205

Secure 360 SC (chlorfenapyr)

Western flower thrips

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

PER13257

Select Herbicide (clethodim)

rass weeds as per label including winter grass (Poa G annua)

CURRENT

31-Mar-17

PER14048

Pendimethalin

Various broadleaf and grass weeds

CURRENT

31-Mar-23

PER14142

Ioxynil

Broad leaf and grass weeds

CURRENT

31-Mar-19

PER14536

Abamectin

Two-spotted mite

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

PER14457

Alpha-cypermethrin

Red-legged earth mite, onion thrips

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

PER14484

Fluazifop

Grass weeds

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

PER14471

Lambda-cyhalothrin

Various pests

CURRENT

31-Mar-19

PER11951

Phosphorous acid

Downy mildew

CURRENT

31-Mar-20

PER14703

Tramat 500 SC Selective Herbicide (ethofumesate)

Various weeds

CURRENT

31-Jul-19

PER14034

Chlorothalonil

Various fungal diseases

CURRENT

31-Oct-19

PER13626

Metolachlor

Various broadleaf and grass weeds

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

PER12008

Propachlor

Annual grasses and broadleaf weeds

CURRENT

30-Nov-20

PER14456

Tebuconazole

Sclerotonia rot

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

PER10918

Imidacloprid

Greenhouse whitefly and aphids

CURRENT

31-May-18

PER13673

Ridomil Gold MZ WG

Late blight, septoria leaf blight & downy mildew

CURRENT

30-Sep-21

PER13673

Ridomil Gold MZ WG

Late blight, septoria leaf blight & downy mildew

CURRENT

30-Sep-21

PER14841

Walabi Fungicide

Botrytis and alternaria

CURRENT

30-Sep-19

PER13397

Clethodim (Select Herbicide)

Fops annual ryegrass and winter grass

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER11991

Legend Fungicide (quinoxyfen)

Powdery mildew

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER14722

Abamectin

Tomato red spider mite

CURRENT

30-Sep-20

PER14725

Paramite Selective Miticide

Tomato spider mites

CURRENT

30-Jun-18

PER14765

Hexythiazox (Calibre 100 EC miticide)

omato spider mite, two-spotted mite, broad mite, T tomato russet mite

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

PER12846

Abamectin

Two-spotted mite

CURRENT

30-Sep-17

PER13899

Etoxazole

Two-spotted mite

CURRENT

31-Mar-20

PER14470

Mancozeb & Dimethomorph

Downy mildew

CURRENT

30-Apr-17

PER11964

Chlorothalonil (Bravo)

Downy mildew & chocolate spot

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

Rocket

Shallots

Silverbeet

Snow peas

WA Grower SPRING 2016

117

YOUR PRODUCTION

Permits (cont.) Permit No. Description

Virus

PER11764

Spiroxamine

Powdery mildew

CURRENT

Status

Expiry date 30-Jun-18

PER80558

Bifenazate

Various mites

CURRENT

31-Aug-20

PER10976

Bentazone

Broadleaf weeds

CURRENT

31-Mar-20

PER10988

Bladex 900 WG (cyanazine)

Broadleaf weeds

CURRENT

31-Mar-20

PER10938

Imidacloprid

Greenhouse whitefly

CURRENT

31-Jul-18

PER14033

Lambda-cyhalothrin

Pasture webworm, cutworm, Rutherglen bug and thrips

CURRENT

31-May-18

PER14505

Pyrimethanil

Grey mould (botrytis)

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

Fruit fly

CURRENT

31-Jan-21

Prometryn

Grass and broadleaf weeds

CURRENT

31-Mar-19

PER11951

Phosphorous acid

Downy mildew

CURRENT

31-Mar-20

PER14034

Chlorothalonil

Various fungal diseases

CURRENT

31-Oct-19

PER13626

Metolachlor

Various broadleaf and grass weeds

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

PER12008

Propachlor

Annual grasses and broadleaf weeds

CURRENT

30-Nov-20

PER12008

Propachlor

Annual grasses and broadleaf weeds

CURRENT

30-Nov-20

PER14456

Tebuconazole

Sclerotonia rot

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

PER10918

Imidacloprid

Greenhouse whitefly and aphids

CURRENT

31-May-18

PER14494

Trifloxystrobin

DM, cercospora & septoria

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

PER14494

Trifloxystrobin

DM, cercospora & septoria

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

PER14841

Walabi Fungicide

Botrytis and alternaria

CURRENT

30-Sep-19

PER81241

Phenmedipham (Bental)

Broadleaf weeds

CURRENT

31-May-20

PER13397

Clethodim (Select Herbicide)

Fops annual ryegrass and winter grass

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER14703

Tramat 500 SC Selective Herbicide (ethofumesate)

Various weeds

CURRENT

31-Jul-19

30-Jun-19

Specified fruit crops PER12450

Trichlorfon

Specified root & tuber vegetables PER14385 Spinach

Spring onions PER14071

Pirmicarb

Aphids

CURRENT

PER14457

Alpha-cypermethrin

Red-legged earth mite, onion thrips

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

PER14484

Fluazifop

Grass weeds

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

PER14906

Triadimenol

White rot (sclerotium)

CURRENT

31-Oct-19

PER14473

Dimethomorph & Mancozeb

Downy mildew, purple blotch & botrytis rots

CURRENT

30-Jun-18

PER13653

Maldison

Onion thrips

CURRENT

31-Oct-18

PER14742

Methabenzthiazuron (Tribunil Herbicide)

Various broadleaf and grass weeds

CURRENT

30-Jun-21

PER80282

Alpha-cypermethrin

Red-legged earth mite, onion thrips

CURRENT

30-Nov-17

PER14471

Lambda-cyhalothrin

Various pests

CURRENT

31-Mar-19

PER14034

Chlorothalonil

Various fungal diseases

CURRENT

31-Oct-19

PER13626

Metolachlor

Various broadleaf and grass weeds

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

PER12008

Propachlor

Annual grasses and broadleaf weeds

CURRENT

30-Nov-20

PER14842

Copper Oxychloride, Cuprous Oxide or Cupric Hydroxide

Downy mildew

CURRENT

30-Sep-19

PER14073

Diazinon

Thrips (excluding WFT) and onion seedling maggot

CURRENT

30-Jun-18

PER14890

Methomyl (Lannate-L)

Western flower thrips

CURRENT

31-Oct-19

PER13205

Secure 360 SC (chlorfenapyr)

Western flower thrips

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

PER13257

Select Herbicide (clethodim)

CURRENT

31-Mar-17

PER14048

Pendimethalin

CURRENT

31-Mar-23

PER14142

Ioxynil

CURRENT

31-Mar-19

PER14536

Abamectin

Grass weeds as per label including winter grass (Poa annua) Various broadleaf and grass weeds Broad leaf and grass weeds Two-spotted mite

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

Greenhouse whitefly, silverleaf whitefly and leafhoppers

CURRENT

31-Mar-17 30-Sep-20

Squash (all types) PER12712

Applaud Insecticide

Sugar snap peas

118

PER14722

Abamectin

Tomato red spider mite

CURRENT

PER14725

Paramite Selective Miticide

Tomato spider mites

CURRENT

30-Jun-18

PER14765

Hexythiazox (Calibre 100 EC miticide)

omato spider mite, two-spotted mite, broad mite, T tomato russet mite

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

WA Grower SPRING 2016

YOUR PRODUCTION

Permit No. Description

Virus

PER12846

Abamectin

Two-spotted mite

CURRENT

Status

Expiry date 30-Sep-17

PER13899

Etoxazole

Two-spotted mite

CURRENT

31-Mar-20

PER11964

Chlorothalonil (Bravo)

Downy mildew & chocolate spot

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

PER11764

Spiroxamine

Powdery mildew

CURRENT

30-Jun-18

PER80558

Bifenazate

Various mites

CURRENT

31-Aug-20

PER10976

Bentazone

Broadleaf weeds

CURRENT

31-Mar-20

PER10988

Bladex 900 WG (cyanazine)

Broadleaf weeds

CURRENT

31-Mar-20

PER10938

Imidacloprid

Greenhouse whitefly

CURRENT

31-Jul-18

PER14033

Lambda-cyhalothrin

Pasture webworm, cutworm, Rutherglen bug and thrips

CURRENT

31-May-18

PER14505

Pyrimethanil

Grey mould (botrytis)

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

PER14126

Methomyl

Various

CURRENT

30-Sep-17

PER11441

Propachlor

Grass and broadleaf weeds

CURRENT

31-Dec-19

PER11935

Triadimenol

Powdery mildew

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

PER14337

Trifluralin

Weeds

CURRENT

30-Jun-20

PER14722

Abamectin

Tomato red spider mite

CURRENT

30-Sep-20

PER14071

Pirmicarb

Aphids

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

PER14474

Methoxyfenozide

Lepidopteran pests

CURRENT

30-Jul-17

PER13116

Propiconazole

Northern corn leaf blight

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER14536

Abamectin

Two-spotted mite

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

Swede

Sweet corn

Sweet potato PER82572

NIMITZ 480 EC NEMATICIDE

Root knot nematode

CURRENT

31-Jan-20

PER14484

Fluazifop

Grass weeds

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

PER13151

Mouseoff and Rattoff Zinc Phosphide Baits

House mouse and introduced rats

CURRENT

31-Dec-16

PER13153

Regent 200 SC

White fringed weevil & wireworm

CURRENT

31-Dec-16

PER14864

Pirimicarb

Aphids

CURRENT

30-Jun-19

PER13902

Phorate

phids, thrips, jassids and organophosphate susceptible A two-spotted mite and wireworm

CURRENT

31-Mar-18

PER14722

Abamectin

Tomato red spider mite

CURRENT

30-Sep-20

PER14725

Paramite Selective Miticide

Tomato spider mites

CURRENT

30-Jun-18

PER82341

Acramite Miticide (bifenazate)

Two-spotted mite

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER12378

Acephate

Western flower thrips

CURRENT

31-Oct-20

PER82509

Applaud Insecticide

Greenhouse whitefly

CURRENT

31-Mar-17

PER81713

Mainman 500WG Insecticide

Silverleaf whitefly

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER13675

Maldison

ueensland, Mediterranean and lesser Queensland fruit Q fly and cucumber fly

CURRENT

31-May-18

PER11935

Triadimenol

Powdery mildew

CURRENT

30-Jun-17

PER14126

Methomyl

Various

CURRENT

30-Sep-17

PER11441

Propachlor

Grass and broadleaf weeds

CURRENT

31-Dec-19

PER14337

Trifluralin

Weeds

CURRENT

30-Jun-20

Ioxynil

Broad leaf and grass weeds

CURRENT

31-Mar-19

PER14722

Abamectin

Tomato red spider mite

CURRENT

30-Sep-20

PER82341

Acramite Miticide (bifenazate)

Two-spotted mite

CURRENT

31-Mar-21

PER12712

Applaud Insecticide

Greenhouse whitefly, silverleaf whitefly and leafhoppers

CURRENT

31-Mar-17

Tomatoes

Turnip

Welsh onions PER14142 Zucchini

WA Grower SPRING 2016

119

WA Grower ADVERTISING SPECIFICATIONS

Preferred format: press ready PDF

FULL PAGE Full page with bleed 210mm(W) x 297mm(H) plus 3mm bleed — 216mm(W) x 303mm(H)

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HALF PAGE Half page without bleed 190mm(W) x 130mm(H)

vegetablesWA Horticultural House 103 Outram Street, West Perth 6005

t: (08) 9481 0834 f: (08) 9481 0024 e: finance@vegetableswa.com.au

ONE THIRD PAGE One third page without bleed 190mm(W) x 80mm(H) or 60mm(W) x 254mm(H) WA Grower advertiser contacts Name

Website/Email

Address

Contact name

Bendigo Bank (p101)

www.bendigobank.com.au/public/

Gingin Community Bank, 3 Constable St, Gingin

Garry Harvey

Bentonite WA (p61)

www.bentonitewa.com.au

Tony Pekin

0418 140 929

Centrewest Insurance Brokers (p91)

www.centrewest.com.au

PO Box 636, Balcatta WA 6914

Gavin Statham

(08) 9439 7900

C-Wise (p9)

www.cwise.com.au

Nambeelup Road, Nambeelup WA 6207

David Howey

(08) 9581 9582

DNL Australia (p25)

www.dnl-aus.com / info@dnl-aus.com

PO Box 304, Sanctuary Cove QLD 4212

Nigel Hollis

(07) 5574 5538

Dobmac Ag Machinery (OBC)

www.dobmac.com.au

36-38 Industrial Dv, Ulverstone, TAS 7315

Mark Dobson

(03) 6425 5533

edp australia pty ltd (p103)

www.edp.com.au

31-37 OBrien St, Mooroopna VIC 3269

Ian Parsons

(03) 5820 5337

Growcom (p84)

www.growcom.com.au

PO Box 202, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006

Growise (p25)

http://growise.com.au/index.html

Horticulture Innovation Australia (IBC) www.horticulture.com.au Landmark Harcourts (p89)

adam.shields@landmarkharcourts.com.au

Madec (p79)

www.harvesttrail.gov.au

Level 8, 1 Chifley Sqe, Sydney NSW 2000

0411 086 292 (02) 8295 2300

Adam Shields

0429 104 760 1800 062 332

Nelson Irrigation (p43)

www.nelsonirrigation.com.au

Unit 1, 14 Hydro Rise, Bibra Lake WA 6163

Organic 2000 (p41)

www.organic2000.com.au

59 Safari Pl, Carabooda, WA 6033

Seasol Australia (p33)

www.seasol.com.au

Stratus Imaging (p53)

www.stratusimaging.com.au

Waterlicence.com.au (p45)

WaterLicence.com.au

Wildeye Irrigation (p60)

www.mywildeye.com

WA Grower SPRING 2016

(08) 9575 1560

(07) 3620 3844 John Rukavina

NaanDanJain Australia Pty Ltd (p37) www.naandanjain.com.au

120

Contact number

PO Box 130 Forresteld WA 6058

Coenraad Grabe

0428 395 684

Greg Stewart

0437 348 488 (08) 9407 5182

Alan Corke

0488 006 993

Andrew Dedman

0438 358 756

Brad van Blomestein

0438 932 852 1300 WILDEYE

We understand that producers working in the horticulture sector face a unique set of challenges, which often present opportunities. You need to adapt to rapidly changing weather conditions, crop development, emerging technologies, price fluctuations and varying global economic conditions. Partner with your local Rural Bank Horticulture Finance Specialist, Garry Harvey to make the most of every opportunity. To find out more about Rural Bank’s range of specialist farm finance products and services, visit your local branch at Gingin Community Bank®, 3 Constable Street, Gingin or Lancelin branch, 442 Lancelin Plaza, Lancelin or phone 08 9575 1560 to speak to one of our local Managers.

Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited, The Bendigo Centre, Bendigo, VIC 3550. ABN 11 068 049 178 AFSL 237879. Product issued by Rural Bank Limited, ABN 74 083 938 416 AFSL 238042 and distributed by Bendigo Bank. Before making any investment decision you should consider your situation and read the relevant Terms and Conditions available at www.bendigobank.com.au or from any Bendigo Bank branch. (S55573) (07/16)

Gingin Community Bank®Branch

ONION GRADING & PACKING SOLUTIONS M & P Onion Peelers • Small Peeler for 18-45mm Onions or Shallots • Large Peeler for Onions over 45mm • Stainless Steel Construction • Variable Speed Drive • Dry Peeling Process

• Manual Orientation of Onions • Adjustable Operator Station • 415v 3 Phase 50 Hz • Unique Peeling System

Baxmatic®

Fully automated Bagging System Combination Weighing Scale (Optional)

• High capacity (up to 1200 bags/hr) • Quick start-up & changes • Automatic bag placement • Automatic sewing & closing • Bag sizes from 2.5kg to 50kg • Heavy duty construction • Integrated labelling • Online support system • 12 & 16 Head Combination Scales • Up to 1500 scale movements per hour

Turn Key Pack House Solutions • Onion Toppers • Pre Sizers • Intake Hoppers • Dirt Separation • Inspection Tables • Box/Big Bag Fillers • 5-25kg Baggers • Semi & Fully Automatic Palletisers

36-38 Industrial Drive (PO Box 93) Ulverstone TASMANIA. 7315 AUSTRALIA Phone: (03) 6425 5533 Fax: (03) 6425 5847

PO Box 1021, Pukekohe. New Zealand Phone: 0272 907 281

Email: dobmac@dobmac.com.au Website: www.dobmac.com.au A leader in the design, manufacture & supply of specialised agricultural machinery