Horticulture Now | a fortnightly e-newsletter from Growcom |

Growcom is urging growers to check vegetation clearing moratorium maps to ensure their land has not been incorrectly identified as being subject to the regrowth clearing moratorium.

The moratorium on clearing high-value regrowth, which took effect on 8 April 2009, has been extended until 7 October 2009 and growers have until that time to lodge concerns about the maps.

Under the moratorium, all native regrowth vegetation within 50 metres of a watercourse in the priority reef catchments of the Wet Tropics, Burdekin and Mackay/Whitsunday regions is protected. Endangered regrowth vegetation in rural areas across the state on freehold and agricultural and grazing leasehold land, is also protected.

This regrowth vegetation, which is protected unless an exemption applies, is shown on a moratorium map HERE, which is available online or at departmental business centres. The moratorium map is only one part of the moratorium arrangements and indicates areas where people should check further about whether the moratorium affects them

The extension will allow the government to ensure that consideration is given to around 400 public submissions about permanent regrowth protection measures. The law does not provide for further extension to the moratorium.

The satellite imagery cannot distinguish between native trees and non-native trees such as orchards and may incorrectly identify these areas as endangered regrowth. Additionally as some of the satellite imagery is out of date, areas which were legitimately cleared since then may be incorrectly marked. Some growers have already found their properties have been incorrectly identified.

If you are concerned please review the information HERE and/or contact your local Department of Environment and Resource Management business centre. Alternatively you can ring the department on 131304.

For more information, please contact Growcom Chief Advocate Rachel Mackenzie on 07 3620 3844 or email industryaction@growcom.com.au

Growcom takes Opposition Leader on farm to discuss horticulture’s issues first hand

Last week, Growcom showed Leader of the Opposition John-Paul Langbroek and local member for Glass House Andrew Powell the size and significance of horticultural operations on the Sunshine Coast with a tour of three major players in the industry.

The tour is the latest in a series of meetings with key state government Ministers and Opposition spokespeople and their advisers to drive the agri-political agenda in the horticulture industry.

Growcom is urging growers who have issues with the current management of the rabbit fence, wild dog barrier fence or wild dog check fences to get in touch prior to Friday, 21 August.

If any concerns are raised, Growcom will provide this feedback to the Queensland Primary Industries and Fisheries (QPIF)’s review of pest animal barrier fences. The government is proposing retaining the fences, but bringing their management under one organisation.

For more information, please contact Growcom Chief Advocate Rachel Mackenzie on 07 3620 3844 or email industryaction@growcom.com.au

Growcom CEO Alex Livingstone, Chief Advocate Rachel Mackenzie and Industrial Relations Advisor Donna Mogg have met with the Australian Agricultural College Corporation (AACC) Director John Elich. The meeting included discussion on the future of the AACC and how the horticulture industry can better engage with the corporation. Growcom was pleased with the outcomes of the meeting and looks forward to working more closely with the AACC in the near future.

For more information, please contact Growcom Chief Advocate Rachel Mackenzie on 07 3620 3844 or email industryaction@growcom.com.au

Independent Senator Nick Xenophon from South Australia has drafted a Private Senator’s Bill to add clarity to labelling laws, and address concerns relating to country of origin claims. Senator Xenophon is placing particular emphasis on:

Growcom would like to hear from growers regarding their interest in extending country of origin labelling.

Please contact Growcom Chief Advocate Rachel Mackenzie on 07 3620 3844 or email industryaction@growcom.com.au by the end of July.

Growcom has begun a six month trial of the social medium Twitter – read our “tweets” here:

Those Horticulture Now readers who would like to ‘follow’ Growcom on Twitter need to create their own Twitter account first (unless you are already twittering!) from www.twitter.com and using the ‘Find People’ function look for growcom and then select the ‘follow’ option in order to receive our regular updates on issues affecting Growcom members and the wider horticulture industry.

For more information, contact Growcom Marketing and Design Officer Jasmine Haddow on 07 3620 3844 or email communications@growcom.com.au

Growcom is again running information seminars around Queensland to provide vital new information to horticulture employers.

Ms Mogg will be joined by Natalie Catlin, Regional Outreach Officer for the federal Department of Immigration and Citizenship who will provide growers with the latest information on changes to the 457 visa program and the 217 working holiday visa program and growers’ responsibilities in employing short stay workers and backpackers.

Gayndah – Wednesday, 29 July 2009 – 9 am, Grand Hotel, Meson St, Gayndah
Stanthorpe – Tuesday, 4 Aug 2009 – 1 pm, Stanthorpe RSL, Marsh Street, Stanthorpe
Gatton – Wednesday, 5 August 2009 – 9 am, Royal Hotel, 2 Railway St, Gatton
Mareeba – Tuesday, 11 Aug 2009 – 1 pm – Mareeba RSL, 88 Byrnes St, Mareeba
Tully – Wednesday, 12 August 2009 – 1 pm – El Arish Tavern, 38 Chavel St, El Erish
Townsville – Thursday, 13 August 2009 – 9 am – Townsville Golf Club, Benson St, south Townville
Bowen – Friday, 14 August 2009 – 9 am – QPIF, Warwick Rd, Bowen.

Growcom is pleased to advise that the Bundaberg seminar will be run in conjunction with Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers, and all seminars will be supported by Wesfarmers and our sponsors, Austsafe Super and Prime Super. We appreciate their ongoing support of our work in the industry.

Growcom has also been invited to present a number of seminars to growers in South Australia and continues to work constructively with grower groups and industry bodies around Australia in providing this important information to growers.

For more information and to register contact Growcom Membership Services Coordinator Georgie Hinchley on 07 4068 2255 or email ghinchley@growcom.com.au

“HG09041: Workplace Essentials in Horticulture | Fair Work Australia and the HIA” This project has been facilitated by HAL in partnership with industry. The Australian Government provides matched funding for all HAL’s R&D activities.

Prospective suppliers urged to register interest in NQ Farmer’s Market – online survey

North Queensland primary producers interested in selling their wares at a proposed farmer’s market now have the opportunity to register their interest on-line (see the end of this item for the survey link).

A working group has been investigating the feasibility of establishing a farmer’s market in north Queensland that would give consumers the opportunity to buy locally-produced fruit, vegetables, seafood, meat, honey, eggs and other value-added products.

Group spokesperson and Burdekin Mayor, Cr Lyn McLaughlin, said the group was very keen to hear from local primary producers who would be interested in supplying the proposed market.

Cr McLaughlin said successful farmers’ markets operated in most capital cities, with most held on a weekly basis. However, no decisions had been made regarding the location or timing of a north Queensland market.

“The community has really come together to work on getting these farmers’ markets off the ground. The working group received a real boost when it was able to secure $20 000 of Blueprint for the Bush funding which will go towards the feasibility study,” the Mayor said.

“At this stage, what we are looking for are primary producers, regardless of what they produce or the size of their farm, to tell us if that they would like to be involved, what they would sell and their ideas on the structure and operation of the market.”

She said the working group would like to hear from growers from the Burdekin shire, north to Hinchinbrook shire, west to Charters Towers and south to Gumlu.

“Although if producers from further afield would like to be involved, we are certainly interested in hearing from them as well,” she said.

Cr McLaughlin said any producers wanting to register their interest should contact Queensland Primary Industries and Fisheries call centre on 13 25 23.

For more information please contact Lyn McLaughlin on 07 4783 9812 or 0407 376793. To participate and register your interest click HERE.

Carbon on Farm workshops

How much do you know about carbon and its potential impacts on your agricultural enterprise?

Growcom and AgForce are jointly presenting a series of ‘Carbon on Farm’ workshops in regional centres. These workshops will cover a range of topics on carbon and climate change that are directly relevant to agricultural producers, including the potential impacts, adaptation strategies, carbon footprinting and the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme. Presenters will include Dave Putland (Growcom’s Climate Change Project Officer) and Graeme Bell (Principal Carbon Project Officer with AgForce).

Four more workshops are planned for Stanthorpe, Mareeba, Tully and Bowen in August and September:

Stanthorpe — Wednesday, 5 August, 1-5 pm, Stanthorpe Civic Centre (changed from QPIF facility)
Mareeba — Wednesday, 19 August, 1-5 pm, International Club
Tully — Thursday, 20 August, 2-6 pm, QPIF South Johnstone
Bowen — Wednesday, 2 September, 4-8 pm, QPIF Bowen

These workshops are supported by Growcom and AgForce Queensland through funding from the Australian Government’s Caring for our Country program.

To register, please contact Bree Robertson on 07 3238 6039 or email bree.robertson@agforward.org.au

The Queensland Government has announced they will partner with industry to deliver more than $1.5 million worth of training to jobseekers and existing workers in the rural sector.

Education and Training Minister Geoff Wilson said under the Productivity Places Program, the government would work with the Queensland Rural Industry Training Council to train some 200 workers and 100 jobseekers during the next two years.

“High-level training will be delivered to existing workers in areas such as agriculture, conservation and land management, and horticulture,” Mr Wilson said.

“The funding is also expected to help some 100 jobseekers to develop skills in areas such as conservation and land management, rural operations and shearing.”

The Queensland Rural Industry Training Council will identify priorities and partner with training organisations to deliver training.

Council Chair Jenny Easlea said the rural sector welcomed the initiative to meet the combined demands of a skilled workers shortage, the predicted post-drought increase in productivity and the demand for exports as the global economy strengthens.

Rural employers seeking to upskill their workforce or jobseekers looking for careers in the rural sector should contact the Queensland Rural Industry Training Council on 1800 337 709.

For more information about the Productivity Places Program in Queensland click HERE.

At Our Table, a feast for the ears, eyes and stomach is about to be unleashed on Queenslanders in 10 locations around the state between August and November, as part of Queensland's 150^th anniversary celebrations.

At Our Table events begin in Normanton in August and include the Granite Belt, Noosa, Cairns, Ingham, Erub, Mackay, Longreach, Stradbroke Island and Brisbane.

Queenslanders will also be able to share their own recipes online HERE and follow At Our Table as it travels across the state.

Former US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice will offer advice on leading during tumultuous times when she opens Produce Marketing Association’s (PMA) 2009 Fresh Summit International Convention & Expo. Focused on driving change and seizing opportunity in today’s economy, this year’s convention will be held from 2-5 October in Anaheim, California.

Australian vegetable growers can attend the conference as part of a study tour supported by Horticulture Australia Limited. Participants may be eligible for a rebate.

To book, contact Quadrant Australia on Freecall 1300 301 128. For more information about the summit click HERE.

Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has invited individuals and organisations with an interest in the regulation of food to provide information and comment on a proposal to develop measures to maximise seed sprouts safety.

The proposal is considering the development of a food safety standard for the production of seed sprouts (e.g. alfalfa, mung beans) for human consumption in Australia. Such a standard would be incorporated into the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code.

Passionfruit growers have six weeks to lodge objections to the proposed marketing levy

Peak industry organisation The Australian Passionfruit Industry Association (APIA) has announced that growers will be able to lodge objections to the proposed industry levy.

The formal objection period (lasting six weeks) has been set by the Department of Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries and will end Monday, 24 August.

Zeki Murad, executive officer of APIA, indicated that commercial passionfruit growers had voted in favour of the marketing levy in November 2008 to support a range of activities including market development and promotion.

“The industry ballot, which was conducted by the Australian Electoral Commission, was supported with 61 per cent of eligible businesses who voted agreeing to the new marketing levy” Mr Murad said.

“APIA, the peak industry body for the Australian passionfruit industry, has provided a formal submission to the Australian Government through Horticulture Australia Limited, seeking initiation of the new marketing levy.”

The formal objection period of six weeks is the next step in the process of having the levy approved.

Growers who object to the proposal must do so formally in writing, with supporting documentation, to the federal Minister for Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry Tony Burke, Parliament House, Canberra, ACT, 2600.

“The objection should clearly outline the reasons why the levy is opposed and should include an analysis of the pro-levy argument. It should include documentary evidence that actual and/or potential levy payers oppose the implementation of the levy. Objections having little basis in fact or which are considered irrelevant, frivolous or vexatious will not proceed.”

This Marketing Levy will be in addition to the existing Research and Development Levy already in

Growers wishing to read the marketing levy submission and the DAFF levy guidelines can do so by looking at the APIA web site HERE or by ringing Zeki Murad on 0405 186 742.

Asia Fruit Logistica and Congress – Hong Kong & China study tour 31 Aug-9 September

Quadrant Australia has organised a Horticulture Australia study tour to the Asia Fruit Logistica Exhibition and Congress, Hong Kong and Guangzhou—and as it’s supported by HAL funding, participants may be eligible for a rebate.

To make the attendance at Asia Fruit Logistica more than worthwhile, Quadrant Australia has included visits to wholesale markets, air cargo and sea container terminals and retail outlets as well as an over the border visit into mainland China to look at vegetable production and marketing.

For more information please contact Quadrant Australia 07 3236 9889 or email qinfo@quadrantaustralia.com or visit their web site HERE.

Tomato levy consultation program – growers required for steering committee

The tomato sector is currently looking for interested growers to participate in a steering committee to evaluate and provide input into the development of a potential levy.

For more information please contact the consultant engaged by industry: Jonathan Eccles of Jonathan Eccles & Associates Pty Ltd 0437 521 786 or email jonathan@eccles.com.au

Many thanks to Vasanthe Vithanage of APVMA for this prompt attention to this important issue.

For more information contact Growcom Pest Management Industry Development Officer Gary Artlett on 07 3620 3844 or gartlett@growcom.com.au

A study has found that rural women struggle to find a work life balance. The Australian Work and Life Index report has found that the pressures on rural women are increasing, with mothers in rural and regional areas showing some of the worst effects.

Source: ABC Rural News
More: http://www.abc.net.au/rural/news/content/200907/s2637237.htm

v Coalition demands exclusion of agriculture from emissions trading scheme

The Federal Government has rejected a list of Coalition changes to its emissions trading scheme, including the exclusion of agricultural emissions.

Source: ABC Rural News
More: http://www.abc.net.au/rural/news/content/200907/s2637233.htm

Strawberry nurseries are still using the soil fumigant methyl bromide, five years after it was banned, because of a delay in the registration of an alternative chemical. DPI Vic researcher Dr Scott Mattner said an application to register methyl iodide was lodged with the APVMA in 2002.

Source: Weekly Times Now
More: http://www.weeklytimesnow.com.au/article/2009/07/24/95381_horticulture.html

Australian fruit will be the focus of a new marketing campaign by dried-fruit processor Sunbeam Foods in a bid to aid industry growth. The campaign, along with a fund to encourage new growers into the industry, has been designed to reinforce the company’s commitment to Australian fruit and encourage growth in an industry decimated by a decade of global oversupply and falling prices.

Source: Weekly Times Now
More: http://www.weeklytimesnow.com.au/article/2009/07/22/95401_horticulture.html

ACCC Chairman Graeme Samuel told the Rural Press Club breakfast of Victoria that he had been “surprised at the lack of fear” growers had shown when dealing with the two supermarket giants when he conducted an inquiry into grocery prices last year, despite grower groups saying growers were being bullied. But a grower who asked not to be named said it was a fact that when growers had spoken out about supermarkets their produce had been rejected. Another was adamant fear had stopped growers going to the ACCC.

Source: Weekly Times Now
More: http://www.weeklytimesnow.com.au/article/2009/07/22/96011_horticulture.html


A fortnightly e-newsletter from Growcom Tuesday, 28 July No. 15/2009
Quick links Growcom news Industrial relations Industry news Pest management Online news round-up Important dates to remember in 2009 Association Meeting Dates Contact Growcom Growcom news Vegetation clearing Growcom is urging growers to check vegetation clearing moratorium maps to ensure their land has not been incorrectly identified as being subject to the regrowth clearing moratorium. The moratorium on clearing high-value regrowth, which took effect on 8 April 2009, has been extended until 7 October 2009 and growers have until that time to lodge concerns about the maps. Under the moratorium, all native regrowth vegetation within 50 metres of a watercourse in the priority reef catchments of the Wet Tropics, Burdekin and Mackay/Whitsunday regions is protected. Endangered regrowth vegetation in rural areas across the state on freehold and agricultural and grazing leasehold land, is also protected. This regrowth vegetation, which is protected unless an exemption applies, is shown on a moratorium map HERE, which is available online or at departmental business centres. The moratorium map is only one part of the moratorium arrangements and indicates areas where people should check further about whether the moratorium affects them The extension will allow the government to ensure that consideration is given to around 400 public submissions about permanent regrowth protection measures. The law does not provide for further extension to the moratorium. The satellite imagery cannot distinguish between native trees and non-native trees such as orchards and may incorrectly identify these areas as endangered regrowth. Additionally as some of the satellite imagery is out of date, areas which were legitimately cleared since then may be incorrectly marked. Some growers have already found their properties have been incorrectly identified. If you are concerned please review the information HERE and/or contact your local Department of Environment and Resource Management business centre. Alternatively you can ring the department on 131304. For more information, please contact Growcom Chief Advocate Rachel Mackenzie on 07 3620 3844 or email industryaction@growcom.com.au Growcom takes Opposition Leader on farm to discuss horticulture’s issues first hand Last week, Growcom showed Leader of the Opposition John-Paul Langbroek and local member for Glass House Andrew Powell the size and significance of horticultural operations on the Sunshine Coast with a tour of three major players in the industry. Issues on the agenda included: the new Horticulture Industry Award and the impact on growers state government’s proposal to cede their industrial relations powers to the federal government and the impact on regional jobs implementation of the Queensland biosecurity strategy progress of the review of the mandatory Horticulture Code of Conduct effective flying fox control measures the need to progress a national food security policy. The tour is the latest in a series of meetings with key state government Ministers and Opposition spokespeople and their advisers to drive the agri-political agenda in the horticulture industry. Feedback requested on pest animal barrier fences Growcom is urging growers who have issues with the current management of the rabbit fence, wild dog barrier fence or wild dog check fences to get in touch prior to Friday, 21 August. If any concerns are raised, Growcom will provide this feedback to the Queensland Primary Industries and Fisheries (QPIF)’s review of pest animal barrier fences. The government is proposing retaining the fences, but bringing their management under one organisation. For more information, please contact Growcom Chief Advocate Rachel Mackenzie on 07 3620 3844 or email industryaction@growcom.com.au Future of the Australian Agricultural College Corporation discussed Growcom CEO Alex Livingstone, Chief Advocate Rachel Mackenzie and Industrial Relations Advisor Donna Mogg have met with the Australian Agricultural College Corporation (AACC) Director John Elich. The meeting included discussion on the future of the AACC and how the horticulture industry can better engage with the corporation. Growcom was pleased with the outcomes of the meeting and looks forward to working more closely with the AACC in the near future. For more information, please contact Growcom Chief Advocate Rachel Mackenzie on 07 3620 3844 or email industryaction@growcom.com.au Push to extend country of origin labelling Independent Senator Nick Xenophon from South Australia has drafted a Private Senator’s Bill to add clarity to labelling laws, and address concerns relating to country of origin claims. Senator Xenophon is placing particular emphasis on: ensuring that food labelled as Australian is 100 per cent produced in Australia food containing one or more imported ingredients to be clearly labelled as such on the front of the packaging drinks that contain juice derived from orange skins not to be described as orange juice packaging not to be included in the calculation of the percentage of Australian content of the product. Growcom would like to hear from growers regarding their interest in extending country of origin labelling. Please contact Growcom Chief Advocate Rachel Mackenzie on 07 3620 3844 or email industryaction@growcom.com.au by the end of July. Remember – Growcom is now on Twitter for latest updates on horticulture Growcom has begun a six month trial of the social medium Twitter – read our “tweets” here: http://twitter.com/growcom Those Horticulture Now readers who would like to ‘follow’ Growcom on Twitter need to create their own Twitter account first (unless you are already twittering!) from www.twitter.com and using the ‘Find People’ function look for growcom and then select the ‘follow’ option in order to receive our regular updates on issues affecting Growcom members and the wider horticulture industry. For more information, contact Growcom Marketing and Design Officer Jasmine Haddow on 07 3620 3844 or email communications@growcom.com.au Industrial relations Workplace essentials seminars start this week *vital information on the new laws and the new award* Employee/employer relations for horticulture 2010 and beyond Growcom is again running information seminars around Queensland to provide vital new information to horticulture employers. The seminars will assist growers to: find out what you need to know and do before 1 January to comply with new legal obligations under the Fair Work Act find out what’s in the new Horticulture Industry Award 2010 understand union right of entry laws, the how, when and what learn how to avoid unfair dismissal claims discover and develop strategies and options for your own workplace agreement understand “good faith bargaining" in agreement making. Ms Mogg will be joined by Natalie Catlin, Regional Outreach Officer for the federal Department of Immigration and Citizenship who will provide growers with the latest information on changes to the 457 visa program and the 217 working holiday visa program and growers’ responsibilities in employing short stay workers and backpackers. Seminars will also be held at: Gayndah – Wednesday, 29 July 2009 – 9 am, Grand Hotel, Meson St, Gayndah Stanthorpe – Tuesday, 4 Aug 2009 – 1 pm, Stanthorpe RSL, Marsh Street, Stanthorpe Gatton – Wednesday, 5 August 2009 – 9 am, Royal Hotel, 2 Railway St, Gatton Mareeba – Tuesday, 11 Aug 2009 – 1 pm – Mareeba RSL, 88 Byrnes St, Mareeba Tully – Wednesday, 12 August 2009 – 1 pm – El Arish Tavern, 38 Chavel St, El Erish Townsville – Thursday, 13 August 2009 – 9 am – Townsville Golf Club, Benson St, south Townville Bowen – Friday, 14 August 2009 – 9 am – QPIF, Warwick Rd, Bowen. Growcom is pleased to advise that the Bundaberg seminar will be run in conjunction with Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers, and all seminars will be supported by Wesfarmers and our sponsors, Austsafe Super and Prime Super. We appreciate their ongoing support of our work in the industry. Growcom has also been invited to present a number of seminars to growers in South Australia and continues to work constructively with grower groups and industry bodies around Australia in providing this important information to growers. For more information and to register contact Growcom Membership Services Coordinator Georgie Hinchley on 07 4068 2255 or email ghinchley@growcom.com.au “HG09041: Workplace Essentials in Horticulture \| Fair Work Australia and the HIA” This project has been facilitated by HAL in partnership with industry. The Australian Government provides matched funding for all HAL’s R&D activities. Industry news Prospective suppliers urged to register interest in NQ Farmer’s Market – online survey North Queensland primary producers interested in selling their wares at a proposed farmer’s market now have the opportunity to register their interest on-line (see the end of this item for the survey link). A working group has been investigating the feasibility of establishing a farmer’s market in north Queensland that would give consumers the opportunity to buy locally-produced fruit, vegetables, seafood, meat, honey, eggs and other value-added products. Group spokesperson and Burdekin Mayor, Cr Lyn McLaughlin, said the group was very keen to hear from local primary producers who would be interested in supplying the proposed market. Cr McLaughlin said successful farmers’ markets operated in most capital cities, with most held on a weekly basis. However, no decisions had been made regarding the location or timing of a north Queensland market. “The community has really come together to work on getting these farmers’ markets off the ground. The working group received a real boost when it was able to secure $20 000 of Blueprint for the Bush funding which will go towards the feasibility study,” the Mayor said. “At this stage, what we are looking for are primary producers, regardless of what they produce or the size of their farm, to tell us if that they would like to be involved, what they would sell and their ideas on the structure and operation of the market.” She said the working group would like to hear from growers from the Burdekin shire, north to Hinchinbrook shire, west to Charters Towers and south to Gumlu. “Although if producers from further afield would like to be involved, we are certainly interested in hearing from them as well,” she said. Cr McLaughlin said any producers wanting to register their interest should contact Queensland Primary Industries and Fisheries call centre on 13 25 23. For more information please contact Lyn McLaughlin on 07 4783 9812 or 0407 376793. To participate and register your interest click HERE. Carbon on Farm workshops How much do you know about carbon and its potential impacts on your agricultural enterprise? Growcom and AgForce are jointly presenting a series of ‘Carbon on Farm’ workshops in regional centres. These workshops will cover a range of topics on carbon and climate change that are directly relevant to agricultural producers, including the potential impacts, adaptation strategies, carbon footprinting and the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme. Presenters will include Dave Putland (Growcom’s Climate Change Project Officer) and Graeme Bell (Principal Carbon Project Officer with AgForce). Four more workshops are planned for Stanthorpe, Mareeba, Tully and Bowen in August and September: Stanthorpe — Wednesday, 5 August, 1-5 pm, Stanthorpe Civic Centre (changed from QPIF facility) Mareeba — Wednesday, 19 August, 1-5 pm, International Club Tully — Thursday, 20 August, 2-6 pm, QPIF South Johnstone Bowen — Wednesday, 2 September, 4-8 pm, QPIF Bowen These workshops are supported by Growcom and AgForce Queensland through funding from the Australian Government’s Caring for our Country program. To register, please contact Bree Robertson on 07 3238 6039 or email bree.robertson@agforward.org.au More training places for the rural sector The Queensland Government has announced they will partner with industry to deliver more than $1.5 million worth of training to jobseekers and existing workers in the rural sector. Education and Training Minister Geoff Wilson said under the Productivity Places Program, the government would work with the Queensland Rural Industry Training Council to train some 200 workers and 100 jobseekers during the next two years. “High-level training will be delivered to existing workers in areas such as agriculture, conservation and land management, and horticulture,” Mr Wilson said. “The funding is also expected to help some 100 jobseekers to develop skills in areas such as conservation and land management, rural operations and shearing.” The Queensland Rural Industry Training Council will identify priorities and partner with training organisations to deliver training. Council Chair Jenny Easlea said the rural sector welcomed the initiative to meet the combined demands of a skilled workers shortage, the predicted post-drought increase in productivity and the demand for exports as the global economy strengthens. Rural employers seeking to upskill their workforce or jobseekers looking for careers in the rural sector should contact the Queensland Rural Industry Training Council on 1800 337 709. For more information about the Productivity Places Program in Queensland click HERE. Queensland food is hot At Our Table, a feast for the ears, eyes and stomach is about to be unleashed on Queenslanders in 10 locations around the state between August and November, as part of Queensland's 150^th anniversary celebrations. At Our Table events begin in Normanton in August and include the Granite Belt, Noosa, Cairns, Ingham, Erub, Mackay, Longreach, Stradbroke Island and Brisbane. Queenslanders will also be able to share their own recipes online HERE and follow At Our Table as it travels across the state. At Our Table events in Queensland: 16 August The Cook's Table, Normanton 23 August The Winemaker's Story, Granite Belt 31 August Fresh to the Table, Noosa 6 September A Market Feast, Cairns 19 September festa di famiglia, Ingham 26 September Determination and Identity, Erub 24 October From Homelands to Harvest, Mackay 31 October The Stockmen, Longreach 7 November Saltwater Dining, Stradbroke Island 28 November Queensland unearthed, Brisbane Study tour to visit PMA conference Former US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice will offer advice on leading during tumultuous times when she opens Produce Marketing Association’s (PMA) 2009 Fresh Summit International Convention & Expo. Focused on driving change and seizing opportunity in today’s economy, this year’s convention will be held from 2-5 October in Anaheim, California. Australian vegetable growers can attend the conference as part of a study tour supported by Horticulture Australia Limited. Participants may be eligible for a rebate. To book, contact Quadrant Australia on Freecall 1300 301 128. For more information about the summit click HERE. Alfalfa and mung bean production under the food safety microscope Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has invited individuals and organisations with an interest in the regulation of food to provide information and comment on a proposal to develop measures to maximise seed sprouts safety. The proposal is considering the development of a food safety standard for the production of seed sprouts (e.g. alfalfa, mung beans) for human consumption in Australia. Such a standard would be incorporated into the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code. Submissions should reach FSANZ by Wednesday, 26 August 2009. Passionfruit growers have six weeks to lodge objections to the proposed marketing levy Peak industry organisation The Australian Passionfruit Industry Association (APIA) has announced that growers will be able to lodge objections to the proposed industry levy. The formal objection period (lasting six weeks) has been set by the Department of Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries and will end Monday, 24 August. Zeki Murad, executive officer of APIA, indicated that commercial passionfruit growers had voted in favour of the marketing levy in November 2008 to support a range of activities including market development and promotion. “The industry ballot, which was conducted by the Australian Electoral Commission, was supported with 61 per cent of eligible businesses who voted agreeing to the new marketing levy” Mr Murad said. “APIA, the peak industry body for the Australian passionfruit industry, has provided a formal submission to the Australian Government through Horticulture Australia Limited, seeking initiation of the new marketing levy.” The formal objection period of six weeks is the next step in the process of having the levy approved. Growers who object to the proposal must do so formally in writing, with supporting documentation, to the federal Minister for Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry Tony Burke, Parliament House, Canberra, ACT, 2600. According to DAFF levy guidelines: “The objection should clearly outline the reasons why the levy is opposed and should include an analysis of the pro-levy argument. It should include documentary evidence that actual and/or potential levy payers oppose the implementation of the levy. Objections having little basis in fact or which are considered irrelevant, frivolous or vexatious will not proceed.” Under the levy submission, passionfruit growers will need to pay: 20 cents per 18 litre carton; or 20 cents per 8 kilograms, if the fruit is not packed in cartons; or 1.5 cents per kilogram of processing passionfruit when the marketing levy is implemented. This Marketing Levy will be in addition to the existing Research and Development Levy already in Place of a similar amount. Growers wishing to read the marketing levy submission and the DAFF levy guidelines can do so by looking at the APIA web site HERE or by ringing Zeki Murad on 0405 186 742. Asia Fruit Logistica and Congress – Hong Kong & China study tour 31 Aug-9 September Quadrant Australia has organised a Horticulture Australia study tour to the Asia Fruit Logistica Exhibition and Congress, Hong Kong and Guangzhou—and as it’s supported by HAL funding, participants may be eligible for a rebate. To make the attendance at Asia Fruit Logistica more than worthwhile, Quadrant Australia has included visits to wholesale markets, air cargo and sea container terminals and retail outlets as well as an over the border visit into mainland China to look at vegetable production and marketing. For more information please contact Quadrant Australia 07 3236 9889 or email qinfo@quadrantaustralia.com or visit their web site HERE. Tomato levy consultation program – growers required for steering committee The tomato sector is currently looking for interested growers to participate in a steering committee to evaluate and provide input into the development of a potential levy. For more information please contact the consultant engaged by industry: Jonathan Eccles of Jonathan Eccles & Associates Pty Ltd 0437 521 786 or email jonathan@eccles.com.au Pest management The following permits have been issued by APVMA: PER11615 — Glyphosate & glufosinate-ammonium / Pitaya / Weeds. Valid from 30/09/09 to 30/09/19. For use in NSW, QLD & NT ONLY. PER10417 — Various fungicides (fenarimol, pyrimethanil, captan, metalaxyl, phosphorous acid, mancozeb, triadimenol) / Rubus, Ribes and blueberries / various diseases. Valid from 29/06/09 to 31/03/13. Valid for all states. PER11438 — Glyphosate (shielded sprayer) / specific Asian root vegetables / grass and broadleaf weeds. Valid from 05/05/09 to 30/06/19. Valid for all states. New rate added for perennial weeds. PER11508 — Secure 360SC (chlorfenapyr) / spring onions and shallots / Western flower thrips. Valid 10/07/09 to 31/06/11. Valid for ACT, NSW, NT, Qld, SA, Tas, WA. Additional residue data required renewal. PER5658 — Vertimec (abamectin) / almonds / Twospotted mite & Brown almond mite.Valid 09/06/09 to 31/03/12. Valid for ACT, NSW, QLD, SA, TAS, NT & WA.Additional residue data required renewal. PER11123 — Abamectin / raspberry & blackberry / Two-spotted mite. Valid 30/06/09 to 31/03/12. Valid for ACT, NSW, QLD, SA, TAS, NT & WA. Additional residue data required in blackberries for renewal. The following EMERGENCY permit has been issued by APVMA: PER11616 — Switch (Cyprodinil + Fludioxonil) / Strawberries / Stem End Rot and Leaf Blotch (Gnomonia sp.) Valid 10/07/09 to 30/06/11. Valid for NSW, QLD & WA. Additional residue data required renewal. Many thanks to Vasanthe Vithanage of APVMA for this prompt attention to this important issue. Full details of all permits are available on the APVMA web site HERE For more information contact Growcom Pest Management Industry Development Officer Gary Artlett on 07 3620 3844 or gartlett@growcom.com.au Online news round-up The latest items of media interest for HN readers: v *NFF calls for war on green tape* The National Farmers Federation is ramping up its push to see farmers properly recognised for the good environmental work they do, rather than being constantly hit with a big regulatory stick by multi-tiers of government. Source: QCL FarmOnline More: http://qcl.farmonline.com.au/news/state/agribusiness-and-general/general/nff-calls-for-war-on-green-tape/1575995.aspx?src=enews v *Rural women struggle with work-life balance* A study has found that rural women struggle to find a work life balance. The Australian Work and Life Index report has found that the pressures on rural women are increasing, with mothers in rural and regional areas showing some of the worst effects. Source: ABC Rural News More: http://www.abc.net.au/rural/news/content/200907/s2637237.htm v *Nufarm still appears to be on the menu for SinoChem* Nufarm suitor SinoChem is rumoured to have enlisted RBS Australia to help advise it on its overtures to the farm chemicals company. Source: QCL FarmOnline More: http://qcl.farmonline.com.au/news/nationalrural/agribusiness-and-general/finance/nufarm-still-appears-to-be-on-the-menu-for-sinochem/1575813.aspx?src=enews v *Coalition demands exclusion of agriculture from emissions trading scheme* The Federal Government has rejected a list of Coalition changes to its emissions trading scheme, including the exclusion of agricultural emissions. Source: ABC Rural News More: http://www.abc.net.au/rural/news/content/200907/s2637233.htm v *Strawberry fumigant search* Strawberry nurseries are still using the soil fumigant methyl bromide, five years after it was banned, because of a delay in the registration of an alternative chemical. DPI Vic researcher Dr Scott Mattner said an application to register methyl iodide was lodged with the APVMA in 2002. Source: Weekly Times Now More: http://www.weeklytimesnow.com.au/article/2009/07/24/95381_horticulture.html v *Dried-fruit push* Australian fruit will be the focus of a new marketing campaign by dried-fruit processor Sunbeam Foods in a bid to aid industry growth. The campaign, along with a fund to encourage new growers into the industry, has been designed to reinforce the company’s commitment to Australian fruit and encourage growth in an industry decimated by a decade of global oversupply and falling prices. Source: Weekly Times Now More: http://www.weeklytimesnow.com.au/article/2009/07/22/95401_horticulture.html v Growers fear supermarket powers ACCC Chairman Graeme Samuel told the Rural Press Club breakfast of Victoria that he had been “surprised at the lack of fear” growers had shown when dealing with the two supermarket giants when he conducted an inquiry into grocery prices last year, despite grower groups saying growers were being bullied. But a grower who asked not to be named said it was a fact that when growers had spoken out about supermarkets their produce had been rejected. Another was adamant fear had stopped growers going to the ACCC. Source: Weekly Times Now More: http://www.weeklytimesnow.com.au/article/2009/07/22/96011_horticulture.html Important dates to remember 28 July Workplace Essentials in Horticulture workshop, Alloway Country Club, Bundaberg 1 pm. For more information and to register contact: Growcom Membership Services Coordinator Georgie Hinchley on 07 4068 2255 or email ghinchley@growcom.com.au 29 July Workplace Essentials in Horticulture workshop, Grand Hotel, Gayndah 9 am. For more information and to register contact: Growcom Membership Services Coordinator Georgie Hinchley on 07 4068 2255 or email ghinchley@growcom.com.au 31 July Pineapple Field Day – “Back to Basics”, Goomboorian. For more information contact: Growcom Pineapple Industry Development Officer, Julie Moore 07 3620 3844. 4 August Workplace Essentials in Horticulture workshop, Stanthorpe RSL, Stanthorpe 1 pm. For more information and to register contact: Growcom Membership Services Coordinator Georgie Hinchley on 07 4068 2255 or email ghinchley@growcom.com.au 5 August Workplace Essentials in Horticulture workshop, Royal Hotel, Gatton 9 am. For more information and to register contact: Growcom Membership Services Coordinator Georgie Hinchley on 07 4068 2255 or email ghinchley@growcom.com.au Carbon On Farm workshop, Stanthorpe Civic Centre (nb. changed from QPIF facility), Stanthorpe 1-5pm. For more information and to register, contact: Bree Robertson 07 3238 6039 or email bree.robertson@agforward.org.au 6-15 August Brisbane Ekka 2009. 10 August Innisfail Banana LPA meeting, El Arish Tavern. For more information, contact Mark Nucifora 0438 654 934. 11 August Workplace Essentials in Horticulture workshop, Mareeba RSL, Mareeba 1 pm. For more information and to register contact: Growcom Membership Services Coordinator Georgie Hinchley on 07 4068 2255 or email ghinchley@growcom.com.au 12 August Workplace Essentials in Horticulture workshop, El Arish Tavern, El Arish 1 pm. For more information and to register contact: Growcom Membership Services Coordinator Georgie Hinchley on 07 4068 2255 or email ghinchley@growcom.com.au 13 August Growcom Board meeting Workplace Essentials in Horticulture workshop, Townsville Golf Club, Townsville 9 am. For more information and to register contact: Growcom Membership Services Coordinator Georgie Hinchley on 07 4068 2255 or email ghinchley@growcom.com.au 14 August Workplace Essentials in Horticulture workshop, QPIF, Bowen 9 am. For more information and to register contact: Growcom Membership Services Coordinator Georgie Hinchley on 07 4068 2255 or email ghinchley@growcom.com.au 19 August Carbon On Farm workshop, International Club, Mareeba 1-5pm. For more information and to register, contact: Bree Robertson 07 3238 6039 or email bree.robertson@agforward.org.au 20 August Carbon On Farm workshop, QPIF South Johnstone, Tully 2-6pm. For more information and to register, contact: Bree Robertson 07 3238 6039 or email bree.robertson@agforward.org.au 25-27 August Vegetable IAC and Advisory Group meetings — Strategic Priority Planning. 2 September Carbon On Farm workshop, QPIF Bowen, Bowen 4-8pm. For more information and to register, contact: Bree Robertson 07 3238 6039 or email bree.robertson@agforward.org.au 2-4 September Asiafruit Congress & Asia Fruit Logistica, Hong Kong. For more information click HERE. 10-11 September 13^th Symposium on Precision Agriculture in Australasia, The University of New England, Armadale, NSW. For more information contact David Lamb on 02 6773 3565 or parg@une.edu.au 16-18 September Australian Table Grape Association (ATGA) National Conference—‘Rising to the Challenge – table grapes step up to the plate’, Mildura. For more information contact the ATGA office on 03 5021 5718. 2-5 October Produce Marketing Association (PMA) Fresh Summit Convention and Exposition, Anaheim, California, USA. For more information click HERE. 8 October Growcom Board meeting. 12-16 October Primary Industries Week. For the latest information click HERE. 29 Oct-1 Nov XIIth International Asparagus Symposium, Lima, Peru. For more information click HERE. 18 November Growcom Annual General Meeting. 19 November Growcom Board meeting.
Subscribe to Fruit & Vegetable News magazine Fruit & Vegetable News magazine advertising Would you like to become a Growcom member? Growcom members: would you like to participate in a grower profile for Fruit & Vegetable News? Association Meeting Dates · Bowen District Growers Association Inc: meetings held monthly. Phone Denise Kreymborg 07 4785 2860 for further information. · Burdekin & Delta Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association: meets first Thursday of each month. Kalamia Hotel, Queen St, Ayr. Phone 07 4783 5599. · Gin Gin Fruit and Vegetable Growers Cooperative Ltd: phone Meredith on 07 4157 7751 for details. · Innisfail Banana Growers Association: Meets second Thursday of every month at Centre for Wet Tropics (DPI&F) South Johnstone commencing at 7.30 pm. Phone Mark Nucifora on 0438 654 934 · Australian Custard Apple Growers Inc: meeting 15-16 July at Maroochy Research Station, Nambour. Phone Patti Stacey 02 6629 5333 · Australian Ginger Growers Association: meetings held every three months. Buderim Ginger Resource Room, Buderim. Phone Kylie Templeton 07 5442 8254 for details. · Australian Passionfruit Industry Association: meetings held at various times and locations in both QLD & NSW. Phone Zeki Murad 0405 186 742 for further details. Corporate partners NOTE: If you follow any links away from this communication, Growcom is not responsible for their content and accuracy.
Become a Growcom member Subscribe to Fruit & Vegetable News Unsubscribe to Horticulture Now
This update is a fortnightly e-newsletter highlighting issues and events relevant to Growcom’s members. If you would like to supply material for the update please call Growcom Marketing Communications on 07 3620 3844 or email communications@growcom.com.au If you are having trouble viewing this e-newsletter go to http://www.growcom.com.au/growcom_hn/HN_28_July_09.htm