JANUARY 2017 / VOLUME TWENTY-SIX
MANGO MADNESS Mango Mess-tival celebrates its 5th year at Bondi Beach Page 14
11TH AUSTRALIAN MANGO CONFERENCE— PROGRAM UPDATE Page 9
TRAINING SYSTEM FOR TRELLISED MANGOES Page 18
FRESHCARE UPDATE Page 20 SUMMER ISSUE NGOES IN N MA VITE LIA S Y RA OU T T US O A CELEBRATE COLLABORATE
A E T BOWEN QLD 25 MAY 2017 C T EN HE R 1 FE 1 TH ON AU O C STRALIAN MANG
growing profitability through innovation and technology
p i ro ch r n nn y d ar et s et n ov log uct se ail end wo atio ation & techno ion trends & re & consumer tr rking & celebr
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PAGE 2 MANGO MATTERS For sponsorship and trade exhibit enquiries call AMIA on 07 3278 3755 CONTENTS ANGOES IN 4 CEO & CHAIRMAN N M VITE REPORTS LIA S Y RA OU 6 DIRECTOR REPORTS ST T U O 8 INDUSTRY SNAPSHOT A Chemical update—minor use permits CELEBRATE Crop nutrition 11th Australian Mango COLLABORATE Conference 10 MANGO MARKETING Mango growers on tour— engaged, excited and exhilarated Mango Mess-tival celebrates A E its 5th birthday with a bang! T C T BOWEN QLD 25 MAY 2017 N 16 RESEARCH & POLICY H RE E E DAF Small Tree High 11 TH F ON Productivity Project mango A C field walk USTR NGO ALIAN MA Magpie Geese on mango orchards update Training systems for PAGE 10 trellised mangoes Freshcare update MANGO GROWERS ON TOUR! 22 PEOPLE & EVENTS A group of mango growers took to the streets to experience all the energy, excitement, and International Symposium exhilaration of mango season! on Tropical and Temperate Horticulture growing profitability through Matt Fealy recipient of 2017 Nuffield Scholarship innovation and technology Publication design by Fresh Republic www.freshrepublic.com.au AMIA Contact Details Office Address: Unit 2, The Fresh Centre, Brisbane Markets Postal Address: PO Box 376, Brisbane Markets QLD 4106 Phone: 07 3278 3755 Fax: 07 3278 4761 Email: [email protected] Australian Mangoes: www.mangoes.net.au AMIA: www.industry.mangoes.net.au
Mango Matters is published using mango grower levies which are matched by the Australian Government through Horticulture Innovation Australia. p r h Disclaimer: This publication is produced upon the understanding that no responsibility is accepted by AMIA, in y od rc re s ne n no og uc sea tai nd tw tio it’s Directors and Officers and the Editor for any opinions, claims, statements made and views expressed in any vat nol tio re l & tre ork bra edition of Mango Matters and associated material (for example Conference Proceedings, Industry Reports). ion & tech n trends & consumer ing & cele Readers should rely on their own inquiries when making decisions concerning their interests. All material in the magazine is copyright. Reproduction in whole or part is not permitted without the written permission of the editor.
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For sponsorship and trade exhibit enquiries call AMIA on 07 3278 3755 SUMMER 2017 PAGE 3 CEO’S REPORT
Robert Gray Chief Executive Officer, AMIA
Email: [email protected] “While there are likely to be more challenges ahead, Mob: 0418 737 861 the collaborative approach to developing [the U.S.] market is laying the foundations for our industry’s On behalf of the AMIA, welcome to this edition of Mango Matters. long term sustainable future in this country. ” I hope you get the opportunity to review - Robert Gray this issue and we wish you a prosperous new year.
PRE-SEASON MEETINGS pre-Christmas export volumes. Having a be implemented in time so that supply coordinated approach to the U.S. market into this emerging market proceeds We finished off our last pre-season has provided us with an opportunity to uninterrupted. A similar process is in the meeting in late November with a meeting better understand market requirements final stages in Canada. This leaves Japan in Bundaberg. It was good to see a large and manage issues when they arise. to be resolved where we are coordinating presence at all locations. Our pre-season efforts between Syngenta, the Australian meetings are a great opportunity to Our marketing manager, Treena Welch, Federal and State Governments and present our plans for the forthcoming also recently visited importers and commercial partners to achieve a similar season and hear from you about issues retailers in the U.S. to engage with them MRL. that are impacting you. To all the growers on building the Australian mango market. and other industry stakeholders (e.g. Treena will provide a report on her visit in wholesalers, exporters) who participated, future editions of Mango Matters. HORTICULTURE thank you for contributing to their INNOVATION AUSTRALIA success. While there are likely to be more challenges ahead, the collaborative NEW BOARD MEMBERS approach to developing this market is BACKPACKER TAX Congratulations to Jenny Margetts and laying the foundations for our industry’s Paul Harker for being elected to the While the outcome was a good result for long term sustainable future in this Board of HIA. Both know the mango our industry, the process of getting to an country. industry and horticulture industries very outcome was tortuous and only a last well. Jenny worked with us in developing minute deal got it across the line. Access MAXIMUM RESIDUE LIMITS our current industry strategic plan and to labour at peak times is critical to our AND EXPORT MARKETS has worked with a range of horticulture industry so it is disappointing that such industries throughout her career. Paul has an important issue was managed in such The issue of Maximum Residue Limits had extensive experience in retail. a manner. Our Chairman, Greg McMahon (MRLs) in export markets is a key issue was at Bondi for Mango Mess-tival and for growers and exporters. In early 2016, 2017 MANGO CONFERENCE took an opportunity to personally thank South Korea introduced a new system for Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull for MRLs which was introduced on 1 January If you have not already done so, pushing for a positive outcome. 2017 for tropical fruit, including mangoes. make sure you mark on your calendar This new system means that many Tuesday 2 to Friday 5 May 2017 for the th UNITED STATES EXPORTS products used on mangoes won’t have 11 Australian Mango Conference, to be an MRL in South Korea. This is obviously held in Bowen, north Queensland. Our United States (U.S.) export program a significant issue especially with the use Registration and conference packages will is progressing with good support from of post-harvest fungicides. We have been be available later this month. Apart from growers, exporters, importers, and U.S. working with an international company, having a good time, and meeting new and retailers. Our project leader Michael ‘Exponent’ to develop a submission to old acquaintances, you will hear about Daysh has visited the U.S. recently and have South Korea accept a positive MRL new and interesting research, innovation reports of positive support from both for Scholar. The required documentation and technology. importers and the retailers involved. to have a suitable MRL established It has been pleasing to see mangoes from has been submitted and based on the Northern Territory make up most of the feedback to date we are confident it will
PAGEPAGE 44 MANGOMANGO MATTERSMATTERS CHAIRMAN’S REPORT
tested this year, as well as very strong There was a good selection of Northern results on dry matter (and brix). Mango Territory and Queensland fruit available at growers have really responded to the desire the same time. of consumers to deliver a great tasting The other aspect of this season which piece of fruit, and we are already seeing the has been pleasing to see, is that more discipline on picking being rewarded with growers are supporting expansion into strong repeat sales. export markets, even though it would be The major supermarkets and wholesale easy to put this off given the domestic markets have also delivered on the market is going well anyway. The AMIA is Greg McMahon promises they made at the start of the committed to growing the industry’s export Chairman, AMIA season. As growers have delivered fruit capability, which will in turn give growers which meets the quality specifications, the confidence to plant more trees, and Email: [email protected] Mob: 0419 831 899 the orders from the supermarkets have others in the supply chain will be similarly followed. The wholesale market prices have encouraged to continue to invest in our The 2016 / 17 season is now in full swing. also remained strong for good fruit, and industry. We don’t want export to take As I am writing this Darwin is winding down the programs the AMIA has in place for away from the fruit we supply to our very and Katherine is at its peak production the remainder of the season are focused important domestic consumers, but rather cycle. There has even been some fruit on continuing the good sales momentum it’s a focus for AMIA so mango businesses coming out of parts of North Queensland achieved to date. can continue to grow. Already we are seeing and the industry is on target to deliver evidence of new planting in many regions, One of the major initiatives is Mango Mess- approximately 7 million trays over the with the AMIA also promoting new varieties tival which was held in Sydney on Sunday course of this season. to further broaden the choice we can 4 December. I enjoyed the event, as it was provide consumers and growers. It has been great to see the weekly My the first one I was able to attend, thanks to Mango emails including both a significant mother nature delaying our season by a Best of luck for the remainder of the season. increase in the amount of fruit being quality couple of weeks.
SUMMER 2017 PAGE 5 DIRECTOR REPORTS
FAR NORTH QUEENSLAND & NORTH QUEENSLAND
SOUTHERN QUEENSLAND & NEW SOUTH WALES
John Nucifora M: 0418 193 885 E: [email protected] Matt Fealy This year has been very different; the M: 0402 412 471 weather has not been favourable. The E: [email protected] warmer than normal winter has made it As our region begins the first stages of difficult to achieve a strong flowering. harvesting favourable growing conditions At this stage I must say that yield will be (after unfavourable flowering conditions) down on last year, but by how much I do have allowed for good quality fruit to size not know. Ian Pershouse up and reach maturity. M: 0417 791 131 We hope that prices are higher than last E: [email protected] Earlier drizzly conditions didn’t last and year, with the decrease in volume the cost were adequately combated with a good of production will be very high. It will be There is not a lot to report from our spraying routine. All growers I speak interesting to see how profitable Mareeba region. The crops are generally very light, with have lower than expected yields for and Dimbulah will be this year. especially the Kensington Pride variety. Kensington Pride and to a much lesser Hopefully a good price may help to extent R2E2, but it seems Honey Gold, Wild storms destroyed some mango crops compensate for a lack of quantity. Calypso and other later varieties are fairing at Leafgold Road. My heart goes out to well. these growers. I would like to know what The weather has been very hot and windy the cost of production is for these growers for several weeks in our area, with a large Fingers crossed we do not experience over a five-year period. amount of irrigating required. any more storm cells that caused the damage to a few growers in the Dimbulah / On a lighter note, the mango conference is I have been pleased to hear that there has Mutchilba area in early November. Our coming up and will be held in Bowen. I look finally been a decision on the backpacker thoughts go out to those effected, a forward to attending the next conference, tax with what I believe is a fair result. position none of us hope to be in. Good as I had a great time at the last one in I hope all growers had a happy Christmas luck and best wishes to all in the region for Darwin. I would like to see as many growers and wish them all a better crop next season. a profitable harvest. as possible attend. Continued page 7
PAGE 6 MANGO MATTERS Han Shiong Siah M: 0423 444 598 E: [email protected] As another year comes to an end, another mango season is completed in the Northern Territory (N.T.). I would like to congratulate the growers of the N.T. for their hard work in completing another gruelling season. The crop this year was about average with estimated total trays sent out of the Darwin region to be 1.8 million trays, we saw slightly less than this with approximately 1.6 million trays sent. Most of the N.T. harvest was dispatched during late-October to mid-November, Continued from page 6 as the forecast predicted. Mangoes were late to the market this year partly due to a NORTHERN WESTERN warmer and unusual dry season, which saw AUSTRALIA & NORTHERN a delay in mango flower. TERRITORY Non-destructive quality testing of mangoes in the markets has shown a larger sample size of mangoes being tested and it is pleasing to see the vast majority of growers There seemed to be more parrots and meeting or exceeding the minimum dry cockatoos around this year eating green matter standard. fruit, so hopefully they do not get a taste for With Jessica Mitchell and others doing on mangoes in later years. farm visits to allow farmers to check their There were enough workers to get the fruit for dry matter, this has allowed growers job done however if the crop was bigger to better understand what stage of maturity it would be a concern. It was good to see their mangoes are at, and given them an Gavin Scurr the buyers from the major retailers visiting estimate as to when their mangoes can be M: 0407 714 549 harvested. E: [email protected] the region during harvest to get a better understanding of how the crop is coming Most of the farmers in the N.T. are now The harvest in Katherine commenced off and to see firsthand the challenges of putting up their feet for a couple of days of properly in mid-November which is a good producing a quality product. well-deserved rest and relaxation. couple of weeks later than normal. Although It is also encouraging to see growers the crop was not huge it was a good The roar of the hedging machine is now in harvesting only mature fruit, which then average crop with little quality problems. full swing trying to beat the monsoon rain. delivers a great eating experience for I hope all growers had a great Christmas While there were storms around in early our consumers. This goes a long way to and new year. November there was not any serious increasing demand which in turn keeps damage to the crop. prices up. Continued page 8
SUMMER 2017 PAGE 7
Continued from page 7 INDUSTRY DIRECTOR SNAPSHOT REPORTS Chemical update – minor use permits AMIA, in association with HIA and specialist Peter Dal Santo have several minor use permit applications being investigated and prepared for submission to the Australian Pesticide and
Geoff Warnock Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA). M: 0438 884 842 E: [email protected] Lannate (Methomyl): To control thrips. KUNUNURRA: This season is proving to Samurai (Clothianidin): be very challenging, the results of the early To control sucking pests and fruit fly. flowering was disappointing in respect to production, however the prices received Maldison: were strong and remained stable for several To control fruit fly. weeks. Picking peaked toward the end of AMIA has held the minor use permit for Actara (Thiamethoxam, November, but production from this region Permit 14286) for some time. Syngenta have been undertaking will be down considerably on previous research to gain registration for the product for several years. years. APVMA has reviewed the outcomes of that research and as a Adding to grower’s concerns are the result of that review have questioned the efficacy of Actara as a vast numbers of magpie geese that have soil applied insecticide. Syngenta have advised that they cannot migrated to the area. support permit 14286 under these circumstances and has requested that the permit be surrendered. AMIA has agreed with CARNARVON: Flowering here started APVMA’s assessment and requested the permit be withdrawn. strongly and around the normal time, leading to growers anticipating a productive AMIA have been speaking with Sumitomo who has been season. working on a soil applied insecticide (applied though irrigation) for sucking insect pests such as flattids and seed weevil. The Unfortunately, adverse weather has active constituent, Clothianidin (marketed as Shield) is currently interfered with growth and setting of the registered in a number of other crops in Australia. The research fruit and it now appears that there will be being conducted by Sumitomo has produced positive results. average volumes of fruit produced. The We are working with Sumitomo to apply for a minor use permit for season would normally be expected to start Clothianidin. around mid-December. With all minor use applications, further research may need to be SOUTHERN REGION: Some early conducted and APVMA needs to ensure that the proposed use flowering was evident here but very lightly pattern fits within the minor use criteria. spread through the area. Having the coldest winter for many years hindered the normal flowering, but growers in this region are now experiencing fluctuating temperatures day and night; Crop nutrition this appears to be creating numerous flowerings. Growers are waiting to see how In 2013, Matt Weinert (previously from Queensland Department the fruit will set, as this will indicate whether of Agriculture and Fisheries) and Ted Winston (crop consultant) there will be a good season. developed a presentation on crop nutrition. With most Northern Territory and some Queensland growers now finished harvest, and with pruning complete, it is timely to think about the fertilisers you are going to use for your next crop. Visit: www.industry.mangoes.net.au/resource-collection/food-for- fruit-nutrition to view the presentation. Make sure you speak with your agronomist / crop consultant about your crop nutrition.
PAGE 8 MANGO MATTERS
CELEBRATE COLLABORATE
11TH AUSTRALIAN MANGO CONFERENCE BOWEN QLD 25 MAY 2017
The 11th Australian Mango PRESENTATIONS WILL THE PROGRAM INCLUDE*: Conference will focus Tuesday 2 May on growing profitability • Robotics in the orchard Evening - Welcome reception • Robotics in the packing shed Wednesday 3 May through innovation and • Managing your crop through flowering new technology. and fruit set Retail and market trends, new markets, • New methods to manage fruit fly and Major retailers, importers and exporters other insect pests A number of presentations on a wide Evening - free • Comparing spray applicators range of topics will be discussed, Thursday 4 May that will help growers to streamline • Changing trends in retail and its impact processes in both the orchard and on our industry A mix of presentations and field activities packing shed. • Quality assurance programs - Evening – Gala dinner harmonisation The conference will also be a great Friday 5 May opportunity to catch up with your • Developing new protocols for export industry colleagues, reflect on another markets A mix of presentations and field activities mango season and plan for future • Nitrogen use in the canopy Evening – Farewell drinks seasons. • Maximising pollination • Understanding Magpie Geese Sponsorships and trade exhibit Don’t miss this year’s conference, at • Updates on managing fruit spotting bug spaces are now available. the birthplace of the Australian mango Please contact AMIA on 07 3278 industry. [*Program subject to change] 3755 or [email protected]
To register visit www.infosalons.com.au/MANGOES17NQ
CONFERENCE Port Denison Motor Inn Whitsunday Sands Resort ACCOMMODATION Rooms starting from $120 per night Rooms starting from $125 per night Accommodation will be available at the [Continental breakfast available on request [Limited breakfast options available. Please following resorts, please book directly for $10 per person.] contact the resort for further information.] with the providers below and mention 11 Darlymple Street, Bowen, QLD 2a Horseshoe Bay Road, Bowen, QLD that you are there for the Australian Phone: (07) 4786 6822 Phone: (07) 4786 3333 Mango Conference to access special www.portdenisonmotorinn.com.au www.whitsundaysandsresort.com delegate rates: Coral Cove Apartments Rose Bay Resort Bluewater Harbour Motel Rooms starting from $225 per night Rooms starting from $160 per night Rooms starting from $129 per night [Breakfast hamper available for $12 per [Breakfast not available at the resort.] [Continental breakfast for $15.90 or full person. Must be ordered in advance and breakfast for $22.90 available on request.] 2 Pandanus Street, Bowen, QLD will be delivered to rooms on the evening Phone: (07) 4786 9000 1 Powell Street, Bowen, QLD before.] Phone: (07) 4786 6289 www.rosebayresort.com.au 2B Horseshoe Bay Rd, Bowen QLD www.bluewatermotel.com.au Phone: (07) 4791 2000 www.coralcoveapartments.com.au
SUMMER 2017 PAGE 9 WHAT OUR GROWERS MARKETING SAID ABOUT THE RETAIL TOUR
“Our eyes were dazzled by the many great fruit shops and supermarkets who, not only Mango growers on tour— had large displays of mangoes at the very front of the shop, but had multiple displays engaged, excited and exhilarated throughout the entire fruit and vegetable section, so if you had Australia celebrated the first weekend of summer and a diverse not bought a mango on the way group of mango growers left farms across the country to take to in, you certainly had to leave with some.” - Karen Muccignat Sydney streets and experience all the energy, excitement, and “It was fantastic to see the exhilaration of a mango season in its peak! major supermarkets, as well as independent grocers, putting in such a big effort to sell our Boarding the bus was Muy and Erika to retailer one thing was indisputable— fruit, maintaining high quality Keav from Mama Mangoes, Darwin; Steve mangoes were the KING OF FRUITS, at good prices. Everyone was Beatty from Blush, Berry Springs; Greg commanding front and centre stage at very focused on flavour, and McMahon and Emma Harrison from Seven every store we visited. we learned from the retailers Fields, Katherine; Luciano Raco and Julian The highlight of the day was the that this is critical for growing Harrison from Kings Farm, Katherine; personalised tour and five course lunch sales.” - Emma Harrison Karen Muccignat from Muccignat Farming, hosted by David Harris, his family and his Mutchilba; and Melanie Groves from “The most impressive were the buying team at their Drummoyne store. Groves Farm Yeppoon. Harris Farm Markets shops, Afterall it was Saturday and several of the way they lay out their Now in its third year the purpose of the them had driven considerable distances mangoes in so many different Grower Market Tour is to enable growers to to happily share their story, explain their spots. Everywhere we turned engage in all aspects of the supply chain, mango strategy, openly answer all our there were mangoes—in the giving them a real appreciation of what it questions and best of all, share a delicious carpark, outside the shop, in takes to successfully market mangoes, meal featuring all things mango. front of the shop, and so many and keep the “wheel of velocity and Continued page 11 momentum” moving to the beat of the crop. places inside the shop. They The tour gave growers the opportunity to had all the varieties, plus small see things they had never seen, hear things mangoes, large mangoes, trays they had never heard, go behind doors they of mangoes, imperfect picks, would not ordinarily walk through and share even mango smoothies and in conversations they would not otherwise cut mango cups, and so many have. people buying the mangoes!” - Muy Keav DAY 1 - RETAIL TOUR Our tour began on Saturday visiting a wide range of stores across all retail markets including: Aldi, Coles, Independent The Harris Farm Greengrocers, Harris Farm Markets, IGA Markets delicious and Woolworths. While the number and size mango dessert. of the mango displays varied from retailer Harris Farm Markets, Westfield, Bondi.
Coles, Waterloo. Lunch at Harris Farm Markets, Drummoyne.
PAGE 10 MANGO MATTERS WHAT OUR GROWERS SAID ABOUT MANGO MESS-TIVAL “Mess-tival was tremendous, with thousands of consumers eagerly tasting the main four varieties – Kensington Pride, R2E2, Honey Gold Continued from page 10 and Calypso. Consumers loved hearing our grower stories and the free-flowing information and feedback was awesome.” DAY 2 - MANGO MESS-TIVAL - Karen Muccignat Sunday dawned and with great excitement “Mess-tival was amazing. It was a complete eye opener and I think it is our growers enthusiastically boarded the an excellent way for our mango industry to interact with the public. It bus and headed for Bondi Beach. Mango Mess-tival (Mess-tival) is our industry’s was incredible to see so many enthusiastic mango lovers on mass.” signature event and something our growers - Steve Beatty were very keen to experience. Meeting “Mess-tival was spectacular, so much colour, noise and excitement. and greeting consumers, they shared their Everyone loved tasting the different varieties and they all wanted to stories, their knowledge and their passion, buy them. We could have sold truckloads in four hours so I hope the gave tips and advice, handed out samples, Bondi retailers did a roaring trade.” - Emma Harrison and smiled for the paparazzi.
Continued page 12
Karen Muccignat, Mess-tival’s R2E2 Ambassador. Mel Groves shows off R2E2’s at Mess-tival.
Our growers at Mess-tival.
SUMMER 2017 PAGE 11 Continued from page 11
DAY 3 - MARKETS AND DISTRIBUTION CENTRES TOUR Monday was our final day and as the sun came up we boarded the bus to tour the Sydney markets and meet with wholesalers. This was an opportunity for growers to gauge the pulse of the market, to meet and speak with a range of wholesalers, to see our ‘objective reporting’ process, and to add to their market intelligence. The day ended with a tour of a Costco store and behind-the- scene tours of both the Woolworths and Aldi distribution centres providing growers with a deeper understanding of the different Growers watching the objective reporting process at a retailer business models; the service and quality level with Clare Hamilton Bate. requirements and the receivals, order picking, dispatch and quality assessment processes. As the day drew to a close our growers left Sydney engaged, excited, exhilarated and exhausted. On behalf of the AMIA I extend sincere thanks and gratitude to all the growers, wholesalers and retailers who participated in making our 2016 Grower Market Tour such a rich experience and an unforgettable mango memory. This year’s dates have been set and planning is already underway. We’d love you to join us so please put Friday 1 to Monday 4 December 2017 in your diary now. For more information contact Treena Welch at AMIA: [email protected] or 0417 001 253. Breakfast at Woolworths.
Woolworths Distribution Centre
PAGE 12 MANGO MATTERS WHAT OUR GROWERS SAID ABOUT THE MARKETS AND DISTRIBUTON CENTRES TOUR
“The distribution centres was a highlight of the trip. It was fascinating to see such a huge part of the supply chain that is too often overlooked. Those we spoke to at Woolworths, Aldi, and Costco were very enthusiastic about mangoes and Woolworths showed real passion as they generously shared their sales strategy and commitment to high quality fruit with great flavour. We learned that Woolworths are using the F-750 Produce Quality Meters to test the dry matter of mangoes on arrival at their distribution centres, an initiative to be applauded.” - Melanie Groves “Overall it was a very engaging, informative and fun trip and I would like to thank my fellow tour mates for their great company. I totally urge any mango farmer to consider attending the next one!” - Karen Muccignat “I found it a very enlightening experience to see that end of the business. In the past I have never had anything to do with the fruit after I have delivered it to the packing shed. It was great to see how it is handled, Visiting the ALDI Distribution Centre. displayed and marketed to the public once it arrives. I would highly recommend the tour to any grower.” - Steve Beatty
SUMMER 2017 PAGE 13 Mango Mess-tival celebrates its 5th birthday with a bang! On 4 December 2016 – the first weekend of summer – Bondi was struck by mango madness as mango lovers from around Australia descended on the famous beach to celebrate all things mango at the annual Mango Mess-tival (Mess-tival)!
NBSLSC nippers compete in a mango challenge.
Held in partnership with the North Bondi Ben Martin for the R2E2s and Gavin Scurr Surf Life Saving Club (NBSLSC), Mess-tival for the Honey Golds they generously honours the peak of mango season and the donated for the day’s activities. start of summer, but this year it had even Back for a second year was the ever- more to celebrate as we marked the big popular social media photo booth, which milestone of Mess-tival’s 5th birthday! saw 939 members of the public step-up As in previous years, NBSLSC nippers to have their photo taken with promotional faced-off in frenzied mango flag races and Aussie Mangoes gear, fresh mangoes and mango relay races, whilst off the sand, our #mangoemojiplease campaign signs! mango-eating competitions saw nippers Their shot was then printed out and shared go head-to-head against parents and digitally with over 13,000 family and friends! members of the public in the hopes of Also back by popular demand were the winning a tray of juicy, fresh mangoes! intricate mango carving demonstrations, Once again, our growers flew in from completed by Charlie, a reputable fruit around the country to share their produce carver who handed out beautiful flower and educate the public on different varieties sculptures made from fresh Aussie and taste profiles of Kensington Pride, Mangoes! Calypso, R2E2 and Honey Gold. These Moreover, this year’s Mess-tival included a growers included Greg McMahon, Emma brand new consumer activity: a smoothie Harrison, Muy and Erika Keav, Steve Beatty, bicycle! Throughout the day, mango- Gavin, Rebecca and Julie Scurr, Jake Zalm, lovers hopped on board a bicycle and Karen Muccignat and Melanie Groves. furiously peddled to blend their very own This resulted in our highest sampling fresh mango smoothie! The bicycle also figures ever, with 8,800 mango samples featured on one of Weekend Today’s six taste-tested by Sydney’s mango lovers. live weather crosses, filmed at Mess-tival This is a 3.5% increase on last year, throughout the morning. Other crosses representing an average of 37 samples per included mango eating competitions, grilled minute! mango hedgehogs on the barbecue, flower carving demonstrations and mango relay I’d like to say a big thank you to Greg races. This broadcast was watched by over McMahon for the Kensington Prides, 300,000 people around Australia! Perfection Fresh Australia for the Calypsos, Continued page 15
PAGE 14 MANGO MATTERS Mango eating competitions were a hit. Nippers with their mango flowers and #mangoemojiplease sign.
Continued from page 14
The mango festivities were also captured in The Daily Telegraph’s Best Weekend events planner section, the Sydney Morning Herald’s Spectrum magazine, and The Wentworth Courier. Moreover, the Prime Minister, Malcolm Turnbull stopped by to taste-test a mango flower, which was broadcast on Channel 7, Channel 9 and ABC’s nightly news bulletins, and Channel 10’s The Project. Social media influencers also came down to join in the celebration, with Instagram’s @BonnyRebecca, @Emily_Hunt and @NourishingNicola sharing the fun with their community, whilst Channel 7’s Sunrise co-host, Samantha Armytage tried her hand at the smoothie bicycle and shared an The mango smoothie bicycle was a new attraction this year. image on her Instagram page, which was picked up by The Daily Mail Australia! Indeed, this year’s Mess-tival press office coverage and social media influencer activity has reached over 14 million people—that is 6 million more than last year! Whilst Mess-tival is designed to drive This year’s demand and keep mangoes top-of-mind for consumers throughout the festive Mess-tival press season, the day’s efforts also go towards office coverage raising funds for NBSLSC, who are then and social media able to purchase much-needed life-saving equipment and dedicate more resources to influencer activity training its members. This year saw a huge has reached Weekend Today live weather cross. $16,820 raised, contributing to a grand five- over 14 million year total of $70,320! people—that is Whether you contributed mangoes, watched the Today broadcast, attended 6 million more Mess-tival, or devoured a mango in honour than last year! of the 5th birthday celebrations, we would like to thank everyone who took part this year. With evaluation underway, we are already looking ahead to next season’s Mess-tival, which is guaranteed to be bigger and better than ever! For more information contact Elisa King at HIA: [email protected] or (02) 8295 2332
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull’s visit to Mess-tival was covered by Channel 7 news (above), Channel 9, ABC and Channel 10.
SUMMER 2017 PAGE 15 RESEARCH & POLICY
DAF Small Tree High Productivity Project mango field walk
The Queensland Department and to talk directly to the scientists undertaking such intensive and innovative of Agriculture and Fisheries research, aimed at maximising the efficacy (DAF) hosted a two-hour of future mango orchards. The transforming subtropical / tropical field walk at the Walkamin tree crop productivity project is now in its Research Station on 29 third year and is a collaboration between HIA, using the across industry research November, to showcase the and development levy and co-investment latest mango research. funds from Queensland Government, the Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, and funds from the The research forms part of the transforming Australian Government. subtropical / tropical tree crop productivity project, which is the major component of Article submitted by Dr Geoff Dickinson, DAF’s ground-breaking Small Tree High Senior Horticulturist, and Kaila Ridgway, Productivity Initiative. Development Horticulturist, Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, DAF’s Dr Ian Bally and Dr Paula Ibell Dr Paula Ibell speaking with local ABC radio Mareeba. Contact geoff.dickinson@daf. outlined to growers and other industry journalist at the field day. qld.gov or [email protected] for participants the key areas of the project further information. with support from the local research team, Cheryl Maddox, Dr Mahmud Kare, and PhD student Anahita Mizani. Together they guided visitors through the trial site, discussing and answering questions on the key subjects of the project—trellis and single leader tree training, planting systems, vigour control and light interception, root stock trials and the new mango varieties. The event was a great opportunity to get the latest updates on the project, see the Participants at the field performance and cropping of the three- day viewing high density year-old experimental trees growing at mango planting on a trellis training system. different densities and training systems,
University of Queensland PhD student Anahita Mizani explaining the different root stock-scion combinations and the methods being used for the assessment of vigour control at the root stock experiment.
PAGE 16 MANGO MATTERS Magpie Geese on mango orchards update Throughout the mango season, Charles Darwin University PhD student Amélie Corriveau worked closely with local farmers and NT Field and Game Association to develop new methods for reducing the impact of Magpie Geese on mango orchards.
Charles Darwin University PhD student Amélie Corriveau with a Magpie Goose. Amélie said, “this year a few different Photo credit: Damien Stanioch. experiments were conducted and goose scaring methods evaluated. Although we have not thoroughly examined the data, some of these field approaches and The success of this initiative relies highly on who may be interested in allowing the methods seem promising.” strong collaborations between researchers researchers to conduct goose mitigation and farmers. trials in 2017. Now that the mango harvest is over, the researchers have the time to examine the The team at Charles Darwin University is If you are interested, please email data more closely, and will be providing keen to hear from mango farmers with a [email protected]. updates throughout the year. goose problem, and
SUMMER 2017 PAGE 17 Training systems for trellised mangoes Tree architecture is known to affect productivity and fruit quality, and can also influence tree management, improving the efficiency of activities such as spraying and harvesting.
The Queensland Department of Agriculture Picture 1: Two-year-old Keitt tree and Fisheries (DAF) has been evaluating trained with the fan training technique, the benefits of three tree architectural with casual employee Chris Walsh at training systems on trellis grown mangoes Walkamin Research Station. at Walkamin Research Station within an Australia / Philippines mango crop management project co-funded by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR). This ACIAR project is one of several complementary projects which collectively address the aims of DAF’s ground-breaking Small Tree High Productivity Initiative. The other projects are the current five-year AI13004 transforming subtropical / tropical tree crop productivity project co-funded by efficiency. The training systems are being THE TRAINING SYSTEMS: HIA, and an earlier project that commenced tested on four varieties including Keitt, the initiative, funded only from DAF treasury Calypso, NMBP 1243 and NMBP 4069. Fan – first order laterals are trained from allocation and royalty income. low on the trunk to form a fan along the Each of the training systems offer different trellis. Branches are then tied to the trellis to It is expected that over time, other projects scaffold configurations which may fill the lower part of the trellis. As branches will follow on from this work, as training influence vegetative growth, flowering and grow up they are spaced to radiate and fill system studies are a long-term endeavour. cropping slightly differently. As mango the space on the wires, and secured to the The ACIAR project enables us to study is a terminal bearing tree, the number trellis. trellising and training alternatives that were of terminal branches is important as it directly influences the numbers of flowers. Although this shape is more two- not possible to include in the concurrent dimensional, one of the main benefits of AI13004 project. The aims of the ACIAR Limiting trees to horizontal branching and the associated bending and training to this system is that it is similar to how the project are to evaluate espalier (or fence), tree naturally grows, requiring little bending fan and cordon training systems (picture 1) reduce vigour is showing promise, however the technique can be time and labour and tying of branches with the tree filling on high density, trellised mangoes— the trellis quickly (picture 1 and figure 2a). for their growth, flowering, and cropping consuming. Continued page 19
(a) (b) (c)
Figure 2: Three canopy training techniques (a) Fan, (b) Cordon and (c) Espalier (or fence) training techniques.
PAGE 18 MANGO MATTERS This research will assist the development of high density orchard systems that are consistently high yielding and suit a variety of growing conditions and cultivars.
Continued from page 18
Cordon – first order laterals are branching is suggested. Pruning laterals ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS encouraged to grow horizontal and then is perhaps better left to summer when naturally bend up to vertical to fill the lower vegetative growth is more passive. This trial is co-funded by DAF and ACIAR, wire at the allocated space on the trellis, as part of the ACIAR integrated crop An evaluation of the different training any main leader is also allowed to grow management for mango production in systems’ growth, flowering and yield, will vertically. This method takes advantage Southern Philippines and Australia project. start shortly. of the upright growth habit of the mango Images in figure 2 were purchased from DK (figure 2b). This research will assist the development Images, London. of high density orchard systems that are Espalier – a single leader is encouraged ACIAR funds international and domestic consistently high yielding and suit a variety to go vertical while the first order laterals research to improve the productivity of growing conditions and cultivars. These are trained horizontally. The leader is tipped and profitability of agricultural systems training systems will need to be grown at each point where it crosses the trellis in partner countries as well as providing and evaluated over several years to fully wire, to encourage branching, and the benefits to Australian industries, such as understand the positives and negatives of laterals are tipped to encourage branching the Australian mango industry. each method. repeating this process until the tree fills ACIAR have been a key funder of mango the trellis. We found laterals need to be research in Australia for over 30 years pruned to encourage sub-laterals (into including work on tree phenology, varieties the rows) to increase flowering positions and pests and disease management. (figure 2c). Pruning the laterals in spring tended to encourage heavy vegetative Article submitted by Dr Paula Ibell, and response, which competed with the single Dr Ian Bally, Queensland Department of leader. Therefore, limiting pruning to the Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF), Mareeba. single leader0591_16_Mango in spring / winterMatters to HPH encourage Ad R1.pdf 1 22/02/2016 9:16 am Planting Mango Trees?
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SUMMER 2017 PAGE 19 Freshcare update Freshcare was developed by the fresh produce industry, in response to the need for a practical, cost effective, industry focused food safety program. Based on Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs), Freshcare was designed to allow implementation by all grower businesses, regardless of crop, size or location. Freshcare continues to operate as an industry-led, not-for-profit program.
Over the last 16 years, the Freshcare Food In February 2016, Freshcare FSQ was FRESHCARE STANDARDS – Safety and Quality Standard (FSQ) has approved by The Joint Accreditation NEW EDITIONS undergone regular reviews, to ensure it System of Australia and New Zealand (JAS- remains relevant to industry and complies ANZ) to operate as an accredited standard In 2016, Freshcare launched the fourth with the requirements of its many users under ISO/IEC17065:2012; all Freshcare edition of its Food Safety and Quality including growers and packers supplying FSQ certificates will transition to accredited Standard (FSQ4), and the third edition of to the processing, retail and export market certification by mid-2017 as individual the Freshcare Environmental Standard sectors. audits fall due. (ENV3). Freshcare Environmental Standards were Accreditation: verifies that a certification The new standards are more practical developed in 2006 and service both the body has an appropriate management and streamlined, have a better structural fresh produce and wine grape sectors. Now system in place to ensure they manage an alignment and have improved access to in its 16th year of operation, Freshcare’s agreed certification process, consistently guidance material. practical approach to helping growers and and in accordance with agreed criteria. All audits from 1 January 2017 must packers provide an assurance to customers Certification: is the process through which be undertaken to the new edition that their produce is safe to eat and has a certification body confirms a participating standards FSQ4 and ENV3. been grown sustainably, has seen over business has the appropriate systems in 5,500 fresh produce and wine grape grower Copies of the Freshcare FSQ4 and ENV3 place to demonstrate compliance with the businesses adopt the program, making it Standards can be downloaded from the requirements of the Freshcare standard. Australia’s largest and most widely adopted Freshcare website: www.freshcare.com.au on farm assurance program. FRESHCARE HARMONISED AUSTRALIAN BENCHMARKING TO THE FRESHCARE FOOD RETAILER PRODUCE GLOBAL FOOD SAFETY SAFETY AND QUALITY SCHEME (HARPS)—THE INITIATIVE (GFSI) MOVES TO ACCREDITED DRIVER FOR CHANGE CERTIFICATION A key driver in Freshcare’s move to One of the most commonly heard criticisms accredited certification is the retailer Since its launch in July 2000, Freshcare has of quality assurance in the fresh produce driven requirement for Freshcare to be operated as a private industry standard, sector is the duplication of systems or benchmarked to the Global Food Safety a structure that up until now has been standards that an individual business may Initiative. adequate to meet the requirements of all face when supplying more than one major stakeholders. The Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI), customer. provides an international ‘benchmark However, for Freshcare to remain an Whilst the systems / standards may be model’ against which other standards can approved standard in the fresh produce almost identical in content, the fact that no be assessed. The GFSI process enables sector, the program now needs to one system is accepted by all customers customers to accept fresh produce from operate under a more formal structure of usually results in extended audit time, suppliers with any food safety system certification body approval and compliance, extended reporting time and significant that is recognised as equivalent to GFSI as an accredited certification. cost. - knowing that an agreed standard of Under accredited certification, an compliance will have been achieved. Continued page 21 independent ‘check of the checkers’ takes If everything goes to plan, Freshcare hopes place to provide a greater certainty and to be fully GFSI benchmarked by mid / late consistency of process. This will ensure 2017. that all certification bodies audit their clients consistently, in accordance with Freshcare’s clearly defined standards, in an impartial manner and always based on evidence; with the auditors from those accredited certification bodies required to Successful completion of benchmarking, formally demonstrate competence to audit and recognition of FSQ4 by GLOBALG.A.P., to that agreed standard. would enable Australian growers to build Whilst much of the rigour enforced through accredited certification was already in place on their existing food safety and quality when Freshcare operated as a private certification as a streamlined compliance scheme, the independent recognition of the process through accreditation is key to process to access export markets. the ongoing acceptance of Freshcare as a certification standard.
PAGE 20 MANGO MATTERS Mangoes in a Freshcare accredited tray.
Continued from page 20
Certification bodies try to equip their FRESHCARE ANNOUNCES The initial step in the process is to identify / auditors to deal with this duplication, but GLOBALG.A.P. BENCHMARK clarify the requirements for GAPs in the key for large producers, supplying several of export markets for Australian fresh produce, the major retail chains and / or food service INITIATIVE including several Asian markets and the providers, the duplication in compliance is Australian growers looking to enter key Middle East. often a costly, time consuming nightmare. It export markets are set to save significant Industry consultation has already is not uncommon for a business to have to cost and complication once global commenced and any businesses interested demonstrate compliance to five separate, and domestic food safety certification in making input at this preliminary stage, yet similar standards. requirements are combined. should contact Clare Hamilton-Bate – The QA Harmonisation project funded by The popular industry led Freshcare FSQ4 [email protected] or 0407 930 586. HIA was undertaken to address this issue will benchmark against the widely accepted Once the scope of the benchmark is in the fresh produce sector. The project has GLOBALG.A.P. Standard to provide an confirmed, a gap analysis of FSQ4 will be been supported by the five biggest grocery export market version for Australian conducted against the requirements of retailers in Australia: Coles, Woolworths, growers. GLOBALG.A.P. Certification (v5.0). ALDI, Costco and IGA. The new initiative being delivered through As part of the formal benchmark It is estimated that the fresh produce HIA – using vegetable industry levy funds submission, the outcomes will then be market share covered by these businesses and funds from the Australian Government developed and submitted to GLOBALG.A.P. is approximately 70% of the total Australian – in partnership with peak industry body this year. market. AUSVEG, will have a significant impact for Regular project updates will be provided The result of the QA Harmonisation project growers in many export sectors. through both the Freshcare website and is the Harmonised Australian Retailer Historically, growers have had to undertake industry communications, with the project Produce Scheme (HARPS). HARPS has a lengthy, complicated and costly transition due for completion later this year. resulted in the alignment of the major to implement an entirely new food safety grocery retailers in Australia accepting a standard (GLOBALG.A.P. – standalone) Article submitted by Clare Hamilton-Bate, suite of food safety standards (including for export market access. Successful Executive Officer at Freshcare. For further Freshcare FSQ4), that will allow growers completion of benchmarking, and updates or information on how to get and packers to complete a single audit recognition of FSQ4 by GLOBALG.A.P., involved in Freshcare, please visit against a single standard, that will satisfy would enable Australian growers to build www.freshcare.com.au. all stakeholders, rather than audits against on their existing food safety and quality multiple standards. certification as a streamlined compliance For more information on HARPS visit process to access export markets. www.harpsonline.com.au.
SUMMER 2017 PAGE 21 PEOPLE & EVENTS
International Symposium on Tropical and Temperate Horticulture Over 200 horticulturists from 23 countries attended the International Symposium on Tropical and Temperate Horticulture at the Cairns Convention Centre, from Monday 21 to Friday 25 November.
Leading-edge mango research was presented to this international audience by Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) scientist’s including Dr Paula Ibell (mango orchard management systems), Dr Natalie Dillon (mapping the mango genome), Dr Andrew Macnish (managing under-skin browning) and Dr Geoff Dickinson (achieving environmental and economic sustainability). A highlight of the conference was the “Grower Breakfast and Panel Discussion: Food bowl or dust bowl?”. This lively public event was mediated by television personality Don Burke, and included Dimbulah mango and avocado grower Mrs Kylie Collins as one of the five industry panellists. Article submitted by Dr Geoff Dickinson, Senior Horticulturist, Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Dr Vik Pandrey (India Council of Agricultural Research) and Dr Natalie Dillon (DAF) Mareeba. Contact geoff.dickinson@ discuss mango breeding opportunities. daf.qld.gov for further information.
Panel discussion mediated by Don Burke. Conference panellists and Mareeba fruit growers Gerard Kath and Kylie Collins with DAF Senior Horticulturist, Dr Geoff Dickinson.
PAGE 22 MANGO MATTERS Matt Fealy recipient of 2017 Nuffield Scholarship AMIA director, Matt Fealy has recently been awarded a 2017 Nuffield Scholarship, supported by Woolworths Australia.
Matt was awarded the scholarship to If we can reduce harvest labour by even investigate cost saving opportunities and just ten to fifteen percent, in most cases, improved farm management, with the use it will completely cover fertiliser costs,” of robotics and emerging technologies for he said. in-field plant health analysis, forecasting As part of the scholarship Matt will visit and harvesting. some of the world’s best farmers across Essentially Matt hopes to make in-field all industries in the United Kingdom, the practices more efficient and effective to United States, India, Turkey and Qatar ultimately reduce costs for growers. this year. “If we could measure tree health, Over the next two years he will also attend instantaneously, regularly and reliably, we several agriculture robotics conventions could begin to target manage horticulture, and research institutes in Germany, Spain, rather than rely on a broad shotgun Japan and more. approach. Matt would like thank Nuffield Australia, “This would result in greater fertiliser Woolworths Australia, and his family efficiency, phenology timing and staying for supporting him in this life changing ahead of nutrient deficiency. Resulting in opportunity. balanced trees and hopefully, greater yield Previous mango industry recipients have and less nutrient related quality issues. Matt Fealy, 2017 Nuffield Scholarship recipient. included Han Siah.
SUMMER 2017 PAGE 23 PAGE 24 MANGO MATTERS