Issue #68 • March 2012 Newsletter of the Murray Valley Citrus Board

Inside this issue:

Page Article Chairman’s Report

1 • Chairman’s Report Jan Denham 2 • Citrus Board Funding the War on Queensland Fruit Fly It’s that time again. Four years have passed quickly it seems and 4 • Chief Executive’s Report by the time you receive this Citrep, you will have received a package 5 • Proposed Murray Darling Basin Plan of information and many will have attended the consultation 6 • Running Costs of Diesel, LPG and Electrical Pumpsets in meetings carried out by the Victorian DPI on the re-making of the Murray Valley Citrus Board (MVCB). 7 • Activities of the Murray Valley Citrus Board – March Quarter 2012

8 • FEATURE ARTICLE: Citrus Information Technology Transfer The future of the services provided by the The MVCB has, over the years, been a leader Groups (CITTgroups) MVCB in this region depends on the outcome. in the development of the citrus industry This important decision needs to be made by and continues to provide important services. 10 • 2011 Tour of the Murray River: An all growers. Growers must consider the situation On-going MVCB Citrus Promotion carefully. It was the first to see the need for a sound 12 • FEATURE ARTICLE: database on crop forecasting and planting The Age Harvest Picnic at Werribee Park The MVCB, set up to manage your regional statistics. It has developed robust systems levy, to provide you with regionally relevant that have been adopted by other citrus 14 • Carbon Trading and the Potential research and grower information services, is growing regions. This data is now provided for the Citrus Industry to Provide established under the Agricultural Industry free of charge to Citrus , the industry Sequestration Services – Growing Trees Development Act. Every four years growers national body, in aggregated form for their are asked to vote on whether they wish to National Crop Forecast and Plantings database. 15 • Sunraysia Farmers’ Market Update continue with the Order establishing the Murray Valley Citrus Board. The MVCB was the lead industry in establishing 16 • A CAL Conference Presentation the PFA (pest free area) and, until last season, The voting process is managed by Vic DPI, achieved great cost savings for all MVCB on behalf of both and NSW, and growers. A grower recently told me that he is responsible for the preparation of the estimates cold disinfestation of his fruit for documents sent to Murray Valley growers, export last season cost him $70–$80,000 the process of consultation, subsequent advice dollars. That is just one grower. The fight to Ministers and the polling of growers, continues against the recent outbreak. independently of the Board. Having a well-resourced regional group Following the DPI consultation meetings, has been invaluable in addressing, in a a report is prepared for the Minister who timely manner the Queensland fruit fly then decides if there should be a poll of (QFF) outbreaks that occurred last season Murray Valley Citrus Board growers about the re-making of the MVCB. and are continuing into this season, which PO Box 1384 Victoria 3502 If the Minister decides to carry out the poll the emergency required. The Board was Telephone (03) 5051 0500 the Electoral Commission will be advised to Facsimile (03) 5021 1905 conduct it. Cont’d on page 3... Email [email protected] Website www.mvcitrus.org.au 2 Newsletter of the Murray Valley Citrus Board

Citrus Board Funding the War on Queensland Fruit Fly

The last 18 months have seen an unprecedented number of outbreaks of Queensland Fruit Fly (QFF) in the Murray Valley. At one stage, there were 34 outbreaks operating within the Sunraysia Pest Free Area. Around half of these outbreaks are on commercial grower’s properties with the rest being in peri urban areas.

The Murray Valley Citrus Board (MVCB) Fortunately, the Board had planned for It has enabled properties affected by QFF has been working very closely with both an emergency pest situation by allocating outbreaks to be quickly identified and the Victorian and levy funds paid in previous years to enable property owners to be contacted. Departments of Primary Industries and other control measures to be undertaken when government agencies to help eradicate the outbreaks occurred. Clearly, this is a major Growers operating horticultural business outbreaks and regain regional access to benefit of having a regional statutory within 1500m of an epicentre of a declared lucrative QFF sensitive domestic and export Board in place. QFF outbreak must take action to control markets. The strategy for the 2011/12 QFF on their properties. From detailed summer period has varied from last summer The Board’s property registration process, aerial maps, it has been established with growers being asked to take a hands-on which includes a detailed aerial map of that there are approximately 132 citrus role in performing eradication measures each citrus property and their extensive properties inside the 1500m radius, on their properties with Government up-to date plantings database, has also comprising around 1500 hectares, which departmental staff focusing on peri urban been a bonus for a co-ordinated and required eradication measures. areas. strategic approach to QFF control measures in the Sunraysia Pest Free Area. Without the Board collecting and The MVCB has been proactive in making collating individual property owners the QFF chemical, Naturalure, available to both New South Wales and Victorian citrus growers within the Murray Valley. Newsletter of the Murray Valley Citrus Board 3

Chairman’s Report Cont’d...

quickly able to identify all citrus growers The MVCB Board currently spends its in the 1.5km radius of the epicentres and budget on the following areas: facilitated the necessary actions that • 57% on grower services – this growers were required to carry out. The includes the IDO and sessions Board was able to subsidise the costs for growers, fruit testing, crop of the treatments for those growers. forecasting, plantings data, research It is important to note that the control (currently citrus gall wasp) on-farm of QFF is for the benefit of all growers trials to increase fruit size and post within the PFA, not just those in the harvest treatments 1.5km outbreak quarantine area. • 25% on industry – this includes the PFA and Tristate Community During the height of the drought, the Awareness program MVCB was able to negotiate critical • 18% on governance contact details and planting information, water allocations for growers in NSW. the citrus industry would have been Unfortunately, this decision was not A well-resourced and efficient MVCB operating in a vacuum not having the accepted by the Victorian Water has served growers of the region well necessary information to co-ordinate QFF Authorities despite major efforts on over many years and would continue eradication operations in this region. the part of the Board. This negotiation to do so. and outcome was of great assistance The good news is that because of the to NSW growers. The quick action In this context, I have been proud targeted and strategic approach undertaken and government response was made to lead a Board that has faced some by the Board, a number of outbreaks possible by the up-to-date plantings significant regional challenges during have been successfully eradicated, and as data on hand at the MVCB. Issues such its term of office. We have worked a result, twenty-three areas have been as this will occur again and having diligently in the growers’ best interests reinstated to enable the movement of fruit the capacity to act in a strategic with sound research, commitment and into QFF sensitive domestic and export and timely manner with accurate enthusiasm throughout. markets such as Thailand, New Zealand, information will be critical for all Indonesia, India and the European Union. growers in the Murray Valley region. If you value the services that the MVCB provides, I urge you to continue Areas that have been reinstated are: The grower information sessions to support the Board. Please consider Abbotts Tank, Boundary Bend West, keeping growers up to date and what our region would be like if we Cardross, Karadoc, Lake Powell, Narrung, arranged by our IDO, Mary Cannard, have no access to funding to address West, Speewa, Wemen, Yelta, continue to be of value to growers our regional issues. Beverford South, , Woorinen, Nyah, and attendance always exceeds Euston, Gol Gol East, , Merbein expectations. East, Mildura, Nichols Point, , Jan Denham Wood Wood and Nangiloc. Citrus Australia Limited (CAL) is proposing that the National R&D levy Chairman, MVCB The MVCB is very much aware of the be increased (which can only occur regional implications of QFF outbreaks by a poll of all growers) and that in both our export and domestic markets there should be Regional Advisory and is still working diligently towards Committees to advise CAL on regional achieving Pest Free Area status again. issues. This proposal will see all The MVCB’s Executive Officer, Mr Hugh decisions about where the National Flett says, “Fruit fly free status is the R&D levy is spent leaving the regions jewel in the export crown, enabling with no independently controlled citrus producers in the Murray Valley resources. region access to key export markets worth millions of dollars to the local Murray Under this model there is no guarantee Valley economy. This status is at risk as that: long as these outbreaks exist. They must be • any of the increased national levies eliminated as soon as possible and further will be spent in the region from outbreaks must be prevented at all costs.” which they came • the issues of our region will be The Board would like to thank all citrus addressed or funded growers, Board staff and departmental • funding would be allocated to staff involved in the eradication maintain the PFA programme. • the Tri-State Fruit Fly community awareness project would be funded • there would be resources to assist Mary Cannard growers in times of emergency - eg Industry Development Officer, MVCB QFF outbreaks, leaving all the costs to a few for the benefit of all • our regional views on national issues will be heard 4 Newsletter of the Murray Valley Citrus Board

Chief Executive’s Report

Hugh Flett

The Murray Valley region has experienced one of the worst seasons for Queensland Fruit Fly (QFF) outbreaks. At one point in the year, the region had 34 active outbreaks.

The Murray Valley Citrus Board (MVCB) within the Murray Valley pay up to $10M liaise and assist growers on-farm with any continues to take a leading role in the battle in pre and post harvest treatments. The production, pests and disease issues. They against fruit fly incursions. At the time of MVCB has been integral in both the are on-call to see the problems in situ writing this report (9th February 2012), establishment of the pest free area and and are able to leverage a network of the Board had funded the purchase of its continuation. professionals to provide advice and 10,000 litres of the chemical ‘Naturalure’. solutions. The IDO and FO collect data and This chemical was provided without charge Your Board calls on you to carefully produce an accurate crop forecast each to approximately 122 citrus growers in consider what the future may hold without year. The Board then makes the aggregated the Murray Valley who then applied it to retaining a regional Board. A regional Board data available to the national body, which eradicate QFF outbreaks. Achieving a will continue to look after the best interests then includes it in the national crop successful outcome will result in saving all and concerns of citrus growers in the forecast. In addition, the Board provides growers the costly pre and/or post harvest Murray Valley. A regionally based Board plantings statistics to enable updates to treatments that have been a part of the provides the best vehicle to represent the national plantings database. season this past year. growers on regionally specific production, pest and disease issues. The MVCB was instrumental in achieving To date, much success has been achieved, Japan’s acceptance of the Pest Free Area but there is more work to be done. The In the last few years the Board has funded winter window for seasonal access into number of outbreaks has fallen to 18. and distributed Citrus Gall Wasp parasites Japan. Citrus that is picked and packed Growers in these outbreak epicentres are by the hundreds of thousands on farm. during the period 1 June to 31 December continuing to apply treatments provided by These parasites have survived in our hot is permitted to be exported without the the Board. Six of these active outbreaks temperatures and are now increasing in requirement for cold treatment against centre on the Boundary Bend, Kenley numbers. The aim is for these parasites to fruit flies. The Japanese market has now Tooleybuc area. A further 7 are in and eventually manage the gall wasp incursion overtaken the US as the largest export around and Barham. A few remain without the additional cost of chemical destination for citrus, both on volume and active in the Ellerslie/ Racecourse treatment being borne by growers. One of dollar terms per tonne. The Board continues corner locale. There are two outbreaks at the major benefits of using parasites is that to be involved in the maintenance of this Buronga and Gol Gol awaiting a successful as the pest spreads, so do the parasites. market each year. outcome from treatments. Fuller’s Rose Weevil is the citrus pest A regional Board meets the specific regional All growers in the Murray Valley should join which creates major export market access research needs of citrus producers and then with me in congratulating the growers who issues. The Board played an integral role enables the transfer of this knowledge have contributed to eradication through in initiating funding for research into through on-farm services. It provides their efforts. Without them playing their post harvest disinfestations and examined growers with the resources to strategically part, the region could not hope to achieve orchard control regimes such as tree trunk combat pest incursions in a timely manner. a pest free status again in the shorter term. barriers, to stop the weevil entering citrus Clearly, a regional Board also provides the trees. This led to orchard protocols that best chance to maintain governmental Achieving and retaining a Pest Free Area enabled growers to comply with market resources in growing regions. status is of the utmost importance to citrus access requirements. growers who are faced with increasing competition from other exporting countries Without your regional board, NSW growers Hugh Flett (and domestic producers) and higher with permanent plantings would not have exchange rates. Whether your product is had access to a critical supply of water CEO, MVCB exported or shipped domestically makes during the irrigation season of 2007. At no difference. Whilst we are in outbreak the same time, a great deal of effort was conditions, the additional costs of expended to achieve the same outcome treatments to achieve the required ICA in Victoria with the previous government. conditions are prohibitive and impact Unfortunately, this important proposal considerably on grower returns. did not receive support. In the last four years, the MVCB has been the lead agency The importance of having regional in bringing State and Federal government representation in times such as these water agencies to Mildura, providing growers cannot be understated. Without a regional with the opportunity to share their concerns body to represent their interests with State with the appropriate policy makers. Governments and other parties, growers would be left with little to call upon. This The MVCB provides an Industry Development 12 month period has seen citrus growers Officer (IDO) and a Field Officer (FO) who Newsletter of the Murray Valley Citrus Board 5

Proposed Murray Darling Basin Plan

SCG Directors have been active in attending numerous meetings and a briefing from the MDBA in relation to the proposed Basin Plan. Our concerns on this issue were aired in an interview on the Alan Jones national radio show late last year during his visit to Mildura.

Other than a review in 2015 and more Remaking of the Murray Valley Citrus Boards is churning through significant aligned commencement dates, the proposal Board Order industry funds and time – surely these is substantially unchanged from the would be better spent on developing new previous guide. The magic number for the Late last year, SCG wrote to Victorian overseas markets. Sustainable Diversion limits is now 2750 Agriculture Minister Peter Walsh requesting GL. However, there is conjecture as to how that he call a poll to allow citrus growers in and where 971 GL of shared downstream the Murray Valley to have the opportunity SCG Meetings water needs for the Murray system will be to vote to remake the Order to retain the wrung out of the southern system. Murray Valley Citrus Board for a further This season, SCG will be holding a number four years. of open meetings for members to attend Another potential concern is the mammoth and share their views. At this stage, it is water holdings of the Commonwealth SCG believe that the regional presence envisaged that the meetings will be held Environmental Water holder and its effect and stability given by the Murray Valley in various parts of Sunraysia and include on dam carryover storage and the impact Citrus Board is crucial to the future of our a BBQ or similar social function. on security of other users. There appears industry in Sunraysia. Unfortunately, the to be little or no accountability as to how poll will come on the back of the worst The SCG Directors welcome and rely on Environmental water is and will be used. season ever experienced by citrus growers direct contact from our growers to discuss Some critics are suggesting that they have in our region. Our greatest hurdle this past ideas and raise concerns. The SCG email is already purchased more than they know season was the high Australian dollar. [email protected] what to do with. Despite this the MVCB has advocated and worked hard to combat the vast It is disappointing that significant savings Queensland Fruit Fly problem, continued Vince DeMaria in the Lower Lakes are being ignored due campaigning against the Basin Plan, Chairman, to the fragile political climate in that region. maintained vital plantings statistics and At the briefing in Mildura, the MDBA provided local CITTgroup and extension Sunraysia Citrus Growers Inc. conceded that there are savings to be made services. Each year growers are able to vote at the Lakes and that they are currently on projects the MVCB will undertake. It is looking at some options. A further issue important that growers use their vote each with any SDL’s is how the pain will be year to steer the MVCB in the direction thrashed out by the State Water Plans in they believe will deliver the most benefit 2019. The states may go hard on irrigators to our region. to ensure that they meet their own targets under the basin plan. Some growers and organisations are currently campaigning for the removal of Despite all of the rhetoric, it is difficult to the MVCB and other State based boards understand how the Plan will achieve one in favour of a national body. Under such of its goals to “provide greater certainty a proposal - how will the level of regional for all water users, including in times of services that we currently receive be drought and low water availability.” SCG maintained? Who will have voting power welcomes grower views on the Plan and in a national structure? How will the will complete our submission shortly for needs of different growing regions (eg QLD lodgement. We encourage all growers to mandarins, WA Grapefruit, North Coast lodge a submission and voice their opinions Limes) be addressed? on this important issue. Abandoning our current system for some SCG is a member of the National Irrigators ideology is risky for growers and may Council (NIC) and receive weekly updates not present a significant upside. Will we on the political happenings surrounding the make any more money? Unfortunately, the plan. Any SCG member wishing to receive continued push to eliminate the regional this update can do so by contacting Deb Scott at the SCG office. 6 Newsletter of the Murray Valley Citrus Board

Running Costs of Diesel, LPG and Electrical Pumpsets in Sunraysia

Jeremy Giddings

Irrigators often ask which pumpset type is best for their situation. In the following discussion the fuel and power operating costs, and other considerations are compared for three pumpset types.

Fuel or power costs were all determined as In addition, there is an annual rental fee at February 2012. Pumpsets compared are: 1 MJ = 0.278 kWh (3.6 MJ = 1 kWh) on the LPG storage tank of about $300, • diesel fuel depending on the size of tank required. • liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) Cost/kWh at shaft = 82c ×1 ×1 • standard irrigation electricity tariff 38 0.35 0.278 • off-peak irrigation electricity tariff Cost/kWh at shaft = 27.3c = 22.2 c/kWh 0.9 Establishment costs have not been considered as costs are just too variable. = 30.3 c/kWh Electricity infrastructure supply costs, for LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) example, can easily be $5,000 to $70,000 The price paid for LPG is generally set by or more depending on the existing level of the amount used annually, the consistency Electricity infrastructure. of demand, the locality, and distance Standard day rate from depot. For an irrigation horticulturist Electricity prices can vary according to Energy Costs at the Shaft requiring about 10–15 tonnes bulk supply supplier. A reasonable figure for Sunraysia This discussion looks at the cost of per year with a 2-kilolitre (1-tonne) is 27.3 c/kWh excluding GST. providing power at the engine shaft, to tank, around 85 cents per litre would be make the comparison more reasonable. reasonable (February 2012, excluding GST). NSW Department of Mineral Resources As there are no taxes on LPG, there are no adopts an electric motor efficiency of Diesel Fuel rebates available. 90%. The wholesale price for diesel fuel varies on a daily basis. Retail price can vary from NSW Department of Mineral Resources company to company. A general wholesale adopts an LPG engine efficiency of 30%. Cost/kWh at shaft = 15.894c figure in Sunraysia in February 2012 was 0.9 150 cents per litre, including GST. LPG has a fuel specific energy of 25.5 megajoules per litre. = 17.66 c/kWh A federal customs and excise rebate can be claimed on this cost from the customs Using the same formula as above: department. The approximate wholesale Off-peak electricity (10 pm to 7 am price for fuel supplied to primary producers weekdays and all day on weekends and using the fuel on-farm, and excluding Cost/kWh at shaft = 85c ×1 ×1 Public Holidays) GST, is around 82 cents per litre (February 25.5 0.30 0.278 2012). A reasonable figure for Sunraysia is = 39.9 c/kWh 15.894 c/kWh To obtain the cost at the shaft, the cost per megajoule is determined by: • dividing the cost per litre by the specific energy of a litre of fuel. Diesel fuel has a specific energy of 38 megajoules (MJ) per litre. Motor Calculations Extra charges Annual • derating this figure for the engine operating cost efficiency. The NSW Department of Mineral Resources adopts a diesel engine efficiency of 35%, meaning 35% of the Diesel 15,000 × 22.2c nil $ 3,330 heat energy of the fuel is available as = $ 3,330 energy, converted to mechanical energy, at the engine shaft. LPG 15,000 × 39.9c annual fee $ 6,285 • putting the result into a cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh). = $ 5,985 of $300 Electricity 15,000 × 30.3c Service availability $ 5,932 (standard) = $ 4,545 charge $ 1,387

Electricity 15,000 × 17.66c Service availability $ 4,036 (off-peak) = $ 2,649 charge $ 1,387

Figure 1 Newsletter of the Murray Valley Citrus Board 7

Activities of the Murray Valley Citrus Board – March Quarter 2012

Board Members and CEO IDO Activities

• Sunraysia Horticulture Alliance • Produced Citrus Board News weekly meeting re MDBA • Helped with BBQ and field walk on • QFF symposium , with Strategic Cost Savings on Farm at In addition, there are other charges, Australia’s Chief Plant Protection Mourquong and Citrus Gall Wasp sometimes called a service availability Officer and Fullers Rose Weevil Management charge. A reasonable figure for Sunraysia • Mildura Show at Coomealla is 380 c per day which equates to $1,387 per year. • Sunraysia Pest Free Area response • Attended Vic DPI ‘Feeding Asia’s committee meeting demand’ meeting in Seasonal operating costs • Citrus Australia Conference • CAL meeting on R&D investment (February 2012) • SMART production workshop with plan The above figures can be used to compare DPI Vic and Rendall McGuckian • Promoted citrus at the Taste of operating costs. Fig 1. (below left) shows annual operating costs, with power at the consultants Melbourne, Mildura Show, Werribee shaft of 30 kW and irrigating for a total of • DAFF biosecurity meeting regarding Harvest Picnic and Picnic at Hanging 500 hours over the season and therefore a market access Rock total annual usage of 15,000 kWh. • QFF response committee meeting • Attended Vic DPI consultation • Rural Financial Counselling Service meetings on remaking the Order for These figures are for comparison purposes only and are based on adopted power AGM the MVCB. efficiencies. Actual efficiencies will vary • Victorian Basin Plan Advisory • Participated in CAL Export Forum in depending on the condition and suitability Committee meeting Melbourne of the engine selected. • Sunraysia Citrus Growers AGM. • Participated in Vic DPI Horticultural • Pest Free Area Management Industry Network meetings Other Considerations When choosing a power source, other Committee meeting • Visited Pakistan citrus growers under considerations include: • VFF meeting re Basin plan AusAid project funding • initial establishment costs (power • Tri State Fruit Committee meeting in • Provided monthly citrus articles for extension and connection or fuel Melbourne Sunraysia Daily storage tanks) • QFF symposium with Aust Chief Plant • Undertook fruit density and sizing • initial engine/motor costs and life expectancy Protection Office counts for the Murray Valley crop • maintenance, repair or replacement • MDBA roundtable in Mildura forecast costs over the life of the unit • Vic DPI ‘Feeding Asia’s demand’ • Attended Postharvest steering • personal preferences and, meeting in Melbourne committee meetings • Projected costs in the future, effect of • Lower Murray Darling Catchment • Held IDO steering committee meeting carbon tax etc Authority workshop • Submitted funding application for • CAL meeting on R&D investment new IDO project 2013/16 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS plan • Submitted milestone report for Ross Lake, Manager, Tasco Inland Australia, Mildura • Vic DPI consultation meetings on current IDO project Craig Matthews, Elgas Lmt Mildura remaking the Order for the MVCB. • Provided grapefruit samples for • CAL Export Forum in Melbourne screening for Australian Citrus Dieback phytoplasma Jeremy Giddings • Attended HAL Strategic Agrichemical Irrigation Officer, Industry & Hugh Flett Review for citrus Investment NSW, Primary Industries CEO, MVCB Mary Cannard Industry Development Officer, MVCB 8 Newsletter of the Murray Valley Citrus Board

Citrus Information Technology Transfer Groups (CITTgroups)

During the last four years the MVCB has funded and facilitated 52 Cittgroups, field walks, information sessions and technical workshops in the Murray Valley. The range of topics has been wide and varied, but they fall into six main categories: Pests and diseases, Irrigation and nutrition, Crop regulation and production, Postharvest treatments, New varieties and Technical workshops.

Pests and Diseases such as Dr Andrew Beattie, Dr Peter Crisp, Board has facilitated eight in the last four Managing pests and diseases is an integral Dr Jianwa Mo and James Altman to present years, where fruit from the new varieties part of producing quality citrus for the information to citrus growers on Red Scale was made available for growers to sample. export and domestic markets. The Board Management, Fuller’s Rose Weevil The work of Dr Steve Sykes, (CSIRO) and has not only provided funding for the management and Huanglongbing. Graeme Sanderson (NSW DPI) has been release of Citrus Gall Wasp parasitoids vital in developing and trialling new citrus to manage this incursion and to explore Through CITTgroups growers have also varieties in this region, and both have used IPM compatible chemical options for the learnt about the newest chemical options MVCB’s CITTgroups to disseminate new management of CGW; it has also held for use on citrus. Over the last four years varietal information to growers. Growers annual CGW workshops to enable growers MVCB has facilitated eleven pest and have also been able to examine plantings to recognise the symptoms and understand disease workshops for Murray Valley growers. of new public varieties at the MVCB the phenology of this pest. organised field days at the NSW DPI. New Citrus Varieties The MVCB has also facilitated and funded CITTgroups detailing new citrus varieties visits from eminent citrus entomologists are very popular with growers and the Newsletter of the Murray Valley Citrus Board 9

Citrus Information Technology Transfer Groups (CITTgroups)

This spread clockwise from top left: 1. Dr Michael Treeby explains the new citrus nutrition trial at NSW DPI 2. Dr Andy Krajewski explaining the practical side of pruning citrus 3. Dr Tahir Kurshid talking to growers about his rootstock trial

Drought Workshops Crop Regulation and Production In 2010, the Board funded WA based During the drought the Board was proactive Due to the biennial bearing nature of Dr Andy Krajewski, Australia’s expert in citrus in providing growers with technical citrus, crop regulation and pruning pruning, to present technical pruning information on management of permanent workshops have been influential in workshops for Murray Valley growers. plantings during low water allocations and enabling growers to balance crop loads These workshops proved very popular and with information about the water market from year to year. The small crop of large were repeated in 2011. Other pruning and water trading. It was also instrumental fruit in 2010 led to expectation of a large workshops, utilising the technical expertise in providing growers with the opportunity crop of small fruit in 2011. Therefore, the of NSW DPI extension staff, together to hear, first hand, from state and federal MVCB facilitated and funded field walks with a bus trip to highlight the different Water Authorities. Blockies turned up to provide technical information on the pruning regimes used by three growers, in droves in 2008 for the Murray River use of Ralex to regulate crop loads in an have shown the need for crop regulation Perspective and again in 2010 to for the effort to mitigate the effects of an excess to balance crop loads. Water Policy Information Session. In total of small fruit reaching the market and eight drought related workshops were run consequently reducing returns to growers. by the MVCB for Murray Valley growers. Cont’d on page 11... 10 Newsletter of the Murray Valley Citrus Board

2011 Tour of the Murray River: An On-going MVCB Citrus Promotion

The 2011 Tour of the Murray River was the biggest and best conducted in its sixteen-year history.

From a general viewpoint, the field quality Balranald, Yarriambiack and Mildura – and • Participating riders visit many schools and was of the highest order, the standard of was backed by Tourism Victoria and the address children on road safety, health the racing fiercely competitive, the crowds New South Wales Government. and fitness, the perils of drug-taking and doubled, media interest was excellent, the recreational and competitive cycling. hospitality first-rate and the weather was Cities and towns to feature in the 15 stage • An official entourage of about 300 very kind. tour included Cobram, Numurkah, Nathalia, accompanies the tour. This includes Echuca, Kyabram, Rochester, , Swan cyclists, crew members, officials, The MVCB continued to have a key Hill, Lake Boga, Robinvale, Euston, , sponsors, police and media. Supporters promotional role in the eight-day Tour. , Merbein, Red Cliffs and are extra. MVCB Field Officer, Tony Bothroyd attended Mildura. • As such, the tour is an important source the event throughout promoting citrus of economic activity for cities and in a very practical way by distributing The event is the third race of the four-tour towns along the route. It is like a great products to participants, local councils and Scody Cup, Australia’s premier domestic travelling circus. spectators. He attended all Civic Welcomes road cycling series. The Murray tour was • Media coverage of the event is at and mixed freely with Councillors and also a feature event in Cycling Australia’s near-saturation levels along the Murray community representatives of the various 2011 national road teams competition. River regions, on television, radio and in municipalities. newspapers. • As such, the tour has grown into • The profile of the citrus industry is The MVCB has been involved with Australia’s most important domestic road further enhanced through the sponsoring professional road race cycling for many cycling classic, attracting entries form all partnership of the Mildura Fruit Company. years, starting with the then Herald-Sun Australian states, New Zealand and some For the part three years the MFC has had tour when it sponsored the very successful from other countries. the naming rights of the final stage of Sweethearts Team. A lot of effort was put • It is now regarded as a breeding ground the tour – the MFC Mildura Kermesse. into this initial venture and the endeavour for future Australian international team worked well. members, and a vital lead-up event for Overall, the citrus industry gives and gains the Olympic and Commonwealth Games. a lot through its involvement and more The 2011 Tour of the Murray River cycling • The tour is also more than a bike race – people are giving thought to increasing the classic produced the most expansive and it has become an important community promotional opportunities for the industry challenging route yet. The 847 km tour, event involving thousands of people and across a concentrated and widely publicised raced in 15 stages started in Yarrawonga on organisations in the Murray Region. event. In this regard, the MVCB continues Sunday, August 28 and concluded with its • The tour links with and supports to show the way and receives justified traditional 66 km kermesse in Mildura on significant community festival activities recognition. The citrus industry is the only Sunday September 4. such as the Ouyen Great Vanilla Slice primary industry sector that has been given Triumph etc. this opportunity to date. The tour embraced seven municipalities – • Hundreds of school children watch the Moira, Campaspe, Gannawarra, Swan Hill, tour and the cyclists serve as role models. Newsletter of the Murray Valley Citrus Board 11

Citrus Information Technology Transfer Groups (CITTgroups) Cont’d from page 9...

Top: Graeme Sandersan displaying fruit from new varieties. Bottom Left-right: 1. Growers at the NSW DPI Farm Walk. 2. Growers at a crop regulation CITTgroup on Mansell’s farm.

The three field walks held to examine create certainty that importing country the preliminary results of the field trials requirements are met. project, funded by HAL and MVCB, had a strong response from growers. Over 110 As well, the Board has funded citrus growers attended. Eighteen demonstration postharvest programs for the last four John Craven, Tour Director, regards the field trials were initiated in the spring of years, which have been a vehicle for MVCB promotion very highly and sees the 2010 to evaluate various products and Dr Peter Taverner and his staff to keep Board’s consistent involvement as a valued practices to increase fruit size and/or industry abreast of his work. They covered partner in the event as a real bonus in a productivity. In total, 19 different packing shed sanitation, oil use in packing promotional sense. CITTgroups dealing with crop production sheds and new fungicide for packing sheds. and regulation were organised for growers. The elite event strongly advertises healthy The MVCB, in conjunction with NSW DPI, lifestyles and citrus products are a good mix Irrigation and Nutrition has facilitated the training of export crop in terms of a live promotion that does work. The MVCB also funded and facilitated monitors. It ensures that growers are These activities are interactive and shared four citrus nutrition, technical workshops. meeting the requirements of the Asian experiences that take place in a focussed They were presented by Steven Falivene export market orchard protocol therefore environment. (NSW DPI) and provided a comprehensive minimising export rejections. technical background on citrus nutrition, Certainly the on-site promotions at all which enabled growers to apply the right In summary, much has been organised and stage starts and finishes was an excellent amount of fertiliser at the right time for the outcomes, particularly at the local and way of getting the citrus industry message their orchard situation. These workshops regional level, have been very positive. across to a wide catchment area and also provided information on appropriate to groups of people who operate across nutrition monitoring techniques to make All activities have been based on need and Australia and overseas. sure that fertiliser was being used in the growers have appreciated the fact that the most cost effective and environmentally MVCB has readily responded in a practical, The reaction of many school pupils, both sustainable manner. researched and co-operative manner. in the Schools Program and as spectators, was enlightening and their fascination Other workshops in relation to irrigation Further consequences are that strong with such highlights as Blood Orange juice and nutrition included a Soil Solution networks and direct information sources was obvious and memorable. Overall, a job workshop, an Irrigation Environmental as well as operational structures have well done. Action Plan workshop, an Advanced eventuated, which will enable on-going Fertigation and a Martinez nutrition work to continue in these vital areas. This program. fact is significant in times that are very E. Warhurst challenging for the industry as a whole. Compiler and Patron, Postharvest/Other Workshops CITTgroups will remain as the core of many Tour of the Murray River Packing shed quality control workshops MVCB research and development projects. have been introduced by the Board in the last four years, to ensure that citrus growers and pack house staff have the Mary Cannard knowledge and tools to identify pests and diseases in the packing shed, and to IDO, MVCB 12 Newsletter of the Murray Valley Citrus Board

The Age Harvest Picnic at Werribee Park

I attended the Werribee Park event on Sunday, 27 November, 2011. My aim was to arrive early to observe the location, the overall layout and view the arrival of the anticipated large crowd.

A not-for-profit event aiming to promote Stallholders went to a lot of trouble with there was plenty of activity required by the Victorian producers to a wider audience, their displays and presentations. Signage, exhibitors early on Sunday. the Age Harvest Picnic was in its 24th generally speaking, was of high quality. year, making it one of the longest running The MVCB stand was staffed by festivals in Victoria. Set on the Great Lawn The location itself is picturesque and TonyBothroyd, Mary Cannard, Eric and at Werribee Park, with the impressive impressive. The centrepiece is the Werribee Kerry Wright and Darren and Anne-Marie historic mansion as backdrop, it provided Mansion. Built in the Victorian era of Minter. The exercise was a first time for a day out for families, friends and food Australia, the 1870’s mansion is Victoria’s Darren who admitted to being a reluctant lovers, with music on stage, cooking largest and most elaborate residence. The starter, but he quickly came to realise demonstrations by some acknowledged Chirnside family built the stately Italianate the promotional possibilities of person- chefs and activities for children. mansion in 1876 – it was the largest to-person contact with the buying public private home ever built in Australia. The and responded to the opportunity with The MVCB stand was billed as “the 60-room structure has been carefully enthusiasm. promotion of citrus growth along the restored to reflect its Victorian past and Murray Valley, including fresh pure juice many of the Chirnside’s belongings and “Promotion and marketing is a very and fresh citrus for tasting.” fine furniture are on display for public important priority and I now see this viewing. The gardens remain a feature. experience as excellent value,” he On entry, the perspective and size of commented. the event was obvious. Easy access to The MVCB stand occupied a prime location all exhibitor stands was a feature of the next to the stage. This area was the Mary Cannard, Industry Development venue. Overall, it presented as a very attention focus throughout the day. Clearly, Officer, MVCB also made some interesting professional set-up with the display tents the Board is regarded by the organisers as observations. “This is a fine way to get the ringing a large central flat, grassed area an important and long-time contributor to citrus message out through direct tasting that provided ample space for children’s the event. Heavy rain (some 80 millimetres) of the juice and fruit. The public appreciate competitions and activities. had occurred the day before. Consequently, the free tastings, particularly as the cost of Newsletter of the Murray Valley Citrus Board 13

The Age Harvest Picnic at Werribee Park

This spread left-right: 1. The crowd scene. 2. Eric Wright serving some early (and happy) customers. 3. The Werribee venue, early morning.

entry is substantial. It is also a great time cross-section of people. In many ways, The strength of promotions such as of the year to promote grapefruit as they this event is very similar to Hanging Rock Werribee Park is that the product is taken are currently at their best.” (held on Sunday, 26 February, 2012) but the to the people. Because of this, the public emphasis is more on a family fun day with responds accordingly, as seen by their Eric Wright emphasised the educational many more young people involved. This is constant demands at the display stand opportunities provided by the venue. “The the fourth occasion I have participated and counter to taste the product and seek display and the tastings are all about I am convinced the exercise is absolutely information through intelligent questions. highlighting the seasonality of citrus worthwhile. The MVCB is well regarded Growers should be encouraged by this varieties which enable access to fresh and our citrus products, displays and increasing state of awareness and enquiry. produce all year round. The younger responses to questions received a lot of audience respond to the colourful visual favourable comment. Of real interest were Overall, I gained further valuable insights impact of the stand as it displays examples the many questions relating to orange juice by attending and intend to continue this of the different citrus varieties. This all and what to look for on the supermarket practice whenever I can. combines to create an environment of shelves. Many consumers want Australian total interaction - to look, taste and grown, and are keen to see advances in question at a very personal level.” the labelling laws highlighting the fact.” E. Warhurst Tony Bothroyd, Field Officer, MVCB in As an observer, the promotional and Compiler reviewing the promotional activity stated information-giving opportunities of events that thankfully the weather remained fine, such as this are obvious. The Werribee Park the crowd was huge after lunch and the occasion is relatively informal, but provides stall staff were run off their feet in the end. the opportunity to actively involve the public as individuals or in small groups. “We were totally cleaned out. The Store promotions cannot create the same attendance comprised a broad atmosphere or achieve comparable results. 14 Newsletter of the Murray Valley Citrus Board

Carbon Trading and The Potential For The Citrus Industry To Provide Sequestration Services – Growing Trees

In an earlier article the attention of citrus growers was drawn to the Federal Government’s commitment to reducing Australia’s net emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG). One plank in

the Government’s strategy is the sequestration (capture and storage) of carbon dioxide (CO2) in geological (i.e. rock formations) or biological (i.e. plants) systems.

To that end the Government has developed the trees as a function of tree age (see be attractive the price being charged to the National Carbon Offset Standard1, graph below), assuming that 47% of dry sequester each tonne must be less than which sets out some definitions and rules matter is C. the tax, otherwise it is easier and cheaper for how a sequestration market will to pay the tax. If the tax is set at $20, operate. A key suggestion is the notion The estimates range from about 3 tonnes then the maximum extra income from that providers of sequestration services of C per hectare for 6 year old trees offering a sequestration service based on should be able to demonstrate that the through to nearly 60 tonnes per hectare growing trees is likely to be less than $60 carbon that is sequestered as a service is for 22 year old trees. The trend line suggests per hectare per year (i.e. $20/tonne C × 3 additional to the carbon that would have that accumulation of C is tapering off by tonnes C accumulated by trees/year) up been sequestered in the normal course of about this time, but there aren’t enough to the time when trees are about 20 years events. The removal of an existing planting data to say this confidently. Effectively, old. There will also be compliance and (due, possibly, to the trees being old or an about 3 tonnes of C are accumulated by auditing costs to be met, and it is not unprofitable variety) and the planting of new the trees each year from planting to when clear who wears those costs. This assumes trees may be viewed as business as usual. the trees are about 20 years old. of course that growing trees isn’t viewed In other words, the new planting went as business as usual. ahead as a normal part of a citrus 70 Another serious complication is the enterprise, and all the CO2 removed from the atmosphere by the trees would have 60 Government’s definition of permanent happened anyway. So, in the Government’s 50 sequestration as being at least 100 years. view, there would be no additional carbon Many producers now only leave trees in sequestration. However, this argument 40 the ground for about 20-30 years, after is untested, and the rules have not been t C/ha 30 which they are pulled out, piled up and finalised. There will probably be some 20 burnt, before planting new trees. Obviously, all the CO that those trees debate around this point before the 10 2 scheme’s details are finalised. took from the atmosphere to produce 0 leaves, branches, trunk and roots, is lost 5 10 15 20 back to the atmosphere. How Much Carbon Is There In Citrus Tree age (years) Trees? Estimates of the amounts of C, on a hectare basis, in citrus This conflict between industry practice trees as a function of tree age. Based on tree dry weights and the Government’s definition is The dry weight of the whole tree is needed from 7 published studies. Line represents trend over time. particularly relevant to individual to estimate how much carbon there is in producers, but on regional or industry-wide the tree. The logistics and cost involved in scales, there is usually only a small excavating and washing the root system Carbon Tax, Permanent Sequestration percentage of the total acreage being of entire trees is daunting given the sheer & Industry Practice redeveloped at any one time, and this volume of material involved. Not surprisingly, percentage tends to remain more or less there are relatively few measurements of Most readers would be aware of the the same over time. Thus, given the area the dry weight of whole citrus trees. In fact, debate concerning a tax on C emissions. planted to citrus stays roughly the same over the past 80 years or so, only seven There is also much speculation about how from year to year, groups of producers sets of measurements of whole tree dry much that tax will initially be. At this could aggregate to provide a sequestration weights have been published2. These numbers point, $10/tonne appears to be the lower service based on a fixed proportion of the were used to estimate how much C is in end of expectations. For sequestration to total area being under trees over the long

1 http://www.climatechange.gov.au/government/initiatives/~/media/publications/carbon-accounting/revised-NCOS-standard-pdf.ashx 2 Cameron, S. H. & Appleman D. 1933. The distribution of total nitrogen in the orange tree. Proceedings. American Society for Horticultural Science 30, 341-348; Cameron, S. H. & Compton, O. C. 1945. Nitrogen in bearing orange trees. Proceedings. American Society for Horticultural Science 46: 60-68; Feigenbaum, S., Bielorai, H., Erner, Y. & Dasberg, S.1987. The fate of N-15 labeled nitrogen applied to mature citrus trees. Plant and Soil 97, 179-187; Liguori, G., Gugliuzza, G. & Inglese, P. 2009. Evaluating carbon fluxes in orange orchards in relation to planting density. The Journal of Agricultural Science 147, 637-645; Mattos, D., Graetz, D. A. & Alva, A. 2003. Biomass distribution and nitrogen-15 partitioning in citrus trees on a sandy entisol. Soil Science Society of America Journal 67, 555-563; Morgan, K. T., J. M. S. Scholberg, Obreza, T. A. & Wheaton, T. A. 2006. Size, biomass, and nitrogen relationships with sweet orange tree growth. Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science 131, 149-156 3 Design of the Carbon Farming Initiative. Consultation Paper. Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency. 2010. Newsletter of the Murray Valley Citrus Board 15

Sunraysia Farmers’ Market Update

Discussions with Ms Sue Pull, Market Co-ordinator, Sunraysia Farmers’ Market Inc indicates that patron numbers have increased dramatically.

for young people. They painted a mural around the sides of the caravan, term. Aggregation of many small providers designed by ‘Moose’ McGowan, of sequestration services is part of the a signwriter from Merbein who Government’s plan3. volunteered his time to prepare and mark out the van. It needs to be acknowledging that there are too few data to say with great certainty It is a very bright, colourful, funky how much C is present in citrus trees. The design of fruit and vegetables in an few estimates that are available suggest animated style with the market’s logo that if the C tax is the upper limit of likely on each side. returns for providing a C sequestration “Our last market held at the Australian service, then returns for provision of Inland Botanic Gardens in December, The caravan was on display for the sequestration services based on simply 2010 was estimated to be in the mid first time at the Saturday market on growing trees are likely to be low. The low 400’s. A count we took at the end October 1, at the Ornamental Lakes, returns per hectare and other costs may of August at our new location was Mildura. not be a disincentive if many producers just under 2000, and this was a quiet join together to provide a service. There market without any added attractions.” Not only will the stallholders and is a need to present to Government the patrons enjoy the visual display each argument that the C that will be Apparently, new stallholder enquiries market day, but also the youth involved sequestered in a new planting or in an are frequent with a number having will have an ongoing reminder of existing planting as it grows is not business to be turned away due to quotas for their work as the van will certainly be as usual. Unless this argument is won, or particular items already being filled. recognized as it is transported to and the rules are changed, it seems unlikely that from the market.” citrus producers can provide sequestration Feedback from locals and visitors is services by simply growing citrus trees. very positive and has been communicated Sue also stated that the Farmers’ to stallholders, breakfast volunteers, Market website is almost complete local tourism and community organisation and that other events such as the representatives and Market Committee Houseboat Expo and the Sunraysia Michael Treeby members. Sustainability Fest are looking to NSW Department of Primary align with the market as they know a Industries, Dareton NSW Elina Gareffa (Tabletop Grapes) passed ready-made, large crowd is assured. on a comment from one of her The Market Committee remains happy customers who had travelled extensively to combine dates, as it is a win-win overseas, who stated that this was one situation for all. of the best markets she had seen. “It is important to note that we could “I even had a phone call from a not operate without the hard work gentleman, who is planning his holiday of a loyal band of volunteers to make route in April of next year and wanted sure the market comes together every to make sure he was in Mildura to two weeks. In acknowledging this, coincide with our market at that time.” we are looking forward to a long and bright future with more variety Sue Pull also advised that the Sunraysia and maintaining our partnership Farmers’ Market has purchased an old with the Lions Club who provide the caravan to use for portable storage. very important barbeque. We remain “It was well worn and a little shabby to determined to let everyone know that say the least and there was discussion we have the best produce and the best regarding how we could present it farmers and producers in Australia. better on our budget. As such, we certainly are an alternative We approached the Mildura Youth to the big boys with our Supermarket Centre Liaison Officer, Kerren Miles, Under The Trees.” who had put together a holiday program insummarising theactivity. done,”MrEric Wright Principal commented is preparation the all and doors open in, trailer.it the Wheel in stored is required Everything displays. promotional organise to way easy an such trailer,is built which purpose our used We impressive. most the far by was display Our children. the with interact to opportunity the delegates conference gave This juice. fresh away We also set up an interactive display giving provides. partnership Nangiloc/Colignan MVCB, the that conference and the educational opportunitiesthe both with were, they impressed how indicate letters attached their and present, Thiswasalso thefirst time wehad families industry.citrus local the with involvement conjoint a with opportunities educational enhance to school our enables this how and MVCB the with have we relationship valued the highlight to opportunity another also was It brilliant. were they and presented had girls both time first the way.was different It a in audience knowledgeable a to citrus promote to opportunity another was conference “The TaylaCordier also played supportivea role. off show slide the co-ordinated presentation,while her sister Kerra (Grade 5) Kalia Allison (Grade 6) made the formal Cordier.Jackie and Allison Eleanor and Steve – involved were school the from families Two school. the at aide teacher a is who Nulty Carolyn by organised was participation Their loss resulting from any such use. such any from resulting loss any for MVCB, the editor,by the or by accepted be will liability no and publication, this within contained information of result a as groups or individuals by taken actions any for implied or given compiler. or editor its Board, Citrus Valley Murray of those necessarily not are Citrep this in expressed opinions The DISCLAIMER: EDITORIAL citrus partnership played a significant role in the proceedings. the in role significant a played partnership citrus School Primary Nangiloc/Colignan the October,Monday,2011.and 24 MVCB the again, Once on Valley Barossa the in Centre Visitor’s Blass Wolf 2011the The at held was Conference A CAL Conference Presentation Conference CAL A 16 stage. Newsletter of the the of Newsletter response: this contributed Allison Eleanor and Steve Primary!” Nangiloc/Colignan done Well coach. its as good as only is team winning a said is It be. can they best very the become to children these coaching in efforts great his for Principal the thank to like would I Furthermore, Findzinc. through blocks building confidence and opportunity wonderful a such daughter my giving for Primary Nangiloc thank to have therefore I delegates. the with interacted children the which in maturity and enthusiasm great the and people other of reaction the saw I until was this idea Ipersonally did not realise what a wonderful school. country little this as concept brilliant a such have not did attended children their schools the why wondering left were Many platformfor innovative young entrepreneurs wonderful a Industry.is Citrus Fundzinc the in interest and support their show to children the enabling concept unique a theirmany questions bythedelegates tothe Fundzinc stall and alsovery taken bythe keen interest shown the throughout showed they confidence and maturity the and children the by given presentation the by impressed very was I Valley Barossa the in “Reflectingonthe recent Citrus Conference letter: following the in impressions her recorded Cordier Jackie Murray Valley Citrus Board Citrus Valley Murray Left-right: 1. Pupils serving samples. 2. Kalia Allison and Tayla Cordier making the formal presentation. and comments of comments and entireevent. wasI . foundationon which to build in the future.” great a have girls Our Fundzinc. and teachers Wright, Mr you Thank School. Primary Nangiloc/Colignan you Thank community.the in plays industry citrus our that role the of understanding and interest keen shown also have They this. through girls confident such into emerge them seen have We program. this in involved be to opportunity the had have children our that pleased so are We members. conference other by approached when questions answered and conversation in engaged freely and stand their at juice served they as skills interactive their with us amazed again yet they stage the Off strangers. of full room a to presenting were they as stage on showed they that pride and confidence of level this to them guided PrincipalMrWright andteachers whohave school, whole the of but children own our only not proud, more felt never have we intheir school and the program. As parents pride such showed They outstanding. was andknowledge about the Fundzinc program thegirls at the conference. Their confidence all to listen to I and husband my for and Itwas a great honour for them to be chosen year.this Valley Barossa the in Conference Citrus the at Fundzinc represent to Kerra and Kalia allowing for “SteveandwouldI like tothank theschool No responsibility or guarantee is guarantee or responsibility No DISCLAIMER:

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