Vine magazine June 2025

Reimagining the packhouse

Ready for the picking season?

Dual weight ranging compact scale

Robust and reliable, the light-weight Japanese designed IPC series of compact scales can withstand rough conditions to produce accurate weight results, and runs on only two D-size batteries Dual range weighing improves weighing data, and has a large LCD screen for easy reading and a helpful battery ‘save’ function. The IPC comes in 3kg, 6kg, 15kg and 30kg weighing models, with a water proof model also available.

Trade approved and certified National Measurement Institute (NMI) approved for trade within Australia and C-Tick Compliant.

The Vine is a joint publication of the Australian table grape and dried fruits industries. For editorial and advertising enquiries, contact:

Dried Fruits Australia

T: (03) 5023 5174

E: admin@driedfruitsaustralia.org.au

W: www.driedfruitsaustralia.org.au

Australian Table Grape Association

P: 0438 316 339

E: tmilner@atga.net.au

W: www.australiangrapes.com.au

Editorial committee:

DFA Thomas Cheung, Megan Frankel-Vaughan

ATGA Jeff Scott, Terryn Milner

Design: Kylie Norton Design Printing: Sunnyland Press

Cover photo: Riverland farm manager Bill Avery and Talia Farms have been reimagining the packhouse to reduce waste, increase efficiency and improve overall quality. Image: David Sickerdick

© Horticulture Innovation Australia Limited 2025

This publication has been funded by Hort Innovation using the table grape and dried grape levies and funds from the Australian Government. Wherever you see a Hort Innovation logo, the initiative is part of the Table Grape, Dried Grape, Dried Tree Fruit or Prune Fund. Some projects also involve funding from additional sources.

Agtech advances in table grapes 30 Nutrition Let’s talk biostimulants – part 3 31 News New supermarket code

Marketing Social media campaign shines spotlight 33 Marketing Exploring new opportunities 34 Processing & marketing Seasons new milestone 35 Processing & marketing A winning 2025 scorecard 36 Profile Larry Petrolo 38 Community Notice board

Season wrap-up

Dried grape growers have wrapped up their season and the industry is feeling optimistic for the future.

While this season was a welcome change, a remaining challenge is moisture and dehydration. We look at different options for moisture testing in this edition.

Meanwhile, increased yields and quality fruit will mean the industry is looking to build on its markets.

The table grape industry has shared its dried grape neighbour’s success of higher yields this season, but the year has not been without challenges.

While export volumes have recovered, we know it’s been a mixed bag season for many growers. Promisingly, the marketing program has reached new heights and some markets have had significant gains, which we explore in this edition.

Overall, we wish for a regenerative

for all!

Table Grapes

Dried Grapes

Combined Industries Prunes

Dried Tree Fruit

INDUSTRY BITES

THE BUZZ ON FRUIT FLY

Victoria’s Qfly funding is set to continue, but industries must still take action. Check out the DFA and ATGA websites for a wide range of resources on Qfly management.

ARE YOU OK?

Need some support? Rural Financial Counselling Service is free and confidential.

Contact 1300 735 578.

CELEBRATING QUALITY

There wasn't room in our last edition of the Vine magazine, but we wanted to recognise Sunbeam’s 2024 All Australian Quality Award winners, presented late last year.

The awards reward Sunbeam’s top performing growers who produce the best quality fruit for the year.

Well done to these growers!

TOP CROP AWARDS STILL TIME TO ENTER

Dried Fruits Australia has extended the entry deadline for this year’s Top Crop Awards.

To enter, final yields, grades and deductions must be provided to DFA by Friday 11 July. Email projects@driedfruitsaustralia.org.au

Each variety winner will receive a $250 Mildura City Heart gift card, while the overall winner will receive a $500 Mildura City Heart gift card. LET’S TALK BIOSTIMULANTS! WHAT THEY ARE AND HOW THEY WORK…

4.30–6pm, Wednesday 25 June, The Powerhouse, Hugh King Drive, Mildura.

Join the Australian Table Grape Association, Dried Fruits Australia, Murray Valley Winegrowers Inc. and Agriculture Victoria as they explore key biostimulant themes, definitions, and how growers might implement a biostimulants program. Hear from international plant nutrition expert Professor Patrick Brown.

Register here: https://letstalkbiostimulants. eventbrite.com.au

Western Australian, Queensland or South Australian growers interested in attending remotely can contact Karen Connolly at kconnolly@atga.net.au

RECOGNISING INDUSTRY CONTRIBUTION

Dried Fruits Australia presented its inaugural Industry Contribution Awards at this year’s Mildura Field Days.

In recognition of their outstanding service to the Australian dried grape industry, our 2025 recipients were: Henry Tankard, Peter Magarey, Peter Jones, Ivan Shaw and Peter Clingeleffer.

We look forward to showcasing these individuals’ contributions in the next edition of the Vine magazine.

Pictured at the presentation were DFA deputy chair Warren Lloyd, Peter Jones, Mildura Field Days coordinator Jo Rodda, Ivan Shaw and Peter Clingeleffer.

GLOBAL PRODUCTION OF DRIED GRAPES IN THE 2024/25 SEASON:

HELP SHAPE THE FUTURE OF TABLE GRAPE INDUSTRY COMMUNICATIONS

PUT YOUR VINES TO BED HEALTHY & HAPPY

Effective postharvest management is key to maintaining vine health and ensuring strong yields next season. Check out our postharvest/pre-dormancy tips on pages 24-25

1,332,314 TONNES

Source: 42nd INC World Nut and Dried Fruit Congress Round Table

EXPORT VOLUMES REBOUND TO NEAR RECORD LEVELS

Table grape exports have bounced back strongly, reaching over 140,000 tonnes – marking the industry's second-highest export volume on record. This recovery highlights renewed global demand and the resilience of producers navigating labour, logistics, and market challenges.

Discover more export insights on page 22.

The Hort Innovation levyfunded table grape industry communications program is in its final six months, and we’d like to hear from you. Want to share your ideas for future communications? Email tmilner@atga.net.au with feedback or suggestions.

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF SPRAYERS 101

Sprayers 101 is a non-profit leading resource describing best practices in safe, efficient and effective agricultural spraying. Now with Australian references. Visit sprayers101.com

HAVE A STORY YOU'D LIKE TO SHARE?

Want to nominate a grower profile? Let us know!

Contact Terryn at ATGA for table grape news e: tmilner@atga.net.au

Contact Megan at DFA for dried grape news e: communications@driedfruitsaustralia.org.au

Reimagining the packhouse

FLIPPING THE SCRIPT ON EFFICIENCY AND WASTE

The logistical headaches faced by small family-run farms and large corporate operations alike have long paved the way for opportunity and innovation in the table grape industry. Decades-long table grape growers have seen almost everything – unpredictable weather, labour challenges, global pandemics, and the constant balance between quality and volume.

Bill Avery, who is based in the Riverland, at South Australia’s newest and largest table grape operations, is no exception.

After 36 years of managing small family farms and large-scale corporates, Bill had an idea, an opportunity, and a blank slate at Lyrup’s Talia Farms to design a system that could overcome inefficiencies he'd spent his career navigating.

Talia Farms was a young business with big ambitions – among them, lifting quality and production efficiency at scale. From the outset, Bill and the team took a step back to ask a fundamental question: What does ideal productivity look like?

With that in mind, they worked backwards from a target production volume, building a system designed not just to meet demand, but to do so with precision and control.

In an industry that traditionally leans on in-field labour and experience for quality assurance, Talia Farms opted for a different path.

“We wanted total control over the fruit being picked,” Bill explained. “You can have 20 or 40 quality assurance (QA)

people in the paddock, but there are still going to be quality control issues. You just can't catch everything.”

Flipping the model: from field to shed

Instead of refining the old model, the team flipped it. They started in the packing shed and reengineered the process upstream – introducing a fully integrated, technology-driven production line that allows fruit to move swiftly from vine to box with reduced waste, consistent monitoring, and higher quality outcomes.

This was no small feat.

“To give you an idea,” Bill said, “there can be over 100 people in the packing shed at full noise. Up to 60 people are out picking – but they’re doing five hectares a night. We only pick in the early hours of the morning now. We don’t tend to pick during the day.”

Fruit is picked into crates by the picking team, without being trimmed, before being collected and returned to the shed within an hour.

The shed is built around 38 circular stainless steel packing tables, each fed by an overhead carousel system. As grapes arrive, a conveyor pauses to let crates fall into a gap. Workers trim and pack the fruit with care in a temperature controlled environment.

Once fruit arrives in the shed, it can be cooled rapidly – 40 minutes if it's loose pack and 60 minutes if packed into bunch bags – because of the Cold Logic-built cool room capabilities. The technology – which is explored in more detail on page 28 – allows fruit to be picked, packed and exported within 24 hours.

Optimising productivity

Every nine tables, a supervisor monitors performance, and everything is tracked in real-time through a custom-built app and cameras.

“We can zoom into each table and identify technical or productivity issues,” Bill said. “And because we’re in the shed, everything’s clean. No dust, no heat, and way less spoilage.”

The reduced waste, greater productivity and quality have been well worth the significant capital outlay, according to Bill.

“We’ve got complete control. From packaging to hygiene, everything is just better. And because we control every step, we’re saving money in other places – less rework, fewer rejections, more consistency.

“As soon as buyers know it’s shedpacked, they just line up. Everyone wants the fruit as soon as they see it on the table, because they can physically see what they're buying before it goes into the box.”

Waste not

One of the most unique features of the system is the shed’s waste

removal system. Fruit is trimmed on trimming tables where waste berries are weighed before being dropping through a stainless-steel collection chute leading to an underground sluice drain. From there, the rejected fruit is flushed, drained and dumped into a trailer before being recycled through mulching into the interrow. Water used in this process is continuously reused throughout the system.

Taking on challenges

As with any innovation, there were teething issues. This was the first season the packing line was operational, and it took a big effort to get the system up and running, but Talia Farms had strong technical support.

“The Unitec support team was on site for the first month,” Bill said. “Any issues, they fixed them right there. That made a huge difference.”

Beyond the technical advances, the business embraced the challenge to build a high-performing team.

“Attracting and retaining talent is a high priority for our business,” Bill said. “We’ve trained everyone – farm workers to managers – how to grow,

pick, and pack. We’re proud of the team we’ve built on farm, and we are fortunate to have a readily available labour pool as our business grows.”

Having overcome the challenges of breaking new ground, Talia Farms is looking to the future with confidence. With a new system that empowers people and machines to work in harmony, they’re laying the foundation for sustainable, scalable growth. v

Tackling vineyard waste

PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS FOR VITICULTURE PRODUCERS

Reducing reliance on plastic in vineyard packaging and operational inputs is a key priority of Australia’s viticulture industries.

Industries have been making positive steps, over the past 10 years, finding ways to make longterm improvements that are both practical and cost-effective.

Advances in recycled and recyclable packaging, along with dedicated initiatives, are helping grape producers and viticulture businesses reduce their various vineyard waste and save money.

Recently, Sunraysia’s viticulture industries gathered at Mildura Field Days for an event called Tackling Vineyard Waste, which provided a platform for growers to learn about and discuss waste reduction strategies.

Hosted by the Australian Table Grape Association, Dried Fruits Australia, and Murray Valley Winegrowers Inc., and supported by Hort Innovation, Wine Australia, and Agriculture Victoria, the event highlighted practical solutions and industry collaborations aimed at reducing vineyard waste.

Here’s a look at some of the key initiatives and concepts leading the charge:

AgSafe's bagMUSTER and drumMUSTER Programs

Operated by AgSafe, the bagMUSTER and drumMUSTER programs offer viticulture growers sustainable options to collect and recycle agricultural plastic bags and AgVet chemical containers, helping reduce plastic waste on farms. bagMUSTER offers a solution for collecting and recycling agricultural plastic bags, specifically single-use polypropylene (PP) bags used for

fertilisers, seeds, grain, stock feed, and pet food. drumMUSTER involves the collection and recycling of cleaned agvet chemical containers. Find out more information or see collection sites here: www.agsafe.org.au

Integrated Recycling

Based in Mildura, Integrated Recycling recovers and repurposes agricultural waste plastics. Their facility plays a crucial role in turning vineyard plastics back into useful products, closing the loop on plastic waste and together with Integrated Packaging they offer a grape cover reuse program. Find out more here: https://www.integratedrecycling. com.au/waste-collection/

Netafim Recoil

Netafim Recoil recycles used drip lines and removes agricultural plastic waste from the field to minimise the environmental and carbon footprint in manufacturing new driplines. Netafim recycles the field waste material and uses it in its manufacturing process, creating a circular economy. Find out more here: www.netafim.com.au/ irrigation-products/Recoil/Recycling/

Whole orchard and vineyard recycling

Whole-orchard and whole-vineyard recycling involves chipping removed trees or vines and incorporating the material back into the soil, rather than burning it. Growers like almond producer Neale Bennett and dried grape grower Daryn Gardner have adopted this approach to improve soil health, retain moisture, and return organic matter to their land before replanting. Find out more about whole orchard recycling here: almondboard.org.au/almond-orchardrecycling-trial-a-sustainability-first

National Centre for Timber Durability and Design Life

The National Centre for Timber Durability and Design Life is conducting a research project, supported by Wine Australia, that focuses on developing environmentally sound methods for disposing of unwanted treated timber and CCA vineyard posts. The goal is to keep these materials out of landfill and find better ways to recycle or repurpose them. Find out more about this and how to store your posts safely until new methods have been implemented here: www.usc.edu.au/research/forestresearch-institute/national-centrefor-timber-durability-and-design-life

EPA Victoria

As the state’s independent environmental regulator, the Environmental Protection Authority provides growers with vital information and options for managing horticulture infrastructure waste responsibly and sustainably. Find out more here: www.epa.vic.gov.au/

Together, these initiatives are paving the way for a more sustainable future in viticulture, offering practical solutions that growers can adopt to minimise vineyard waste.v

Industry set up for future growth

The Australian dried grape industry is witnessing a surge in production, this year delivering the highest crop volume since 2018.

There have been several years of challenges for most growers, who battled wet weather and disease pressure, followed by the impact of Queensland fruit fly.

The 2025 crop of 18,000 tonnes shows the industry has rebounded since its low harvest in 2023.

The national crop intake last year was 11,875, following 7309 tonnes in 2023.

Both processors Australian Premium Dried Fruits (APDF) and Sunbeam Foods have reported increased crop intakes, along with good quality fruit.

APDF has cracked the 10,000-tonne milestone for the first time in its history, while Sunbeam Foods has reported 2025 ticked all the right boxes for a successful season.

“The growing season provided the right amount of hot dry conditions to establish the crop, there were minimal pest and disease pressures, and the fruit matured early and provided a wide window for drying opportunity,” Sunbeam reported.

“To build on these positive factors, increased prices, lower input costs, high quality fruit and good yields have made for a very successful season.

“This year is in stark contrast to the past three seasons that have been subjected to seasonal rain, cold drying conditions and disease impacts.”

APDF expressed gratitude to growers, freight partners and their staff for ensuring a smooth intake of this year’s crop.

“Our recent facility improvements certainly made the process that much more manageable. With fantastic new storage and upgraded traffic management our site is now capable of dealing with

continued growth,” APDF said.

“With such a large intake, we expected fruit to be delivered thick and fast, but even we were surprised by how early and fast the season was.

“We can’t recall the last time the season was basically complete by the beginning of May.”

Read more from both of the indsutry processors on pages 34 and 35.

Dried Fruits Australia CEO Thomas Cheung said this year’s success paved the way for even higher projected yields for 2026 and 2027.

“With new plantings coming on line, and with existing growers increasing their yields, we estimate the industry will be producing more than 20,000 tonnes in 2027,” he said.

“DFA has put in effort in recent years to support growers to maximise their yields, through activities and projects like the 10 Tonne Project, and the recent Nutrition Farming Course,” Thomas said.

Over four years, the 10 Tonne Project aimed to add to the capacity of dried grape growers to increase production by focussing on irrigation, pest and disease monitoring and nutritional requirements.

The project shared findings through field walks and publications, all with the objective to consistently achieve 10 tonnes per hectare each season.

“It’s taken time, but our growers have shown resilience and determination to continue building the industry.”

DFA, alongside processors, are continuing to work together in a Joint Marketing Project to promote the increased intake to markets around the world. v

Second-biggest for mixed bag season

News from our CEO

As we close out the 2025 export season, the strength and resilience of the Australian table grape industry has been, once again, on display.

Export volumes have remained strong despite increased competition from southern hemisphere producers and seasonal challenges in our own backyard, and we have achieved our second-biggest export volume ever. Encouragingly, the quality of fruit exported has been higher across several key varieties, with positive feedback from both new and established markets. Export insights are available on page 22.

The season marked the first year of additional varietal access into Japan – a milestone achievement met with great interest from Japanese retailers and consumers. Our Tokyo launch event and follow-up promotional activities built a great deal of brand awareness and confidence, and with that market development now underway, the focus must be on consistently supplying high quality grapes and maintaining presence in the years ahead.

Closer to home, a major topic for industry discussion has been the potential withdrawal of pre-shipment offshore inspections for grapes bound for New Zealand. New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries (NZ MPI) has proposed ceasing this long-standing protocol, citing improved compliance and internal resource pressures.

While MPI has not yet made a final decision, ATGA has firmly communicated industry views to maintain this layer of assurance, either through continued inspections or via an alternative method, such as authorised officers conducting inspections on behalf of NZ MPI. This is critical for mitigating risk and avoiding the commercial consequences of on-arrival rejections, which could cost exporters tens of thousands of dollars.

After a five-year hiatus, we were pleased to welcome three Thai Department of Agriculture inspectors back to Australia to conduct an audit assessment of our onshore cold treatment facilities. During their visit, the inspectors audited 14 table grape export properties across Mildura and Robinvale. This visit was a critical step in reaffirming Thailand’s confidence in Australia’s treatment pathway and compliance with protocol requirements. The inspectors expressed a high level of satisfaction with the operational standards, recordkeeping, and industry cooperation they observed. Their successful visit supports the continuity of market access into Thailand and reflects the strong collaborative work between growers, exporters, DAFF, and ATGA to maintain export readiness and biosecurity assurance. Hopefully the growers concerned will know the outcomes of their audits in the coming months.

Looking ahead, we’re working on some exciting updates to our export registration system and ATGA MRL app that will hopefully streamline processes even more.

A note from the chair

This year has been a real mixed bag of a season, simply put. It must have been the driest season I’ve ever experienced – I can’t believe we’re past May and it’s still dusty out there.

Bud burst showed a great deal of promise with bunches everywhere and expectations of a higher yielding year. While that was true for some, the heat definitely played its part, meaning some growers have more fruit left on the vines or the ground than they wanted or needed.

The warmer temperatures had an impact on the season, prolonging ripening and making it a later season than normal for varieties like Crimson Seedless.

While export volumes have obviously recovered, pricing has been heavily influenced by variety and quality.

One real positive to the season has been the inbound and outbound promotional activities, which set the scene for strong marketing in many of our key markets, particularly Japan, which has had a great resurgence since the lifting of the varietal restrictions.

While some of you are still picking, I know pruning is well underway, as is vine replacement, and postharvest programs. v

Jeff Scott | CEO

Jeremey Boyd | Chair

Stirring the pot

EVENTS, AGRICHEMICALS AND VINE HEALTH

Events, vine health and agrichemicals have been front of mind for ATGA’s industry development and extension team this season.

Sessions

In early April, we helped facilitate a meeting between researchers, agronomists and service providers to look at digital technologies, including virtual and augmented reality (VR and AR). The researchers were seeking feedback on data and information that industry collects, which could be used for faster on-farm decision making.

Following three successful New Chemistry in Table Grapes sessions held last year, we held an online session for producers Australia-wide in April. We had several chemical companies presenting their newest chemistry for Anthracnose, Botrytis, Fleabane, longtailed mealybug, downy & powdery mildew control.

In May we presented the dormancy breaker demonstration trial results to producers at an online session. In this session we expanded on the information provided in the February 2025 edition of the Vine. The full trial report can be viewed on the ATGA website.

We also worked with Dried Fruits Australia and Murray Valley Winegrowers Inc. to host a joint industry event at Mildura Field Days to tackle vineyard waste. The event, supported by Hort Innovation, Wine Australia and Agriculture Victoria, showcased options for vineyard waste management and discussed recycling plastics and driplines, disposing of used posts and the treatment of unwanted vegetative material.

Vine health

We’ve been evaluating the effectiveness of the ATGA’s Qfly MAT cup initiative and contacting producers in the wider Sunraysia area to gather feedback to help refine our approach next season. If you haven’t been contacted by the team and would like to provide feedback, please reach out.

The team has also been involved in discussions with state vine improvement associations and several nurseries across Australia as part of efforts to improve consistency of vine health through standardising vine nursery practices.

Agrichemicals

As an outcome of discussions during workshops in mid-2024, the team explored applying for an APVMA permit to use Bifenthrin in table grapes to aid in the fight against mealybugs.

APVMA will consider a permit application for “off label” use of bifenthrin in table grapes if the following criteria are met v

Alison, Jenny & Karen ATGA industry development team

APVMA permit criteria for Bifenthrin use

1. No chemical company will earn sufficient economic return to cover the costs of registration to add mealybug control in grapes

2. The total area of crop that will be treated is small enough to be classed as a minor use

3. Other control options are either unavailable or unsuitable.

Easy to justify

Difficult to justify

4. The proposed use will not pose a risk to trade, e.g. from residues breaching MRLs

Bifenthrin is no longer protected under patent, and in fact there are 30 different companies selling bifenthrin products that already include grapes on the label, so it is not an economic proposition for any single one of these companies to apply for registration.

The total crop area treated using bifenthrin would potentially be too large to classify as a minor use.

Four chemicals already registered for use in table grapes to control longtailed mealybug, with efficacy supported by chemical company data: Buprofezin (Applaud), Clothianidin (Samurai), Spirotetramat (Movento) and Sulfoxaflor (Transform Isoclast).

Bifenthrin applied during the growing season can move into fruit and cause unexpected residues. A withholding period appropriate for treatments during the growing season must be proposed, because the existing label relates to use during grapevine dormancy, which means also submitting residue data from field trials.

New market opportunities

A note from our chair

Let’s start with what a great drying year it’s been.

It brings back memories of drying fruit when we used to put it on the rack – days of hot weather, no big rain events and a good crop to harvest, with prices the highest they have ever been, and demand worldwide high.

We’ve just returned from the 18th Chinese International Nut and Dried Fruit conference in Hefei, China.

DFA was invited by the organiser to give a presentation on our industry. We also visited the Three Squirrels, which is the largest supplier of branded nuts and dried fruits products in China, along with a company called Cha Cha. Both companies are publicly listed. As well as the snacking market, our quality dried grapes also have huge potential in the baking sector.

These baking companies are looking for supply, and usually buy dried grapes from the US but, with the new tariffs that have been placed on imports, are looking to secure product from Australia.

From what we have heard, Chinese customers would like to source fruit from other countries and reduce dependence on the US.

I am sure Sunbeam and Australian Premium Dried Fruits will be talking to these customers if not already.

We meet with these companies

because they like to hear from the peak industry body, as we have built a strong relationship over many years with many markets, including China.

They want to know what opportunities there are in purchasing dried fruit from Australia.

DFA doesn’t get involved in prices or commercial arrangements. This is for Sunbeam and Australian Premium Dried fruits to sort out. We are there to inform on our industry.

In world supply, Türkiye was hit with frost and could be down by 100,000 tonne, while South Africa is already down 20,000 tonnes due to rain during harvest.

From what we were hearing, there will be a shortage around the world and there is no carryover, so from my perspective with all favourable market conditions, it will lead to a very successful market campaign.

If anything, there may be some opportunities for our brown fruit in the Chinese markets to fill gaps being left by the US tariffs.

News from our CEO

We are very close to completion of the 2025 harvest.

Feedback so far in general is very positive, in terms of volume and quality of this season's fruit.

We have not finalised our final

Mark King | Chair

figures, but it will be very close to 18,000 tonnes, about 14 per cent more to our initial crop forecast.

Other dried grape producing countries Türkiye and South Africa are not so fortunate, both experiencing unfavourable weather events, resulting in significant crop reductions.

Tariff matters between US and China, US and the EU are the main factor for supply chain interruptions.

It has presented rare opportunities for Australian dried grapes in the Chinese baking sector and in the European snack market

DFA has proactively worked out our three-year market supporting plans, with Hort Innovation and our processors to assist market expansion and awareness.

Growers are encouraged to express interest in participating in such marketing activities, coming along with our industry team – DFA and two processors – to gain first-hand information in marketing our industry and its unique quality dried grapes.

Along with our priorities working in the areas of new varieties, spray diary, innovation, industry mapping, and updated dried grape investment modelling, our existing projects are all on track to meet milestones.

An exciting Nutrition Farming course will be carried out in June organised by DFA and I encourage growers to register as numbers are filling fast. v

Thomas Cheung | CEO

Good signs for fruitful season

MEASURING MOISTURE AND TACKLING WASTE

Deliveries to each of the processors have dropped right away in the last little while indicating that most of the crop has been harvested, finished off and delivered.

Reports of good tonnages are being received.

One notable feature of the reports is that some producers are consistently achieving high tonnages, meaning that it isn’t a matter of happenstance, it’s highly fruitful varieties, on vigorous rootstocks and a trellis system and management allowing the vines to take full advantage of sunlight and temperature.

So, if you’re a DFA member, consider putting in an entry in the Top Crop Awards.

The awards recognise the best producing dried grape businesses across Sunglo, Sunmuscat, currant, Selma Pete, Sugra 39, and sultana (and other sultana types).

To enter, email final yields, grades and deductions to projects@ driedfruitsaustralia.org.au

Handheld moisture meter

In this edition of the Vine magazine (pages 18-19), you’ll be able to read a more detailed report on DFA’s work on simpler means of estimating dried fruit moisture.

Producers’ need for a simpler and quicker means to support finishing off harvested fruit was raised at last year’s R&D forum.

The TL:DR version is yes, it is possible to estimate dried fruit moisture levels using simple handheld moisture meters developed with other applications in mind.

But, no, it isn’t possible at this point to measure it accurately.

We tested two different measurement technologies, and one gave more consistent results than the other.

Issues that need to be resolved involve sample presentation to the instrument and calibration.

Check out the article.

On-farm waste management

Many of you took advantage of the mild late autumn weather to attend the recent Mildura Field Days and

to attend the grape industries’ onfarm waste management event.

Attendees heard from the EPA setting out what farmers’ obligations were in relation to disposing of broken treated pine posts, drip tape, empty chemical drums and old vines.

Some of the solutions available to dried fruit producers are well established, and others still in development.

As we’ve seen more recently though with the crackdown on old tyres being stockpiled all over the place, the general tolerance for piles of rubbish – no matter how neat they might be – is diminishing.

Perhaps it’s preferable to attend to them before there is a crackdown which generally tends to have fines associated with them.

Big shout out to Hort Innovation, Wine Australia and Agriculture Victoria for their support to DFA, ATGA and MVWG in putting on the event. v

Michael Treeby Industry Development Officer 03 5023 5174 projects@driedfruitsaustralia.org.au

Bold branding and increased varietal awareness

INTERNATIONAL MARKETING

The 2024–25 table grape international marketing campaign introduced a bold new brand identity for Australian table grapes in Asia, helping raise awareness of globally popular varieties and generating strong inmarket engagement.

Delivered by the Australian Table Grape Association (ATGA), this year marked the first of a five-year program – funded by Hort Innovation using grower marketing levies. The strong campaign brought together retail promotions, media activations

and targeted trade engagement and spanned seven key markets – China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

One of the most significant developments this season has been the expanded varietal access into Japan, allowing more than 100 Australian-grown table grape varieties. These introductions offered Japanese consumers a new, premium eating experience and the response was overwhelmingly positive. With media coverage, in-store sampling, and national promotions, these varieties made an impact far beyond just the premium shelf.

Across the broader region, Thailand led the way in retail activation, with

hundreds of stores hosting prominent branded displays. In Vietnam, the annual retail display competition once again wowed consumers with breathtaking in-store creativity. These moments of visual impact helped position Australian grapes as a premium, aspirational product in the eyes of shoppers.

This season also marked the debut of the refreshed Australian Grapes brand identity, the first major output of ATGA’s five-year international marketing strategy. The new brand delivers a vibrant, premium visual style that has been well received by both trade and consumers. Over the next four years, the identity will evolve modestly, with updates to colour palettes and incorporation of localised design elements that reflect in-market

preferences – many of which were pioneered by partners this season.

The campaign faced its share of challenges, most notably economic uncertainty following the announcement of new US tariffs, which coincided with the start of our export window. This created caution in some markets and led to softer earlyseason demand. Despite this, export volumes were up substantially, and the campaign helped drive strong presence and positioning at retail.

One of the most notable shifts this year has been the growing awareness of IP varieties. While Thompson Seedless, Crimson Seedless, and Red Globe continue to hold strong positions, encouraging consumers to expand

their varietal preferences required both education and experience. Sampling remained critical – not just to build trial, but also to overcome hesitancy around price and unfamiliarity. The campaign therefore focused not just on visual impact, but on equipping store staff and consumers with the knowledge to appreciate the value of the broad range of available varieties. The growing awareness has contributed to a broader uplift in interest across the table grape category. Retailers have reported renewed energy around grapes and consumers are actively engaging with displays, asking questions, and sharing their experiences.

The season launched with four preseason briefings in Southeast Asia,

which helped align exporters, importers, and retailers. These sessions ensured all partners were equipped with campaign materials, brand guidelines, and messaging frameworks. An inbound trade mission in February, hosted by Global Victoria and supported by the ATGA, build on the trust established during earlier pre-season events.

With promotions continuing in a few markets into June, early indicators show strong performance, renewed consumer interest, and a foundation for long-term growth. A comprehensive end-of-season report will be released in the coming months to provide deeper analysis and guide planning for 2025–26. v

Jesse White International Marketing Manager jwhite@atga.net.au

Searching for moisture monitoring solutions

Producers attending Dried Fruits Australia’s industry ideas day planning forum last year expressed a need to be able to measure fruit moisture more readily than possible currently.

The industry has been searching for a relatively inexpensive handheld instrument capable of providing a measurement quickly.

DFA’s industry development officer Michael Treeby investigated the use of three different handheld moisture meters with this in mind.

The meters were “off the shelf” instruments designed for use in other industries, and their prices varied from about $350 to $2750.

The instruments included in the study were chosen for their current advertised usage and/or the way they work.

The three instruments were:

Sper Scanning Moisture Meter 850002

Measurement method: electromagnetic waves

Applications: Wood, other building products

Delmhorst Navigator FX-30

Measurement method: conductivity (supplied with two probes)

Applications: Fodder, hops, hemp, tobacco, nuts, dried dates

Kett Copra moisture Tester HX-120

Measurement method: conductivity

Applications: Copra (dried flesh of coconuts)

None of the handheld moisture testers on the market were specifically designed for dried vine fruit, though dried dates are not dissimilar to dried grapes.

The measurement of moisture in any dried fruit is usually based on electrical conductivity/resistance, for which continuity of material is required.

Two of the instruments use this method. But, we need to remember that a hand full of individual berries isn’t a homogeneous material no matter how hard they’re squeezed together. Hence, it isn’t difficult to understand that the industry’s accepted method of measuring dried vine fruit moisture — namely the AOAC1 Internationalapproved Wheatstone bridge-based DFA of California Moisture Tester — relies on mincing fruit to produce a

homogenous sample for measurement.

Nonetheless, these handheld instruments are used by various industries for whom the discontinuity within a sample to be measured is as much of an issue as it is for the dried grape industry; drying fodder is a case in point.

While two of the instruments are based on electrical resistance/ conductance, the third uses electromagnetic waves to penetrate samples to a depth of about 6mm.

The way the waves interact with the sample is proportional to the sample’s moisture content. This feature made the instrument worthy of inclusion though it isn’t designed for dried fruit.

What we did

We used grab samples of Pools 1, 2, 3 and 4 obtained from Sunbeam Food’s receival facility at Red Cliffs.

The standard test indicated moisture levels of 14, 16.2, 17 and 19%, respectively, for each pool.

Using the same fruit, measurements were taken using each instrument, and each probe in the case of one of those instruments. We took each instrument’s “readings” (i.e. displayed output)

Sper

Delmhorst 6-prong probe

Delmhorst long probe

at face value; all the instruments’ outputs were in the range of 4-16.

One of the issues that complicates the measurements of moisture in a sample of dried grape berries is the variability between individual berries.

Using the Kett copra instrument, we were able to take a measurement of moisture in individual berries sampled from each pool.

The results show that the average reading increased consistently with the standard method’s measurements.

But, the range of readings on individual berries means that one would be hard pressed to tell the difference in moisture between berries from Pools 2 and 3 and may be able distinguish Pool 1 berries from Pools 2 and 3.

The measurements on Pool 4 berries were generally much higher than the measurements in the other three pools.

The nature of the Kett’s probe, whilst ideally suited to the individual berry scale, is not suited to a sample comprised of many berries.

But broadly similar variability and general increases in average readings were obtained with the other two instruments, and in the case of Delmhorst, with both the probes supplied.

The Delmhorst long-probe enables a reading to be taken deep within a bin, which means that a few readings can be taken on the same bin relatively quickly.

The same cannot be said for the Delmhorst six-prong probe, which needed to be cleared of berries impaled on the probes or stuck within the ring of probes or between adjacent probes. Cleaning the probes wasn’t overly difficult, but would become tedious making multiple measurements on the same sample.

The six-prong probe would not take a reading on Pool 1 fruit.

The Sper unit probably was more likely to be able to distinguish Pool 1 fruit from Pool 2 and the standard deviations mostly less than the Delmhorst’s readings.

Conclusion

The issue for producers is identifying with confidence that fruit being finished off are 13% or marginally lower.

Most producers can distinguish Pool 4 from Pool 1 fruit readily by feel.

Experienced producers can distinguish Pool 2 from Pools 1 and 3.

The fact that neither instrument could distinguish between Pools 2 and 3 fruit with any great confidence is probably not as great a limitation as one might think at first glance.

The Sper instrument demonstrated a greater ability to distinguish Pool 1 fruit from Pool 2 fruit than the Delmhorst unit irrespective of which probe was used.

The variability between readings and the relatively shallow depth of interaction, point to sample presentation needing investigation.

An instrument with a stronger output signal could also be considered as part of that exercise. Either way, an instrument also needs to be calibrated against a range of samples straddling the mandated delivery moisture level; viz. 11, 12, 14 and 15, as well as benchmark 13%.

The Sper instrument was also the least costly of the three instruments tested. There are many instruments of this type available to the building industry, and quite a few around the same price point. The next step may involve acquiring a few similar instruments but varying in their claimed depth of penetration.

Acknowledgements

Thanks to Alan Lister and staff at Sunbeam’s Red Cliffs Receival Centre. v

1. Association of Official Analytical Chemists Left: Top - Kett Copra Moisture Tester HX-120. Bottom left - Sper Scanning Moisture Meter 850002. Bottom right - Delmhorst Navigator FX030 with long probe and handle and a 6-prong short probe that screws into the handle as per the long probe.

New apricot varieties

PROGRESS REPORT

In 2018 the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI) released 17 new apricot varieties from its breeding program.

These apricots represent a sustainable, water use efficient crop suited to the Australian environment producing a versatile healthy and nutritious snack product. These new varieties are currently demonstrating their strengths in different business formats such as high volume fresh fruit production (for drying), traditional whole chain drying enterprises and other niche value-add business scenarios.

The breeder’s original observations and variety sheets are available on the PIRSA website under “National Apricot Breeding Program”.

While early in the life of a new variety, trends have begun to emerge in their use by early adopters.

Dried fruit growers’ opinion to date generally favours FlavourCot 2 and RiverCot 4, 5 and 6 for early season varieties and RiverCot 9 and 8 for late season.

Feedback on apricot variety performance has been captured in the following summary. Varieties not mentioned are not recommended for drying.

Overall, the cropping reliability of these varieties is now proven in a range of districts.

Care is needed in relation to comments about relative rain damage experience as all high sugar apricots will experience rain damage, with the degree related to physiological maturity at the time, duration and amount of rain experienced.

RiverCot 1

Has not been widely planted and is unlikely to garner further interest. Fruit can soften and bruise when mature; most early adopters now replacing it.

RiverCot 2

Multi-purpose, large, regular crops of fruit that sizes well and is firm to handle. Performed well in canning trials, dries nicely, but requires sun exposure to the skin to develop its appearance. Has been increasingly popular for its consistency. Features as a main variety in the large Narrow Orchard Systems (NOS) trial at Loxton Research Centre (LRC) growing as a planar canopy on four rootstocks using wire fence trellis. Rates highly with growers in the Riverland and further down river. Similar timing to FlavorCot 2 and RiverCot 6. No significant issues.

RiverCot 3

A reddish dried apricot with excellent taste. Will rain-mark but some resistance to cracking; crop reports consistent to slightly variable. Fruit can soften on the tree and stones may catch and slow processing. Important to have brown rot cover sprays in inclement weather. Some growers report a shift earlier in its maturity making it coincide with other good lines which may limit it.

RiverCot 4

Excellent tasting, consistent good crops of large fruit. Can be sensitive to bruising and cracking, important. Sun exposure toughens the skin and it is reported to cut well with easy stone removal. Tree reported to be smaller and benefiting from less pruning, may suit pedestrian orchards. Two picks and slightly higher sulphur rate suggested. Rated highly by those growing it for volume, processing and product colour. Plantings are increasing.

RiverCot 5

Produces heavy, consistent crops on easy-to-handle trees, may need some thinning or harder pruning to ensure good fruit size. Easy to pick and process. Dries well but may need extra sulphur; inconsistent reports of fruit cracking; may not hold as well as some varieties, but a true volume producer. Young trees crop towards the tip and need stiffening with pruning to hold structure. Has both fans and detractors.

RiverCot 6

Excellent heavy crops every year; fruit can crack and be quite pale but are juicy and dry well. Rated highly for its consistency and high cropping often without the need for thinning. Trees need water shoot removal from centres to improve light penetration to maintain this habit and evenly spread fruiting sites, otherwise thinning and extra fertiliser applications may become necessary. Similar timing to FlavorCot 2 in several areas; ripens inside out so picking on partial colour is important to maintain handling and improve holding.

RiverCot 7

Strong growing upright tree with regular large crops of firm, large fruit with an atypical taste. Dries well with good colour but may need extra sulphur to slow darkening. Excessive fruit size can be a problem for some cutting machines, but it is attracting increased interest based on its size and cropping. Requires summer pruning to allow light into the tree and maintain fruiting sites. Has tolerated a significant amount of rain at some sites before damaging.

RiverCot 8

A highly rated high dried fruit production apricot that can crack and rain mark, some stone burn noted as a younger tree but ticks most boxes so

growers say they would grow it anyway. Can overcrop, harder pruning is advised, seems to size fruit surprisingly well. Large crops can lead to uneven maturity of fruit from top to bottom of tree making select hand picking advisable. Very high regular crops and valued for spreading harvest later in the season.

RiverCot 9

Latest of the new varieties, smaller but cracking tolerant; handles both heat and rain well with good crops. Gaining increasing interest and follow up plantings to spread harvest.

TastiCot 2

Very firm, highly coloured apricot which has an excellent dried appearance. A very nice fresh piece that will crack and rain-mark; has been proving harder to cut and process stone ridges can grab the flesh, increasing costs and decreasing throughput. Uptake likely to slow.

FlavorCot 1

A regular high cropping line with firm fruit that hangs well and cracks less. Can overcrop requiring thinning and harder pruning to ensure size. Tends to cluster, making this more important. Sentiment is there are easier lines requiring less input close to its timing, so while a good variety it’s likely to be passed over for easier options.

FlavorCot 2

Has been the grower favourite, early, and good consistent crops of clean firm fruit that weathers well. Great flavour, flattish and easy to align, stone comes out easily; tree is predictable, heavily spurring and easy to handle, tends to space fruit well. Boating is its major issue, but growers have found picking ripe and holding for 2-3 days before processing to lower acidity helps

with this. Prized for its fast and easy processing by cutting machine. Holds in storage well and is relatively bullet proof. Features as a main variety in the NOS trial at Loxton with RiverCot 2.

FlavorCot 3

A well balanced exceptionally flavoured apricot, with lateral twig bearing habit, similar shape and stone removal traits to FlavorCot 2. Crops well with mediumsized fruit. Can be crop regulated by shortening or removing lateral twigs. Ripens evenly and firm fruit hangs well.

FlavorCot 5

A high cropping line with a requirement to hold fruit for 1-2 days before processing to lower acidity. Hasn’t been planted widely, but is gathering fans who like its cropping, firmness and clean appearance on a smaller, more compact tree.

River Early

Has been a useful variety with proven cropping, however it does crack and is slower to process as stones can be sticky; resting the fruit for a day or two before processing will help with this and premature darkening. Looks largely superseded by better lines, still has fans in the small to medium scale end to end production space.

River Ruby

Largely superseded except for microclimates like Angaston in the Barossa valley and lower reaches of the Murray River in South Australia where it crops consistently and excels. Unique for its drying ability regardless of maturity. v

Darren Graetz SARDI Research Scientist

RiverCot 9

RiverCot 6

FlavorCot 2

RiverCot 5

RiverCot 4

RiverCot 8

Global dried grape trends

2023

802,599

2024

1,205,646

Preparing your vines

POSTHARVEST TIPS FOR TABLE GRAPE PRODUCERS

Effective postharvest management is key to maintaining vine health and ensuring strong yields next season.

1. Clean your room

Remove unharvested fruit, and mulch into the interrow to reduce fruit fly and Botrytis pressure next season.

2. Find out who your best buds are

Organise bud dissections to gauge bud viability/fruitfulness for next season.

3. Put your babies to bed healthy and hydrated

Postharvest irrigation keeps vines and leaves functioning until dormancy, which sets the vine up for next season. Hydrated leaves are essential:

- for photosynthesis to maximise carbohydrate production.

- for nutrient uptake and transportation throughout the vine.

Note that nutrients are most accessible to vine roots in moist (not wet) soils.

4. Rethink that hair cut

Delay pruning for as long as possible to allow:

- leaves still on the vine to photosynthesise during the postharvest period.

- shoots to lignify properly – to provide healthy canes for next season. Lignification is a vital process for plant development, strengthening cell walls to protect buds, keep out pathogens and provide structural support.

Train your pruning crew to:

- clean pruning tools when moving between blocks and vineyards.

- recognise Eutypa or Botryosphaeria in pruning cuts.

5. Spruce up your sprayer

Schedule a postharvest sprayer maintenance day – don’t leave it

to the last minute, be prepared for the upcoming season.

6. Plan your potion

Plan your upcoming season’s chemical and fertiliser requirements by:

- considering MRLs for next season’s proposed markets and customise/ tailor spray programs accordingly.

- making sure your agrichemicals are ordered well in advance of the upcoming season.

7. Go shopping

Order vines early, from reputable sources. Give suppliers of new vines time to source the best propagation material during dormancy to grow over the coming spring and summer months. They can then provide you with the best plants possible for planting the following spring. v

Postharvest care of grapevines

Postharvest care of grapevines: Irrigation and nutrition

Dr Jason Smith, Charles Sturt University

Dr Bruno Holzapfel, NSW Department of Primary Industries

Get set for next season

POSTHARVEST TIPS FOR DRIED GRAPE PRODUCERS

As we finish up the 2025 season, it’s important to keep across several key aspects of vineyard care to set yourself up for success next year.

Here are our top points for postharvest vineyard care in dried grape properties.

Leaf fall

By now vines are well into leaf fall, but it might be a timely point to see which valve units and which vines within valve units are dropping their leaves first.

Consistent year-to-year patterns of leaf fall may be attributable to changes in soil texture patterns.

Irrigation systems are designed to minimise variation in readily available water holding capacity within valves, but inevitably compromises are needed because soil textural changes don’t follow straight lines like vine rows.

So, there’ll be leaf fall patterns within valves that are reasonably consistent from year to year, are well known and probably not terribly consequential.

New and unusual patterns – on the other hand – potentially are important. Changes in leaf fall pattern may be indicative of poor soil fertility in those areas due to the current fertiliser program not quite meeting the needs of the vines in that area. Those particular areas may not have been as fertile as surrounding area, and the changed leaf fall timing represents the soil’s existing fertility being mined to the point where it is a bit marginal

Changes on a valve scale indicate that possibly particular valves may not have got enough water during the post-cutting/harvest period and subsequently. Remember that depending on the variety, when the

bearers were cut, the post-cutting period can be anything from two to four months and the postharvest period anything from three and half months to less than a month.

But the canopy growing the replacement canes is still functional, which means they need water through to early May, though probably less than half what was being supplied prior to cutting, and will taper off as daytime temperatures decline.

Dropped dried clusters and berries

Don’t be tempted to pick up any dried bunches off the ground.

These may have managed to pick up spined weed seeds on the soil surface, and present a serious processing difficulty best avoided. Equally, don’t be tempted to leave that dried fruit on the vine bank.

The fruit represents a food source for foxes, snails and various insects.

It’s best to sweep that fruit into the interrow area and mulch it along with the spent bearers and canes that carried the crop and any other plant trash.

Next season planning

Now is a good time to check your water account. The price of temporary water has gone off the boil, though it is better than it was a few months ago. Inflows into the catchments haven’t been particularly good, which points to some pressure on allocations next season and on the price of temporary water.

It’s also a good time now to get rid of those triple-rinsed 20L and 5L plastic chemical containers via the drumMUSTER program run through the MRCC Mildura landfill. Remember that an appointment may be needed. Having cleared out the chemical shed,

perhaps a stock take of what chemicals are on hand will help plan for what will be needed for next season.

Next season’s mineral nutrient needs should also be considered. The most productive vineyards are those with well-fed vines.

Whether that’s achieved using conventional fertilisers or organic sources of plant mineral nutrients isn’t that important and is largely a personal choice. The point is that the vines are getting sufficient mineral nutrients to grow a decent canopy with lots of fruitful replacement canes and to set, grow and mature a large crop.

If considering re-developing part of the operation next year, it’d pay to order vines way ahead from a reputable nursery. Ideally, nurseries need to receive orders before they order rootstock cuttings and budwood from VAMVVIA.

Consider some of the new varieties now available that will help manage weather related risk and to spread the workload. v

Growers explore the world of nutrition farming

Dried grape producers, along with others across viticulture industries, have expanded their knowledge of nutrition farming through an intensive three-day course.

About 30 viticulture industry personnel were registered to attend the Mildura Nutrition Farming with Graeme Sait course, hosted by Dried Fruits Australia.

Ahead of the course, participant Rodney Trigg spoke about the benefits of a previous course of Graeme’s he attended in Brisbane in 2017.

Rodney manages nearly three hectares of dried grapes and was

a category winner in the 2024 Top Crop Awards, taking out the Sunglo category, with 11.5t/ha.

“It was very beneficial,” he said.

“I’ve always known enough about agronomy to understand what the agronomist is telling me, and that’s about it.

“I’ve not learned too much more than that because it’s a whole different field, and if you don’t know it all you'll probably bring yourself unstuck with a bit of knowledge, but after doing the course I had a much better understanding of what and why and how and when to put stuff on.”

The previous course was five days in Brisbane, while the course DFA

brought to Mildura was a condensed three-day course, which included two theory days and one practical day.

“(The Brisbane course) was a lot to take in,” Rodney said.

“They gave a very detailed explanation of what each product does. They would have talked for two hours just on nitrogen and potassium and every different base element, and now when I see a petiole test or soil test I can understand them and see how necessary different nutrients are in the right amounts.”

Rodney said the course gave him a better understanding of what was being applied to his block and why. It also gave him the confidence to be

proactive and ask questions of his agronomist when he has concerns, like this season when he noticed his block was lacking vigor, exposing the crop to sunburn, and required more nitrogen.

Eight years after attending the first course, Rodney was keen to brush up on his knowledge to improve his business. He said the Mildura course would be a refresher, to relearn some aspects of soil nutrition, and cementing others.

“Going back in with the knowledge I’ve got now I should be able to take a bit more of it in,” he said.

DFA CEO Thomas Cheung said he was impressed by the uptake and interest in the course, and hoped the learnings would have a lasting impact on individual

growers, and the wider industry.

“Hopefully bringing Graeme and his knowledge to the growing region means that growers can learn together, discuss what they’re learning and share their knowledge among others,” he said.

If you missed the course in Mildura, keep an eye out for shared learnings, or check out Graeme’s Nutrition Farming podcast. v

Opposite page: Rodney Trigg discusses the benefit of learning more about nutrition farming as he accepts his 2024 Top Crop Award for the Sunglo category.

Right: Graeme Sait.

From vine to vision

TECH ADVANCES IN TABLE GRAPES

Technology is rapidly reshaping the global table grape industry, with innovations across cooling, automation, robotics, and AI transforming how grapes are harvested, handled, and delivered to market.

From faster cool chain systems and autonomous harvest vehicles to precision packing robots and AI-driven quality control, new tools are helping growers address labour shortages, reduce waste and pest and disease pressure, and maintain high product standards across increasingly complex supply chains.

Revolutionising the cool chain

A new patent-protected refrigeration system is revolutionising the table grape cool chain, slashing cooling time from 12–14 hours to just 40–60 minutes. Designed by Cold Logic (and operational at Riverland’s Talia Farms), the system cools packed 10kg boxes within 40 minutes, or boxes packed with bunch bags in 60 minutes, using passive, highhumidity air delivered directly into each box rather than circulated around it.

Studies have shown that each hour of delay in cooling picked fruit can result in a day’s reduction in shelf life. The Cold Logic system maintains stem greenness, reduces berry shatter, and extends shelf life by preserving fruit quality from harvest to shipment –which could occur within the same day.

“Where cooling racks are required, this new system will reduce manual workload and labour hours, plus its condensed vertical multi layered tier design, reduces the cooling system's footprint, to claim back precious

production space,” said Cold Logic’s executive fresh produce Troy Adams. “The system also has the capability of being completely labour free with the use of conveyor belts and automation.”

Automation advances

harvest logistics

At Costa Group’s Colignan table grape farm, automation played a growing role in harvest efficiency this season.

Costa Group worked with Agri Automation Australia’s Burro autonomous vehicles to transform their harvest process and simplify the journey from vine to pack shed. Using the Burro, Costa automated vine-to-headland movement, as well as autonomous field-to-pack shed hauling, carrying over 190 boxes per trip.

By using a fully electric autonomous vehicle, Costa were able to reduce reliance on labour and tractor-trailer setups, reduce emissions, reduce diesel use, and improve soil health through reduced field compaction.

“This is a game-changing moment in Australian viticulture,” said Jamal Clifford of Agri Automation Australia. “Solutions like the Burro XL and Burro Grande are proving that automation is no longer the future – it’s the present.”

Robotics improving delicate fruit handling

Another technology with the potential to make waves in the table grape industry is Wootzano’s “electronic skin,” used in its Avarai packing robot. Wootzano pioneered the application of skin-based haptics in automating the handling of delicate products, notably grapes and vine tomatoes.

Each dexterous hand is equipped with its patented electronic skin, that allows the robot to calculate the precise force needed to handle soft produce like grapes delicately, without bruising or causing damage. The Avarai can make real-time grip adjustments based on sensory feedback.

Wootzano reports the technology can cut labour needs on packing lines by up to 50 per cent, addressing workforce challenges, and increase productivity 40-50 per cent.

AI supports quality monitoring in global supply chains

Table grape breeder Sun World will partner with Clarifresh to introduce artificial intelligence tools aimed at improving quality control in table grape production.

Image: Clarifresh

Growers and packer-shippers will be provided with AI-powered software which offers real-time data to support decision-making and, overall, standardise assessments across the supply chain.

Clarifresh CEO Elad Mardix said the partnership is a significant step toward greater consistency across Sun World’s global network. The rollout will begin in Egypt and Italy, with a view to extend to Sun World’s grower network globally.

“By leveraging our AI-powered quality management solutions, growers can maintain greater consistency, reduce customer rejections, and

create a unified framework for assessing quality at every stage –down to the seed level,” he said.

Clarifresh has been used in other horticultural supply chains, and early adopters such as Dole Sunshine and Zespri – who implemented the system over the last three years – saw a significant reduction of rejections.

Australian table grape producers have also embraced the opportunity to adopt the quality management solution.

Clarifresh’s technology is also being used as part of a Hort Innovation Frontiers project to revolutionise farm labour in the berry and grape industries.

Bright idea for chemicalfree disease control

A new technology being trialled in vineyards could have potential applications in table grape production, particularly in disease management.

The UVEX system, mounted on an autonomous vehicle, uses UVC light to target fungal pathogens such as powdery and downy mildew –common challenges in grape growing.

Operating at night, the system aims to reduce the need for chemical sprays, offering a more sustainable and residue-free approach to disease control.

Early results in other crops, such as wine grapes and strawberries, have shown promise. If successful, UVC technology could support sustainable production practices, reduce input costs, and extend shelf life by limiting spoilage organisms.

UVC technology can also be used during the day to act as a preventative, boosting the vine’s immune response in a similar way to a vaccine. v

Biostart biological programme increases:

• First grade fruit

• Cane size

• Vineyard establishment rate

• Resilience against weather/ disease

• Soil biology

• Nutrient uptake

Fruit storage.

Image: UVEX

Let’s talk biostimulants

PART 3: KEY TAKEAWAYS

This final installment in our three-part series on biostimulants aims to equip Australian growers with the right questions and insights to make informed decisions about incorporating biostimulants into their crop management strategies.

Key points

- Traditionally, seaweed, amino acids, humic & fulvic acids make up the bulk of the biostimulant products on the market

- Microbials are a fast-growing segment in both biocontrol and biostimulant markets

- Biostimulants do not need to prove their efficacy to be sold in Australia – unlike in the European Union

- Biostimulants do not need to specify what is in them in Australia

- Biostimulants are often a mixture of plant mineral nutrients and phytochemicals and microbial extracts – thus it is very hard to know which ingredient is responsible if the product is effective

- Seaweed extracts contain plant hormones and as such timing of application is important

- Biostimulants are not a replacement for a good nutritional program, suitable soils and favourable climatic conditions, but should be considered as complementary

- Biostimulants are not a one size fits all solution

- When using biostimulants to correct plant stress symptoms, yield might not be a good measure of success as plants prioritise survival over yield

Questions to ask resellers

- How can a certain biostimulant assist with solving vine performance issues on your property?

- What is the biostimulant’s formulation composition and what is the effect of each component?

- When is the best time to apply the product?

- Is there a risk associated with using a particular biostimulant product?

- Where are the efficacy data?

Extra reading

More information is available from researchers around the world that have worked for most of their professional careers on horticultural crop nutrition and on biostimulants:

- The International Society for Horticultural Science has a recording of an event from late March 2025,

where researchers discuss plant biostimulants: HortForum | International Society for Horticultural Science (https://www.ishs.org/ hortforum). The recording provides a very good summary of the existing knowledge in the biostimulant space. v

The Australian Table Grape Association, Dried Fruits Australia, Murray Valley Winegrowers Inc. and Agriculture Victoria are hosting a Let’s talk biostimulants! event in June.

International biostimulants expert Prof. Dr Pat Brown from the University of California, Davis, will explore how biostimulants might work for viticulture businesses.

When: Wednesday 25 June, 4.30–6pm

Where: Powerhouse Hall, Hugh King Drive, Mildura

RSVP: Register via the link or scan the QR code. Growers in Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia can contact Karen Connolly (kconnolly@ atga.net.au) if they would like to attend remotely.

www.letstalkbiostimulants. eventbrite.com.au

New supermarket code

STRONGER PROTECTIONS FOR PRODUCERS

Fruit growers and other primary producers supplying large supermarkets may soon feel a shift in how they do business, following major changes to the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct.

From 1 April 2025, Australia’s Food and Grocery Code of Conduct became mandatory for the country’s largest grocery retailers and wholesalers, marking a significant regulatory shift for the sector. The Code now applies to businesses with annual revenues exceeding $5 billion, including ALDI, Coles, Woolworths, and Metcash.

The mandatory Code applies to all grocery supply agreements active as of 1 April 2025, regardless of when they were signed, unless a specific exemption applies.

Background and purpose

The updated Code follows an independent review commissioned by the Federal Government in response to feedback that the previous voluntary Code was not meeting expectations. The review resulted in 11 recommendations, all of which have been adopted. These changes are intended to clarify obligations between retailers and suppliers, improve transparency, and strengthen dispute resolution mechanisms.

Key changes under the new Code

1. Mandatory application

The most significant change is that the Code is now compulsory for large grocery retailers and wholesalers, including online businesses, meeting the revenue threshold. Suppliers

dealing with these businesses are automatically covered under the Code.

2. Increased penalties

New penalties for non-compliance have been introduced under the Treasury Laws Amendment (Fairer for Families and Farmers and Other Measures) Act 2024. Breaches of the Code may now result in a maximum penalty of the greater of:

- $10 million;

- Three times the value of the benefit gained; or

- 10% of the business's annual turnover (if the benefit can’t be calculated).

The ACCC is also authorised to issue infringement notices of up to $198,000 if there are reasonable grounds to believe a breach has occurred.

3. Expanded dispute resolution options

While alternative dispute resolution (such as mediation) remains part of the Code, further measures have been introduced:

Large retailers must appoint a Code Mediator to assist with dispute resolution. A Code Supervisor will oversee these processes and may review dispute handling when requested.

These changes are aimed at supporting more structured and independent resolution pathways.

4. Supplier interaction requirements

To enhance transparency, the Code includes new requirements for how large retailers manage supplier relationships:

- Senior managers must oversee supplier dealings.

- Incentive schemes must align with the intent of the Code.

5. Fresh produce-specific obligations

From 1 April 2026, grocery businesses will be required to:

- Include pricing in supply agreements for fresh produce; and

- Exercise due care in forecasting volumes.

These provisions will apply to all relevant agreements unless varied before that date.

6. Reporting and compliance

Businesses are now required to notify the ACCC when they meet the criteria for becoming a large grocery business.

The ACCC has also launched an anonymous online portal for suppliers to report potential Code breaches.v

At a glance

Recent changes to the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct introduce a more formal framework for supplier–retailer relationships involving Australia’s largest grocery businesses. Growers are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the new requirements and assess how the updated Code may relate to their existing supply agreements.

Shining a spotlight

DOMESTIC SOCIAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN HIGHLIGHTS

A recent domestic social media campaign for Australian table grapes delivered strong results, significantly outperforming benchmarks.

At the heart of the campaign was a clear objective: to build a stronger local value proposition for Australian table grapes. While the fruit is widely recognised for its quality in international markets, with exports accounting for 58 per cent of production volumes, the industry acknowledged the need to connect more deeply with Australian consumers. This meant positioning grapes not just as a seasonal treat, but as a convenient, delicious, and healthy everyday snack.

The campaign was built around three key proof points

1. Convenience

Australian table grapes are the perfect snack – naturally pre-packaged, easy to eat, and a great way to get a healthy flavour hit in your day.

2. Taste

Whether you choose green, red, or black Australian table grapes, they are all juicy, delicious, and packed full of flavour.

3. Quality & seasonality

As a summer season fruit, Australian table grapes are at their eating best during February and March, so you can rely on a delicious bunch of joy every time.

These insights shaped the creative approach, which focused on snacking moments and everyday consumption.

A fresh suite of assets was developed to reflect these themes for use nationally, spotlighting white, red, and black grape varieties in a visually appealing way.

The social media campaign was executed across Facebook and Instagram using Meta’s Advantage + targeting for efficient and effective delivery to consumers in Western Australia (WA). The campaign ran from February through to the end of March, aligning perfectly with the seasonal peak for table grapes.

Campaign performance exceeded expectations, achieving 7.15 million impressions – 60 per cent above the original target of 4.48 million – and reached more than 3 million consumers, with an average frequency of 2.38 (number of times each consumer exposed to the content).

Engagement was notably strong across all assets, with red grapes creative materials standing out as one of the top performing visuals.

This campaign not only delivered impressive numbers but also marked a meaningful step forward in strengthening the presence and perception of Australian table grapes in the domestic market. By tapping into consumer habits, highlighting natural product strengths, and delivering the message through smart, targeted media, the initiative has laid the groundwork for greater long-term engagement with Australian shoppers. v

Exploring new opportunities

AUSTRALIAN DRIED GRAPES FOCUS ON CHINA

The Australian dried grape industry is looking to seize new market opportunities in China, with several key activities taking place in the first six months of 2025.

DFA chair Mark King and CEO Thomas Cheung attended the 18th Food Exhibition for Nuts and Dried Fruits & Fair in Hefei, China, in April.

Thomas said attendance at the exhibition provided a platform for showcasing Australia's industry and product, while discussing key issues within the nuts and dried fruits industry globally.

Mark delivered an insightful presentation on the Australian dried grape industry, which included innovation, MRL management, unique products, and data and insights.

During their time in Hefei, Thomas and Mark had the opportunity to meet with key customers, including Cha Cha and Three Squirrels.

“These visits were invaluable for strengthening relationships and gaining market intelligence,” Thomas said.

The companies expressed great interest in Australia’s product, however Thomas said cost pressure and competitive prices led to some hesitation from buyers.

He said however that the US-China tariffs and surrounding discussion, had created an opportunity for Australia to fill the need for raisins.

“There’s also a great opportunity for Australian TSR, natural sultanas, and even 3 or 4 Crown Brown fruits in China’s baking sector,” he said.

“Moving forward, it is imperative to strategically plan our approach to the Chinese market, ensuring that we

remain competitive and responsive to the changing market dynamics amidst the global trade tensions.”

At the time of print, the Australian dried grape industry joint marketing team was in China for the Chinese Bakery Show and SIAL Shanghai Exhibitions, funded by Hort Innovation’s joint marketing program. v

Above: DFA chair Mark King and CEO Thomas Cheung visited several companies while on their recent trip to China, building relationships to expand Australia’s market.

Right: Australia’s dried grapes are being sold in China’s snacking sector.

Season brings new milestone

AUSTRALIAN PREMIUM DRIED FRUITS

As most of our growers would be aware, we have experienced an exceptional intake to begin the 2025 season.

We recently broke through 10,000 tonnes received, which has kept our whole team very busy and is the single largest crop APDF has received.

We’d like to express our gratitude to our growers, freight partners and staff for ensuring a smooth, trouble-free intake.

Our recent facility improvements certainly made the process that much more manageable. With fantastic new storage and upgraded traffic management our site is now capable of dealing with continued growth.

With such a large intake we expected fruit to be delivered thick and fast, but even we were surprised by how early and fast the season was.

We can’t recall the last time the season was basically complete by the beginning of May.

Overall, fruit quality has been fantastic with the vast majority of fruit being graded light.

We really hope this translates into a strong export program that will be welcomed by our European customers.

That being said, we still require thousands of tonnes of clean, quality fruit for our domestic markets, which this year we are excited to be able to deliver.

Even with such an early season we still note that the biggest risk to our fruit quality remains moisture.

More than 75 per cent of fruit received this season will require dehydration, a significant burden to our factory's efficiency and an unwanted cost for growers.

You can appreciate, even with our best efforts, some fruit may be stored for months before being dried, which often results in a decline in quality. It is our opinion that dehydration should be a strong industry focus moving forward.

The team here at APDF are excited to get their new Tomra 5C Laser Sorter to work for this season.

This machine has replaced another similar sorter that was in operation at APDF for the past 10 years.

With this new technology, including a combination of laser scanning and a BSI camera, the removal of foreign materials and a small amount of dark fruit will not be an issue.

Having such an early start to the season put a bit of pressure on the team to get this installed on time, although

everything ran well and the line was up and running in less than two weeks.

With our new laser sorter up and running, combined with the great quality of fruit that we have seen coming in from our growers this season, we are in a great position to supply an even better product to our customers this year. v

Enquiries:

Grower communications officer

Megan Rogers (03) 5025 6210 megan@apdf.com.au

Below left: APDF’s new shed extension.

Below right: APDF has installed a new laser sorter.

Reminder: Spray Diaries

Growers are reminded that it is critical to supply Spray Diaries before intake of fruit.

Please if you have not yet supplied this document or completed via Grapeweb this must be sent through to Megan Rogers at megan@apdf.com.au

A winning 2025 scorecard

SUNBEAM FOODS & ANGAS PARK

If you’d put in an order for a good season to the powers that be, you would be delighted with what has taken place.

The growing season provided the right amount of hot dry conditions to establish the crop, there were minimal pest and disease pressures, and the fruit matured early and provided a wide window for drying opportunity.

Ideal drying conditions allowed for most of the fruit to be harvested at the delivered moisture standard and overall, there was minimal dehydration required.

Growing season

Minimal pest and disease pressure

Increased prices

Early maturity timing

Good yields

Good drying weather

Good fruit quality

Minimal dehydration

Early finish

Low cost of production

To build on these positive factors, increased prices, lower input costs, high quality fruit and good yields have made for a very successful season.

This year is in stark contrast to the past three seasons that have been subjected to seasonal rain, cold drying conditions and disease impacts. The higher grade spread will provide a welcomed challenge for our marketing team as they place higher quality export fruit into the domestic market.

This will have a positive effect on sales as consumers receive an excellent 2025 product.

The export program is well under way with our regular customers receiving increased supply and new customers getting a taste of the Sunbeam fruit for the first time.

Currants that we carried over from 2024 have now been cleared and there is strong demand for the Australian product.

Our marketing team has begun plans for the 100th year celebration of Sunbeam Foods in 2026.

You will see a host of media, packaging and promotional activity to showcase the Sunbeam brand that was established in 1926.

Now that the season has ended, it is time to reflect on what worked well and what needs to be improved on for 2026.

One such area for many growers is the adoption of the electronic spray diary, which will be compulsory for our growers for the 2026 harvest. If growers can’t access the online spray diary, please call Gary Simpson to get set up.

Prunes

What was shaping up as a smaller crop due the effects of weather turned out to be an above average crop for yield.

Grading to date has resulted in 75 per cent of fruit meeting the pittable, high priced, grades.

The collapse of the fresh market also added additional dried volume, which will be taken up easily by the market.

The increased volume has allowed for a quick change over from imported fruit in our Angas Park brand to the superior-quality Australian product.

Our aim is to always have Australian prunes in the Angas Park brand, but of late this hasn’t been achievable.

Our customers will see a dramatic difference in the product quality.

We are endeavouring to increase the plantings, and incentives are available for prospective developers to plant up trees.

We would like to hear from existing and potential new entrants to discuss our requirements.

Dried

tree fruit

The trees are in wind down mode as they move into winter.

The reports of severe frosts in Türkiye that have decimated their crop will leave the world short of the Mediterranean style dried apricot.

While our Southern Hemisphere apricots don’t go head-to-head with these, there should be a positive impact on demand for Australian fruit.

It is a reminder that frost events can be catastrophic, so as our trees emerge from winter, frost protection should be a priority. v

Enquiries:

Grower Services | 03 5051 4400

Supply Manager - Dried Fruit

David Swain | 0407 834 044

Field Officer - Dried Vine Fruit

Gary Simpson | 0429 960 234

Dried Tree Fruits Operations

Manager – Loxton

Luke Fitzsimmons | 0431 894 515

Profile: Larry Petrolo

Originally from Melbourne, Larry Petrolo moved to Mildura in 1984, where his family bought a dried grape block.

It took a few years – and a couple of career changes – before Larry eventually took on growing dried grapes himself, but it’s a decision that’s led to nearly three decades of growing and learning.

He shares his experiences of life on the block – where he and his wife Teresa raised their family – and the changes he’s witnessed along the way.

How long have you been involved in the dried grape industry?

We moved here in 1984. An uncle and auntie lived here. My dad always loved Mildura and was ready to semiretire. But he didn't realise that 20 acres was not enough for four kids, so he also bought the neighbouring property two years later.

I went into hospitality, but always

helped on holidays and on weekends.

So I sort of knew what we were doing in a way, but never really needed to learn to manage the block.

How did your involvement in the industry come about?

While I helped at the block, I also had other work. I worked at Liquorland, and afterwards ventured out and got into a restaurant with a cousin of mine, and we did that for four years.

I thought I knew what I wanted to do, and did part-time waiting, and started doing a course in real estate.

I met my wife and put my resume out to a few places and there was nothing really going.

My father-in-law said “I know where there’s a good block”, and it was this one we’re at now.

That was 1998, and we had our first crop in 1999.

Little did I know the heartache. It rained three days before harvest.

We went to start picking on Monday, it rained on Friday and all the sultanas were split.

It was heart wrenching. I was throwing fruit on the racks and it was all just falling through. I knew this wasn’t right, but I didn't really know enough.

I noticed my neighbour was summer pruning. He taught me about summer pruning to help save the crop.

We ended up cutting the whole sultana block. We had someone come with a wetting machine and got the whole lot done. We got good weather after that and it turned out OK. That was the beginning.

What is it you like about the dried grape industry?

The main thing I like about it, from when we came here, every farmer was dried fruit back in the 80s. They had record tonnes, around 90,000 tonnes. Just the history alone – it’s over 100 years. I look at the Chaffey Brothers and they were before their time. I like

the history of it, and the fact that the region really relied on it back in the day.

How have things changed for you over the years you've been in the industry?

From that first harvest, I had it in the back of my mind that this (summer pruning) is the way to go.

I just wanted to learn more, so I took a course at TAFE and we eventually built a wetting machine ourselves.

The old vines didn't like being hit with the harvester too much, so I started replanting from there.

What I liked the most was going to other people’s places to see what they were doing. That was really helpful and DFA was helping with events.

Started pulling out old sultanas in 2001 and now we have Sunmuscats with some sultana, too.

We changed our irrigation to low levels, and we’re now looking to change that to drip.

Summer pruning is what’s kept me

going. Before that, we were picking in buckets, taking them to the racks, spreading them, spraying them, and shaking. It was a lot of work.

Everything’s vine dried now.

Where do you see the industry going and how do you see things changing?

I do see us growing again. I do think the region will get back up to 50-60,000 tonne.

It would just be nice to see prices get a bit higher, otherwise we’re not going to get anyone to follow on.

If we can keep the prices up, we might get some younger ones into the industry.

That’s what I’m hoping for in the industry.

Corporates are always going to be there, but they’re never going to do what a farmer with their own property is going to do. We don’t knock off.

We’re seeing some new early varieties coming in to spread things out a bit and spread that risk.

I do see hope for the industry.

I just hope the industry keeps going strong, because it’s been here so long.

What are the main challenges you see for the dried grape industry?

I’m worried about fruit fly and what is involved in baiting consistently, but the main thing I’m worried about is water.

Water security is going to be the main thing in the next 10 years, especially if we go into a drought.

The area speaks for itself, with the river and the weather. We grow some beautiful fruit – the produce is beautiful. We’ve got to look after that river.

Is there anything else innovative or different that you're doing here?

I follow the philosophy that if your soil is healthy, then your vine will be healthy. And that will show in the fruit you produce.

Other than that, I keep things pretty basic – just learning from other growers, I suppose, more than anything. v

Notice board

Jeremey Boyd (Chair) Victoria

BOARD

ATGA worked with several growing families earlier in the year on an industry photo shoot to boost the assets available for marketing and communications content.

Thanks to the Cordoma, Cirillo, Marlais and Panagiotaros families for their participation and support. We look forward to sharing more images with you over the coming months!

ATGA’s team members recently spent time with Hort Innovation’s new head of industry service Louise Pavihi, visiting ATGA deputy chair Rocky Mammone’s property and discussing industry development. Louise was joined by Hort Innovation’s industry service managers Nicole Dimos-Byrnes and Eloise Mason.

Below, Left to right: Nicole Dimos-Byrnes, Jenny Treeby, Eloise Mason, Louise Pavihi, Rocky Mammone, Karen Connolly.

Rocky Mammone (Deputy Chair) Victoria

Dominic Sergi Victoria

Robert Nugan Victoria

Joe Garreffa New South Wales

Anthony Cirillo New South Wales

Bill Avery South Australia

Kyle Lovreta Western Australia

Disclaimer: Dried Fruits Australia, the Australian Table Grape Association and Hort Innovation acknowledge contributions made by private enterprise through placement of advertisements in this publication. Acceptance of these contributions does not endorse or imply endorsement of any product or service advertised by contributors and we expressly disclaim all warranties (to the extent permitted by law) about the accuracy, completeness, or currency of information in the Vine. Reliance on any information provided in the Vine is entirely at your own risk. Dried Fruits Australia, the Australian Table Grape Association and Hort Innovation 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 any person’s negligence or otherwise, or from reliance on information contained in the Vine, or your use or non-use of the material.

Mark King (Chair) Producer, Pomona

Warren Lloyd (Deputy Chair) Producer, Irymple

Stephen Bennett Producer, Merbein

Ashley Johnstone Producer, Irymple

BOARD

Ashley Chabrel Producer, Barmera

Rowena Smart Producer, Red Cliffs

Dried Fruits Australia, the Australian Table Grape Association and Murray Valley Winegrowers Inc. – supported by Hort Innovation, Wine Australia and Agriculture

Victoria – hosted an event aimed at tackling vineyard waste at Mildura Field Days.

Top Left: Professor Tripti Singh talks through research by the National Centre for Timber Durability and Design Life research into solutions for the disposal of unwanted treated timber posts.

Left: Dried grape grower Daryn Gardner explains his process for whole vineyard recycling.

Below: Dried Fruits Australia industry development officer Michael Treeby.

The spotlight was on Australian dried grapes as Dried Fruits Australia chair Mark King presented at the 18th China International Nuts & Dried Fruits Conference held in Hefei.

Left: Mark and DFA CEO Thomas Cheung attended the conference as part of the industry-funded program that aims to showcase the Australian dried grape industry on the world stage.

Below: Mark delivered a presentation that introduced the industry to the Chinese market and an international audience.

David Swain Sunbeam Foods

Craig Greenwood

Australian Premium Dried Fruits

Michael Scalzo

Australian Premium Dried Fruits

James Shopov Producer, Duxton

Nathan Jilbert Specialist, Cardross