Australian

BananasIssue 40, Summer 2013-2014

Hopeful harvest Trial blocks yield answers in the search for disease-resistant varieties

Page 10 Banana Page 20 Page 22 China- Freckle eradication Retail campaign Philippines study tour editorial & advertising AUSTRALIAN Rhyll Cronin 07 3278 4786 [email protected] art direction & design ToadShow Bananas Summer 2013-2014

2 Eton Street,Toowong contents 07 3335 4000 www.toadshow.com.au publisher Regulars Australian Banana 4 Chairman’s comment Growers’ Council Inc. 5 CEO’s comment ABN: 60 381 740 734 20 Marketing – Campaign puts a smile on chief executive officer retailers’ faces Jim Pekin 38 Health – Is rating food a five-star idea? research and 39 Membership – ABGC Juliane development manager 25 PAGE Henderson Jay Anderson 12 Industry news & MeeHua Wong office manager Alix Perry 6 Regional round up administration assistant 7 Banana grower AGM discusses industry Industry development sustainability Kaylar Packer 16 Lessons from the Philippines 8 Have your say on draft industry plan BOARD OF DIRECTORS Warnings for growers from a look at TR4 in the Philippines chairman Plant health Doug Phillips 22 Tour highlights threats, opportunities 9 Committee guides our six million dollar A group studies production in China and vice-chairman plan the Philippines

Adrian Crema 28 PAGE The six-member team guiding the Banana 39 Robert Mayers in reef-grants role treasurer Plant Protection Program (BPPP) ABGC’s new Reef Water Quality Grants Paul Johnston Officer directors Features Marc Darveniza 10 Taking control Farm practices Steve Lizzio An inside look at the Banana Freckle 28 Bananas tip timber from lab’s top spot Peter Molenaar eradication’s control centre Stephen Spear Tissue culture plants are in increasing 11 Freckle eradication to enter new phase demand all mail to Next steps are being considered in the 30 Nursing a headache PO Box 309 response plan BRISBANE MARKET QLD 4106 Nurse suckering is being utilised to

PAGE 32 PAGE 12 Secrets in the sequences manage production cycles Australian Bananas More than eight years’ research is is published three times a 31 Rematch set for Chloro and biopest oil year by the Australian Banana unlocking the secrets of Banana Freckle An update on a trial of yellow Sigatoka Growers’ Council Inc. treatments Articles appearing in Profiles Australian Bananas 15 Life science 32 Bedtime stories for banana growers Four growers talk about pre-formed and do not necessarily For Juliane Henderson, a scientific represent the policies, permanent beds opinions or views of ABGC. breakthrough can happen in a lab - or on ABGC is funded by a voluntary a motel verandah grower fee of 3c per 13kg 25 Next-generation grower Innovation carton. Duane Pierce gets ready to grow solo in 34 Scholar looks at biologicals Disclaimer the Tweed district Mort Johnston Professional Development

HAL and ABGC make no 39 PAGE Scholar Liam Riedy prepares for a US representations and expressly disclaim all warranties (to the study trip extent permitted by law) about the Cover story accuracy, completeness, or currency of 26 Seven survivors set for new trials 35 New phases for banana trials information in this magazine. Users of An update on two trials researching this magazine should take independent Commercial trials begin soon for action to confirm any information in genetic modification this magazine before relying on that varieties tested for disease-resistance information in any way. Reliance on any information provided by HAL is entirely at your own risk. HAL is not International responsible for, and will not be liable 36 Banana stew and brew on Uganda’s for, any loss, damage, claim, expense, cost (including legal costs) or other menu liability arising in any way (including from HAL’s or any other person’s A look at the nation where bananas are a negligence or otherwise) from your use staple food or non-use of the magazine, or from reliance on information contained in the magazine or that HAL provides to you by any other means.

Cover: The Banana Plant Protection Program’s Dr Mike Smith (left) and David Peasley at the Duranbah trial block. Photographer: David Hancock.

Summer 2013-2014 | Australian Bananas magazine 4 comment COMMENT 5 Challenges and achievements set 2014 agenda Many issues but growers are always our focus ABGC Chairman Doug at the Palmer Coolum Resort on the or unless required in the event of an Events over the past Phillips looks at the Sunshine Coast, it gave growers and incursion few months have year’s major events. supply-chain partners the opportunity ƒƒ If an incursion occurs, the debt to the shown the breadth With Christmas to hear about the latest developments in Federal Government to be repaid by of issues affecting and the New Year marketing and research being undertaken implementing a positive EPPR Levy, via growers and our approaching, it’s an by industry. a thorough advisory and communica- industry, says ABGC opportune time to Of course it was also a great oppor- tions process with banana industry levy CEO Jim Pekin. reflect on some of the tunity to catch up with old friends payers. A disease incursion, a pro- challenges and successes of the past 12 during the extensive social program. The importance of this levy cannot active approach to farm practices months. Congress culminated with our industry be understated as it provides industry in the wet tropics and some important Once again it’s a year when the banana Ball at which I had the great pleasure with the ability to discharge its financial initiatives taking place in the broader industry has been subjected to the whims in presenting the Awards of Honour. obligations associated with an exotic pest horticulture sector have been among of Mother Nature. In January, ex-tropical Recipients were Senator Ron Boswell – a incursion as defined by the EPPR Deed. them. cyclone Oswald affected many of the long-term ally of the banana industry; The eventual approval of the levy was These events are worth noting here and production regions on the east coast, Tony Heidrich, a former CEO of ABGC opportune as it was only a few months are just some examples of how the ABGC most notably in south east Queensland who led our industry through some of its later that Banana Freckle was detected on has been hard at work for the benefit of The ABGC worked with government and and in New South Wales where damage toughest challenges; and Mark Nucifora, Cavendish bananas within the Northern banana growers. greater than the costs. Nonetheless, the industry groups to respond to the NT’s Banana was severe and losses significant. a north Queensland grower who has pro- Territory. Since this detection, ABGC final cost (when it is known) will not Freckle outbreak. At around the same time, in Western vided outstanding service to the industry has been working with State and Federal Banana Freckle be cheap. The banana industry alone HAL review Australia our counterparts also bore the at the grass-roots level. They are recipi- biosecurity agencies and Plant Health The exotic strain of Freckle, Phyllosticta will need to repay more than $500,000, Horticulture Australia Limited (HAL) has brunt of nature – not through cyclone but ents who represent both the diversity of Australia to initiate an eradication cavendishii, was found in Howard assuming no more infected properties commissioned consultants ACIL Allen to an extreme heat wave that significantly those involved with our industry and the program. This program has started and is Springs, south of Darwin, in July. This are found. As of November 20, 14 such undertake a major performance review damaged fruit and plantations. Just singular focus we have on improving our progressing well. Under the response pro- set off the pre-determined processes properties have been detected. One of HAL, with the final report due in May recently, in mid-November, some growers future. gram the costs will be shared between the under the Emergency Plant Pest Response of these was a small farm and 13 were 2014. in New South Wales were completing various State and Federal governments as (EPPR) Deed, signed some years ago residential properties. It has not yet been All horticultural farmers’ compul- the year the same way it began – more Pest levy well as industry. Industry’s commitments by the ABGC, other industries and all determined when or what level of EPPR sory levies get collected by the Federal damaging weather, this time hail storms. While at Congress, I reported to mem- will be funded by a positive EPPR Levy. government jurisdictions. Levy is required to repay our share of the Department of Agriculture and provided Of course banana farmers, like all bers that ABGC had, after consultation We will have more information on this in Since then, ABGC has worked with costs. to HAL to manage. From our end, the farmers, are unfortunately accustomed to with our growers, written to the Federal 2014. the Northern Territory’s Department of Banana Industry Strategic Investment dealing with the vagaries of the weather. Agriculture Minister seeking his approval Primary Industry & Fisheries (DPI&F), Reef Rescue Plan is implemented through banana My thoughts during the year have been for an Emergency Plant Pest Response Year ahead Plant Health Australia, the Nursery & This year the ABGC Board decided to be R&D and marketing levies, managed by with all affected growers as they work (EPPR) Levy. I was pleased to later The EPPR Levy is just one item already Garden Industry Association, and all the proactive in regard to the Great Barrier HAL. HAL comprises a Board, manage- through these challenges – hopefully announce the request has been granted. on the agenda for the New Year. It will be jurisdictions through the Consultative Reef. Our industry is well aware of the ment and staff, and (thirdly) Industry bouncing back. Given our industry’s constant engage- joined by others – probably some others Committee on Emergency Plant Pests need for good environmental farm prac- Advisory Committees (IACs). The ment with pest management, including already mentioned here. That’s because which determined the pest was techni- tices and the need to minimise waste of Banana IAC is a HAL committee and rec- Congress the current response to the Banana many of our industry’s issues revisit us so cally feasible to eradicate. nitrogen and other farm inputs; therefore ommends investments for banana R&D The biennial Banana Industry Congress Freckle outbreak, it’s worthwhile sum- frequently – the challenges dealt out by I would like to take this opportunity to the use of Reef Water Quality Grants is a and marketing to HAL management. was held this year and, as with previous marising the details here: Mother Nature are ever present; so are the thank the many hundreds of NT residents great way to assist growers improve prac- HAL’s media release on this noted: events, was a positive experience. Held ƒƒ An EPPR Levy to be set at zero, until challenges of producing bananas in a very for their support of the eradication tices, save money and ensure less nitrogen “This performance review will include competitive marketplace. program. These are the rural residents and sediment goes to the Reef. The ABGC an examination of the HAL service Damage from hail storms south of Coffs Harbour. Storms bookended the year for some NSW growers. My roles of ABGC chairman and in the areas where Banana Freckle has successfully negotiated a contract with delivery model against the benchmark grower have made me keenly aware of the been found – Howard Springs, Batchelor, Terrain NRM for ABGC to appoint a new of good governance practice. The review difficult times being experienced across Rum Jungle, Humpty Doo and Acacia employee as a Reef Water Quality Grants will include the membership structure our growing regions, particularly with Hills. It was difficult for residents to lose Officer. Bartle Frere grower Robert of HAL, the nature and transparency regards to the returns we receive for our their banana plants but most understood Mayers has been appointed and will help of funding arrangements and its ability product. Please be aware that your indus- it had to be done to protect the national banana growers in the wet tropics apply to deliver services in an efficient and try body continues to work to do every- and NT banana industries. The national for and implement the grants and adopt effective manner while meeting the thing possible to improve our outlook. industry is worth $500 million at farm associated farm practices required for future and strategic demands of a fast One positive for our industry will be the gate and many million more if you think improved profitability and water quality growing industry sector. The review will finalisation of a new Strategic Investment about the associated industries involved outcomes (see report, Page 39). also closely examine the efficiency of the Plan that will guide us through the next in transport, farm supplies and produce existing levy structures and the process by five years (see report, Page 8). wholesale and retail. New Federal Minister which levies are conceived, implemented, Finally, I would like to take this oppor- I also thank the NT DPI&F for their On 1 November, ABGC Chairman Doug collected and expensed.” tunity to wish all growers and supply leadership and implementation of the Phillips and I met with the new Federal I jointly led a committee guiding a con- chain partners a Merry Christmas spent eradication program, especially their Minister for Agriculture, the Hon. sultancy to develop HAL members’ input in the company of family and friends, and Chief Plant Health Manager, Stephen Barnaby Joyce. The Minister understands to this review. The ABGC has also been in a happy, safe and prosperous New Year. West. At time of writing, the incursion the banana industry and we aim to talks with various people on this and will Doug Phillips, ABGC Chairman response, including surveillance and continue to brief him on our challenges make a submission to this review. eradication, is going very well. and opportunities. The benefits of eradication are far Continued next page

Australian Bananas magazine | Summer 2013-2014 Summer 2013-2014 | Australian Bananas magazine 6 regional round up INDUSTRY NEWS 7 Storms in east but west stays dry as Summer starts Banana grower AGM discusses industry sustainability Dry weather conditions across all temperatures during Spring. Growers significant hail damage to banana crops Grower members of the banana Industry positives growing regions were broken by have been irrigating to keep water up to and some infrastructure. There were industry’s peak body, the Australian Mr Phillips told the meeting that despite some November rain on the east the bananas. reports of major destruction with some Banana Growers’ Council (ABGC), have the record levels of production experi- coast. Good growing conditions in recent plantations completely destroyed. The discussed banana production levels, enced in recent months and low prices, Unfortunately the rain bought damag- months led to heavy production levels in area was reported to have experienced wholesale pricing and the financial there were some positives. ing storms to some areas, particularly late September, October and November. two severe storms during November difficulties currently being experienced “I think the things going for us in the New South Wales, including reports of The wet season officially began on – the first causing severe damage and by many growers. past six months are that quality has been substantial damage to farms on the mid November 1 and storms began bringing the second following to complete the At the ABGC’s Annual General really good, demand generally has been north coast, just south of Coffs Harbour. widespread rain soon after. destruction. Meeting, held in South Johnstone on pretty good, competing product lines In Western Australia, the Carnarvon There were some reports of storm Damage to plants on the worst affected November 26, growers spoke about have been relatively scarce and relatively growing region had no rain in November damage to a few farms. properties was estimated at between 80 industry sustainability at the current high poor in quality.” and only several millimetres of rain No major pest issues have been reported to 100 per cent. Little or no damage was production levels. Also discussed were He said some of the higher production recorded in October. Rainfall records show although there has been some red spider reported elsewhere in the Coffs District. options for increasing the market for levels were due to regional diversification no significant rain in recent months with mite. Leaf spot levels were low in the lead in Some hail storms were reported in the bananas. initiatives taken by some growers – the biggest reported fall being 20 millime- to the wet season. Nambucca region but there were no damage something that was desirable to safeguard tres in June. Fruit quality has been good. According to reports. Production levels overall industry production capacity in Board following the resignation of WA North Queensland has produced record reports, there has been less nurse suckering Plantations affected by ex-tropical ABGC Chairman Doug Phillips com- the event of natural disasters striking director Michael Nixon earlier this year. levels of fruit in recent months with this year. cyclone Oswald in January have returned mented on production levels, telling the individual growing regions. November rain and temperatures continu- to production but heavy supply from north meeting national banana production Mr Phillips said ABGC was ready to Thanks to Bob Brighton ing favourable growing conditions for the New South Wales Queensland has restricted market demand during the financial year’s first quarter assist with any initiatives growers may Former grower Bob Brighton told the start of Summer. Dry and windy conditions were for NSW fruit. had trended above the previous first propose to address production levels meeting he would be completing his experienced in recent months. In quarter, raising the possibility that higher but that these needed to be driven by retirement from the industry with this Queensland November, storms brought rain and Western Australia production could continue during the rest banana-growing businesses. year’s AGM being the last he would In north Queensland, there have been some hail to the far north and mid Lack of water has hampered banana of the financial year. attend. dry conditions but generally mild north coast regions. production. Coming off the back of the “As a grower myself, I am keenly Other issues Mr Phillips extended thanks to Mr On the mid north coast, Boambee and lowest Winter volumes experienced, aware of the pressures being felt across The meeting also discussed the Banana Brighton for his years of involvement with Damage at a plantation south of Coffs Harbour following the November storms. Bonville, south of Coffs Harbour, suffered Spring volumes improved, but not to our growing regions, particularly with Freckle incursion response and the the industry. the levels of previous years. regards to the record levels of supply and Emergency Plant Pest Response (EPPR) “Your contributions have been certainly Emergency irrigation water was released corresponding returns we receive for our Levy ,which will need to be put in place significant and very much appreciated by the State Government with the Water product,” Mr Phillips said. after all the information is available on and I say that on behalf of the ABGC Department releasing 1.5 gigalitres in the “Please be aware that our industry body the freckle eradication and growers con- Board and all past and present directors,” Carnarvon region. In November, tempera- continues to work to do everything possi- sulted. Growers spoke about initiatives to Mr Phillips said. tures topped 40 degrees over two days. ble to improve our outlook. In particular encourage additional ABGC membership Growers have made Spring plantings and we look forward to the development of and changes to the release of banana Thanks to NAB await Summer rains to bring a renewed the industry’s new Strategic Investment transport figures to grower members. Following the meeting, a social barbecue supply of fresh irrigation water. Plan. was held at the Currajah Hotel, Wangan, The Sweeter Banana Co-Operative “As the peak industry body, we also Directors re-elected (pictured above) with sponsorship for the attended the Perth Royal Show which ran in continue to offer assistance and expertise Two ABGC directors, NSW-based grower barbecue provided by NAB Agribusiness. early October, and launched their Sweeter with the projects that are aiming to Stephen Spear and north Queensland Banana Bread, giving away 6,500 samples to improve our industry. A focus of our grower Steve Lizzio, were re-elected Next AGM showgoers. The Bread is made with marked activities is encouraging investment in unopposed to their Board positions with The AGM was held at South Johnstone bananas unfit for sale at the market. supply chain communications, collation the meeting congratulating both on their after being held last year for the first time In the north of Western Australia, of data and the flow of that information. reappointments. in Tully. Consideration will be given to bananas are being planted and harvested in We believe this will assist all growers The meeting also heard that a director holding the next AGM in Tully. Kununurra in the Ord River irrigation area. with their business planning and decision from either the WA or NT growing m a k i n g .” regions was still being sought to join the ceo comment… continued from previous page ABGC announces Board appointments Single voice members, and ensure there is a strong Year ahead The Australian Banana Growers’ In a change to the role of vice chairman, banana growers. The HAL members’ meeting and united horticulture body to advance As Doug Phillips has noted in his Council (ABGC) has announced the Tully grower Adrian Crema has been The ABGC held a two-day Board meet- of November 22 considered the interests of all horticultural growers Chairman’s Comment, many banana Board’s executive appointments made appointed to the role following the retire- ing following the November 26 AGM and and agreed on a proposal for the on national issues. growers are facing tough economic times at its quarterly Board meeting in ment from the Board’s executive team of discussed matters including the develop- formation of a new across-horticulture Those issues currently include the due to production issues and prices, November. Mullumbimby grower Peter Molenaar ment of new banana varieties, biosecurity advocacy body. The ABGC is part of outcome of the HAL review, biosecurity particularly over the past six months. South Johnstone grower Doug Phillips who continues as an ABGC director. legislation, management of the Banana the committee that developed this legislation, Agvet chemicals regulation, The ABGC welcomes your views on has been reappointed as ABGC chairman, Mr Phillips thanked Peter Molenaar for Freckle incursion in the Northern initiative. It will build on the work of the employment conditions and innovation, these issues as we work towards a more commencing his third year in the role. his valued contributions as a member of Territory and issues affecting the broader Horticultural Task Force, be formed into and trade and market access. prosperous 2014 for growers. Tully grower Paul Johnston has also been the executive and said all Board members horticulture sector, including the current a public company, ensure most (if not Members are encouraged to contact me Jim Pekin, CEO reappointed as treasurer following his looked forward to continuing their work review of Horticulture Australia Limited all) horticulture peak grower bodies are on any of these matters. initial appointment to the role last year. together to advance the interests of (HAL).

Australian Bananas magazine | Summer 2013-2014 Summer 2013-2014 | Australian Bananas magazine 8 industry news INDUSTRY NEWS 9 BGA teams line up Have your say on draft industry plan Banana growers’ associations in Committee guides six million dollar plan Queensland and New South Wales A draft of the banana industry’s development, industry data and a number It’s the program working to ensure the committee and says growers’ interest in have elected officers at annual general new Strategic Investment Plan (SIP) of other R&D initiatives banana industry’s future – a $6 million managing pest and disease issues was one “It has been a long, meetings held in November. setting out levy and matched-funding ƒƒ Increasing demand for Australian bananas plan that is one of the most extensive of the major drivers behind establishing Bartle Frere banana grower Rob investments for the next five years will be – addressing consumer and marketing research initiatives in Australian the BPPP. slow process but I Mayers was re-elected president of the available for stakeholder comment from research and the industry marketing plan horticulture. “It was clear from the banana indus- Cassowary Coast Banana Growers’ mid-December. ƒƒ Effective adoption of R&D and building Now at its midpoint, the five-year try’s strategic plan that pests and disease believe we are now Association. Newly elected to BGA Growers and others in the industry will industry capacity – addressing industry Banana Plant Protection Program (BPPP) issues were high on growers’ agendas,” roles are Mission Beach grower Naomi be able to provide further input to the draft extension and communication, capacity began in September 2011 and is guided Cameron said. close to what we Brownrigg as vice president, Tully before it is finalised. building, risk planning and monitoring by a six-member team – the program “We wanted to bring together a group grower Jane Rowe as treasurer and The draft is being reviewed by the Banana return on investment of levy funds. reference committee. of people to build a strong science base to were aiming for at QDAFF Development Horticulturist Industry Advisory Committee (IAC) before The plan has been formulated after con- Committee members are four banana serve the industry for years to come. the start.” Naomi King as secretary. being made available for comment. sultation workshops in north Queensland growers – Cameron MacKay (Tully), “A program approach was used to gain In Coffs Harbour, Wally Gately and The SIP sets out how levy investment will and northern New South Wales involving Doug Phillips (Innisfail), Stephen Spear a critical mass and provide a co-ordinated Tropical Race 4 (TR4) is and has ensured Ron Gray have effectively exchanged be directed into research and development more than 45 participants and discussions (Nambucca) and Robert Mayers (Bartle approach to research. it is a priority within the BPPP (see TR4 their executive roles within the Coffs (R&D) and marketing projects starting from with other industry stakeholders. Frere); Horticulture Australia Limited “It has been a long, slow process but I story this page). Harbour and District Banana Growers’ the 2014-15 financial year and continuing After all input is received on the draft, Portfolio Manager Ben Callaghan and believe we are now close to what we were Access to tolerant varieties and screen- Association. through to 2018-19. a final plan will be considered by the IAC Australian Banana Growers’ Council aiming for at the start.” ing of those varieties has been given a At the Annual General Meeting, It is expected that about $6 million annu- in February and will then be presented to (ABGC) Research & Development It is the job of the reference committee high priority. Mr Gately, the former vice president, ally will be invested over this period with the Horticulture Australia Limited (HAL) Manager Jay Anderson. to provide feedback to the program lead- Working with the reference committee was elected unopposed to the role of those funds including levies and matched Board. Cameron, Doug and Stephen are ership to ensure that the program stays on is a three-member program leadership president. Former president Ron Gray funding from the Federal Government Further details will be provided in the members of the Banana Industry track and maintains a national focus. The team – University of Queensland scientist nominated for the position of first vice for R&D projects. No matched funding is December Banana Growers’ e-Bulletin and Advisory Committee (IAC) to HAL while committee helps to prioritise new projects Andre Drenth, tropical-region consultant president and was elected unopposed provided for marketing which is solely levy the draft plan will be available on the ABGC Robert is a member of the IAC’s R&D and provides information on emerging Richard Piper and subtropical-region to that role. funded. website www.abgc.org.au from mid-De- subcommittee. issues within the industry. consultant David Peasley. Woolgoolga grower Jeff Eggins was The Plan focuses on three key areas: cember. Comment can be provided to the The BPPP has four sub-programs In the area of pest and disease manage- The BPPP communicates with growers elected as second vice president. David ƒƒ Maintaining sustainable and profitable consultant, Jenny Margetts from Plant & covering the industry’s major areas of ment, there are many issues important through project extension work, such as Pike continues as treasurer and Phil supply – addressing plant health and other Food Research, using contact details which research and development: resistant to growers. While it can be difficult to field days, and through industry pub- Bicknell as secretary. agronomic needs of the crop, biosecurity will be provided on the website. varieties and consumer choice, safeguard- prioritise them all, there are some stand- lications. An information sheet on the measures, new varieties, supply chain ing production and markets, sustainable outs. For instance, the program reference BPPP has been included with editions of production systems and building science committee has heard the industry’s views Australian Bananas distributed by mail. and communication. on the importance of research into the For further information on the pro- Cameron chairs the program reference soil-borne fungal disease Panama Disease gram, contact the program reference committee members or the program leadership team. TR4 trial to enter new Territory Panama reaches Africa The Northern Territory is the only test how widely and uniformly the disease Australian location where TR4 is known is still present in the block, which is The first detections of Panama Tropical to be present. important for varietal screening trials to Race 4 in Africa and the Middle East The disease has devastated the banana follow,” Dr Smith said. have been reported. industry there and also affects banana Dr Smith and Program Leader Dr They are the firs reports of TR4 outside production in parts of south east Asia. Andre Drenth (pictured below) have of the south east Asian region. There are also reports the disease has been planning the trial with Northern In December it was reported TR4 had reached Africa and the Middle East (see Territory scientists Bob Williams and been found on a commercial farm in report, this page). Lucy Tran-Nguyen. northern Mozambique earlier in the year. The TR4 research in the NT A consortium of agriculture and gov- is planned as part of the Banana ernment groups have been mobilised to Plant Protection Program address the outbreak and raise awareness Proudly Growing, Packing & Marketing (BPPP) to gain valuable throughout Africa. information allowing a better The report followed the release in Australian Bananas understanding of the disease November of a the journal Plant Disease and varieties to be screened for said TR4 had been identified in Jordan For further information contact: resistance to the disease. and could affect up to 80 per cent of Ben Franklin 0417 610 571 Michael Engeman 0417 603 692 BPPP Sub Program Leader Dr bananas in the Jordan Valley region where Mike Smith said it was planned there is up to 1500 hectares of production. Gary Fattore 0417 644 033 to plant Williams bananas at the Coastal Plains Research Farm, www.costagroup.com.au located south east of Darwin, to Dr Andre Drenth in the Northern Territory where bloom act as “sentinels” on the site. a trial block is planned as part of research into TR4. “The plants will be used to

Australian Bananas magazine | Summer 2013-2014 Summer 2013-2014 | Australian Bananas magazine 10 feature : plant health PLANT HEALTH 11

us to enter their property, but most accept that we have an important job to do. My last caller was rather chatty, telling me Taking control about the fabulous holiday he’d just had an inside look at eradication HQ in the Philippines. He was happy for us to check out his property when he is away.” The NT Government I’m wearing a bright green reflective jotted on whiteboards. Landlines and The Planning Manager is wearing a vest emblazoned with the words mobiles ring. Photocopiers whirr. yellow vest and is a Victorian biosecurity launched a major “Communications Manager” as I enter A woman wearing a bright blue vest professional who is assisting our team. eradication response to the house-sized Biosecurity and Product that reads “Logistics Manager” is focussed “This work is highly structured,” she Integrity Group building. Inside it’s a on a computer screen, her fingers flying says. “Part of my job is to ensure that the outbreak of Banana hive of activity. across the keyboard as she works to there’s no loss of accountability, all roles Freckle. Government Several people work at desks and tables secure and track the resources and are clear, and nothing is overlooked. We in a large room, its white walls covered services making this effort possible. also keep tight reins on where the money media officer Darrel in maps, charts, and schedules. To one There is a lot to do. Welcome to the is being spent, and what it’s being spent side, a man wears a vest similar to mine, National Banana Freckle Eradication on. Having a good outcome is our focus.” Trueman takes us inside though it’s red and reads “Investigations Program local control centre at the NT I peer out the window of the air the eradication program’s M a n a g e r ”. Department of Primary Industry and conditioned control centre. It’s hot and Smaller rooms throughout the building Fisheries (DPIF) campus at Berrimah sticky out there today, 33 degrees with 64 control centre. are labelled “Controller”, “Biosirt”, and Farm on Darwin’s southern outskirts. per cent humidity. “Teleconference in Progress”. Notes are Since the attractively-named I think about the rest of our team – Officers working on the eradication plan include NT DPIF chief Plant Health Manager Stephen West (second from left). ABGC CEO Jim Pekin (second from right) visited in October. Phyllosticta cavendishii was confirmed dozens of surveillance and eradication on Cavendish bananas in the NT in staff, and contractors. They’re fanned out in the heat. It’s hard yakka. people. It’s been said before, and it’s worth August, DPIF staff from across the NT, across Darwin and the rural area, talking I’m grateful they’re on the front lines, repeating, “If you’re going to do a thing, biosecurity experts from interstate, and to residents, checking properties, swing- helping us to control this pest that do it properly”. Thankfully that’s exactly contractors have worked on the Banana ing machetes, hauling heavy banana trees threatens the livelihoods of so many what has been happening here. Freckle response. It is a full-time effort, including evenings and weekends, seven days a week. It involves the eradication of all bananas within a one kilometre radius Freckle eradication to enter new phase of infected properties. So far, up until late Next steps are being considered in the poses a serious threat to Australia’s of its contribution. It is the first November, they’ve identified 14 infected plan to eradicate the serious fungal $500 million banana industry. banana industry response under the properties and conducted surveillance on disease Banana Freckle (Phyllosticta By the start of December, freckle Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed more than 3000 properties. cavendishii) from the Northern finds had been announced for 14 (EPPRD). P. cavendishii is a major concern Territory. infected properties in four areas of the The Australian Banana Growers’ because this is the first time it’s been At time of writing, eradication work NT and surveillance was continuing. Council (ABGC) began working with confirmed in the Northern Territory on on freckle, which is carried in wet The disease was initially located on government as part of the CCEPP Cavendish, Australia’s main commercial spores, had continued through the two properties in the Howard Springs response which began when an incur- variety. If Banana Freckle spreads beyond start of the wet season in November area, about 30 kilometres south east sion was first suspected in July. Above: Banana plants are eradicated at a small commercial plantation at Rum Jungle , NT. Below: the Territory, it could have a significant and the rains brought by tropical of Darwin. It was later found in the After a decision to eradicate was Eradicated plants are transported in covered loads for burial in trenches in disposal areas. negative impact on Australia’s $500 cyclone Alessia towards the end of Batchelor and nearby Rum Jungle announced on October 4, ABGC million banana industry. that month. areas, about 60 kilometres further Chief Executive Officer Jim Pekin Over in the control centre’s DD&D area The work is included in the first south. The November finds were travelled to the Northern Territory (destruction, disposal, and decontami- phase of a Banana Freckle Response at Humpty Doo and Acacia Hills, to attend public meetings in commu- nation) a DPIF staff member seconded Plan drawn up by the Northern located between Howard Springs and nities where freckle-affected banana from the business development area Territory Department of Primary the Batchelor and Rum Jungle areas. plants and fruit had been found. has brought her communication and Industry and Fisheries (DPIF) and Most finds have been in backyard Freckle is a fungal disease that organisation skills to the team. On the endorsed by a National Management bananas of rural residential proper- covers banana plant leaves and fruit wall beside her computer is an impres- Group (NMG) comprising govern- ties but eradications of infected and with raised black blemishes that have sively-detailed, colour-coded flow chart ment and industry representatives. surrounding properties have included the texture of sandpaper. The fruit which clearly identifies the many steps in The NMG and a Consultative a small commercial plantation at is safe to eat but the disease reduces the eradication processes. Committee on Emergency Plant Pests Rum Jungle. The disease has not been plant yield and the fruit is unsaleable In another wing of the building, the (CCEPP), which also has government reported in major Northern Territory due to its appearance. Banana Freckle Hotline is ringing. “We and industry representatives as mem- commercial production. Eradication activities have included received over 275 calls in November,” bers, are considering the next actions The cost of the eradication, funded quarantining infected properties, says an operator who enters details into a required. jointly by governments and industry, cutting down and removing banana computer. “I open a new file for each new The outbreak, first announced was initially estimated at $2.8million, plants and fruit from designated caller, 40 per cent of whom don’t have in August, is the first major find in including a contribution of about zones and continuing surveillance bananas, but they’re ringing us because Australia of freckle on Cavendish $500,000 from the banana industry. work. we’ve left a surveillance note on their gate. bananas. The disease rates as among Further announcements are More on Banana Freckle – Secrets in the I let them know we need to check anyway. the worst affecting bananas, along expected on cost estimates and sequences, Page 12. “A small number of people don’t want with others such as black Sigatoka. It the banana industry’s funding

Australian Bananas magazine | Summer 2013-2014 Summer 2013-2014 | Australian Bananas magazine 12 feature : banana science SECRETS IN THE SEQUENCES 13 Secrets in the sequences For more than eight years, Banana Freckle’s symptoms are plain Spotting the difference to see in the field – raised brownish- While Banana Freckle is easily identifi- researchers in Australia black spots with a sandpaper feel. Yet able in the field, it is the host range of the have worked to unlock in the lab, where the analysis goes pathogen which has long been a source of much deeper, it has taken painstaking mystery to banana pathologists. the secrets of Banana research to begin to unlock the disease’s Disease records and field observations many secrets. spanning decades had led to the hypoth- Freckle. Now, just in time, While the first major incidence of esis that two types of Banana Freckle the painstaking work has Banana Freckle on Cavendish in Australia existed. was found in the Northern Territory in One type of freckle was thought to been used to help fight our July, the work that has been helping to occur throughout south and south east first major incursion to hit fight the incursion began in 2005. And Asia infecting both Cavendish and it was only last year that a four-year PhD non-Cavendish varieties. A second type, Cavendish. The Banana project made the breakthrough discovery seen throughout Australasia and the of a previously unknown freckle-causing South Pacific, appeared to only infect Plant Protection Program’s fungi. AAB/ABB varieties. This second type Research Fellow for Banana was often found on AAB/ABB varieties Unique and mysterious growing nearby to, but not infecting Diagnostics Dr Juliane Freckle is a unique and mysterious Cavendish plants. From this anecdotal Henderson reports. banana plant disease. It is the only fungal evidence, grew the theory of two fungal disease found to infect both banana leaves strains or species. and fruit. While infected fruit remains However, until very recently, it was perfectly edible, its unsightly appearance difficult to test this hypothesis. The can drastically reduce its marketability. pathogen, originally known as Guignardia On the list of damaging banana dis- musae, was not keen to give up its secrets. eases, Banana Freckle ranks as one of the Isolation of the pathogen from infected world’s worst. It is now a major constraint bananas is incredibly difficult and, when to production in south and south east successful, takes up to three months The mystery unravels MeeHua Wong (right) and Juliane Henderson at Below: The formation of Banana Freckle leaf Asia. In Taiwan, it is considered more to grow in the laboratory. Even more Department of Agriculture in Sarawak, work in Brisbane’s EcoSciences Precinct. spots can be seen in this view through a stereo serious than black Sigatoka. Studies from challenging is coaxing the pathogen to Our study of Banana Freckle began in Malaysia, in mid-2009. Charged with the microscope. Bottom: Freckle as it appears on an the Philippines have shown that without produce the spores in culture which 2005 with the collection of samples. In task of solving the host range mystery of collected throughout south east Asia uncut bunch. adequate fungicide control, almost 60 per are needed for study, even though the Australia we could only culture endemic Banana Freckle, MeeHua worked dili- under expert guidance. cent of fruit can be rejected. pathogen readily does this in the field. isolates or extract the DNA from overseas gently on a project she never anticipated This study tour would not have been The disease’s symptomatic sandpapery Despite these challenges, solving the leaf specimens which had been first killed would be as difficult as it was. Working possible without the aid of a Mort spots may be discrete, or aggregate mystery had significant consequences for using gamma irradiation. 12 hours a day, six to seven days a week, Johnston Professional Development to form circular or streaking lesions the Australian banana industry. Only the Much of this early work was assisted by MeeHua’s determination and dedication Scholarship awarded to MeeHua in 2009. along leaf veins where water has carried non-Cavendish infecting type is present Sharon van Brunschot, who sought off- became our secret weapon against Banana The scholarship panel recognised the the spores. On the fruit, the spots are in parts of Australia and, even then, shore contacts and isolated the pathogen Freckle. importance of this work and the out- surrounded by dark green, water-soaked incidence is extremely low. from samples collected in Australia. In However, the mystery only really began comes of the study opened the doors to halos and, in severe infections, these spots Incursion by the exotic, Cavendish- 2008, during a Sigatoka science exchange to unravel after a four-month study tour our understanding and helped us prepare may entirely cover the fruit at harvest. infecting variety of Banana Freckle has in Montpellier, France, I and Kathy to the Netherlands to work with Professor for the current Banana Freckle eradica- The effect on the cosmetic value of the the potential to devastate the industry. Grice took the opportunity to culture Pedro Crous, an expert in fungal taxon- tion campaign in the Northern Territory. crop is significant. Bunch yields can also Overseas, weekly applications of man- the pathogen off-shore from samples omy. In the Netherlands, MeeHua was suffer due to loss of leaf area through cozeb or other fungicides are necessary collected in Malaysia. These samples were able to study Freckle disease specimens defoliation from severe infection or from to produce marketable fruit. With the grown in France before being imported continued next page control by de-leafing. Cavendish-infecting variety known to back into Australia as sterile DNA. As our also infect AAB and ABB varieties, a collection grew, the opportunity arose “Research carried out so far is an excellent example method to differentiate the exotic and to commence a PhD student working on of how research is fundamental to preparedness for endemic Banana Freckle types is needed. Banana Freckle. pathogen incursions.” Ms MeeHua Wong joined us from the Timeline 2005 Australian research begins on 2008 Pathogen cultured in 2009 The collection of samples is large 2012 Additional research conducted 2013 MeeHua returns to Malaysia. Her pathogen samples. Work is on endemic Montpellier, France, from Malaysian enough to commence PhD student in the Netherlands on south east Asian research and diagnostic tool are used in isolates gathered in Australia or on samples and imported to Australia as MeeHua Wong’s work on Banana samples. MeeHua identifies a third the NT Banana Freckle incursion. DNA extracted from imported and sterile DNA Freckle. Isolates studied from around Banana Freckle fungi and develops a irradiated overseas specimens the world diagnostic tool

Australian Bananas magazine | Summer 2013-2014 Summer 2013-2014 | Australian Bananas magazine 14 banana science : secrets in the sequences LIFE SCIENCE : RESEARCHER PROFILE 15

from previous page Research gets results differentiates the species are being used to The secret’s out At the conclusion of her four year PhD identify the pathogen on samples col- Meet Juliane Henderson study, MeeHua delivered invaluable lected in the field. Our new knowledge of Juliane’s work helped eradicate a black Sigatoka outbreak and her current For four years, Malaysian PhD student tools and knowledge for Banana Freckle. pathogen isolation, culture and infection research includes Banana Freckle. In our continuing series on banana MeeHua Wong worked to unlock the By studying the morphology of spores behaviour is also finding practical appli- scientists, meet Juliane, a Research Fellow (Banana Diagnostics) for the secrets of Banana Freckle. and the DNA sequences from isolates cations during the incursion response. Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI). In work assisted by funding from the collected around the world, we now know Australian industry’s Mort Johnston that three species of fungi cause Banana More to do Tell us what got you interested in the diseases are, but if anyone would like to Development Scholarship, MeeHua Freckle. The opportunity for overseas study, banana industry? invite me to their farms, I promise to developed a diagnostic tool now being Phyllosticta maculata is the name made possible by the Mort Johnston In a way, the banana industry found me. clean my shoes first! used in the NT. given to the species commonly found in Professional Development Scholarship, In 2000, I was finishing up a research She found there were actually three Australia and the South Pacific on AAB was integral to unlocking some of Banana project with the sugar industry when I Tell us what happens on a good day in types of fungi, not two, causing the and ABB varieties. Phyllosticta caven- Freckle disease’s greatest secrets. was shown a project proposal written by banana research? And on a not-so-good disease: dishii has been identified as the species However, there are still many Ron Peterson. Ron wanted to improve the day? In the lab: Juliane at work in the Ecosciences Phyllosticta maculata – commonly capable of infecting Cavendish as well as unknowns about the disease. It is possible molecular diagnostics for black Sigatoka. I On a good day in banana research, Precinct. found in Australia and the South Pacific non-Cavendish varieties. It is this species that within each species, races exist, not accepted the project and some six months experiments work as planned, students When you tell people you are a banana on AAB and ABB varieties which is currently being eradicated on unlike those in Fusarium wilt. A better later found myself in the midst of the are enthusiastic and obstacles are few. On scientist they usually say…? Phyllosticta cavendishii – identi- Cavendish in the Northern Territory. understanding of how the disease spreads Tully eradication. I’m fortunate that the a really good day, experiments work even Usually they tell me about a banana news fied as being capable of infecting A third species, Phyllosticta musarum, in the field is also needed to assist in industry have wanted to keep me since. better than hoped. Not-so-good days hap- story they have heard, a variety they tried Cavendish as well as non-Cavendish which does not occur in Australia, future eradication strategies. pen when experiments unexpectedly fail, once, or the latest urban myth they read varieties. Currently being eradicated on causes Freckle disease on AAB and ABB Hopefully, future work can unlock Where did you do your training, both or regulatory and bureaucratic hurdles get on the internet. People connect easily Cavendish in the Northern Territory. varieties and has so far been found only in more secrets of this devastating disease. academic and in the field? in the way of progress. over bananas. Phyllosticta musarum – not in Thailand and India. The Banana Freckle investigations carried In Grade 6 I took my microscope to Australia. Causes Freckle disease on Outcomes from MeeHua’s study have out so far as part of the industry’s Banana school and spent hours showing my How does your work help the industry What’s one of the things most people AAB and ABB varieties and has so far been published in three internationally Plant Protection Program (BPPP) are friends the mysteries of magnification. and tell us about a breakthrough moment don’t know about bananas? been found only in Thailand and India. recognised journals and are already prov- an excellent example of how research is Not surprisingly, I ended up studying you’ve had on a project. Just how many diseases bananas can get! ing valuable in the Northern Territory fundamental to preparedness for patho- microbiology and biochemistry at QIT/ My team develops DNA-based tools to Actually, I don’t know the current count disease eradication. DNA sequences as gen incursions through collaboration, QUT in Brisbane. Plant pathology quickly identify exotic fungal and bac- either… too many! well as a DNA diagnostic tool which determination and industry support. wasn’t on my radar until I was offered a terial diseases. Fast and accurate disease post-graduate virology project in James diagnosis is essential when you have a From a science perspective, what’s Dale’s lab. I hold Marion Bateson, my potential quarantine threat banging on a current hot topic about banana “Working 12 hours a day, six to seven days a week, MeeHua’s determination and postgraduate supervisor and mentor, your door. A current example is Banana production? dedication became our secret weapon against Banana Freckle.” personally responsible for my love of Freckle – diagnostics developed by us are First that springs to mind is the banana molecular plant pathology while Don being used for species identification in Freckle disease incursion in the NT. A lot Maclean (UQ Biochemistry) turned me the Northern Territory. of hard work is going into eradicating the into the diagnostician I am today. One of my favourite breakthrough Cavendish-infecting strain. I am still learning every day from moments happened during the 2001 everyone I interact with. I have spent Tully black Sigatoka incursion. The How do you like your bananas – fresh more time in the field overseas than published DNA test to distinguish yellow or cooked, what’s your favourite banana in Australia because that is where the and black Sigatoka wasn’t working, so recipe and how often do you make it? we were left with only one choice – to Definitely fresh and before the sugar spots develop a new test on the run. After a develop. If a banana actually makes it to long and frustrating day in the lab, Julie the spotty stage in our house, we use it on Pattemore and I sat down on the veranda homemade bacon, banana and pine nut of the Mareeba Motor Inn to do the new pizzas. design. We were armed with Sigatoka DNA sequences, a calculator and a mid- When you’ve got time off, what are some strength stubbie each. The assay worked of your favourite pastimes? and the DNA primers were affectionately My family would say ‘cleaning the house’. known from then on as the ‘Carlton Mid- They confuse essential with preferred Strength Primers’. pursuits. I enjoy being support crew and photographer for my kids’ outdoor What’s one of your favourite things about pursuits but when I get the chance I like working in the banana industry? to duck off for a bike ride by myself. The banana industry takes a very proac- I am currently building a new bike so tive approach to disease prevention and they soon might find me missing more preparedness. It’s nice to feel our work is often. I’m also a keen ‘glamper’ (tents, valued and that we are truly a part of the tarp, onsite ensuite and coffee machine!) industry. and I love to fish. We have just spent two weeks in Wooli, NSW giving dozens of Juliane and daughter Teggie test the waters on undersized fish sore mouths. a yabbying expedition.

Australian Bananas magazine | Summer 2013-2014 Summer 2013-2014 | Australian Bananas magazine 16 industry development PHILIPPINES TOUR 17 Lessons from the Philippines Participation in an An Australian banana industry Horticulturist Stewart Lindsay. contingent has visited plantations in the The workshop was held only days international workshop Philippines as part of an international after Typhoon Haiyan devastated parts has provided important workshop on Panama Disease Tropical of the Philippines. Despite the typhoon Race 4 (TR4) and warned Australian being one of the largest ever recorded, information for Australia’s growers not to be complacent. the workshop was able to go ahead as The four-member contingent of three scheduled in Davao City, located about work to contain Panama scientists and a north Queensland grower 400 kilometres south of the areas worst TR4. visited the Philippines in mid-November affected by Haiyan. for the three-day workshop to discuss The consultation workshop examined TR4, also known as Fusarium wilt. the socio-economic impacts of Fusarium Tully grower Patrick Leahy was among wilt disease of Cavendish banana in the the group and said visits to field trials Asia-Pacific region. It was also attended on the workshop’s final day left him by researchers, growers, government “shocked” when he witnessed the impact agencies and private-sector representa- of the soil-borne fungal disease. tives from the Philippines, Taiwan, China, Another member of the group, Indonesia, Malaysia and Vietnam. Queensland Department of Agriculture, Dr Anderson said the workshop Fisheries and Forestry (QDAFF) Principal held two days of presentations on the Nematologist Tony Pattison, said the Fusarium situation in each country, the “This disease is Philippines’ experience held many lessons economic impact of the disease and something I never want for the Australian banana industry. TR4 is current research into management of the widespread in banana-growing regions in disease. After the presentations, the whole to see in the north the Philippines but in Australia has been group developed actions to progress in Bioversity International’s Dr Gus Molina discuss- located only in the Northern Territory. the areas of R&D, policy and institutional disease is something I never want to see for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural ing Philippines TR4-resistance screening trials Queensland growing “At the top of the list is – don’t believe it arrangements. in the north Queensland growing area.” Resources Research and Development. with workshop participants. area” – Patrick Leahy cannot happen here,” Dr Pattison said. On the final day there was a visit to The participants also used the work- On behalf of the Australian contingent, Other members of the group attending a box factory, tissue culture laboratory shop as an opportunity to discuss how to Dr Anderson thanked research group the workshop were Australian Banana and to the field trials being conducted to collaborate on future research to benefit Bioversity International for their assis- Dr Tony Pattison (standing, left of whiteboard) Growers’ Council (ABGC) Research and assess tolerant varieties. all banana growers. tance and hospitality. leads a break-out group discussing TR4 research Development Manager Jay Anderson At the trials, there was the opportunity Dr Pattison said the workshop high- Bioversity senior scientist Gus Molina During a visit to a tissue culture laboratory, Dr and development. and QDAFF Senior Development to see the severity of the effects of the lighted that Fusarium wilt is a global participated in the workshop and was Emily Fabregar and Dr Chih-Ping Chao (centre) disease. problem for bananas because it can also a speaker at the Australian Banana discuss tissue culture techniques and TR4- For Patrick Leahy this was a significant spread so easily. Industry Congress in 2013. tolerant varieties. part of the tour. “Once established it is very difficult to “The severity of the disease at this farm stop,” Dr Pattison said. and the one next door shocked me badly,” “There are many lessons that the he said. Australian banana industry can learn “I termed it as the killing fields with all from the situation in the Philippines.” susceptible varieties plants going down At the top of the list was “don’t believe it and the only healthy plants being among cannot happen here” along with the need the 219 trial plants, although some of to ensure strategies are in place which these trial plants had also died. This involve all levels of the banana industry. “A regional Asian approach to manag- ing the disease allows us to draw together experiences and strategies from the different countries to limit the spread and reduce the damage caused by Fusarium wilt,” Dr Pattison said. For Dr Pattison and Stewart Lindsay, the Philippines workshop follows other international research conducted when they attended the International Banana Symposium in Taiwan last year. The Philippines workshop was hosted by the Food and Fertiliser Technology Centre for the Asian and Pacific Region and the Philippine Council

Australian Bananas magazine | Summer 2013-2014 Summer 2013-2014 | Australian Bananas magazine 18 shows 19 Growers gather for Tully weigh-in Tweed district celebrates bananas Kennedy District’s Jeff Dickinson took The Tweed district in northern New out two major awards at July’s Tully South Wales has celebrated two events Show. showcasing the banana industry – Jeff was named Most Successful November’s Murwillumbah Show and Exhibitor and won the Steward’s Choice August’s Tweed Valley Banana Festival. award after winning exhibit sections for The show featured an impressive Heaviest Plant Bunch, Champion Pair of display of local produce with Eungella Ratoon Bunches, Best Three Clusters and grower Will Everest named as most Open Heaviest Plant Bunch. successful exhibitor and other section Di Carlos Bananas was the second Most winners including M & J Hesse, the Atwal Successful Exhibitor with wins including Brothers and A & S Everest. Champion Bunch. Sellars Bananas won One of Australia’s longest-running the Champion Plant Bunch and had the annual celebrations, the 58th Tweed Tully District’s Champion Cluster Carton Valley Banana Festival, was held in Extra Large. Other section winners August. Thousands turned out on the included MacKay’s South Davidson and streets of Murwillumbah for a parade Bolinda Estates and the Flegler Group. led by festival queen Jessica Mattner and Outgoing Tweed Valley Banana Festival Queen Jessica Mattner leads the street parade aboard a Photos taken at the banana exhibit event mascot Banana Jim. bunch-laden tractor. weigh-in are provided courtesy of The Picking winners: Judging bunches at Tully are Queensland Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Tully Times. Forestry (QDAFF) Senior Development Horticulturist Stewart Lindsay (left) and wholesaler Greg Bradshaw from exhibit sponsor P W Chew & Co.

The Tully tally: Mission Beach grower Naomi At the judges’ table: Mourilyan grower Grahame Industry get together: Lindsay Horniblow from Brownrigg (left) with QDAFF Development Celledoni with daughter Anna-Louise and Tully rural suppliers EE Muir and Sons’ with Silkwood Horticulturist Naomi King. grower Cameron MacKay. grower Steve Lizzio. Festival mascot Banana Jim hits the streets of Local businesses got into the spirit of the festival, Murwillumbah on the festival’s leading float, including Matt Garner and Rachel Hancox of Ray accompanied by quest winners. White Rural Murwillumbah.

The Atwal Brothers from Dunbible took the prize for heaviest Cavendish bunch with this 56.5kg Unwrapped: Tully grower Paul Johnston (blue Catching up: Australian Banana Growers’ Council entry. shirt) unloads bananas for the weigh-in. CEO Jim Pekin (left) with Tully grower Stephen MacKay.

Will Everest of Eungella was the show’s most At the weigh-in: Irene Russell, Dennis Lindsay, Bianca and Michael La Spina at the Tully At the banana exhibit weigh-in (from left) are Bananas took pride of place in an impressive display of produce at the Murwillumbah Show. successful exhibitor. Pictured is his Lady Finger Michael Lindsay (front) and Fabien Tauli. weigh-in with French backpacker Sebastian Steve Morice, Barry Barnes and Gavin MacKay. hand – the Champion hand of the show. Pitoizet (right).

Australian Bananas magazine | Summer 2013-2014 Summer 2013-2014 | Australian Bananas magazine HAPPY RETAILERS CAMPAIGN PUTS A Aussie Bananas Woolworths, Australia’s Number 1 Retailer and Number 1 Fruit and Vegetable supplier, is another to benefit by working closely Marketing with us. By linking Woolies bananas activity to the Australian Update Bananas marketing program, we have been able to take advantage of their significant marketing and advertising spend SMILE and successfully complete the consumer’s path to purchase. on retailers’ faces “The opportunity for Woolies to link in with the Banana Industry’s marketing Since its launch in 2012, the Australian Bananas “long- program provided a great platform for lasting energy snack” marketing campaign has proven Woolies to engage and educate the AUSTRALIA’S TOP to be a major hit with consumers. But how effective has it been in winning over our leading retailers? Central to our activity has been consumer. This then enabled Woolies It’s been an exciting year for Australian Bananas. Not the consistent use of our highly to drive the path to purchase through 300 GREEN GROCERS only has our marketing campaign and its key message successful and recognizable many media channels both internally of “long-lasting energy” continued to resonate with “No-No Na-Na” theme plus and externally.” And just to make sure we were covering the full range Australian consumers, we’ve also been busy working other key advertising messages. of retailers, we sent merchandising teams to Australia’s with Australia’s leading retailers to ensure Australian top 300 Green Grocers to kit them out with point Bananas are always top of mind at shopping time. of sale posters and educational brochures to further This has meant consumers have had no difficulty in linking Donald Keith Senior Category reinforce the benefits of eating Australian Bananas, And now that investment in our retail presence is our mainstream advertising to any retail messaging, either Manager Fruit & Floral, Woolworths especially Lady Fingers. beginning to show some strong returns. in-store, online, on TV or in catalogue. By working closely with all our retail partners, we’ve Working in partnership with IGA, we created an eight- Meanwhile, our “longer lasting been able to drive awareness, provide consumer week integrated marketing campaign designed to put energy” campaign shows no sign education, and ultimately lift sales and consumption Australian Bananas front and centre in their top 1300 of running out of legs. of Australian Bananas. stores. Highly visible bin card point of sale posters were supported with advertisements in the IGA Today magazine AN AUSSIE FIRST! A major advertising burst in October and November along with recipe panels and banners in print and online was planned to coincide with our retailer activity. This catalogues. This activity allowed IGA to highlight bananas two-pronged approach timed perfectly to support It’s a similar story at Aldi, where we secured exclusive bin- without the sole reliance on price, whilst simultaneously higher than expected production during this time. wrapping point of sale posters across all 317 stores during incentivizing stores by running a national ‘display’ and October and November. This enabled us to leverage key sales competition. The main media campaign will return in February advertising messages from our TV and radio campaign which and March 2014. Media will continue to extend from The results have been impressive and IGA’s Luke Couch is was airing at the same time. Using point of sale posters in this television and radio through to bus-side billboards, in- understandably delighted. way was a first for Aldi in Australia! lift screens plus a significant focus on online advertising and social media, in line with the changing media habits “IGA has worked extremely closely of both the Australian and global consumer. with Australian Bananas over the When to last 3 years and the results during get your hands on the promotions have always far Lady Fingers FACEBOOK PAGE exceeded expectations for volume and sales to the point that our Australian Bananas promotion has 197,000 FANS

become an integral part of IGA’s Sweet and ready to eat. The Australian Bananas Facebook page now has Fresh Produce marketing calendar.” over 197,000 fans and has reached over 7.3 million Australians since July 2013 alone! Luke Couch National Buying and This combination of a strong, single-minded Green and better to keep. advertising message, coupled with a highly integrated Merchandise Manager – Fresh Produce, IGA retail push, means that hopes are high for continued AustralianBananas healthy sales of Australian Bananas in 2014.

Australian Bananas magazine | Summer 2013-2014 Summer 2013-2014 | Australian Bananas magazine

HAL0438_BananaArticle_2P.indd All Pages 18/11/2013 12:08 pm 22 study tour INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT 23 Tour highlights threats, opportunities Highlights ƒƒ Demonstrated to Australian An inside look at banana A study tour to China and the had a big effect on tour participants. They growers that we can’t take Philippines has given members of have returned with a resolve to work on our good disease status for production in China and the Australia’s banana industry insights their own on-farm biosecurity but have granted Philippines has provided into major biosecurity issues as well also requested ongoing commitment as different approaches to fertiliser by all involved in the banana industry ƒƒ Seeing the use of organic new ideas now being put development, fruit handling and – growers, industry leadership, ABGC, transport. industry partners, researchers and State fertilisers and automated into action by participants The 10-day September tour gave the and Federal governments. fertigation systems in China in an industry study tour. group of growers and nurserymen a first- In China, study tour participants were hand look at major biosecurity issues for fascinated with the development of ABGC R&D Manager Jay ƒƒ A whole-of-chain look at global banana production. They saw the various organic fertilisers and the high- banana growing in the Anderson reports. effects of Panama Disease Tropical Race 4 tech fertigation delivery systems. Organic (TR4), Moko disease and black Sigatoka fertiliser made from the by-products of Philippines, from growing and the extra efforts required to manage tapioca and ethanol manufacture mixed to transport to the wharf for these diseases. with mill ash is made by the Jin Sui Members of the study tour present some Seeing a plantation in Hainan Island Agricultural company and used by the export, and the focus on Australian Bananas merchandise to their hosts in China. which has been abandoned due to TR4 many smaller growers who grow for the quality. company. The attention to quality in the Philippines was impressive. Quality Above: See that? Study tour members see how bagging is done in China. Below right middle: Bunches control was high in the manufacture of taken to market in China. Below right bottom: Grower Andrew Serra assists with in-field banana cartons and plastics for use in the indus- packing in China. try. Fruit was handled with care from the early stages when plastic sheets were used between hands to prevent rub, right What happened on tour hasn’t stayed on tour through to the refrigerated storage used Participants have been speaking with other growers about the trip. Here’s a for fruit prior to loading at the wharves. snapshot of some of the thoughts and ideas from study tour members: The visit to Asia Fruit Logistica in Hong Kong demonstrated to the group Paul Inderbitzin, grower, Lakeland the effectiveness of the existing QBAN that other Australian horticultural “Since the trip through China I have (Quality Banana Approved Nursery) sys- commodities have achieved a high level gained a great appreciation for quaran- tem and I am now better able to promote of representation on the world stage. tine. Inductions now include a few basic the scheme with the growers I supply.” Study tour participants saw the latest rules framed around quarantine and innovations in transport, handling and biosecurity to highlight its importance to Darryl Apap, grower, Mission Beach marketing fruit and vegetables. The the new team members. “Fertiliser is the big thing we are looking visit generated discussion amongst tour “When we recruit new staff we ask at. We are setting up tanks in the irri- participants – in Australia we are in a where they have been and if necessary gation shed so it can auto feed with the prime position to supply produce to all of supply new footwear. Foot baths and water irrigation pump.” Asia but we cannot compete with other vehicle wash bays are being considered in countries where there are significantly our business plan to be implemented in Stephen MacKay, grower, Tully lower cost of production; we need to critical control points.” “The study tour reinforced my thoughts differentiate ourselves based on quality or on why the industry needs a stronghold Tour diary look for savings through mechanisation. Craig Althaus, nurseryman, Tully on all quarantine issues, especially the ƒƒ Sept 4th & 5th: Hong Kong, China – visited Asia Fruit Logistica Expo “I’m planning upgraded quarantine mea- fact of our island status. We should also Our thanks sures at the nursery, including restricted be very aware of not introducing anything ƒƒ 6th: Nanning, Guangxi Province, China – visits to farms, a market place and The study tour was a valuable access to production areas, vehicle and accidentally and it is just important that fertiliser plant experience not only for the participants foot-sterilising baths and signage. your own farm quarantine is part of the but for others in the industry who will “Other measures include resurfacing solution of not getting these incursions.” ƒƒ 7th: Nanning, China – farm visits share in the knowledge gained. the nursery surrounds, changing two ƒƒ 8th & 9th: Sanya, Hainan Island, China – visits to farm, trial site and tissue The tour group acknowledges the work greenhouse floor surfaces and trialing Weiwei Cui, shed supervisor, culture laboratory of Marc Jackson in organising a fantastic certified potting mixes from southern Mareeba itinerary. Simon Zhang is thanked for suppliers to eliminate the need to have “It’s important to keep diseases out of ƒƒ 10th to 12th: Travel to Davao, the Philippines – visits to box factory, plastics an excellent tour of the Chinese banana potting mix stored in bays and exposed to our bananas. All necessary quarantine factory and nursery. Farm and packing shed visits, wharf visit to see export growing areas. John Perine, Unifruitti contamination. measures need to be put into action.” fruit loaded onto ships. is thanked for the excellent Philippines “The racks we use to transport plants itinerary and the group is also most to other farms have been stripped and Andrew Serra, grower, Tolga ƒƒ 13th – return to Australia appreciative of the time taken by Rey repainted to allow improved sterilisation “We have now put a section in our induc- Valle, Unifruitti, to host the group. prior to them being reused. The tour tion that asks workers if they have worked also reinforced the importance and on farms in the Northern Territory or on

Australian Bananas magazine | Summer 2013-2014 continued next page Summer 2013-2014 | Australian Bananas magazine 24 study tour continued from previous page PROFILE : NEXT GEN 25 other banana farms around the world. business and to other growers to assist (pathogens) and others have nasties that If they have, then we request that they with the creation of more robust policies could turn the underground food chain Next-generation growers thoroughly clean their vehicles before and procedures and promote adherence in their favour. We are in the process of We continue our series on the new generation of banana growers with a profile entering the farm then we inspect them to these in order to minimise the impact trying to multiply them to improve the on subtropical grower Duane Pierce who answered our 10 questions. for any visible dirt. We will also sterilize of disease outbreaks. health in the soil. their boots before they commence work. “It was also invaluable to see the “We are going back to the basics in Duane is 26 years of age and has been and I am also selling to a retailer with “As a business we are also looking at amount of work being carried out on new farm practices - less visits to the bunch farming with his father, Geoff, on four fruit shops who can take all the closing off losing off all vehicle access varietal development with an emphasis to utilise time more efficiently, including a steep property at Glengarrie, just bananas I can supply. points to our farm and placing a vehicle on disease tolerance/resistance. It is our team and involving them in each south of the Queensland-New South A great thing about the area where we wheel wash at the main entrance and critical that the ABGC continues to work process, allowing them to have a better Wales border. Geoff and Duane farm are growing is there’s strong consumer having a designated visitor parking area on these matters with growers and other understanding of why each practice we do six to seven hectares of Lady Fingers, interest in locally-produced food. This with a boot wash facility that they must stakeholders in an open and transpar- is important to achieving a good product.” two hectares of Cavendish and some November I participated in the Tweed pass through before entering the farm.” ent manner for the good of the whole Goldfinger. Duane will be taking over Foodie Fest – a great event for promoting i n du s t r y.” James Howe, grower, Mareeba the running of the farm on a solo basis the range of quality produce in the region. Aiden MacKay, grower, Tully “I gained a greater appreciation for how in the New Year. “My knowledge and awareness of the Dr Puthiyaparambil Josekutty, much of a precious asset our farms are in What do you see for the future of the quarantine and hygiene measures needed Tissue Culture Lab Manager, Clonal FNQ and I certainly see a more signifi- How long has your family been in the industry? to keep diseases away from the industry Solutions, Walkamin cant benefit in preserving our disease free business of farming bananas? The risk of imports is still around, but for has greatly increased. I have also learned a “I have been encouraging banana farmers land. I am the fourth generation – my great subtropical growers, we need to market lot on the study tour about how to control to use disease-free tissue culture plants “Seeing the Asian farmers battle with grandfather began farming bananas back direct if we are to survive. these diseases if they were ever to arise. to improve their farming prospects but Panama Disease, Moko, black Sigatoka in the 1930s. Fourth-generation banana farmer Duane is taking over the running of the family’s NSW- “We started to implement different from now on I will advise them to use etcetera. and some of the actions they’ve What would you like to see happening in border farm from his dad Geoff. practices throughout our business and only disease-free tissue cultured banana resorted to in managing it, has made Did you come straight from school to the banana industry? will try to share this information with for replanting and extending planting to me aware of how much is at stake with begin work on the farm? Did you work on We need to keep up the research to help Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ the rest of the industry. I am extremely new areas.” regards to our industry and livelihood. the farm while still at school? growers and there is always room for new time? grateful for the opportunity to attend “I am grateful to have attended the During school holidays I worked on the ideas. I’ve been working the farm with my dad the study tour and believe that I have Shannon Paton, grower, Palmerston China-Philippines Study Tour and am farm and after school did one year in the for the past ten years and in the New Year benefited greatly from it.” “We have been doing some study into more knowledgeable for having done so.” landscaping business but decided to come Are you looking at introducing new or I’ll be taking over the running of the farm the beneficial fungi and bacteria created back and work fulltime on the farm. It is different methods to your farm practices? on a full-time basis, although dad will still Ben Franklin, General Manager – from animal manure - certain animals nearly 10 years now that I have been here. We have built our two new ripening be there to help out when I need some Banana Category, Costa Exchange, have only beneficial bacteria and fungi rooms – one for Cavs and one for Lady support. In ten years’ time I still will be Tully What do you like about banana farming? Fingers – and that has been a really growing bananas, probably with less Lady “Whilst I believe our business has a I love the outdoors, the peace and quiet important achievement for us as it will Fingers, more Cavendish and diversifying good working knowledge of disease (and and it helps keep me fit. open up a lot more options for selling our into other fruits like Dragon Fruit to sell control measures), to be able to see the product. direct. We have a half a million people challenges other countries face with dev- What don’t you like about it? I will progressively be adding another living near our farm (on the Gold Coast) astating disease outbreaks brings home Working in the rain on steep slopes, the five acres to Cav production – I’m so we have our market right there. the importance of this message. extremes of weather and the paperwork planning to plant out an additional acre “Having taken several photos and side of the farm. each year for the next five years. I am also Duane at his Banana Booth stall at the Palm videos of the trip it has been great to be currently looking at new ideas for props. Beach growers’ markets. able to share these internally within our What are your other interests apart from farming bananas? I love surfing and fishing and con- structing things – I’m always building something!

Above left: bananas are washed and packed in the field on a Chinese plantation. Above right: What do you see for your future in the Tablelands grower James Howe carrying bunches the way the locals do it – two at a time. banana industry? I will be taking over the running of the farm in the New Year when my father, Geoff, retires from full-time farm work so I have been training a new worker to do the things I have been doing. I do see a future, but it is in supplying direct to retailers. We have just extended our packing shed and have built two ripening rooms which started operations in late November. Having the ripening rooms means we will have more options for selling directly into the retail market. Above: ‘Socks’ used in Guangxi Province to give a good shape to the fruit and to constrict size. Also to keep fruit warm in cooler seasons. Slips of paper are We are already selling direct into farmers’ placed between the hands to prevent rub damage. Right: Grower Darryl Apap thanks tour hosts at a cooperative farm in the Philippines where growers markets at Palm Beach and Currumbin have their own blocks of about one hectare each and pack fruit cooperatively. Australian Bananas magazine | Summer 2013-2014 Summer 2013-2014 | Australian Bananas magazine 26 field trials GROWERS’ COMMENTS 27 Seven survivors set for new trials Walking the field of dreams

Their survival on a trial Seven of 13 banana varieties grown At the killing fields and Pisang Ceylan. For growers looking for disease- in an 18-month field trial testing for About 35 subtropical growers attended an Whilst these seven varieties are show- resistant and niche varieties, the The seven varieties block known as the “killing disease resistance will advance to new October field day at Duranbah to see the ing resistance to race 1, the real test will Duranbah field trial holds exciting ƒƒ FLF-1 fields” has earmarked commercial production trials. 13 new varieties and taste test the fruit. be how they perform under commercial possibilities. ƒƒ SC-1 The seven, a mix of local and interna- The block is a race 1-infected site where conditions. Growers attending the field day had seven banana varieties for tional varieties, scored promising results bananas were grown more than 20 years These race 1-resistant varieties will the opportunity to see plants growing in ƒƒ FC-1 a new commercial trial. for resistance to the soil-borne fungal ago. It is now colloquially known as the now be planted-out in a separate sub- Panama-infected conditions and to taste ƒƒ High Noon disease Panama Race 1. “killing fields”. tropical block to test for their agronomic test bananas grown on the block. ƒ Luke Roberts reports. The field trial was held in Duranbah The trial screened new varieties, as well characteristics. Those attending came from the local ƒ Hom Thong Mokha in northern New South Wales and is as local selections of established varieties, Mr Peasley said it was necessary to take Tweed and Brunswick districts as well ƒƒ Fa’i Palagi part of the banana industry’s Banana against race 1 with an ambition to find the varieties into the next phase of trials. as from the mid north coast districts of ƒ Plant Protection Program (BPPP). The new resistant banana varieties with poten- “We’ve isolated out varieties resistant Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga. ƒ Pisang Ceylan BPPP is also running separate trials at tial for the Australian banana industry. to race 1 and showing good bunches and ƒƒ South Johnstone in north Queensland Developing new disease resistant variet- eating qualities. Next we need to test and also has trial plans for Ayr in north ies down the track will ultimately mean them under proper commercial condi- X marks the spot: David Peasley (left) and Queensland’s dry tropics and Darwin in Australian consumers will have more tions because the first trial just looked at Mike Smith at the centre of the Panama Race the Northern Territory. choice. disease tolerance,” he said. 1-infected block. Included in the trial were imported The commercial site is currently being varieties from international breeding prepared for planting-out out in early programs from as far afield as Taiwan, January with tissue cultured plantlets Honduras and Cuba. having recently established in a nursery at The resistance trials were conducted Duranbah for growing-on in pots. under the auspices of the Banana Plant In addition to the disease ratings, the Protection Program’s (BPPP) Resistant commercial trials will provide lots of Varieties and Consumer Choice sub pro- agronomic data for each variety including gram led by Mike Smith, Senior Principal the number of hands, length of fingers, Scientist of Queensland’s Department weight of bunches, plant height, bunch of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry cycling time, wind and cold tolerance and “I think it’s a good trial. There’s some “I was impressed with the trial. I hon- (QDAFF). The trial manager is David more. promising varieties there for sure but it’s a estly thought there would have been more Peasley who is part of the program’s little bit early to tell whether they’re going Panama disease showing up. There was leadership team (subtropical). Levy at work to be successful, we’ve just got to wait and some nice fruit. There’s good potential Dr Smith said it was important to At the field day, growers heard that both s e e .” – Tweed Brunswick Banana Growers’ for the growers who want to try some identify disease-resistant varieties. the disease screening and forthcoming Association President Robert Pierce of these varieties that have a different “Whilst the industry recognises the commercial trials are a direct response to taste.” – Ron Gray, Coffs Harbour and threats that exist from Panama Disease, growers’ concerns. District Banana Growers’ Association you need to tackle the problem from “These trials show your levy is hard Vice President a number of fronts. One approach is at work developing new varieties for the through resistant varieties that show good future,” Mr Peasley said. “We’re putting “These field days needs to happen more performance under a range of Australian significant resources into reinvigorating often so there’s a greater understanding environmental conditions,” Dr Smith said. the subtropical industry.” and people know where we’re at with “We need resistant varieties which During the field day, growers con- disease. We haven’t got Panama around show good performance under a range of ducted a preliminary taste test with the Coffs Harbour so it was good to be able conditions so that the geographic area for new varieties. This will be followed by to see it first hand and to actually taste banana production improves our resil- more formal consumer taste panels. the bananas grown.” – Josh Tate, grower, ience against the impact of cyclones. “It’s good to see them trialled here Coffs Harbour “We also want to give consumers a before they get out to farms. Taste wise, greater choice of banana varieties which nothing we tried today has impressed “There was a lot of grower will increase the demand for bananas.” us very much though.” – Jeff and Max interest in the trials and the Eggins, growers, Woolgoolga day was put together very New commercial trials well. Seeing what Panama Although it is still early days, seven of does to certain crops was a the 13 varieties tested were chosen to go “I just wanted to see what’s available. real eye opener. The real test is to see if forward to commercial trials that will run I farm ten acres including two acres of we can get a variety that is both disease for the next two to three years. They are: bananas with scope for another two. resistant and with the potential for FLF-1, SC-1 and FC-1 (three local selec- My place is down low and faces south subtropical growers to command a good tions), as well as varieties from overseas so I’m looking for something that’s cold price for their product.” – Coffs Harbour breeding programs and collections - High tolerant.” – Tony Lattanzi, market grower, and District Banana Growers’ Association Noon, Hom Thong Mokha, Fa’i Palagi, Cudgera Creek President Wally Gately

Australian Bananas magazine | Summer 2013-2014 Summer 2013-2014 | Australian Bananas magazine 28 farm practices SCIENCE IN ACTION 29

Selecting the best Some tips for selecting suckers for Bananas tip timber from lab’s top spot tissue culture: ƒƒ Look for the best mother plants from the Growers looking at options Multiplying and growing-on millions variety of crops being multiplied out, industry’s recent study tour of China and impossible to produce and one third will best blocks of tree and crop plants each year bananas now make up the majority of the the Philippines with growers and another be in the middle. That means that if you ƒƒ Select enough suckers – not all will be for new plantings and the is not unusual for one of the north tissue culture business. nursery industry representative, Craig only started with three to six plants you’re suitable for cloning industry’s new varieties are Queensland labs producing tissue “In the lab now we’d have 20 crops Althaus of Blue Sky in Tully (see Study in trouble.” ƒƒ Suckers will need to be the right size culture plants. including bananas,” Mr Radke said. “That tour report, Page 22). Mr Radke said plant breeders now ƒƒ Plants are subject to biosecurity require- considering tissue culture. But an emerging trend seen by also includes at least a dozen different He said the tour’s visits to plantations tend to provide the lab with 40 to 60 of ments including disease checks, virus Atherton Tablelands-based Clonal plants from a range of crop varieties that affected by TR4 and to tissue culture their best clones knowing that these will indexing and movement permits ABGC Communications Solutions Australia is the increasing are for research and aren’t being done facilities showed the direction south east be reduced down to about a dozen or so ƒƒ Be aware of the timeframes required to get Manager Rhyll Cronin interest from crop farmers inquiring anywhere else.” Asian countries had taken to combat individual clones that are amenable to the number of cloned plants required. about using tissue culture to source new In 2014, the lab will bring up seven the disease by using disease-free, tissue tissue culture production. reports. plantings. years of operation. It expanded from the culture plants to replant affected farms Leading the way are banana growers. Radke’s nursery business, Yuruga, a native and plant out new, uninfected sites. Working with farmers Accreditation the key Horticulturist Peter Radke, who co-owns plant nursery which operates on the same While there are many benefits in using For banana propagation, Dr Josekutty Mr Radke believes that, in addition to Chips off the old block: Dr Puthiyaparambil Clonal Solutions with wife Ann, also a Walkamin property and was established tissue culture for large-scale propagation, works with farmers to select suitable QBAN, the tissue culture and nursery Josekutty checks banana plantlets being propa- horticulturist, says while there is a big in 1985. issues the industry continues to address plants. industry in Australia benefits from the gated in climate-controlled facilities. “When we started off doing tissue cul- are grower concerns about “offtypes” – “We ask the farmers if they have any NIASA best-practice system of accredita- ture we were propagating Teak, Tea Tree, cloned varieties that do not stay true to special selections on their farms – any tion which sets high standards for facility and Eucalypts for the timber industry. We the original type – and plants that for plants that have special features,” he said. set up, hygiene practices, recording grew millions and millions of superior other reasons don’t grow on as expected. “We will advise that we go to the best processes, staff qualifications and ongoing clones,” Mr Radke said. The timeframe needed to gather, prop- paddock, along with a plant inspector, training. “Now we’re also doing agricultural agate and prepare plants to get the best and choose the best tree. The inspector is “The Nursery Industry Accreditation crops. We’re doing bananas by tissue results can also be a cause of frustration there to check for any plant disease, the Scheme of Australia (NIASA) has been culture, we’re doing pineapples, papaya, – both for growers and lab operators. farmers are looking at the quality of the the best thing since sliced bread,” Mr avocados, coffee, cocoa and more.” fruit and the trees and I am looking for Radke said. Planning ahead a must the quality of the sucker for propagation.” “NIASA accreditation makes nurseries Bananas in demand Growers often want plants quickly when Growers are sometimes unsure of the more profitable, the figures suggest about Clonal Solutions’ Tissue Culture Lab they anticipate upcoming opportunities best sized suckers to use. 50 per cent more profitable because of Manager Dr Puthiyaparambil Josekutty for better prices in the market and, Mr Radke said: “Sometimes farmers better standards and better quality plants said banana plants are now the crop in alternatively, may want to delay plant- will want to use a monster, maybe produced. highest demand for multiplying up so ings ahead of an anticipated fruit glut. something two metres high and a bit old. “Our throw out rate is about five per growers can make new plantings and Labs need around 12 months to gather, Young, sword suckers not more than a cent of what it would be if we weren’t replant existing farms with disease-free propagate and prepare high quality plants meter tall are the best suckers to initiate NIASA accredited. Our disease level for bananas. with little flexibility possible in their tissue cultures.” the 1000-plus species of plants we are He said there was increasing interest timeframes. Once selected, disease checks need to working with is less than one per cent of in using tissue culture to clone suckers “We want to get orders 12 months in be done. The suckers are dug out and what it would be without NIASA.” from the best producing mother plants advance because then we can produce the placed in groups of ten with leaf samples While labour costs for qualified staff are in existing blocks to help to improve the best plants,” Mr Radke said. taken for virus indexing carried out at the high compared with those of some south productivity of the farm. “It’s when you speed things up, or when Queensland DAFF laboratory in Brisbane. east Asian and South American countries There is also increasing interest in you slow things up too much, or when Permits are also needed to move the and even parts of the United States, Mr sourcing disease-tolerant plants from the you do too many propagating cycles – suckers from farms to the lab. Radke sees a positive side. Queensland Department of Agriculture, those are three things that are critical for At the lab, the suckers are taken to a “We think it’s to our advantage here Fisheries and Forestry (QDAFF) – par- poor results and getting offtypes.” processing shed and each one cut back in Australia that our labour is dear. ticularly plants that have showed promise Mr Radke believes a collaborative to a growing tip. Unsuitable suckers – Because our labour is expensive we have in planting trials testing resistance to approach between tissue culture labs and those damaged or suspected of diseases to do things right and the smartest and Fusarium wilt disease Panama Tropical growers gives the best results. – are discarded leaving the best suckers cheapest way to do that is having highly Race 4 (TR4). “We’re not plant breeders, we’re prop- for propagation. There will be 200 to 300 qualified staff doing things perfectly, once While plant nurseries cannot provide agators, but we do encourage growers plants produced from each growing tip only, and having a proper set up so you’re these plants directly, growers who order to involve us in the breeding selection as the tips are progressively divided and not having losses and throw outs and the plants from QDAFF can have them process,” he said. multiplied up to a maximum of eight disease and other issues.” sent to a QBAN-registered nursery “The worst thing is if they conduct multiplication cycles. With the start of the wet season in (QBAN stands for Quality Banana years and years of plant breeding and then Plants are screened at least three times November, most banana farmers have Approved Nursery). At the nurseries the present us with only three to six clones to during the process to see if they will be decreased banana plantings and will plants can be grown on and hardened off propagate with. suitable for potting out. be expected to start again in April or prior to being taken to farms for planting. “Not all clones propagate equally well. At the end of the process, the aim is to May. Within the light, temperature and There is a lengthy waiting list for the So what will usually happen is that about have 15 per cent more plants than ordered humidity-controlled environment of the QDAFF plants. one third of those clones will be easy to allow screening for possible offtypes tissue culture lab, production continues Dr Josekutty participated in the banana to produce, one third will prove to be and poor performers in the nursery. year round.

Australian Bananas magazine | Summer 2013-2014 Summer 2013-2014 | Australian Bananas magazine 30 farm practices FARM PRACTICES 31 Nursing a headache Rematch set for CUTTING PLANTS TO SMOOTH PRODUCTION CYCLES Chloro & biopest oil Following Cyclone Yasi times. Bunching and production times obtained at South Johnstone are shown in A recent survey conducted with in 2011, many growers Table 1. growers from north Queensland have taken another In summary, nurse suckering at South revealed that there has been an Johnstone tended to give the cropping increased interest in the use of look at nurse suckering. patterns shown in Table 2. chlorothalonil as a replacement for Queensland Department of These timings are based on our set biopest oil and the industry standard of conditions at South Johnstone. Just mancozeb to control yellow Sigatoka. Agriculture, Fisheries and exactly when bunching and harvest This change has been largely due to occurs following nurse suckering on your the rising price of the product as well Forestry (QDAFF) Principal property will depend upon the particular as the belief biopest oil-based programs Horticulturist Jeff Daniells set of conditions including crop man- are ineffective against the pathogen. agement and climatic conditions (largely A field study has been conducted and Senior Development temperature). at the South Johnstone Research Horticulturist Stewart Any historical information you have Station to evaluate the efficacy of for nurse suckering on your farm will be chlorothalonil and paraffinic oil Lindsay report. valuable for adjusting timing strategies alone and in tank mixes with triazoles The banana industry’s recent cyclone When nurse suckering was first appropriately. As always, good farm (difenoconazole, epoxiconazole, propi- recovery project recommended the developed in the 1950s it was widely used records improve future decision making. conazole, tebuconazole), pyrimethanil development of a database of crop cycle in north Queensland to help confine fruit and fluopyram, as well as mancozeb information for nurse suckering done at production to the Winter-Spring period Getting cyclone-ready mixed with paraffinic oil. different times of the year. when prices were highest on the southern Cyclones are most likely to occur in north However, the last growing season This article starts this process by look- markets. This remained the norm during Queensland from December to April. The was characterised by low disease pres- ing at records generated by past research the 1950s and 1960s. three very severe cyclones which flattened sure and therefore the experiment will trials at DAFF’s South Johnstone Research Since then, nurse suckering has experi- banana crops in the Innisfail-Tully region be repeated during 2014 to confirm the Above: Stewart Lindsay at a South Johnstone nurse-suckered block. Station. enced revivals following cyclones because during the past 30 years all occurred outcomes of the 2013 trial. it can delay production of fruit and so during February-March. Table 1. Bunching and production times at South Johnstone resulting from different avoid production gluts and associated low Two strategies can be utilised in the Dr Suren Samuelian inspects plants during the trial on yellow Sigatoka controls. nurse suckering times. market prices. Nurse suckering has also lead up to the cyclone season. Firstly, it Nurse cut down Sucker set on nurse Bunching Harvest been used to arrange farm production is advisable to have what you consider to Jun 1987* Jul 1987 Dec/Feb 1988 Apr/Jun 1988 to provide more constant fruit supplies be an appropriate amount of your crop Jun 1988* Jul 1988 Jan/Feb 1989 May/Jul 1989 through the year, to make the time of as small unbunched plants (<1.5 m tall) Early May 2011** Jun 2011 50% Jan 2012 50% Mar 2012 harvest more uniform within a block and should a cyclone strike. These plants are Early Aug 2011** Sept 2011 50% Feb 2012 50% May 2012 to rejuvenate older ratoons. less prone to wind damage without any Late Oct 2011** Nov 2011 50% May 2012 50% Nov/Dec 2012 manipulation required as the cyclone Present opportunities Mid Dec 2012** Feb 2013 50% Aug 2013 N/A approaches. Secondly, keep another Jan 2013** Mar 2013 50% Sept 2013 N/A These days, because north Queensland portion of your crop as slightly larger Feb 2013** Apr 2013 50% Nov 2013 N/A supplies nearly 90 per cent of the unbunched plants (< 1.7 m if plant crop Australian market, fruit is required year or <2.0 m if nurse suckered). These plants For more information contact: Alf Canino Tully Manager round in relatively even quantities. Nurse should be deleafed prior to the cyclone’s P 07 4068 3783 F 07 4068 3786 Table 2. Cropping patterns resulting from nurse suckering conducted at South suckering is very effective for adjusting landfall – to better resist wind damage. Johnstone.· the time of production to achieve this These strategies can be put in place by M 0429 721 700 E [email protected] Cut down Bunch emergence Bunch harvest Months (cut down to harvest) continuous supply across the farm. establishing plant crops at the appropriate January September* N/A [~ Dec/Jan] 11-12 If you want bunching and harvest time but can also be scheduled by nurse February November N/A [~ Feb] 12 in particular months of the year when suckering. May January April 11 should you be nurse suckering? However, crops ready for a December June January April** 10 Our studies at DAFF South Johnstone cyclone event are not so ready come August February May 9 prior to a few years ago were limited March-April. Therefore, additional blocks October May September 11 to using nurse suckering to schedule would need to come into play as the December August Nov/Dec 11-12 bunching and harvest to particular times cyclone season progresses. of the year better suited for rating for leaf If you require suitable small unbunched Depots: Tully, Cairns, Townsville, 1. * Nurse suckering involved physically cutting down nurse and gouging out growing point as per Daniells spot disease and for the maturity bronz- plants over this period from ratoons, et al. Nov 1997 Good Fruit and Vegetables p 58. ** 2011 dates – chemical treatment of non-bunched plants and remove canopy or cut down bunch and canopy on bunched plants. All 2012/13 dates were chemically ing fruit disorder. nurse suckering should be undertaken in Mackay, Brisbane & Sydney treated followed by canopy removal. More recently in our cyclone recovery the period October to December. 2. * Average month shown – actual spread usually 2-4 months. ** Harvest date adjusted to today’s thinner Delivering to all Southern Destinations calliper grade. work we investigated some additional

Australian Bananas magazine | Summer 2013-2014 Summer 2013-2014 | Australian Bananas magazine 32 farm practices BEDS AND INTER-ROWS 33 Bedtime stories for banana growers Different ways of doing your block They’re a quicker, cheaper and more flexible way to plant, so why don’t more growers use pre-formed and permanent beds? Queensland Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry (QDAFF) Horticulturist Naomi King reports. Gavin Eilers: S Lowe & Sons: Leahy Family: The concepts of pre-formed and the inter-row space intact, maintaining ƒƒ reduced cultivation as only half of preventing ruts trialling beds on-time planting permanent beds are not new to the ground cover and also providing a hard, the block is cultivated, therefore it is Machinery taken into plant-crop Tully’s Barry and Stephen Lowe have Pre-formed beds helped Tully’s Leahy banana industry. However, despite trafficable inter-row surface for the plant cheaper, faster and means less of the blocks was forming ruts at an Innisfail tried permanent beds for the first family get their plant bananas in the many benefits they provide, they crop. block is susceptible to erosion property. Farm manager Gavin Eilers time at their farm on Davidson Road, earlier. Tully. Stephen talks about how they continue to be a rarely used practice. Advantages include: ƒƒ plants do not come into contact with talks about how switching to pre- The Leahy family began pre-forming got started. The two types of beds can be used ƒƒ opportunity to take advantage of short the compacted inter-row soil which formed and permanent beds helped. their plant blocks nearly 10 years ago. together to support each other or individ- windows of fine weather for planting may restrict root growth Gavin Eilers is the manager of LMB “We trialled it (permanent beds) for the They have continued using this practice ually, depending on a farm’s management ƒƒ quicker planting after rain as the raised ƒƒ subsoil and topsoil are less likely to Farming’s Stockton Road farm where first time and we will just see how it goes and Patrick Leahy said that this year all practices. beds dry out faster than flat ground be mixed, especially in blocks with he grows both Cavendish and Lady before we do any more plant like this,” of their plant bananas went into pre- Here is an explanation of the terms ƒƒ allows wet season planting and gen- mounded rows that require the whole Finger bananas. Gavin has integrated said Stephen. formed beds. “pre-formed” and “permanent” and some erally more flexibility in the planting block to be flattened before reforming pre-formed beds and permanent beds “There were a few benefits from “Everything that we planted this year of their advantages. schedule rows into his farming system making them leaving the rows in the same place and was pre-formed. The main benefit we find ƒƒ improved inter-row access and ƒƒ Plant block inter-row spaces are already standard practices that he has been not working up the entire block. It was is knowing we are able to start planting in Pre-formed beds trafficablility. compacted and trafficable as they have using for the past five years. cheaper, faster to prepare and we didn’t August. Pre-forming beds refers to the practice of not been disturbed, therefore machin- Ruts (wet areas in the block) were end up with any of the compacted soil on “When we finish with a block, if there getting a banana plant block ready well in Permanent beds ery and vehicles are less likely to cause becoming a problem he believed was t h e row.” are major ruts or we need to change the advance of the planting date. The term ‘permanent beds’ refers to the ruts mainly starting in the plant crop. Gavin Leaving the rows in the same place row direction, we will flatten the rows and This means all of the ground prepara- practice of leaving the row in the same ƒƒ Ground cover can be maintained in the has gone to great lengths to avoid the meant the Lowes did not cultivate the laser level the block. tion and the forming of banana-row beds place crop after crop – often with no, or inter-row spaces of fallow and plant creation of ruts in his blocks. block anywhere near as much as usual to “However, if no work is required, we is carried out and the block is then left to very limited, ground preparation to the crops “When we were working up the whole get the ground ready for planting. will chain the bananas down, spray the sit fallow, generally over the wet season. inter-row space. ƒƒ Lime, magnesium and mill by-products block, we found once we started going “Normally we would have to disc across bananas out twice with Roundup® and When the block is ready to plant, the Growers find there are advantages in can be applied just to the row, reducing into the plant block every week with the block in both directions a number of tidy-up the shape of the rows.” row is simply sprayed out and any culti- only cultivating the banana-row bed, costs. machinery we were starting rut prob- times to flatten the block out because we Patrick said their ground preparation vation is restricted to the row. This leaves including: lems,” Gavin said. grow on mounds. Then we would reform and planting is now all performed with “This was because the soil was soft the rows. the aid of GPS-guided machinery. Gavin MacKay: wet season planting and we didn’t have enough grass yet. By “By leaving the rows in the same place “With the guidance of the GPS, we leaving the rows in the same spot, we we avoided a lot of this work. set the discs up so the inside of the discs Gavin MacKay of Mackay Estates’ Bolinda farm has found there are a number “This time we disced along the row of advantages using pre-formed beds. have a hard surface from the start for the sit just on the bottom of the V and the machinery to drive on, and the grass is twice to knock the bananas down and outside of the discs above the row. This “We see a number of benefits from pre- normally would. The MacKay family have already covering the whole inter-row.” then as required to control volunteers. helps knock the edge off the row. forming our plant blocks,” Gavin said. been pre-forming their plant blocks for Gavin said that permanent beds have When we were ready to plant we ran the “We then come back past with the V “The main one is the planting window. a number of years and each year they try now rectified this problem. He also finds discs up each side of the row to put the blade. This is all we will do to re-shape By having the block ready, it gives us the to prepare some of their plant blocks this other benefits from using permanent dirt up on the row. the rows. We then leave the block to sit opportunity to plant in the wet season if way. All of the MacKays’ ground prepa- beds, such as reducing his total inputs by “We then ripped the row once, rotary until we are ready to plant. we choose to. ration activities are performed with the targeting their placement. hoed each side and the top of the row in “When we are ready to plant, we will “Also we find we can get our plant in aid of GPS-guided machinery. First they “Now we only have to put products three separate passes and then planted. A spray the top of the row and let the grass earlier after rain as the formed rows dry survey the farm by driving over it with A pre-formed bed at LMB where both pre- such as lime, magnesium or mill mud on few weeks after we planted the bananas die. Then we will rip the top of the row formed and permanent beds have helped we ran the ‘V’ blade up the inter row.” out faster than flat ground.” a GPS-guided tractor that allows them prevent ruts. the top of the row.” twice, by travelling up and back, and do Gavin said other benefits were the to produce a map showing the gradient Gavin finds there is a lot less work When asked whether this is a practice a single pass with the rotavator. We find prevention of soil movement during the across the block. Stephen Lowe has tried permanent beds at the involved by maintaining the rows in they will continue to use on the farm, the rotavator is really effective at picking wet season and the improved trafficability Then they prepare the block as usual family’s Tully farm. the same place. He injects glyphosate Stephen said it would come down to the up any remaining pieces of string and it of the plant block’s inter-row space. and, with the aid of GPS guidance, ensure (Roundup®) into the previous banana individual block. doesn’t get choked up by the string like a “Currently we prepare the block as per the row and even inter-row spaces are crop and believes this is a crucial practice “If we didn’t need to move the irriga- rotary hoe does.” usual and leave it with a grass fallow. If we positioned correctly. Where possible, the as there is nothing left of the crop by the tion, or the block didn’t have any ruts that have a nematode problem we would look row spaces will be kept in the same loca- time he needs to prepare for planting. required work, we would definitely do it A pre-formed bed at the Leahy’s Tully farm. at using a non-host fallow crop but most tion over successive banana crop cycles. If there are ruts in the block, he will fix (permanent beds) again. of the time it’s just a grass fallow. Down “If, at the end of the crop cycle, the these spots with cultivation confined to “I think one of the main benefits is not the track we may also look at using a wick block doesn’t require any major renova- the problem areas. mixing the compacted soil into the row wiper in the inter-row before planting to tions, we will leave the rows in the same When getting the rows ready he uses where the bananas are growing. I have get a good ground cover established early. place and just reshape the inter-row GPS guided equipment and prepares the seen plant, both in cane and bananas, “We also find we get a chance to get rid space,” Gavin said. row only and leaves the inter-row space where you can pick where the old rows of some of the problem weeds as they are “This is much quicker as we don’t have vegetated. First he will spray the row with were by the way plants are growing. It easier to control before the bananas are to work up the whole block. We also glufosinate (Basta®), rip once and then do can’t be good growing in that (compacted planted.” aren’t mixing up topsoil and subsoil and a single pass with the rotary hoe. soil). If you asked Barry, he would Gavin didn’t believe there were any mixing compacted inter-row soil into the probably think the fact that it was faster problems associated with this practice as row when we get the block ready.” and cheaper is the main reason he would they prepared the block exactly as they do it again.”

Australian Bananas magazine | Summer 2013-2014 Summer 2013-2014 | Australian Bananas magazine 34 innovation INNOVATION IN RESEARCH 35 Scholar looks at biologicals ahead of US study trip North Queensland Mr Riedy, from Wongaling applied to the leaf,” Mr Riedy of chemical treatments. New phases for banana trials agronomic consultant Beach, works with consul- said. “That means that our access Liam Riedy (pictured tancy group Total Grower In the US, Mr Riedy will to new chemical treatments Over the past nine years the Gates Foundation has funded a project working to below) has begun research Services (TGS). visit compost developers and that could greatly assist the increase provitamin A and iron levels in Ugandan bananas. Separate research into biological controls He is researching biological see a range of integrated pest industry with issues such as is also trialling modified plants for Fusarium wilt resistance. QUT’s James Dale for banana plant diseases fungicides that could be used management systems and fungal disease is extremely and Rob Harding and the Queensland Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and ahead of a study tour being as an alternative to current crops. limited and it’s difficult to get Forestry’s Jeff Daniells provide this update. funded by a banana industry chemical treatments for Mr Riedy said the use of registrations for older chemi- scholarship. banana diseases such as yellow biological fungicides – prod- cals as well. In 2005, the Queensland University of increase in pVA levels. Mr Riedy has won the 2013 Sigatoka. ucts based on micro-or- “Biologicals will be a big Technology (QUT), with funding from In 2012, Phase 2 field trials commenced Mort Johnston Professional “I and the TGS team have ganisms used to control thing if they can be shown to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, at South Johnstone Research Station to Development Scholarship begun research on many fungal diseases, bacteria and work in bananas,” Mr Riedy started a project with the ultimate aim further investigate strategies to enhance and will use the $10,000 prize biological control methods nematodes – had potential as said. of genetically modifying East African pVA levels as well as conduct more to fund a visit to the United that could be used to control a solution. The Mort Johnston Highland Banana (EAHB) to increase detailed and extensive analyses of the elite States next June. disease in the soil as well as “Chemical resistance to Professional Development the levels of provitamin A (pVA) and banana selections identified in Phase 1. fungicides is actually one Scholarship is awarded annu- iron. Recently, fruit of some of these latter of the biggest issues for the ally by the Australian Banana Deficiencies of these micronutrients are selections was sent to the United States banana industry,” Mr Riedy Growers’ Council (ABGC) to major public health problems amongst for a trial to determine how effective the said. “Even though we’re the honour the memory of Tully the peoples of East Africa where EAHB enhanced provitamin A of the banana Professor James Dale with Bill and Melinda largest horticulture industry grower Mort Johnston by are the food staple. fruit was in boosting vitamin A levels in Gates. in Australia we’re considered offering assistance for projects The project was a collaboration the body. by chemical companies to be that advance the banana between QUT and the National The Phase 2 work also includes a TR4 trials very minor in terms of our use industry. Agricultural Research Organisation planting of bananas engineered for higher In separate work being funded by an (NARO) in Uganda. The Australian com- levels of iron in fruit, the results of which Australian Research Council Linkage ponent involves technology development will be progressively available over the grant, QUT has been genetically engi- and optimisation using Australian banana next 18 months. neering bananas to obtain Fusarium wilt cultivars as a model, with the technology resistance. transferred to NARO for the generation Gates Meeting In small plant glasshouse trials, several The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation genetically modified (GM) Lady Finger First field trial has been the major funding source for lines with resistance to race 1 of the In 2009, the first Australian field trial of the transgenic banana work. The QUT disease were identified. The research has transgenic bananas was established at the team’s research has been backed with now been extended to field trials where Queensland Department of Agriculture, more than $10 million over the past nine GM Lady Finger and Cavendish are Fisheries and Forestry’s South Johnstone years through this foundation’s Grand being tested for resistance against TR4 Research Station (see Australian Bananas Challenges in Global Health program. In Fusarium wilt on a grower’s property in 2009 Vol 28 p49). December 2011, Bill and Melinda Gates the Northern Territory. Results are so far Despite being flattened by tropical met with the QUT team in Cairns to dis- very encouraging. cyclone Yasi midway through the Phase 1 cuss progress with the transgenic banana work, the trial was a great success. Fruit trials. Witnessing the Gates’ commitment James Dale (centre) and the team of NARO of the best lines of genetically-engineered and enthusiasm was a highlight of the scientists at the first Ugandan field trial site in bananas contained up to a twenty-fold meeting. 2010.

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Australian Bananas magazine | Summer 2013-2014 Summer 2013-2014 | Australian Bananas magazine 36 international feature UGANDA 37 Banana stew & brew on Uganda’s menu Ugandans eat more Uganda is located on the equator in modest size of the nation, it is actually East Africa, inland from Kenya on the ranked as the second largest producer bananas than anyone else, coast. Its land area is 236,000 square of bananas in the world with 10 million drink banana beer and kilometres, about the size of Victoria, tonnes annually, representing 8 per cent with a population estimated at 37 of world production. This compares with have a word for a banana million. the largest producer, India, at 20 per cent Despite being on the equator, the and Australia’s 0.25 per cent. variety which also means climate is considerably moderate because Most of the production is consumed “food”. Jeff Daniells of of its elevation ranging between 600 and domestically and average per capita con- 5,100 metres above sea level. More than sumption is a whopping 280 kg annually, Queensland’s Department two thirds of the country is a plateau lying the highest in the world. Banana produc- of Agriculture, Fisheries and between 1,000 and 2,500 metres above tion is dominated by the East African sea level. Average annual rainfall varies Highland Banana (EAHB) at about 80 per Forestry (QDAFF) attended between 750 mm to 1,500 mm, depending cent and includes both cooking ‘matooke’ upon location, and is fairly reliable and and brewing ‘mbidde’ types. They are an international banana relatively well distributed (usually in the most extensively grown at elevations and Bluggoe. It is in high demand for workshop in Uganda. He range of 50-175 mm/month) throughout between 1,000 to 2,000 metres. social functions and in rural communities the year. The main production areas are located where currency is often limited, locally provided this report with The capital city, Kampala, is situated in in the western/south western and central brewed beer acts as a liquid currency. Deborah Karamura of the central district. At an altitude of 1,200 regions of the country. These cover vast Banana wine making has also been metres and near to the equator it also areas of the total area under bananas in introduced in some banana conservation imported from East Africa annually. of ABB banana, such as Ducasse, are com- Bioversity International, borders the world’s second largest fresh- Uganda, estimated at 1.9 million hectares. sites to add value to the current genetic A notable and popular cultivar of the mon. Ducasse and other ABB bananas Uganda. water lake, the 69,000 km2 Lake Victoria. Annual yields are between 10 to 20 tonnes diversity so strengthening conservation Sukali Ndizi subgroup is Kamaramasenge. are highly susceptible to insect vector Temperatures seldom vary much from the per hectare. Production is mainly by strategies for the crop. Gros Michel is a relatively popular dessert transmission of the wilt pathogen and are average max and mins of 26°C and 17°C. smallholders, each farming around one banana widely distributed in East Africa. mostly grown in central Uganda where Thus the climate is relatively idyllic for hectare, and mostly for domestic con- Varietal diversity Jeff did not have the opportunity to visit. bananas and people alike. sumption with fewer than 10,000 tonnes East Africa is recognised as a secondary Disease threats BXW is also a problem for East exported to neighbouring countries centre of global genetic diversity for Despite the tranquil scene of endless African Highland Bananas that are not The staple diet including Kenya. bananas with a considerable amount of rolling hills of bananas, the threat of well managed, as in parts of the eastern With climate so favourable, combined Fruit of the matooke cooking bananas this diversity located in Uganda. major diseases is very real. Banana Democratic Republic of the Congo. with suitable soils, it is probably not are harvested green, steam-cooked, This diversity in East Africa is primarily Xanthomonas Wilt (BXW) is a bacterial Very good management (production Lycra is out and bunches are in for Ugandan surprising bananas have become so mashed or pounded into a meal to in the East African Highland bananas wilt disease currently confined to East is for markets) and few ABB bananas in cyclists. Bicycles are often used to transport important for Uganda. And despite the provide a starchy staple nutritionally but it has only in recent times been more Africa. south-western Uganda have prevented bunches to market similar to the potato. This preparation widely appreciated that there are import- The plant wilting/death it causes is very the disease from getting established. It is also referred to as matooke and is one ant popular unique AA diploid subgroups similar to Moko disease which is present is unclear exactly just how much of a of the national dishes of the country. including Mshale-Nshonowa contained in the Philippines. During Jeff Daniells’ threat BXW would be to well-managed It is typically eaten with a sauce made within this broader East African Highland visit, he had the opportunity to see many Cavendish plantations in Australia. of vegetables, ground peanut, or some Banana group. They are not confined to thousands of hectares of bananas as he Appropriate management should be meat such as goat or beef. Matooke is so triploid AAA like Cavendish is. travelled from Kampala to Mbarara to able to adequately contain the disease, important a part of the diet that the word There is also a unique AAB subgroup Fort Portal and back to Kampala. But but in our higher rainfall environment in ‘matooke’ is synonymous with the word Sukali Ndizi which is related but distinct surprisingly no one was able to show any north Queensland and with many planta- for ‘food’ in Uganda. from Silk (the equivalent of Old Sugar in BXW and the bananas we travelled past tions subject to inundation of floodwaters Australia, not Ducasse). There is a very also looked quite healthy. any outbreaks that might occur could Beer production small export market for this banana type The story is that BXW is mainly a have flow-on effects down the catchment. Banana beer is an important alcoholic in Europe with an estimated 2,500 tonnes problem in regions where certain types Banana bunchy top is widespread beverage produced in Uganda as well as in neighbouring Burundi and the in other East African countries. It is tra- Democratic Republic of the Congo and ditionally brewed using mbidde bananas looms large on the horizon as a major which contain more tannin in their fruits threat to the world’s greatest banana than the matooke cooking bananas so consumers. making them unsuitable for cooking because of the bitter taste. The beer banana fruit is harvested when mature, Above right: Banana beer is traditionally pre- ripened and squeezed to produce juice pared in a beer canoe. Bottom left: Symptoms of that is fermented (with sorghum) to make Banana Xanthomonas Wilt include a distinctive beer. Some other types of banana are also creamy yellow exudate, photo courtesy Guy Blomme, Bioversity. Bottom right: A roadside used to make beer including Ducasse market stall.

Australian Bananas magazine | Summer 2013-2014 Summer 2013-2014 | Australian Bananas magazine 38 health ABGC 39 Is rating food a five-star idea? ABGC – Representing Food regulators are For a long time, well-intentioned Making health claims people have tried to come up with You may recall that in 2005 the govern- Banana Growers designing a five-star scale ways to “rate” or “grade” food in such ment proposed that no health claim could to help consumers assess a way that, with one look, anyone can be made for a food that had more than 16 Our mission recognition of their value as a healthy, determine its healthiness. grams of sugar in a serve. That effectively We advance the interests of Australian energy-providing snack the nutritional value of We have been trying to concoct a meant a small banana could have a health banana growers through effective lead- ƒƒ Supply-chain issues – working with our grading system for years, never with a claim, but a large banana couldn’t. An ership and representation that ensures a industry partners fresh food. Dietitian Glenn perfect solution. For example, how would unripe banana could also have a health strong industry future. ƒƒ Together with other national horticul- Cardwell rates the concept. you grade cheese? It is a great source of claim, but as it ripened and the starches ture industries, advocate for a range protein and calcium, the mineral needed turned to sugar, you would have to Our role of improvements to reduce banana for healthy bones, yet it is also high in remove the health claim. Naturally we ƒƒ Formulate and advocate industry policy growers’ costs. sodium (salt) and fat. Does that mean it is wrote back to the government explaining ƒƒ Communicate information to our good or bad? the problem. members, all banana growers and Our Members The government is doing its best to Eight years later, they have been more stakeholders We have grower and affiliate members. create a front-of-pack labelling algorithm sensible and agreed that fruit should be ƒƒ Participate in the IAC to implement the Our grower members are banana produc- to create a star rating system based on able to make a health claim for any of its Banana Industry Strategic Plan and, as ers from Queensland, New South Wales, half-star increments to a maximum of abundant nutrients. The key nutrients a member of Horticulture Australia Ltd, Western Australia and the Northern five stars. It is hoped this will help the in the banana for which a general health ensure it works efficiently and effec- Territory. public make healthier choices at the claim can be made are fibre, potassium, tively for the benefit of levy payers. Under ABGC’s Rules, the legal owner supermarket. folate, vitamin B6 and carbohydrate. or owners of a banana plantation in As the banana is a good source of Our goals Australia with at least half a hectare of Five-star bananas? potassium, it can claim that it “contributes ƒƒ Maintain and encourage grower bananas under production (Commercial Fruit is good for you. You would struggle to normal muscle function”. For folate it membership of the ABGC Banana Plantation Owner) may apply to to find anyone who would seriously think can be said the banana “contributes to the ƒƒ Ensure good industry outcomes for become a member of ABGC. otherwise. So, bananas are good for you. reduction of tiredness and fatigue”. The marketing and R&D initiatives We also have affiliate members – No argument there. carbohydrate “contributes energy for nor- ƒƒ Build and maintain effective relation- non-growers who have joined the ABGC How many stars do you think an mal metabolism”. There are many other ships with all stakeholders to ensure as a way of showing their support for, and Robert Mayers in avocado, sultana, garlic, pineapple and general claims under Food Standards the integrity of the Australian Banana involvement with, the banana industry. reef-grants role banana should receive? I hope you agree Code 1.2.7 that can be made for the Industry with me that they all get five stars. banana and other fruits, but no food can ƒƒ Maintain an effective and professional Our board Bartle Frere grower Robert Mayers With the new algorithm only raw garlic claim to prevent or cure disease. organisation. Our Board of Directors currently (pictured above) has been appointed gets five stars. The sultana gets two-and- comprises seven Directors – five from by the Australian Banana Growers’ a-half stars; the avocado, four stars; and Keep it simple Key issues Queensland and two from New South Council (ABGC) to work as the Reef the pineapple and banana both get four- In truth, food is neither good nor bad; it ƒƒ Effective biosecurity measures for pest Wales. Water Quality Grants Officer for the and-a-half-stars. That may suggest that is the amount you eat and how it is pre- & disease management We are seeking a Director from Western banana industry in the wet tropics. garlic is healthier than the banana which, pared that determines whether it is doing ƒƒ No banana imports – ensuring an Australia/Northern Territory. Robert will work from the South in turn, is healthier than the avocado. you good or not. Put another way, while appropriate, scientifically rigorous Our Directors are: Doug Phillips, Johnstone Research Station. He will That is not how nutrition works. everyone agrees that fruit and vegetables system for Government import risk Chairman (Qld), Adrian Crema, Vice- assist banana growers with appli- Good nutrition is about eating a range are good for you, fewer than seven of analysis Chairman (Qld), Paul Johnston, Treasurer cations for the second phase of the of healthy foods, especially minimally every 100 Australians actually eat enough ƒƒ Ensure continued and increased R&D (Qld), Peter Molenaar (NSW), Marc Australian Government’s Reef Water processed foods like fresh, dried and fruit and vegetables to be good for them. investment by the Government Darveniza (Qld), Steve Lizzio (Qld) and Quality Grants Program. Robert frozen fruits and vegetables. Although it seems to be convenient to ƒƒ Effective communications with key Stephen Spear (NSW). will also assist growers with related The government wants us to eat more grade food on a short list of components stakeholders including policy makers For more information, please see the extension work. fruit for health, so why not automatically such as the salt, saturated fat and sugar and key-decision makers ABGC website, www.abgc.org.au or Applications are now open for give them five stars? Thankfully the content, the nutritional value of a whole ƒƒ Effective research, development and contact ABGC Chief Executive Officer: 2013-14 and 2014-15 financial year horticultural industry is arguing on your food can be easily misinterpreted. extension Jim Pekin by phoning 07 3278 4786. grants. Projects should be registered by behalf to make all fresh produce five-star If I were in charge I would really ƒƒ Banana marketing – achieving a strong February 7, 2014 with growers work- foods. When the star system is approved simplify things. All fresh fruit gets five market for Australian bananas and ABGC Board meeting, May 2013 ing with Robert to submit a complete it will be voluntary for two years. If too stars. All fresh fruit can claim “absolutely application by March 17, 2014. few foods and companies take part then it sensational for the health of your body Robert will work with Terrain NRM is likely to become mandatory. and mind. Eat them”. Does it really need on the program which is funded by the Glenn Cardwell, Accredited Dietitian to be more complicated than that? Oh, Australian Government’s Caring for and bananas “make your body sing” too. our Country initiative. Robert can be contacted by emailing robert.mayers@ abgc.org.au. Further information on “If I were in charge I would really simplify things” the grants is available on the Terrain website www.terrain.org.au.

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