Volume 6 • ISSUE 2

Nov/Dec 2009

Table grapes rise to challenge

ADFA • 2008 International Conference of Dried Grape Producing Countries • Californian prunes highlight growing and processing opportunities ATGA • Business management - reviewing production costs makes cents • Australian table grapes in Asia

Contents

Dried grapes 4 ADFA Chairman’s report 8 International Conference of Dried Grape Producing Countries report 14 Processor report: Sunbeam Foods/Angas Park 16 Grower profile: John Hunt, Red Cliffs, Victoria 24 ADFA Board news 25 Drying for profit activities 26 Access to anti-dumping and countervailing system under threat

Table grapes 5 ATGA Chairman’s report 6 Cover story: Australian Table Grape Conference report 13 Table Grapes WA to manage CSIRO-bred varieties 15 National Fruit Fly Strategy Implementation Action Plan release for comment 23 ATGA Chief Executive report 30 Business management – reviewing production costs makes cents 32 Australian table grapes in Asia: current position and future outlook 34 Growing grapes in an arid climate – Study tour to Israel 36 Meeting consumer expectations – a grower’s perspective

Dried prunes 10 APIA annual general meeting 11 Californian prunes highlight growing and processing opportunities 12 An insight into fruit tree borer

Dried tree fruits 18 Free standing V orchard – year one onwards

Combined industry articles 20 Plant Health Australia column 21 Biosecurity plan updated to safeguard Australian grapes 22 Horticulture Australia update 28 Water outlook 31 DPI’s 1-2-1 program to provide free advice to horticulture 37 Around the Block

Cover: One of the stops on the conference field tour was John Argiro’s property (pictured far right) to see his crop growing under an Italian pergola shade system. Australian Dried Fruits Association: Editorial: Phil Chidgzey, John Hawtin (ADFA) and Jeff Scott (ATGA) 31 Deakin Avenue Journalists: Paula Smith, Terry Gange PO Box 5042 Advertising: Geoff Bell Advertising Mildura VIC 3502 Australia. Production and Printing: Jamesprint Phone: (03) 5023 5174 • Fax: (03) 5023 3321 Email: [email protected] For editorial and advertising enquiries contact the Australian Dried Fruits Web: www.adfa.asn.au Association (ADFA) (03) 5023 5174, or the Australian Table Grape Association (ATGA) (03) 5021 5718. The Vine is published and produced by the ADFA and ATGA.

DISCLAIMER: Australian Dried Fruits Association (ADFA) and Australian Table Grape Industry (ATGA) acknowledges contributions made by private enterprise through placement of advertisements in this publication. Acceptance of these contributions does not endorse or imply endorsement by ADFA and ATGA of any product or service advertised by contributors. Australian Table Grape Association: Any advice provided in articles contained in The Vine is intended as a source of information only. Always read the label before using any of the products mentioned. ADFA and ATGA and its officers do not guarantee that 33 Madden Avenue, the publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your practical purposes and, therefore, disclaim all liability for any error, loss or any other consequence that may arise from you relying on the Mildura VIC 3500 Australia. information in this publication. Phone: (03) 5021 5718 All articles and other material published in this journal is ADFA and ATGA copyright (unless otherwise stated) Email: [email protected] and may not be reproduced in part or full without the written permission of the authors and publisher. Web: www.atga.com.au The Vine is a registered trade/service mark of AgriMedia Pty Ltd. 3 ADFA Chairman’s report Outlook improves

The increase in water allocations in New Locally, we continue to work with the South Wales, Victoria and South Australia National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) on following recent rainfall events has a number of important policy matters been welcome news for Murray Valley including agriculture’s position in the irrigators. Federal Government’s proposed Carbon Mark King While the water situation remains tough in Pollution Reduction Scheme (CPRS). Victoria and South Australia, the generally As outlined in Board of Management ADFA CHAIRMAN improved water outlook should enable News on page 24 it is worth reaffirming dried grape growers to maximise their that NFF does not want a CPRS. ADFA BOARD OF crop potential and income. For those who The NFF has repeatedly advised that carried over 50% of their entitlement covering agriculture’s emission under there may be an opportunity to trade in such a scheme would decimate MANAGEMENT water later in the season. Australia’s farm sector. As such, the CPRS Chairman In addition, the early commitment of doesn’t work for agriculture. NFF wants Mark King major processors to the maintenance of at to ensure farmers can benefit from their Producer - Pomona least 2009 prices for next season’s crop ability to capture and store carbon. should provide dried grape growers with The NFF took its amendments to the Deputy Chairman confidence to give serious consideration Rudd Government months ago, but to investing in the industry’s future. Allan Long the government refused to make As detailed on page 8, I was part of the concessions upfront. The NFF Producer - Cardross the Australian delegation that recently subsequently took its amendments to attended the International Conference the Coalition, who adopted them as their Board Members of Dried Grape Producing Countries held policy platform. Neville Mitchell in Hamburg, Germany. Delegates from a This has formed the basis for negotiations Large Producer - Wemen number of producing countries attended, between the Coalition and government including the United States Turkey, Chile, over the CPRS legislation.

South Africa, Iran and Australia. We have also been working closely with Brian Boulton Importantly, this conference noted that the the NFF on issues related to the new Producer - Vinifera total availability of Thompson Seedless Horticulture Industry Award 2010. Raisins (TSRs) and sultanas had increased In conclusion, the Australian Dried Fruits Jenny Treeby by 8% as world stocks carried into the Association and other horticultural Producer - Red Cliffs new season increased slightly, although industry members will participate in they remain at historically low levels. consultation meetings with the Chairman Further, the major Northern Hemisphere and new Chief Executive Officer of Stephen Bennett countries, with the exception of Iran, Horticulture Australia at a meeting to be Producer – Merbein reported reduced production levels. held at Mildura in early November. These Conference delegates noted that the meetings are important in ensuring good communication and understanding of Warren Lloyd world supply position was adequate to meet market requirements. issues affecting our industry. Producer – Irymple While in Germany, the Australian Finally I wish you all good luck for the delegation also took the opportunity to coming season. Richard Findlay attend the Anuga Trade Fair in Cologne. Sunbeam Foods The sheer scale of the fair is something to behold with more than 6,000 exhibitors from the food and beverage industry Chris Ellis showcasing their products in 11 halls. It Sunbeam Foods attracts over 150,000 visitors from more than 180 countries. Phil Chidgzey If anything, Anuga confirms the highly Mark King General Manager ADFA competitive environment in which ADFA Chairman Australian processor/marketers are pursuing sales of Australian dried grapes. The Australian industry was well represented at Anuga by Sunbeam Foods and Australian Premium Dried Fruits. But the reality is that we must compete with other dried grape marketers, as well as a tremendous range of foods and beverages which are all fighting for their share of the consumer’s dollar.

4 ATGA Chairman’s report Early days, but 2009/10 table grape season looks promising

I’m pleased to be able to open this While our Chief Executive Jeff Scott’s column with the good news that the task of organising the conference Nick Muraca table grape industry has every chance slowly winds down, the ever demanding ATGA CHAIRMAN of delivering another pleasing outcome role of market access never eases. this season, although it is still early Jeff has been busy attending bilateral Chairman: days. negotiations and technical talks in Nick Muraca A quick ring around to fellow growers Korea, Japan and in China to progress Victoria in the West and the North revealed that our market access applications with crops are generally looking pretty good. those countries. Deputy Chairman: While the earlier regions are well ahead He was accompanied by ATGA Market Rob Wheatley and not far away from picking, the Access Sub-committee member John Queensland Sunraysia region and southern Western Argiro to Japan and I will travel to China Australia have just begun flowering as I with him in a couple of weeks time. I Executive Delegates: write this report in late October. look forward to providing the outcomes of these visits in the next edition. Matt Katich Unfortunately the news is not all good. Western Australia About 20 growers in Robinvale have The official business of the ATGA had their crops devastated by hail. continues and we will hold our Annual John Argiro The affected area covers about 250 General Meeting on 5 November. Victoria hectares, with some vineyards reporting Let’s hope that Mother Nature is kind 100% losses. to us with weather events for the It’s gut wrenching to hear the hail on remainder of the season, so that we can Chief Executive: the roof and know that Mother Nature’s realise yet another successful story. Jeff Scott short burst of anger could devastate a Victoria whole year’s crop. The ATGA again warns growers to Delegates: check their hail insurance provides David Agg adequate coverage. Nick Muraca ATGA Chairman South Australia The official business of the ATGA continues and we will hold our Annual Vince Dimasi General Meeting (AGM) on 5 November. Victoria Outcomes and any issues raised by delegates will be reported in the next Barry Pederson edition of The Vine. New South Wales On a brighter note I am pleased to report that the 2009 Australian Table Ang Panagiotaros Grape Conference turned out to be a Victoria great success. Peter McKeand With almost 200 registrations, an Northern Territory excellent line up of speakers, terrific trade displays and fantastic support David Smith from sponsors, the event was a great Victoria occasion socially and professionally. Again I would like to take this Rocky Violi opportunity to thank our sponsors, New South Wales Horticulture Australia, the organising committee and all those involved. Fred Tassone Victoria It was very encouraging to see a young and enthusiastic audience especially when there is so much publicity about young people not wanting to stay on the land. With the interest shown by these dedicated young growers the future of our industry is certainly looking bright.

5 Cover story Table grape conference identifies challenges

A run of consumers shopped and the products they colour right, particularly for those growers last minute bought. who send fruit overseas. registrations He said convenience was still earning a Recognising that colouration of Crimson on Wednesday premium, but the demand for value was very Seedless is a problem Dr Andrew Rath of morning helped strong. Valent BioScience spoke of ProTone™, to boost the a new product which is currently being Using examples such as pre-packed salad Australian trialled around the world with patents and and a punnet of tomatoes, he demonstrated Table Grape registration pending. how items that were in a ready-to-eat Conference The chemical is a plant growth regulator numbers to format could command higher prices. He also illustrated the benefits of differentiating (s-abscissic acid); ABA that can be used as almost 200 a harvest management tool for red table or registrations. products and branding showing how a carton of eggs could be marketed as a range of wine grapes. It stimulates the anthocyanin Growers, products with varying price tags. genes which are responsible for red researchers, service providers and exporters colouration of the skin, so there is not only from across the country came to Mildura to These were areas that the table grape more colour, but a more even distribution hear the latest developments in table grape industry could explore further, but to do this of colour and also helps to bring the crop research and market intelligence. it was imperative that growers delivered forward. a product that met consumer desires and Held in mid-September, it was the first time Dr Rath said good spray coverage was vital in five years that the Australian Table Grape needs. as the product was not translocated in the Association (ATGA) had held a national Colin Gordon from Agriculture and Food bunch. He warned that spray equipment had conference. Western Australia took this topic further as he to be up to the task as poor coverage would ATGA Chief Executive Jeff Scott said he was told of the consumer research conducted in result in a poorly painted job. extremely pleased with the outcome of the WA and the implementation of the minimum New varieties conference. maturity standards to ensure all grapes presented for sale are sweet in flavour. Helping to meet the changing patterns of “The calibre of speakers selected by the demand is developments in new varieties and Many of the growers in the audience related organising committee was superb,” he rootstocks. to fellow grower Roger Fahl as he recounted said. “Feedback from delegates showed Conference organisers were fortunate to that they found the topics quite relevant his experience with the minimum maturity standards. He said there had been relatively have renowned plant breeder Dr David Cain to their businesses and the speakers very make a presentation. Dr Cain is the General few changes in the vineyard, but the impact informative.” Manager of International Fruit Genetics (IFG) on the industry had been enormous, with Meeting consumer desires and was able to provide valuable insight into higher prices and continually growing the public and private breeding programs in Martin Kneebone provided a very informative demand. More detail on his presentation can California. presentation on what drives our customers be found on page 36. and consumers. He spoke of the changing At IFG the breeding objectives were broad, demographic, and how this combined with Getting colour right looking at all colours and seasons. He said time constraints, economic uncertainty and While sweetness is one aspect of quality that seedlessness was very important. environmental concerns were changing growers need to get right, another common Most grapes are Vitis vinifera, but have fairly shopping frequency, the places where theme among speakers was the need to get neutral flavours so the company is doing a lot with muscat flavours and exotic flavours like the labrusca flavour of Concord or Kyoto. He said that if they were able to create some profile flavours through their breeding then it may be possible to expand the market. He said when labour was so expensive, it was important to look at input costs as well as hybrid activity, yield and profitability. In this area they were exploring varieties with larger berry sizes that were not as dependent on gibberellic acid, full colour grapes that didn’t need ethrel as well as types that do shatter off the stem with a small scar as potential products for the food service industry. Australia too has had success with the development of new varieties and rootstocks especially for the Australian climate. Peter Clingeleffer and Rob Walker spoke of the After-dinner speaker Robert DiPier Domenico happily signed autographs at the CSIRO breeding program and the impact of conclusion of his speech. the closure of the Merbein facility.

6 Innovations in production Mr Phillips told delegates that at this Leading the way with innovations in stage the temperature production was Shane Phillips from Tandou range was greater Limited. inside the pergola Mr Phillips provided an honest account of the than outside. He said role of polyacrylamides (PAM) in increasing disease outcomes crop water use efficiency. were still to be He described PAM as a big long chain of evaluated but there carbon that got thicker in water. was some indication By altering the viscosity of water, growers can that sulphur is held change the way that water moves through longer in the pergola the soil profile over time. Mr Phillips said compared to outside. PAM helped to slow water penetration and Rising to the therefore reduced nutrient losses through challenge the soil with water movement. As a result trials had shown PAM –treated vines to have Mr Scott said the American plant breeder David Cain and local consultant Alison greater vigour and longer bunches. conference left many MacGregor. delegates with lots to Mr Phillips warned that there were several think about. the industry. The conference dinner was an formulations of PAM and that some could be ideal opportunity for delegates to let their hair “Friday’s best practice in table grape difficult to handle. He said powders tended down and relax. to have low solubility and application rates, production panel session rated highly as Identifying with the ‘wogs’ in the audience, while the emulsions often got very thick in growers learned what other people were after dinner speaker Robert DiPier Domenico, water and did not disperse well. Ready to doing, and how they might improve their own use solutions were readily available and were practices,” he said. or Dipper as he is affectionately known, the best option even though they were not Horticulture Australia’s Agnes Barnard kicked entertained the dinner guests with his candid necessarily the cheapest he said. off the final session with a report on the anecdotes of his life as an AFL legend. He showed genuine enthusiasm for the table With water such a hot topic in the Murray- domestic marketing campaign. Growers grape industry and even turned up the next Darling Basin, growers were keen to hear also heard of the opportunities in Asia from about new technologies that may help Asiafruit Magazine’s John Hey (see page morning to listen in on the grower panel improve water efficiency. 32) and were given practical advice on the session before flying home. way forward from both David Minnis and Mr Over coming editions of The Vine we will run Pam Strange from the Victorian Department Kneebone. of Primary Industries reported on a study tour more detailed articles from the conference to Israel to see table grape production in an “This final session was excellent and our presenters, but in the meantime all arid climate and a more information on this feedback shows delegates appreciated the PowerPoint presentations are available on the trip can be found on page 34. time and effort that all our speakers had put ATGA website www.atga.com.au into their presentations. Another innovation attracting attention was the Italian pergola shade system. Mr Scott said delegates were impressed with the trade show and the opportunity to mingle Thank you Conference delegates were able to see with sponsors. the Italian pergola shade system at John sponsors “Our sponsors were kept busy during the Argiro’s property at Merbein during the field The Australian Table Grape Association breaks between sessions and reported good trip. They heard early results from trials would like to thank the generosity of enquiries for their products.” with the pergola system suggested overall sponsors, without them the conference water use may be reduced due to a lower While not always recognised, the social aspect would not have been possible. of the conference is important for catching up evapotranspiration component and earlier Major sponsor: Alzchem harvest date. with colleagues and meeting new friends in Gold sponsors: Amcor Andpak Grape Exchange Sumitomo Chemical Field day sponsor: Elders Silver sponsors: EE Muir and Sons Lindsay Australia National Harvest Labour Netafim Australia Redox Ringnail Fastener Rural Finance Corporation Others: Horticultural Australia Belinda McCarthy demonstrates the dissection of grapevine flowers for onlooking Jamesprint growers at the field day.

7 Global dried grape supplies favourable for growers

World supplies of sultana / Thompson that included ADFA General Manager nations of currants, the US, South Africa Seedless Raisin (TSR) varieties have Phil Chidgzey, Board members Jenny and Australia, reporting slightly increased increased, but remain at historically low Treeby and Neville Mitchell, Sunbeam levels of total production for 2009. levels. Foods European Export Manager Peter The conference acknowledged the This is the finding of the International Johannssen and Horticulture Australia valuable presentation by the Chilean Conference of Dried Grape Producing Industry Services Manager Ross Skinner. industry which was participating at the Countries held in Hamburg, Germany on The delegation also visited the Anuga conference after an absence of some 14-15 October. international trade fair. years. Delegations from the United States, Delegates also recognised that other Turkey, Iran, Chile, South Africa and “Good news for producing countries such as India, Australia, and trade organisations from Australian currant China and Uzbekistan were increasing the United Kingdom, and Germany meet their production and were emerging as annually to exchange information and growers with exporters. The conference approved the world production and marketing. request by India to participate at next They noted dried grape production from 2009 world year’s forum and agreed to also invite the sultana/TSR varieties had increased China and Uzbekistan to be represented. from the previous year due mainly to the production at 30,200t Co-operation in sharing research results larger Iranian crop more than offsetting and other information that assists in the smaller crops produced in Turkey and compared to 34,000t the production, and most importantly, US this year (Table 1). supports the marketing of dried fruit The Iranian delegation advised that last year.” around the world, is a strength of the their crop had returned to normal levels conference. Conference Chairman Erdinc Kapkac of Turkey reminded his colleagues following the small crop in 2008, but Mr King said the conference agreed of this and made particular reference to the other major Northern Hemisphere the world supply was adequate to meet the area of health benefit research from countries had reported smaller crops, with market requirements and that this position the consumption on dried grapes. Turkey affected by heavy rains late in the was providing improved returns to harvest period. growers worldwide, something that were Delegates noted that health and nutrition With a slight increase in crop carried urgently needed in many instances. related research was being conducted in several countries including the US and forward from 2008, the total availability He said there was also good news for Australia and that all countries producing of Thompson Seedless Raisin (TSR’s) and Australian currant growers with 2009 dried grapes would benefit if final project sultanas, had increased by 8% to 877,000 world production at 30,200t compared results were made available to them tonnes. to 34,000t last year. This is largely due following publication. Australian Dried Fruits Association (ADFA) to the recent trend of smaller Greek Chairman Mark King led a delegation currant crops with the other producing Chairman of the German import and trading company Waren-Verein der Hamburger Börse E.V., Thomas Haas Rickertsen told the conference that Germany along with the UK were the major markets for dried grapes and that the product had a special meaning to Germans. Fellow workmate Michael Rund and Frucom President Martin Rome added to the discussion providing insights into the UK and German markets. They were both concerned at the impact of recent price increases in response to the difficult weather conditions during the Turkish drying season. A major focus of the discussions was the development of closer linkages between the International Conference of Dried Grape Producing Countries and the International Nut and Dried Fruits Council to progress issues covering product integrity, promotion and research ADFA General Manager Phil Chidgzey visits Neville and Leslie Mitchell of Australian activities. It was agreed to investigate Premium Dried Fruits at the HAL stand at Anuga. the council providing a Secretariat to

8 Delegates and speakers at the 2009 International Conference of Dried Grape Producing Countries held at Hamburg, Germany.

Conference which amongst other services than those for the would provide regular statistical updates previous event, on a quarterly basis through the year. but they remained The next conference is to be held in Izmir, stable overall. Turkey on 12-13 October, 2010. The number of exhibitors - 6,522 Anuga suppliers from Anuga is an important trade show for the 97 countries - trade and food service/catering market. also remained Sunbeam Foods participated at the stand of import broker Waren-Verein der Hamburger Börse E.V. Held in Cologne, Germany, the trade fair unchanged at attracts visitors from around the world. its previous high This year about 153,500 trade visitors level. its leading role as a central trade hub and from more than 180 countries came to the Gerald Böse, Chief Executive Officer of information platform for the international fair, with 61% (about 93,500) coming from Koelnmesse GmbH, who organise the fair food industry. abroad. These figures were slightly lower said the 30th Anuga clearly demonstrated “The outstanding quality of the trade fair resulted in a great atmosphere Table 1. Global dried grape production estimates for 2009. and excellent business. Against the background of a difficult overall economic situation, the market-oriented trade fair concept of Anuga once again impressed everyone involved.” In addition, the sector enhanced its image by focusing on the topics of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainability. Moreover, the supporting program strongly highlighted future- oriented issues. Mr King said his visit to Anuga had confirmed how competitive the food industry was in terms of chasing the consumer dollar. The next Anuga will take place from 8-12 October, 2011.

9 APIA AGM resolutions

The Australian Prune Industry Association contributions for season 2009 (APIA) held their annual conference on be confirmed as follows: 22 October at the Gemini Hotel in Griffith. ■ Processor or marketer – processing About 40 growers attended the or marketing more than 500 t event to hear the latest research and per annum - $300/annum development and market intelligence ■ Processor or marketer – processing for the prune the industry. or marketing less than 500 t An important part of the conference per annum - $100/annum is the Annual General Meeting (AGM) where the APIA National Executive APIA membership contributions APIA National formally reports on association activities 2010/11 season and finances. The AGM also ratifies Grower: That the grower membership the membership of the Executive and Executive contributions for the season 2010/11 approves both membership fees and (on prune grade fruit receivals the industry’s statutory research levy. Chair counting up to 90 pieces per 454 The following resolutions were grams) be confirmed as follows: Cheryl Heley carried at AGM: ■ APIA administration - $10/t (plus GST) Finance ■ IPA membership and expenses Deputy Chair Financial statements 2008/09: - $2/t (plus GST) Harley Delves That the Annual Financial Statements of the Australian Prune Industry ■ APIA Prune Promotion Fund Association for the year ended 30 - $40/t (plus GST) Grower Representatives June, 2009 be received and adopted. Processor/marketer: That the Greg Brooke-Kelly Independent auditor: That this AGM processor and marketer membership agrees that APIA should appoint the contributions for season 2010/11 Jim Granger same independent auditor as used by be confirmed as follows: the Australian Dried Fruits Association Michael Zalunardo ■ Processor or marketer – processing (ADFA), since ADFA provides APIA with or marketing more than Paul Carver secretariat and finance services. 500 t/annum - $300/annum APIA membership contributions ■ Processor or marketer – processing Packer/ Marketer 2009/10 season or marketing less than representatives: Grower: That the revised grower 500 t/annum - $100/annum Chris Brooke-Kelly membership contributions for the Research levy for season 2010 season 2009/10 (on prune grade fruit That this AGM endorses an receivals counting up to 90 pieces per Jeff Granger unchanged research levy of $13/t 454 grams) be confirmed as follows: Chris Ellis on all prune deliveries in 2010. ■ APIA administration - $20 Prune industry promotion Colin Farey per tonne (plus GST) ■ IPA (International Prune That this AGM endorses the prune industry promotion plan and budget APIA National Secretariat: Association) membership and expenses - $2/t (plus GST) for 2009/10, as outlined. Phil Chidgzey ■ APIA Prune Promotion Fund APIA National Executive Australian Dried Fruits Association - $30/t (plus GST) That this AGM ratifies Executive 31 Deakin Avenue Processor/marketer: That the Committee nominations from processor and marketer membership Young and Griffith branches. PO Box 5942 Mildura 3502 Tel: (03) 5023 5174 Email: [email protected]

Industry Development Manager: Anne Mooney NSW Department Primary Industries Tel: (02) 6391 3873 Email: [email protected]

10 Prunes ready to be processed at a large US dehydration factory.

Fruit quality impacts on processing results

Due to the very low 2009 Australian its shape more consistently during ■ Fruit is rotated two to three times prune harvest, Angas Park the dehydration process, which on the grower’s or packer’s supplemented stocks to meet sales in turn saw it fit better into the dry yards, depending on its requirements by purchasing natural chuck in the pitting machine. Some moisture and then tipped again condition fruit from California. Natural Australian fruit, after dehydration, at the factory on receival. condition prunes are prunes that are is quite flat on one side. ■ Fruit maturity is a major focus dried and graded, but unprocessed. ■ It was also noticeable that the to get the best dry ratio and The product sourced was in a range Californian grade sizes were more the best return per hectare. of sizes from counts 30/40 to 50/60 consistent which gave a more and was to be fully processed and even product out of the cooker ■ Thinning the trees before harvest pitted at the Angaston factory. into the pitting machines. to achieve a more even line of When production commenced the The above points instigated a visit fruit was a common practice. imported fruit revealed some very to the United States by Angas Park’s ■ Grading out small fruit off the interesting and concerning facts. Colin Farey and two other industry harvester and leaving it in the 1. Line efficiency (that is, the amount members from New South Wales. The field or at the tray stacker before of pitted fruit per hour) through objective was to observe orchards, dehydration were other options used the cooking line increased by up growing technology, harvesting, to eliminate inferior size product. to 45% over the Australian fruit. drying and processing in an effort to 2. There was a much improved yield better understand why the Californian Dehydrating mature sugared fruit which was 8% to 9% greater prunes process diffently. Some of minimises the risk of mould with than the Australian fruit. the factors that may contribute to these higher moistures. Further Obviously these factors gave a lower the difference are listed below. insurance is undertaken by rotating cost of production and posed the ■ All the dehydration operations the fruit in the bins until it has question as to why Australian visited were running their evened out to consistent moisture. prunes may not process as well tunnels as parallel flow. There These observations indicate there are as the Californian prunes. was no talk of counter flow. differences in the growing, harvesting Some possible factors include: ■ Fruit exits the tunnels at a higher and dehydration practices of the two ■ The Californian fruit has flesh that moisture content (around 23% - 24%) countries. Replicated trials can help is free from the stone and comes than in Australia and is monitored establish which of these practices away cleanly in the pitting process. closely with moisture meters. affect plant efficiencies and product ■ The pits in the Californian fruit ■ Burners run between 185- 190°F yields. There is potential that both appeared smaller when compared (85-88°C) using natural gas. grower and processor practises can to those of the Australian fruit ■ Most tunnels hold nine improve yields for both growers and (of the same grade size). trucks and stacks are pulled factories and this is something the ■ The Californian fruit seems to hold about every two hours. industry should pursue further.

11 An insight into fruit tree borer In 2003 Department of Primary Industries New South Wales researcher Susan Marte began a three year project to investigate biological control of fruit-tree borer in prunes (DP03001).

Fruit tree borer (Maroga melanostigma) is a native pest found in every state and territory in Australia. It is a serious pest in ornamentals and native trees. Borer damage to prune trees can reduce production by 5%. The adult female lays eggs on the bark of a tree, usually in scarred areas, during Summer. On hatching the larvae burrow into the wood producing sawdust, known as frass. Frass covers the entrance to the tunnel, helping to keep predators out, and is also an early sign of borer activity for orchardists. Early instar larvae shelter in the tunnels by day and emerge at night to feed on the bark around the entrance to its tunnel. This can lead to ringbarking and death, especially in young trees. Later instars tunnel into the tree which causes structural damage and decreased vigour in the tree, which then leads to a loss of production. The larval stage can last up to two years. Larvae can be present in any part of the tree throughout the whole year. Larvae pupate in tunnels and emerge as adult moths, starting in late Spring. There are no chemical controls registered for use Fruit tree borer larvae and adult moth. against fruit tree borer. with a piece of wire and pierce the were made over two seasons in The general recommendation for larva to kill it. This method is best three orchards in the Young district. control is to clear away the material used when damage becomes visible No statistical difference was found left behind by the pest as it feeds and can be carried out at any time (frass) and infiltrate the tunnel beneath of the year. However, it is labour between release and non-release intensive and impractical blocks. However, the area was in in a large orchard. severe drought throughout the trial Insects, birds and bats and conditions were not conducive provide a small degree of to Trichogramma survival. control of certain stages Encouraging native predators of the fruit tree borer life into the orchard system may help cycle. There is some control control this native pest. Planting of borer eggs by earwigs, native vegetation areas, with the ants and parasitoids exception of black wattle (a known such as Trichogramma. host of fruit tree borer), provides Ms Marte’s work an area away from orchard trees focussed on the use of the parasitic wasp where biodiversity can develop. Trichogramma to control A full copy of Ms Marte’s final report fruit tree borer. Releases can be found on the Australian Frass covering the tunnel entrance is an early sign of of the tiny parasitic wasp Prune Industry Association website fruit tree borer activity. Trichogramma carverae www.ausprunes.org.au.

12 TGWA to manage CSIRO-bred varieties

Table Grapes WA Inc (TGWA) is pleased to opportunity in the announce that TGWA has been appointed early season market managers of the CSIRO-bred table grape for M51-18. Mr Price varieties M51-18 and M13-01. said the variety had Both varieties are registered under Plant trialled well in the Breeders Rights (PBR) in Australia. Carnarvon region of Western Australia, M13-01 is an early-mid maturing variety but demand in which produces a black, seedless, tapered the eastern states berry with attractive green stems. has been slow, as M51-18 is an early maturing variety which the market has produces a white berry with a distinctive a preference for muscat flavour. Registered growers who seedless varieties. were voluntary contributors to the Table Grapes for the New Millennium project Mr Price urged will now be able to access M13-01 and growers interested M51-18 through TGWA. in obtaining M13-01 M13-01 is an early-mid maturing variety which produces a Grapes of M13-01 that meet required and M15-18 planting black, seedless, tapered berry with attractive green stems. material to register quality specifications are marketed under production royalty is not payable until their intentions early. The cut-off date for the Trade Mark name Magic Seedless® the second year for field grafted vines orders to Sunraysia Nurseries in each year and grapes of M51-18 that similarly or the third year for nursery vines. meet required quality specifications are is 31 March, 16 months prior to supply. ■ All royalties are to be paid in advance marketed under the Trade Mark name Growers will need to obtain and sign of harvest so that names of registered Millennium Muscat™. a Non-Propagation Non-Distribution growers can be sent to the designated Options are available for registered agreement (NPNDA) before receiving nursery plants or top working existing marketers. Each year registered growers to either plant nursery vines or growers will receive a list of market to rework existing vines, (which allows vines. agents who are licensed to use the a more rapid return), and as the cap Growers will also need to be aware Trade Marks; any sale of Magic on individual plantings has been lifted, of the Breeding Program Steering Seedless® or Millennium Muscat™ growers are invited to increase planting Committee’s revised method of royalty grapes, outside of the appointed agents levels if they so wish. collection. Under the new management arrangements TGWA will collect all in breach of Trade Mark rights, may TGWA Secretary Allan Price said demand attract legal penalties. for grafted and top-worked vines of royalties. The new method includes: M13-01 in the eastern states currently ■ A bud royalty of $1.00 plus GST when ■ Market agents will no longer collect exceeds supply, with additional demand plants are propagated, either in nursery production royalties at point of sale. expected in 2010. To help meet demand or field grafted. For information on eligibility, NPNDAs, the mothervine planting in the eastern ■ An annual production royalty of royalties and marketing arrangements, states was recently expanded. $1500.00 plus GST per hectare, contact Allan Price (TGWA) He said there was a short window of payable on a pro rata basis. The Tel: 0429 925 499. “A Revolution in the Nailing of GGraperape CoveCovers”r Unlike thethe traditionaltraditional nail whichwhich tears thethe plasticplastic covers withwith it’s sharpsharp head,head the Ringnail pierces the covers EFFORTLESSLY, with no damage to the covers.cov

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13 Sunbeam Foods/Angas Park

Working towards a brighter farming future

Sunbeam, as Australia’s largest dried Tree fruit fruit manufacturer, understands the Similar favourable water conditions value of Australia’s rural communities apply for South Australian irrigators and farmers. More than 650 growers and again Sunbeam has committed to supply Sunbeam with quality dried dried tree fruit pricing at least as high fruits and Sunbeam employs over 300 as in 2009. people centred in regional areas of Victoria and South Australia. Field reports suggest a lighter crop than last year, but this may result in To give young people living in rural a requirement for less thinning and Australia a start in the farming produce larger fruit. industry and to secure the future of Australian Apprenticeship. A further the Australian farming community, incentive is also offered to each There is increased interest in dried Sunbeam has developed the apprentice on completion of their tree fruit production and Angas Sunbeam Future Farmers program in Level II Certificate. Park is currently developing supply conjunction with Rural Skills Australia. As an initiative backed by and contracts for growers wishing to undertake additional plantings. Rural Skills Australia facilitates facilitated through Rural Skills training in agriculture and horticulture Australia, the program is open to all Prunes by providing advice and assistance farmers and its aim is to sponsor a Water issues are not a concern for the to ensure the continuation of skills select number of young Australians as Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area (MIA) within farming industries. they work on through their Australian growers this year and the crop has At a time when the age of farmers is apprenticeship. Any Sunbeam or Angas emerged without damage from the increasing and rural communities are Park supplier or prospective apprentice potentially devastating impact of heat shrinking, maintaining the skill base wishing to participate should visit stress at flowering as occurred in within the horticultural industry is www.sunbeamfoods.com.au. October 2008. The crop is developing becoming increasingly important. The goal of the Sunbeam Future and a good crop is possible if The Sunbeam Future Farmers Farmers Fund is to contribute to the favourable seasonal conditions program is designed to match on-going skills development of the continue. farmers with young Australians next generation of Australian farmers. Unfortunately the higher global prune considering or participating in a full, Seasonal and market updates supply has resulted in lower prices part-time or school-based Australian Vine fruit and combined with a strengthening apprenticeship in Production Australian dollar this has seen imports The 2010 outlook is positive and the Horticulture. It will enable the increasing in market share which has momentum built from a successful apprentice to develop their practical impacted on Australian processors harvest last year will continue skills on the land and receive a including Angas Park. because: Level II Certificate in Production Growers will need to manage the ■ Sunbeam has committed to prices Horticulture. quality of their crops carefully to for contracted growers at least Furthermore, the program provides ensure they get the best possible equal to the high prices paid in a financial incentive for the farmers, return in what could be a weaker 2009 and the company continues by contributing to the cost of the market. Some interesting insights into to offer attractive pricing for how prune quality affects both the growers wishing to enter a supply returns of the grower and processor contract. are presented on page 11. ■ Water allocations are increasing. ■ The price of temporary water is Sunbeam and Angas Park Dried Fruit decreasing. Contacts: ■ Growers are reporting a good Chris Ellis General Manager Fruit budburst and the subsequent mild Supply: (03) 5051 4403 conditions are indicating at least a or 0419 896 970 ‘reasonable’ crop. David Swain Supply and Receivals In general terms the global pricing for Manager: (03) 5051 4402 dried grapes remains firm following or 0407 834 044 a rain-interrupted Turkish harvest, but the ever rising Australian dollar Colin Farey South Australia Fruit is testing premiums for export Supply: 0417 875 149 fruit while at the same time seeing Alan Lister: Field Officer: imported fruit becoming cheaper. 0409 437 801 New packaging has been designed to Peter Thompson, Field Officer: highlight the Australian fruit content 0429 960 234 and the Sunbeam Future Farmers Bob Jaensch, South Australia: Fund. 0427 337 619

14 Comments invited for draft NFFS Implementation Action Plan The Australian Table Grape Association (ATGA) and Horticulture Australia (HAL) have commenced the process of A draft National Fruit Fly Strategy (NFFS) ■ Provide significant support for local developingGRAFTED a new strategic plan for the Implementation Action Plan has been industry management of fruit flies in both table grape industry to guide the R&D released for stakeholder consultation. endemic and pest free areas; andVINES Promotional activities – over2009 the next Fruit flies are a large and important group ■ five years. Improve coordination of operational Black American of insect pests that attack a wide range of responses to fruit flies in all production A meeting of the ATGA Executive with fruit and vegetables. The group includes areas; HAL staff wason held Kober in Sydney 5BB to develop Mediterranean fruit fly (Ceratitis capitata) ■ Facilitate the sustainable and long-term the frameworkCrimson for the Seedless Strategic Plan. This which permanently inhabits the southern included developing the industry mission growing regions of Western Australia, and management of fruit flies, with support on RichterSOLD 99 for industry and government stakeholders which it was agreed should be ‘Australian Queensland fruit fly (Bactrocera tryoni) table grapesCrimson – the preferred Seedless fruit of world which is found in parts of the Northern provided by a national governance consumers’. SOLD Territory, Queensland, New South Wales and mechanism. on Kober 5BB Victoria. Comments and responses from all The workingCrimson group agreedSeedless the new on mission statement succinctly provided the Fruit flies have the potential to infect a wide stakeholders are encouraged over the next direction andSchwarzmann impetusSOLD the industry needed range of crops and have a significant impact two month period. In particular: to take. That is, a market-driven approach on Australia’s capacity to trade in domestic ■ Red Globe on Dog Is the technical approach presented in the based on meeting consumer needs. The and international horticultural markets. If not plan appropriate and effective? Ridge (metre high) adequately managed, the presence of fruit vision is to place Australian table grapes ■ Are there any key fruit fly management fly larvae in horticultural produce can lead to at the forefrontMenindee of consumer Seedless preference, closure of international export markets and components not adequately addressed both domesticallyon andPaulsen internationally. significant disruption of domestic trade. by the NFFS Implementation Committee It was recognised that the industry plan Action Plan? Menindee Seedless Against a background of declining (financial needed to have the market acknowledge ■ on Freedom and technical) resources and increased Are there any other additional projects the inherent quality of Australian pest threat levels, it has been recognised that can be identified and what outcomes producedMenindee table grapes Seedlessthat were superior product in terms of flavour and texture, that a national coordinated approach to would be achieved from them? on Schwarzmann the management of fruit flies is required to ■ Should any of the projects and initiatives and that size alone was not a strong protect, maintain and enhance horticultural be undertaken as a matter of priority? indicator Menindeeof a good eating Seedless experience. market access. Australian Table Grape Association (ATGA) The purpose onof the Kober Strategic 5BB Plan is With a vision that fruit flies are no longer Chief Executive Jeff Scott attended the to documentMenindee the knowledge, Seedless product, a constraint to sustainable production, equipment, services and other outputs special fruit fly briefing and discussion on Ramsey the draft NFFS was released by the facilitated by Plant Heath Australian in required to deliver the best return on Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Canberra on 28 October 2009. NFFS the investmentMenindee of theSeedless statutory onR&D H5 and Forestry in November 2008, as an initiative Implementation Committee Chair Paul Marketing levies. The ultimate goal – that to implement an effective national the investmentSultana contributes (metre towards high) the Hickey presented an overview of the management strategy for the control of all financial wellbeing of Australian table Implementation Action Plan and, Horticulture fruit fly species in Australia. grape businesses. Australia’s Biosecurity and Market Access Over the last year, a committee comprising R&D Manager, Kim James outlined the draft These outputs and the strategies to be experts from industry and government (the Horticulture Market Access R&D Strategic implemented to deliver them will be NFFS Implementation Committee), has been Plan which was taken into account in grouped under four major goals. These working to develop an Action Plan designed developing the Implementation Action Plan. are: to implement critical recommendations and ■ Increase demand for Australian table strategies contained in the draft NFFS. A copy of the draft Implementation Action grapes. The NFFS Implementation Action plan Plan together with the draft NFFS can be ■ proposes a new and sustainable national found at www.phau.com.au/go/phau/ Increase the return from the marketing approach to the management of fruit flies in strategies-and-policy. of Australian table grapes. Australia that is designed to: The ATGA will respond to the NFFS ■ Improve the application of resources ■ Enable industry investment to be Implementation Committee’s invitation to used to produce, pack, transport and carefully prioritised and targeted towards provide comment on the draft strategy and merchandise Australian table grapes maintaining, protecting and enhancing will make a submission to Plant Health by increasing efficiency, controlling critical domestic and international market Australia by the deadline of 2 January, 2010. cost and managing risk throughout the supply chain. access for growers; Following feedback and finalisation of ■ Reduce overlap of effort and duplication the Implementation Action Plan, the NFFS ■ Develop an enabling environment of resources across regions, jurisdictions Implementation Committee will develop a in which Australian table grape and industries; fully costed, draft investment plan, based enterprises can best operate. ■ Ensure financial investment in maintaining on benefit:cost and beneficiary analyses, Within this framework the strategies will market access brings optimum returns for which will be circulated widely for further be identified and developed to a level that industry and government stakeholders; comment. will involve funding a number of actions.

15 Grower profile Dairy farmer takes dried fruit opportunities by the horn

Red Cliffs dried fruit grower John Hunt finally moved back up to the Mildura area “We bought the 21 acre (8.5 hectares) swapped his gumboots for grapes 20 years just after the birth of our first daughter, property in Wolfe Road that we still live on ago, and says it’s a life-changing decision Rowena,” John said. now and the first year we hand-picked the he has never regretted. A second daughter, Adele followed three fruit onto racks.” The Hunt family was traditional Western years later, and their youngest, Sharee is It was not a good year to buy – vines were District dairy-farming stock, and John left now 11. hit by heat-stress and interest rates were school after year 10 to work on the family “I just loved the area mainly because of the at 22%. property at Cudgee, 20 kilometres from weather and the lifestyle, but I also liked “Our financial institution told us we weren’t Warrnambool. viable, but for us that was really like a red “I loved the farm, but unfortunately cows “I just loved the area rag to a bull,” John laughed. and I never saw eye to eye,” John said. mainly because of “We worked two or three jobs, we grew “It was the family business, though, and watermelons and we just dug in and I worked with Dad Mervyn until I was 21, the weather and the got through, but there were some tough then went off on my own share-farming. times. It was a bit of a blessing in disguise, “Strangely enough it was eventually the lifestyle, but I also liked though, because one of the jobs I had was dairy farming that brought me to Mildura, delivering gas and I got to speak to a lot of though. the dried fruit industry the more progressive growers who were going into summer pruning. “I applied for a job at the dairy at Iraak, which was one of the last two dairy farms because it offered a “It just seemed so much easier and we in the Sunraysia district at that time. bit more flexibility than took the plunge. “Then when that ended I went and worked “I guess it was a bit of a leap of faith, but on a dried fruit property owned by Tom and dairying.” what we saved on labour changed us over Phil Muir for about eight or nine months.” to mechanised production – the savings in wages were phenomenal, and I think in But John went back to Warrnambool to hindsight that’s probably what let us get share-farm after the death of a district the dried fruit industry because it offered through. couple in an accident. a bit more flexibility than dairying,” John said. “We were in with the start of the “I eventually went on to marry technology, and although that involves a bit their daughter, Jenny, of risk and a bit of trial and error, when and we

16 The vacant 3.2ha of their 6ha block was recently planted with Sunmuscat and again drippers were installed. it’s the right way to go, you are also able to Dried Fruit Association’s (ADFA) pilot exchange going and there’s more of an maximise the benefit.” grower-training program in 2004 and is inclination to just do things the way Dad enthusiastic about grower networking. did. In 2001 the Hunts bought a fruit block across the road from their home property “I work really closely with two of my “But we are facing some huge challenges and redeveloped it with Carinas and neighbours in that we combine our as an industry and I think working together Walthams, and at the same time put it resources for harvest with only one is going to be one of the important aspects under drippers. harvester between us, and that’s worked to getting through. pretty well,” he said. This year they bought another nearby “A lot of people are throwing their arms in 6ha property and have planted the vacant “In the broader sense, there’s a really the air because there’s no water, but I think 3.2ha with Sunmuscat and again installed important aspect of getting groups of we’ve just got to look past that and see drippers. growers together to learn from experts how we can go on.” and, equally importantly, to learn from each “We changed over from overheads to other. John said that although there was some drippers on the home block in 2007 – the encouragement from processors for wine first year we had water restrictions, so “The information grape growers to move back into dried fruit, we’ve now got all 20ha under drippers,” he expects the take-up will be limited. John said. exchange that goes on “I don’t think too many wine grape growers “The drippers have played an important can really afford to. They’ve been through role on our properties - in the early days when you get a group a really tough few years, and it’s an we would use nearly all of our water expensive prospect for them to change over entitlement, and last year we got through of growers together is to dried fruit. on the equivalent of about 50% of terrific.” “On our 6ha block alone I am putting in allocation. Swingarm trellis at the moment – I’ve “I’d like a bit more than that to feel just bought $17,000 worth of trellis steel, comfortable, but if I could get 60% of our without taking into account the cost of wire “The information exchange that goes on irrigation entitlement I’d be pretty confident and posts, or my labour to weld it up and when you get a group of growers together of getting through. get it all in – and that is only to do 2.4ha is terrific – just ways of doing things, of the block because the rest has already “I do think generally, as an industry, even what works and what doesn’t and taking though we are managing, we are under- advantage of expertise that you don’t been done.” irrigating at the moment – we are pushing necessarily have yourself. John said he was pleased processing everything to its bare limit. “That’s one of the things that I really companies also seemed to be starting to “There are patches on the properties noticed that was different between dairying make the changes needed to do some of where, if I’d had the water available, I and dried fruit growing.” the heavy lifting for getting the industry would have put it on. through. John does contract wetting and this also “But we are certainly a lot more efficient gives him the opportunity to talk to many “I’ve signed a new 10 year contract with and much more aware about the sorts of other growers Sunbeam this year – 2000 was the last practices we need to implement if we’re “Dried fruit growing tends to be more time there were contracts that offered going to be staying in the industry for the isolating – everyone is very busy at crucial genuine guaranteed minimum prices. long haul.” times of the year and consequently there’s “We need that kind of forward-thinking to John was a member of the Australian not so much chance to get that information give growers the confidence to continue

17 Free standing V orchard Setting the trees up for future production

The first few years are the formative inside laterals are kept short and that years in the tree’s productive life. the outside laterals have grown fruiting Time spent during this establishment wood for the next season. phase will be rewarded with good yields Year 2 SADTFA in future years. Conversely, trees that In the second year the goal is to grow are not trained and are left to grow fruiting laterals on the main arms for ‘naturally’ with no structured growth crops in future years. Management will not yield as well. It is important to keep the lower Committee - 2008 Year 1 canopy open to avoid excessive Tree training began with the shading. This is achieved by limiting Chairman Summer. selection of four leaders attached to both the number and size of lateral Robert Blenkiron the stakes to form the free standing V. shoots growing into the middle of the It continues the next Summer when any canopy. Deputy Chairman lateral shoot growing into the centre of Winter. Winter heading is important the canopy needs to have its tip pinched for the continued establishment of the Kris Werner out. This will direct the vigour to the tree’s structure. This will result in a terminal bud of the growing leaders. proliferation of new terminal growth Lateral growth facing outwards into the from which a new leader can be Grower Representatives row should be allowed to grow to about selected to extend the main arms. Stephen White 30 centimeters before they are tipped. It is important that the leaders are cut These laterals will carry the majority of at the same height. The amount that Jim Ellis the first crop. is pruned off will depend on the vigour of the growth from the previous year, Paul Wittwer If the leaders are extending vigorously, further support with extra easi-ties may but generally only the top 20 to 30cm be required. It is important to monitor should be removed. Packer Representatives: the growth of the leaders and ensure This heading cut should be made Colin Farey they are well supported to avoid wind so that the top bud is facing to the damage. outside, this will allow the dominant Angas Park Fruit Company It may be necessary to walk through shoot to retain the open structure of Peter Manning the orchard as many as five times in the canopy. Angas Park Fruit Company that first season if trees are particularly Spring/Summer. Establishing tree vigorous. This will ensure that all the structure is still a high priority in year 2. Marketer Representative leaders are safely secured to the stakes, It is important to avoid cropping the Chris Ellis Angas Park Fruit Company

SADTFA Secretariat: Phil Chidgzey Australian Dried Fruits Association 31 Deakin Avenue PO Box 5942 Mildura 3502 Tel: (03) 5023 5174 Email: [email protected]

18 upper canopy too soon. Tree shape and If the length of leaders are more than and the trees are showing vigorous the future manageability of the new 80% of the row width, they need to growth, there is a benefit in tipping patch can be compromised if the fruit be headed in Summer (postharvest), the growth to limit the extension of the load hinders vigour and the direction of however this will result in the leader shoots and promote the development of the new growth. growing slowly the following Spring fruiting wood. Two or three shoots may burst from the because of the competition from the Once the crop is removed, the vigour shoots lower down the limb. heading cut. One must be selected as will be redirected into vegetative the leader and the others removed. If the tree height is less than 80% of the growth. This new flush of new growth Growth needs to be directed to the row width postharvest, they should be needs to be limited by tipping the terminal bud of the new leader by left until Winter to be headed, this will watershoots. result in the new shoot selected for the removing the laterals facing into the Trees should be trained so that tree leader growing strongly to finalise the centre of the canopy and tipping the height is no more than 80% of the row structure and height of the canopy for ends of laterals growing into the row width. That is if the rows are 4.5m once they have reached 30cm in length. the next growing season. wide, the trees should be 3.6m in This not only allows the extension of Year 3 and beyond height. the new leader, but encourages the development of fruiting wood on the The primary aim for the remaining years A Summer heading cut to 3.2m should laterals. of development is to control the canopy ensure that the tree grows no higher size and optimise fruitfulness. than 3.6m through the growing season. Some lateral shoots from last year may be too long, these can be pruned To achieve this there needs to be good Because Winter heading promotes to length now to reduce shading and light penetration into the canopy and vigorous return growth, it is best encourage the development of more continued attention given to the current to head the trees in the Summer to fruiting wood to carry next year’s crop. and previous season’s growth maintain the trees at the required Postharvest. Once the crop load is Winter. Year 3 is the final year a Winter height. removed, there will be a renewed heading cut should be considered. At the moment the short to medium growth flush, it is important that If the trees did not reach a height of term outlook for dried apricots is this new burst of growth is properly 80% row width in the second year, looking stronger than previous years. managed. the leader needs to be reinvigorated The adoption of closer plantings by a Winter heading cut. The targeted Postharvest pruning should commence using the free standing V system, canopy height should be reached and ideally be finished before the end of together with new varieties with good through the third year. this growth spurt. drying ratios that are also suitable for The growing tip of the new postharvest Thinning cuts, removing a whole shoot mechanised harvesting, makes dried growth needs to be removed. This will or limb to improve light penetration and apricot production worth considering. limit the extension of watershoots and access by pickers, can be undertaken in Growers may also consider changing encourage the development of more Winter. This can also occur in Spring. over old unproductive patches, fruitful wood further down the length of Any Winter cuts of wood greater than especially if these industry best the tipped shoots. 10cm should have the wound sealed practices are adopted. It is important that the growing tips of with fungicidal paint as soon as the four leaders are NOT removed at possible. this stage. Spring. Unwanted new growth Stronger laterals at about waist height should be rubbed off by hand should be cut back to 8-10cm, this when it is about 10cm in length, is about the width of four fingers and any well positioned new growth why it is known as a 4 finger cut. The can also be tipped to promote cut should always be to a downward the development of fruiting facing bud so that a less vigorous, more wood. fruitful shoot results. Strong upright shoots from the Leaving short stubs, rather than cutting previous year can be removed the laterals back to the leader, will retaining the fruiting wood result in the re-growth of a strong behind the vigorous shoot. This vertical shoot with another one or two can be easily done by cutting weaker shoots behind it. It is important behind last year’s postharvest not to remove this vigorous shoot too cuts, this will remove the early as one of the other shoots will developing cluster of shoots to take over. This shoot should be removed expose the more useful wood either in late Autumn or in early Spring. behind. The remaining shoots will develop into Summer. If the crop load is fruitful laterals. good, the vigour of the trees An unheaded apricot tree leader tends will be held back until the fruit to make weak extension growth. is picked. In this case no other action needs to be taken until Heading can occur either in Summer or It is important to establish a good framework for postharvest. Winter. This will depend on the growth the tree to grow if it is to be productive in later of the leaders during Summer. However, if the crop load is light years.

19 Plant Health Australia Vehicle movement and biosecurity measures

The recently revised Viticulture Industry time and cost effective than managing a Biosecurity Plan is just one tool for new pest introduced on to your vineyard. managing and mitigating the risks Designated parking areas posed to grape growers by exotic pests, A well sign-posted, designated parking including insects, pathogens (diseases) area provides visitors with clear and weeds. directions where to park. This plan underpins the Emergency A parking area allows the farm manager Plant Pest Response Deed (EPPRD), to contain the possible entry of new the formal legally binding agreement pests to an area away from vines and between Plant Health Australia, the farm facilities. It also allows inspection of Australian Government, all state and tyres, equipment, floor mats and boots for territory governments and national plant soil and plant material which may carry industry body signatories. It covers the dirty machinery, can reduce the spread unwanted pests. management and funding of eradication of pests. responses to Emergency Plant Pest A sign, situated in the parking area, will (EPP) incidents, including the potential Contractors and service providers such remind visitors of the risk of spreading for owner reimbursement costs for as delivery trucks and earth moving pests between properties and acts as growers. It also formalises the role of equipment can, and should, be requested a prompt for them to consider their plant industries’ participation in decision to clean their vehicles and equipment movements. making as well as their contribution before entering your farm. Do not allow the movement of farm towards the costs of EPP responses. Measures to consider: machinery through the parking area. The other main tool for managing ■ Keep farm vehicles clean by clearing Wash-down facilities biosecurity risk is growers themselves. the vehicle floor of soil, weed seeds A wash‑down facility allows farm Being aware of the threats, managing and insects, especially after visiting employees and contractors to clean their the movement of people and vehicles, other properties. vehicle and equipment and allows you to cleaning equipment and conducting contain any potential pest introductions in ■ Where possible, use your own vehicle regular inspections of vineyards are key one easily managed area. practices to protecting individual property to carry visitors around your property. Providing a high-pressure wash‑down and the timber industry from exotic plant ■ In vineyards, keep vehicle movement facility and cleaning equipment will assist pests. to a minimum, especially on wet soil. you and your visitors to clean down Vehicle movement Stick to regular pathways through each vehicles and equipment. For additional Vehicles and farm equipment such as block to minimise the risk of spreading protection you can add a detergent- tractors, sprayers, seeders, harvesters pests. based degreaser or disinfectant (for and bins can carry pests attached to ■ Hose off and disinfect machinery in example, Septone Truckwash®, Castrol soil and plant material (especially in a designated wash down area before Farmcleanse® or Virkon®) to disinfect wet conditions). Pests could then be moving between properties. the equipment. Seek advice from your local department of primary industries transported to other parts of the farm, or ■ Use high pressure water or air to or chemical reseller on the use of to other properties. remove plant material and soil from While it is impractical to stop all traffic disinfectants and availability of other larger equipment and machinery. cleaning products for your farm. For best movement on and off the farm, washing Ensure that waste water and debris results, remove as much soil and plant down machinery, or denying access of don’t enter material as possible from the equipment production or before using cleaning products. storage areas. The wash‑down area should have a ■ Always make sump or water collection area. The sump sure that and area surrounding the wash‑down borrowed and facility should be checked regularly for secondhand the presence of new pests or weeds. Any equipment new pests should be managed as soon and machinery as possible. is cleaned of all The wash‑down area may be the same plant material as that used for chemical wash‑down and soil before of vehicles and equipment. If so, all moving them occupational health and safety issues onto your associated with chemical wash‑down property. areas must be taken into account. Inspecting If you see anything unusual on your The deep tread of a tyre is a perfect hiding spot for weeds. and cleaning property call the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline machinery is more on 1800 084 881.

20 Review safeguards Australian grapes

With Spring in the air and buds on the reduce the risk of exotic pest incursions, PHA Executive Director and CEO, vine, grape growers may be thinking improve pest surveillance and diagnosis Greg Fraser, said as signatories to the about spring cleaning, but the combined and develop contingency plans to Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed forces of industry and government deal with any outbreaks. These efforts (EPPRD), the viticulture industry is have been hard at work planning the have the added benefit of also helping guaranteed a say in decisions about protection of Australia’s grapes from minimise the spread and impact of managing and funding plant pest exotic threats. endemic pests such as Phylloxera,” Mr incursions. Muraca said. At a time when Australian livestock “PHA has applied its biosecurity acumen industries are fighting the impacts of and technical expertise to develop this animal diseases, the viticulture industry “The biosecurity plan is Viticulture Industry Biosecurity Plan received a boost to its own defences a vital tool for Australia which supports the Emergency Plant with the official release of the Viticulture Pest Response Deed by prioritising the Industry Biosecurity Plan. The plan in the fight against highest risk exotic pests and identifying provides a blueprint for protecting the actions to reduce the likelihood or impact industry from exotic pests and diseases exotic pests and of any incursion,” Mr Fraser said. such as glassy winged sharp shooter, Pierce’s disease, angular leaf scorch and diseases.” PHA has further information to help black rot. growers secure their vines and their futures against potentially devastating Australian Dried Fruits Association The Viticulture Industry Biosecurity plant pests and diseases. Partnering (ADFA) Chairman Mark King said: Plan was originally developed by Plant with Animal Health Australia, PHA has “The biosecurity plan is a vital tool for Health Australia (PHA) in partnership with developed a website with biosecurity Australia in the fight against exotic pests the ATGA, the ADFA, the Winemakers’ planning information for both plant and and diseases which pose a constant Federation of Australia, Wine Grape livestock producers at threat to the sustainability, profitability Growers of Australia, the Australian www.farmbiosecurity.com.au. and viability of the dried grape, table Government and state governments More information about the Viticulture grape and wine grape industries.” in 2006. This latest review brings the Industry Biosecurity Plan, along with Australian Table Grape Association Viticulture Industry Biosecurity Plan the 23 other industry biosecurity plans (ATGA) Chairman Nick Muraca added up-to-date with the latest scientific currently in place, is available on the PHA that it was essential that the plan be research and pest intelligence to identify regularly reviewed. “Updating the plan the highest risk pests to the viticulture website at www.phau.com.au. allows us to refocus our efforts to industry.

Black rot is just one of the diseases the Viticulture IBP helps to protect Australian growers from. Photo courtesy of BM. Clerjeau, INRA, Centre de Recherches de Bordeaux, Bougwood.org.

21 Horticulture Australia (HAL) update

Exchange of information enlightens

In the last few The International Conference of Dried beneficial, what had the most digestible weeks I have had Grape Producing Countries was also well intake, what was the optimal synergistic the opportunity to attended by the major producing countries. combination of products etc. That said, attend conferences As has been the way over the years the interest amongst consumers was high for the table grape, discussions that occur outside the formal and the product promoters were very international agenda are often the most telling. This knowledgeable. dried grape and year talk on the impact of trade embargoes The enormous display area was impossible to prune industries. on Iran and the effect of non-industry fully inspect in the two days we had available. In addition, I was participants seeking to obtain export credits able to attend the to facilitate imports into Iran by selling dried The tens of thousands of visitors could not fail to be impressed at the quality of the trade HAL Industry Anuga trade fair grapes cheaply on the international market Services Manager, held in Cologne, was one of the more enlightening topics displays, many of which were grouped within Ross Skinner Germany. covered at the afternoon tea break. a country’s theme area. China, Turkey and the South American countries were particularly All these events The world’s largest food and beverage provided an excellent opportunity to collect show, Anuga, was an overwhelming noticeable whilst treading the eleven display information on the challenges facing experience providing a glimpse of the halls, many of which were multi-storey Australia’s horticultural industries. magnitude of the food industry. Dried fruits buildings. The conference organisers are to be from around the globe were on display Hopefully, the outstanding quality of the congratulated on their efforts in putting which highlighted the competitiveness Australian products on display will have together interesting programs that reported of this sector, but more confronting was made an equally memorable impression on on topics of great importance to growers the range of products competing for the those attending. including marketing challenges, the latest consumer dollar – research findings and other topics that will a myriad choice of impact on the operating environment for freeze-dried fruits, industry participants such as the carbon glacé fruits and trading. other more highly All this information was made readily processed foods. available and very well presented, yet Product the organisers like those for most grower promotional forums, were concerned about the level of material support the event may receive. In the case consistently of the table grape and prune conferences featured health the support by industry members on the benefits. There day was very strong and rewarding to was so much those charged with putting the events material available together. However, I am sure that an that it creates indication of strong early commitment to confusion about The dried grape, macadamia and almond industry displays these events would help organisers rest what products coordinated by Horticulture Australia at Anuga attracted many easier in the lead up. were the most interested participants from the world’s food business sector. HAL announces new CEO Horticulture Australia (HAL) has as well as experience in business The announcement comes after an appointed John Lloyd as its new Chief management in agriculture and extensive search process. Executive Officer. marketing. We are delighted with his “The Board was very pleased with the appointment,” Dr Steele Scott said. Mr Lloyd has, up until recently, run a high calibre of applicants we had for management consultancy specialising Mr Lloyd is looking forward to starting the position,” Dr Steele Scott said. in operational and strategic advice to in the role. “I’m really excited about agricultural clients. He has previously taking up the position with HAL and “It’s a positive reflection of the been the CEO/Vice President of CNH working in an industry that shows such strength and attractiveness of Australia/NZL, General Manager exciting growth prospects over the next horticulture as one of Australia’s Commercial at Incitec Pivot, and five to 10 years.” leading agricultural industries.” General Manager Marketing at Mr Lloyd’s appointment comes just as Mr Lloyd will take up the position on 2 Wesfarmers Dalgety. HAL is about to embark on a strategic November from Ms Vanessa Goss who Mr Lloyd will take up the role on 2 planning process to set the direction for has been acting CEO since April. November, 2009. the company to 2015. “The Board wishes to both thank and HAL Chair, Dr Nigel Steele Scott, said “The strategic planning work gives me the Board was extremely pleased Mr the opportunity to get involved with all congratulate Vanessa for the skill and Lloyd had accepted the position. the stakeholders in the industry and dedication she has displayed while “John has extensive experience in work to coordinate common objectives,” acting in the role,” Dr Steele Scott agriculture with practical farmers Mr Lloyd said. said.

22 ATGA Chief Executive’s report

Table grape conference a success

Feedback from underway with a fresh new face that one application at a time is frustrating, the Australian helps capitalise on previous work. but there is good news ahead for table Table Grape The 2009-2010 objectives are: grapes. We are moving up the queue Conference has ■ To encourage improved table grape and market access applications for table been excellent. retail display and merchandising grapes into China, Korea and Japan There were could begin shortly. ■ To encourage purchase of table grapes close to 200 Biosecurity Australia advise that Korea ■ To build awareness of table grapes as registrations and is in the last stages of determining a all those who the perfect grazing snack using the protocol for Tasmanian cherries to enter attended gained Munch-A Bunch-A Grapes tag-line Korea. The cherry industry is expected valuable insight To help achieve those objectives the to sign-off on the protocol in January into the latest ATGA has enlisted Olympic swimming ATGA CEO, Jeff Scott research and champion Libby Trickett (also known 2010, and once that is agreed Korea can developments as Libby Lenton) as our table grape commence work on the application for in the table grape industry. Thought- ambassador. We hope that Mrs Trickett’s Australian table grapes. provoking presentations on water, image as Australia’s super swimmer will Australia and Korea have also climate change and marketing were translate across and table grapes will entertained the idea of working not only interesting, but left conference become Australia’s super snack. concurrently on the Import Risk Analysis delegates to ponder some of the future Mrs Trickett will be used in all (IRA) to allow table grapes into each challenges facing the industry. merchandising material this season. other’s country. It was thought that if The conference would not have been The creatives are very good and will each country’s work is open and shared possible without the generosity of our definitely stand out in stores around then it may hasten market access work sponsors. Major sponsor Alzchem was Australia. and achieve access at a faster rate than very pleased with the outcomes of the As in past years an extensive Public would normally occur. conference as were the other sponsors. Relations program is planned. This is a The trade show may have been small, In Japan, access for Australian grapefruit cost effective way of reaching a large is expected to be finalised in the near but it certainly was busy. Sponsors audience and many media outlets have future with verification trials planned. indicated there were many enquiries already indicated they want to feature Table grapes are the next priority about their products and they expect table grapes with Mrs Trickett. ongoing support from the table grape commodity for market access to Japan. In 2008 live crosses to Steven Jacobs at industry. a table grape property in Paringi during An opportunity to discuss Australia and Our cover story this edition features a Channel Nine’s Today show were very China’s main priority access requests general overview of the conference. popular. We received great coverage will occur at a workshop to be held at More detailed articles on selected and publicity for table grapes and will the conclusion of the World Fruit and presentations will occur in this and other be doing the same this season, with the Vegetable Trade Fair in Guangzhou, editions of The Vine. property still to be determined. China.It is expected that table grapes All presentations are now on the ATGA Another useful promotional tool was will have one-on-one discussions with website www.atga.com.au for everyone simply giving fruit away for people to relevant Chinese authorities regarding to read. sample. During the season table grapes any issues affecting market access into Promotion in snap-lock bags will be given to people China. The national promotion campaign is in transit. The concept is for people to Biosecurity Australia has recently snack on grapes returned from China. During that visit on their way to the Chinese were presented with the or from work, latest responses to their request for emphasising further information on various pests and the portability of Australia’s great diseases that they see as a concern if snack. Australian table grapes were to enter their country. Market access New CEO for HAL Market access Horticulture Australia has announced continues to be their new Chief Executive Officer, John a priority for the Lloyd. ATGA. Mr Lloyd takes up his position on 2 In recent times November and to familiarise himself Australia has with industry will be visiting Mildura, participated Melbourne and Brisbane in the second in bilateral week of November. negotiations with The ATGA will meet with him in Mildura Korea and Japan. to discuss all aspects of the industry and Dipper (centre) gives the thumbs up to conference, pictured with The policy of commence a working relationship with only working on Dr Hubertus Gehrmann, John Abell, Jeff Scott and Aaron Abell. him.

23 ADFA Board of Management news

NFF pushes through on CPRS strategy

The National Farmers’ Federation flexibility for alternative, incentive- at least 2015, they will experience the (NFF) has been pursuing a concerted driven, market based carbon mitigation indirect effects of the CPRS almost strategy for the past 18 months to mechanisms, such as off-sets, to be immediately. The scheme will have have agriculture excluded from the recognised from the agriculture sector. wide reaching impacts on many parts of cap under the Federal Government’s “Finally, anything that impacts the economy, and especially the energy Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme negatively on the international sector. Businesses in these sectors (CPRS), while developing the competitiveness of the agricultural will pass the additional costs of the opportunity for farmers to benefit from a processing sector will, invariably, be CPRS on to their customers, including complementary offset program. passed straight back to farmers in the farmers, with energy-related inputs In a recent radio interview on ABC 2’s form of lower prices. The government being a major cost item for most farm must therefore recognise the integrated Breakfast program NFF President David businesses. Processors of agricultural Crombie summed up the NFF’s position. nature of the agricultural supply chain products will also experience impacts “For the record, the NFF does not want in determining the framework for its Emissions Intensive Trade Exposed from the CPRS, and these impacts will a CPRS,” Mr Crombie said. “However, also have implications for farmers. both sides of politics have committed to (EITE) compensation provisions.” the policy intent.” Mr Crombie said that while the A decision will also be made in 2013 about the role that farm businesses will He said that covering agriculture’s Canberra rumour mill is suggesting have in the scheme, and farmers need emission under such a scheme would agriculture’s exclusion is likely to be an to understand the issues associated decimate Australia’s farm sector. historic win for the NFF, it’s far too early to know what will happen. “In addition with this decision so that workable “Let’s be clear, the objective is to to exclusion of direct emissions, policies can be developed. reduce emissions. Farmers and farmers need credits to recognise the “The CPRS may also create new agriculture are part of the solution,” good environmental work they are doing incentives for carbon-sequestering Mr Crombie said. and we need processor costs excluded activities, or for new agricultural “We have a demonstrable record in because they will flow back to farmers.” positively managing carbon. However, enterprises associated with biomass we have been consistent and clear that New publication explains production. This potentially means the the CPRS in its current form doesn’t impact of CPRS creation of new sources of revenue for work for agriculture. The proposed introduction of an farm businesses - initially for activities “The NFF has proposed that like Australian emissions trading scheme such as planting trees - but in the Australia’s major competitors, direct has been described by many longer term potentially for activities emissions from agriculture should be commentators as potentially the biggest that sequester additional soil carbon, excluded permanently from the CPRS economic change experienced by or for biomass production associated cap. While the present legislation does Australians for many decades, and it with renewable energy production,” Mr not ‘include’ agricultural emissions, is important that people have a clear Keogh said. understanding of how the scheme will as Minister Wong protests, the intent The publication The Australian work, and what impact it might have on in the Government’s White Paper is Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme: ‘predisposed’ to coverage. their businesses or their lives. This is especially the case for those involved in An introduction for farmers and “We now know through extensive agriculture, because of the significance agribusiness is available for purchase modelling and our global competitors of the sector in the national greenhouse from the Australian Farm Institute ruling out covering their farm sectors, emission inventory and the potential website, www.farminstitute.org.au that covering Australian farming’s direct impact the scheme may have on farm Imports emissions would be catastrophic for our businesses. farmers and the communities and jobs Total dried grape imports for the seven The Australian Farm Institute has they support.” months to 30 September, 2009 dropped released a new publication – The by 858 tonnes to 14,773t compared to Mr Crombie said the NFF had taken Australian Carbon Pollution Reduction their amendments to the Rudd Scheme: An introduction for farmers the same period in 2008/09. Government months ago and had and agribusiness which provides a The effect of duties now being applied engaged in negotiations accordingly. detailed explanation of Australia’s to Greek currant imports continues with However, the government refused to proposed emissions trading scheme, total currant imports down by about make the concessions upfront. and in particular discusses the 342t on same period last year. On the The NFF subsequently took their implications of the scheme for farmers otherhand sultana imports are up by amendments to the Coalition, who and agribusiness. 1,163t on last year and this is partly adopted all NFF imperatives as their “It is very important that as many due to the growing imports from China. policy platform. This now forms the people as possible involved in the Chinese sultana imports jumped from basis for negotiations between the agriculture sector understand the 71t in August to 524t in September Coalition and Government over the issues associated with the CPRS, and In summary: CPRS legislation. can actively engage in the process of “The NFF, therefore, supports the determining future policies,” Executive ■ Currants 414t down 342t Coalition’s amendment on excluding Director of the Institute Mick Keogh ■ Sultanas 10,611t up 1,163t agriculture’s coverage,” Mr Crombie said. ■ Others (TSRs) 3,747t down 1,679t said. “Even though farm businesses will not “The CPRS Bill needs to allow the be directly involved in the CPRS until ■ Total 14,773t down 858t

24 Drying for profit activities Water forum a winner with growers

Sunraysia irrigators are faced with some hard decisions this coming irrigation season. With wine grapes in over supply and another year of low water allocations many growers are asking should I stay in production? Thanks to a water forum held in early October at Mildura many growers are better equipped to make that decision. About 140 people attended the forum conducted by the Sunraysia commodity Industry Development Officers and Victorian Department of Primary Industries (DPI) extension staff. The forum gave irrigators a chance to listen to water management authorities and hear what the outlook is for water Forum participants listen intently as Graeme Hannan gives them an update on the allocations this season. latest allocations for the season. Goulburn-Murray Water Executive Manager Water Resources, Graeme this season, but was unsure how Information covered in this session Hannan told the meeting that the quickly allocations would be made. included – outlook for the season’s allocation was The forum was told by Sunraysia Water ■ An explanation of the grief cycle and tracking somewhere between the dry Exchange water broker, Phil Grahame how to deal with the various elements and average scenarios. This means that that the water market this year was to get a positive outcome. This is irrigators can expect that allocations completely different from in the past in particularly relevant as growers are will be somewhere between 30–50%, terms of where water could be sourced going through difficult times through this is based on conditions remain the and its trading patterns. no fault of their own. same as they are and inflows continue He said it was important to keep a ■ That it is possible to gain employment as predicted. watch on what was happening in after farming, a local grower told of He said Spring rains has fed into the water market as allocations are his experiences after exiting farming catchments and September inflows announced. Depending on the time of and how on-the-job training with a were the best they had been since year and critical price levels, demand catchment authority environment 2005. could rapidly increase as annual work plan helped him with training However with the current inflows, there croppers such as rice growers could to receive qualifications to help with will be no reserve left in the storages enter the market and inflate the price further employment. and that the 2010/2011 season will and reduce the availability of water. ■ Another farmer from Ballarat told of start with zero allocation again unless As always, he said the best strategy his experiences of selling his property there is a good Autumn break. is to buy at a time that suits you as and moving to Melbourne to work. Lower Murray Water General Manager an individual, and to consider buying He went on to open his own business for Customer Service Owen Russell, told smaller parcels throughout the season and says that he enjoys city life. to hedge against any rapid price rise. growers that all of their water, including ■ That growers should not take for up to 50% carryover, was now available Forearmed with this information the granted the skills that they have on a continuous basis. participant feedback showed that 90% developed to run their properties Permanent water cannot be traded out intended to act upon the information and that there are ways of getting of the Merbein, Red Cliffs and Robinvale presented at the forum. With allocations these skills recognised to ‘get that irrigation districts as the 4% cap, which likely to be similar to last year, most piece of paper’ to help with further regulates the amount of permanent growers stated that they would buy employment opportunities water that can be traded out of a water to see them through the season. The evaluation showed that growers district in a season, has already been Making difficult decisions found it particularly useful to hear reached. However the First Mildura Through the telling of stories, attendees from other farmers about how they Irrigation District is yet to meet the cap. to the second half of the forum have come through exiting farming or Western Murray Chief Executive Officer heard about dealing with change in a to part-time farming. They heard how Cheryl Rix said that it was likely that facilitated session on ‘Where to from farmer skills are in high demand and irrigators in New South Wales were here – Making difficult decisions about 20% requested an opportunity to meet likely to receive a high allocation again the future’. one-on-one to discuss this further.

25 Access to anti-dumping and countervailing system under threat

Access to Australia’s anti-dumping would demonstrably be against the measures, the existing ‘lesser duty and countervailing system could be public interest to do so’. rule’ will be applied as appropriate. limited if the recommendations in the ■ Guidance on the impact of the ACBPS will undertake assessments of Productivity Commission (PC) draft measures limited to consideration of the proposed public interest provision, report into the system are implemented. one step up or down the production with an additional 30 days added to The Australian Dried Fruits Association chain. the inquiry timeframe. ACBPS will be (ADFA) is quite familiar with the ■ A directive that measures are not required to notify interested parties system given their success with an in the public interest if one of the of: anti-dumping action on imported following is met: ■ The nature and breadth of the public Greek dried processed currants, but is • The measures could eliminate or interest test; concerned about the possible impacts significantly reduce competition in the ■ The opportunity to comment on the of the recommendations in the draft domestic market; public interest test by detailing the report. • The resulting price for the imported assessments in the Statement of ADFA General Manager Phil Chidgzey goods would remain significantly Essential Facts; said ADFA activities on the anti-dumping below the Australian industry’s cost- ■ Comments on the assessment of action continued due to the Federal to-make-and-sell; interested parties submissions in the Minister’s decision to instruct Customs • Non-dumped or non-subsidised final report; to reinvestigate the finding relating to goods are readily available at a ■ Routinely consult with the ACCC as to material injury to both currant growers comparable price to the dumped or whether the imposition of measures and processors in Australia. subsidised goods; “The report on this reinvestigation would impact competition in the • The dumped or subsidised goods market. is still under consideration by the are not the primary cause of the Minister,” he said. injury; Other architectural changes “Importantly however, the duties • The local industry’s share of the Further changes recommended by currently being applied to imported domestic market is less than 20%; the PC which impact the imposition of Greek currants remain in place measures include: • The imported goods recover the throughout this reinvestigation period.” ■ overseas supplier’s costs and a The establishment of a working group Mr Chidgzey said the ADFA sees the reasonable profit. to examine the provisions of ‘close current PC inquiry into Australia’s anti- processed agricultural goods’; dumping system as a priority. “Implementation of ■ No introduction of ‘zeroing’ (i.e. “Implementation of some of the draft assessing negative margins as recommendations as outlined in the some of the draft zero in weighted-average margin draft PC report pose serious risks to calculations) in normal value the future effectiveness of the system recommendations pose calculations; and would further limit industry serious risks to the ■ ACBPS required to publish a access to measures that are available Preliminary Affirmative Determination to competitors in other countries to future effectiveness of prior to any assessment of the public address unfair trading practices,” he interest test, and certainly no later said. the system and would than Day 110; The PC has sought submissions in ■ Retention of the initial five-year response to the draft report by Friday, further limit industry application period for measures. 6 November. Parties are also invited to access to measures Continuation of measures to be participate in scheduled public hearings limited to three years. Upon expiry of commencing in Canberra from 13 that are available to eight year period (i.e. five plus three), October. industry to be prevented from seeking Key recommendations competitors in other measures from source the subject The PC has suggested that the countries to address of earlier measures. Variable factors ‘imposition and continuation’ of anti- to be automatically reviewed during dumping measures should be subject to unfair trading practices” continuation inquiry; an introduced ‘bounded’ public interest ■ Current ‘review of measures’ test, to include: provisions be revoked. Relevant The ‘Public Interest’ test will be ■ A presumption that following parties to undertake ‘self- determined by the Minister. Where the confirmation of dumping, material assessments’ of measures and public interest outweighs the benefits, injury and causal link by the interim duties annually. ACBPS to measures will not be imposed. Where Australian Customs and Border undertake ‘spot audits’; the public interest does not overturn ■ Present ‘Duty Assessment’ provisions Protection Service (ACBPS) that the starting presumption in favour of measures will be imposed unless ‘it be abandoned with adjustments

26 to measures to occur at time of importation; ■ Australia’s list of actionable subsidies to be aligned with those in WTO Agreements; Administration of the system The PC has recommended the retention of ACBPS and the Minister in present roles. Responsibilities to be modified to take account of the PC’s recommendations. The following changes are recommended: ■ Where Trade Measures Review Officer upholds an appeal, the Minister to make a final determination (and matter not be referred back to ACBPS); ■ Decisions to extend measures beyond five years should be appealable; ■ Applications for time extensions should be available to ACBPS at any not ‘preserve’ the effectiveness of the holds a significant proportion of the time during investigation period; system. Rather, the proposed changes market, it will also be denied measures ■ Decisions of the Minister should be are designed to limit access to the as it will be argued that ‘there will be a the subject of a 30-day time limit; system by the introduction of a ‘public lessening of competition’. ■ ACBPS and Trade Measures Review interest’ provision which it is argued For any applicant industry that Officer to be adequately resourced; is based upon the European Union overcomes either restriction, it must public interest test (EU test). This is a ■ ACBPS to take account of recent also be a globally efficient producer, as misrepresentation by the PC. The EU cases by other administrations; measures will also not be imposed if: test is rarely used and often falls in ■ ■ In its status reports, ACBPS to favour of the applicant industry where The export price of the allegedly include data on the number of the local industry accounts for a greater dumped goods recovers all costs and applications that have not proceeded volume in sales than imports the some contribution to profit; or to initiation, including the products subject of the application. ■ The resulting non-dumped price and the countries the subject of the (after imposition of measures) is applications; “The proposed significantly below the Australian ■ ACBPS to publish details on the industry’s cost-to-make-and-sell. magnitude of measures imposed public interest test is For anti-dumping measures in place, include details on the basis of the the PC has recommended a maximum calculations underlying variable designed to restrict eight-year life of those measures. factors; the imposition of Applicant industries will be denied ■ ACBPS to seek feedback from local from re-applying for measures against suppliers on the impacts of measures measures where it that source country for two years. No imposed during the previous twelve account has been included for this months and, investigate further if can be demonstrated assessment to occur on a case-by- required; case basis (which would have been prudent). ■ The Australian Law Reform there is a lessening of Commission has been requested to The PC has also proposed a ‘Working give consideration to amendment competition.” Party’ to examine the definition of of the ABS Act to preclude the ‘close processed agricultural goods’. publication of import data where The proposed public interest test is ADFA should consider nominating to export data is freely available; designed to restrict the imposition of be included in the working party as ■ All recommendations to take effect measures where it can be demonstrated there are direct implications if any as soon as practicable, with the there is a lessening of competition. Every product grown (or processed) by exception of the continuation and affected exporter and importer will argue industry members is the subject of a reapplication for measures changes a ‘lessening’ of competition. There will future application for dumping and/or which will take effect two years later; be drawn out and protracted debate on countervailing measures. ■ There should be a broad and the impact of the measures. The decision The proposed changes will substantially independent review of the new anti- by the Minister will be no better than it reduce access to anti-dumping dumping system to take account of is today, even after accounting for the measures. Australian industry will be reforms in five years. proposed delays. Where an industry does denied access to relief from measures not account for more than 20% of the which are available to competitors in Concerns to Australian industry local market, it will be denied access to other countries to address unfair trading The recommendations of the PC will the measures. By contrast, if an industry practices.

27 Water outlook SA Government acts on water and Lower Lakes

While the drought is far from over, growers Mr Harriss said that while it was normal According to the Bureau of Meteorology, the are encouraged by the news that river practice to announce improvements in national outlook for rainfall shows a mixed inflows are better this season that they were availability on the 1st and 15th of each chance of exceeding the median rainfall the same last time (Figure 1). month, the announcement on the 22nd was over the late spring to mid-summer period made earlier to allow for irrigator need to (November-January). Drier than normal Good rainfall in the Snowy Mountains of make immediate decisions in relation to conditions are favoured for southeast NSW and Goulburn River catchment in summer cropping programs. Victoria during mid October helped to Queensland and much of NSW, whereas Mr Harriss said that the recent increase in above average three-month totals are increase inflows, but as the weather warms water availability, principally in the Snowy favoured in the central and western NT, and up streamflows in the upper Murray and its Mountains Scheme, will be diverted into the tributaries are expected to recede. Murrumbidgee and Murray Valleys in the northeast WA. Total water in Murray-Darling Basin storages, coming months. This will allow an immediate The pattern of seasonal rainfall odds across was still only 2891GL or 31% of capacity for increase in general security allocations in the Australia is a result of higher than average the week ending 21 October, 2009. Murray Valley to 9% of entitlement and an temperatures in both the Pacific and Indian increase in the Murrumbidgee Valley to 11% More water for NSW Oceans. The contribution of the warm of entitlement. Pacific biases the climate towards below On 22 October NSW Commissioner for Future announcements on water availability average rainfall across eastern Australia. Water, David Harriss took the unusual step of will continue to be made as normal on the The warm Indian Ocean promotes wetter announcing an increase in water availability 1st and 15th of each month. than average conditions across the tropics to general security water users in the Irrigators lucky enough to have high security and in western WA. Murrumbidgee and Murray Valleys. water allocations in NSW had received 97% of their entitlement as The chances of exceeding the median rainfall of 26 October. for November to January are between 25 and 40% over southeast Queensland and the Victorian high security irrigators on the eastern half of NSW. Murray System had Contrasting this, the chance of wetter than been allocated 37% average conditions is between 60 and 65% of their entitlement as for western and central parts of the NT and of 15 October and this northeast WA. is expected to rise to between 41% and 61% Across the rest of the country, including by February 2010. Victoria, SA, much of WA and Queensland, the South Australian chances of exceeding the median rainfall for irrigators have 34% at October to December are between 40 and 15 October. 60%, meaning that above average falls are Murray System monthly inflows (excluding Snowy and Darling about as equally likely as below average falls inflows) as of 23 October, 2009.Source: MDBA weekly report. Rainfall outlook in these regions. Victorian drought package The Victorian Government has announced a farmers who receive less than a 30% drought support measures with $9 million in new drought assistance package to help the allocation from 1 December. continuing programs which include: Drought state’s farmers to capitalise on recent Spring ■ $2.3 million for Drought Extension Support; Relief for Community Sport and Recreation, rains and boost recovery from more than a providing advice and information for farm the Synthetic Surfaces Program, Sustainable decade of drought. businesses in the Northern Irrigation Farm Families and case management Premier John Brumby said the centrepiece Region with essential decision-making services to assist farmers, fishers and of the $47 million package was a new including targeted advice for the dairy agriculture-dependent small businesses in farm improvement grants scheme to industry. their decision making. support farmers in drought-affected areas ■ $1.9 million for the Drought Apprentice Agriculture Minister Joe Helper said the Farm to make significant on-farm infrastructure Retention Bonus. The initiative provides Improvement Grants would provide funding improvements to boost productivity. one-off $1,500 cash grants per apprentice for farmers across the state to improve The key elements of the Victorian to businesses in EC-declared areas which infrastructure on their farms. Government’s 2009 drought package include: directly provide services to the farming “Farmers in the Northern Irrigation Region, ■ $13.5 million for Farm Improvement Grants industry. whose drought impact has been more of $2,000 for infrastructure improvements ■ $1.6 million to VicRelief and Foodbank severe, will be eligible for 2:1 co-investment for farmers in the Northern Irrigation to provide items such as food and other grants of $2,000 for infrastructure Region and $1,000 for any eligible household necessities to families in improvements such as replacement pipes or farmer in an EC-declared area to drive drought-affected communities. other capital improvements to items such as improvements in on-farm productivity. ■ $450,000 to provide a personalised case silos,” Mr Helper said. ■ $9 million for municipal rates subsidies management service to farmers accessing “Eligible farmers across other parts of of up to 30% for eligible farmers in EC- Rural Financial Counselling in Northern Victoria will be eligible for 1:1 grants of declared areas for 2009/2010. Victoria. $1,000 for the same purpose; to help secure ■ $9 million for Water Rate Rebates for The package includes $38 million in new their business for the future.”

28 National Water Commission report a wake-up call to governments “When it comes to water reform in Australia, “More certainty, more order to give irrigators confidence in their governments have failed to do what they future. said they would do – and it is irrigators information and more “However, the Murray-Darling Basin and regional communities that are hurting Authority needs to provide much more as a result,” National Farmers’ Federation transparency are information on where they are up to in the (NFF) President David Crombie said as the development of this new basin cap. At the National Water Commission (NWC) released desperately needed moment a significant information vacuum its report card on the progress of reform. exists – it must be filled or there is the “More certainty, more information and more to give irrigators and risk of even more angst and uncertainty transparency are desperately needed to their communities in regional communities about what their give irrigators and their communities the future may look like. confidence to do what they are proven to be the confidence to do Mr Crombie said the report highlights good at... produce food and fibre with ever- that for farmers and the communities scarce water resources. what they are proven that rely on them, many key water reform “These were key take-out messages from pillars remain either lagging or poorly NWC’s independent assessment, of how to be good at.” implemented. governments are tracking on their national “As for the states, it is now five years since “The NFF understands this report will be water reform commitments.” the National Water Initiative was signed presented to the Council of Australian The report is the first independent and 15 years into a national water reform Governments (COAG). COAG owes it to assessment of water policy since the agenda,” Mr Crombie added. “On a positive regional communities and the irrigation Federal Government took over significant note, there has been progress in areas such sector, which feeds, clothes and employs responsibility from the states, including as the development of a market for water the nation, to seriously address the basin planning, water pricing and trading, and there are opportunities, particularly report’s findings and fast-track fixing the and the management of environmental through the development of the new Basin deficiencies... not do what they have done flows. Plan, to resolve so called over allocation in for too long and just shelve it,” he said. Annual Water Market Report

Waterfind’s 2008/09 Annual Murray-Darling Basin Water Market Report is now available for download.

This must-read for growers provides unque analysis on: • Temporary & permanent markets, trends & seasonality. • Return on investment & capital growth on water assets. • New water market legislation & policy development. • Federal Government water purchases. • Rainfall & allocation comparisons.

Access this report via www.waterfind.com.au.

1800 890 285 waterfind.com.au

29 Reviewing your production costs makes cents Two neighbouring table grape vineyards look the same from the road. One is a sustainable business. The other is not. The differences seem small but the consequences are huge. By Alison MacGregor This article compares the incomes family also wants a $ Business Return = Income($) minus Expenses($) and costs for two vineyards to holiday. The other highlight what it is that makes one family hopes to Income = yield (boxes/ha) x price ($/box) business secure while the other will rework some older Expenses = operating & overhead costs + debt repayments. struggle. vines. From the road, the businesses look Now look more closely. Debt profit is a small proportion of the gross similar. Both look very well managed. repayments for Vineyard 2 are much income. Both have impressive cool-rooms and higher than for Vineyard 1. The high What are the ideal proportions do a mix of shed and field-packing. cost of servicing the debt leaves very Both growers claim to have good small net business return per hectare of costs to income, or asset to relationships with their agents in the for Vineyard 2. debt in a strong business? markets – one has agents in Sydney When financial advisors help you and Melbourne. The other has agents “Business Return review your business situation, they in Adelaide, Melbourne and Brisbane. look at the ratios of your income to One grower is aiming at the high end is one indication of costs, and also look at the ratios of of the market. The other vineyard your debt to assets. Some of these struggles to get fruit to colour evenly, how secure a ratios are explained in Table 1, and the slightly lower prices reflect together with the values calculated for this. The grower compensates by position each our example Vineyards 1 and 2. growing more fruit per vine. What does the future hold for The income, costs, debt and resulting business is in.” Vineyard 2? business returns for each vineyard are shown in Figure 1. Despite a good income and reasonable production costs, Vineyard 2 must At a glance, the incomes from fruit Business Return is one indication of strive to reduce their debt before they sales are within 10% of each other. how secure a position each business consider any further developments, The totals of operating and overhead is in. such as re-working older vines, or cost are also similar. Both families are Vineyard 1 is making a reasonable purchasing the new family car. hoping that returns this year will allow profit. Vineyard 2 is in a more them to upgrade the family car. One precarious position because their Streamlining overheads (which have been higher than average) will allow extra repayments to be diverted to reducing debt. Once their equity position improves, which may take three or four years, they will be able to renegotiate loans, for example to begin the program of redevelopment. Do you know your own business position? One of the most valuable steps you can take is to spend time reviewing your own business position – your income, your costs, your equity and your liabilities. Table grape growers also benefit from reviewing the impact on income of subtle changes in yields and returns. What help is available? Service providers who can help you with this type of review include accountants, Figure 1. A comparison of the gross income, costs and returns of two ‘similar’ financial advisors, the rural counselling vineyards. service or horticultural consultants.

30 Free advice for horticulture industry

Horticultural producers in the drought-affected Sunraysia region will have access to one-on-one business support services as part of the Victorian Department of Primary Industries ongoing drought and climate change response. The Horticulture Grower 1-2-1 Business Advisory Program will be delivered to growers through the Farm Services Victoria (FSV) Horticulture division, and will be available to all horticultural producers. With water scarcity continuing to be a major issue for irrigated horticulture in the Murray-Darling Basin and unsustainable commodity prices, many growers are faced with difficult decisions regarding the future of their businesses. To ensure the long-term viability of Sunraysia horticulture it is vital for growers to have access to good information to inform their decision- making. The Horticulture Grower 1-2-1 Business Advisory Program provides growers with free, one-on-one consultations with trained providers. These are people who understand horticulture. They can help growers to examine their business options in the context of their own farm operations, and to develop a plan to move forward and improve the long-term Figure 1. A comparison of the gross income, costs and returns of two ‘similar’ vineyards. sustainability of their business. Growers can access the free service Computer programs are also available Robinson or from Murray Valley Wine by contacting one of the following to help you review your own business. Growers. VineBiz was prepared by contracted advisers; There are several programs available Scholefield Robinson Horticultural ■ Cosimo Cirillo Tel: 0409 214 675 that summarise your business position. Services on behalf of Wine Grape Email: [email protected] A day spent entering all your details into Growers Australia and the Australian ■ Graeme Thornton of Sunraysia Rural a program might sound boring, but once Government Department of Agriculture Counselling Service Tel: 0427 164 490 the information has been entered, the Fisheries and Forestry. Email: [email protected] information is there at your fingertips to ■ ■ Alison MacGregor of Scholefield manipulate and review. AgriGater for horticulture is a similar (although more generic) program Robinson Mildura Tel: 0419 229 713 ■ VineBiz - a ‘Ready Reckoner’ for available for free download from Email: [email protected] managing the vineyard business. www.agrigater.com.au ■ Garry Moll of Southern Cross VineBiz is a computer spreadsheet Business Advisers developed by Scholefield Robinson to For more information on setting up and Tel: 0448 827 709 Email: garry@ assist grapegrowers to review their reviewing your farm budgets, contact southerncrossadvisers.com.au own businesses. VineBiz is available Scholefield Robinson Mildura Pty Ltd, for free on CD from Scholefield (03) 5023 4644

31 Rising to the challenge

Australian table grapes in Asia: current position and future outlook By John Hey Part 1 After a series of challenging seasons, wouldn’t colour on the vine was sent to with shatter. When it comes to berry Australian table grape exports surged Hong Kong and other Asian markets and sizes, uniformity is probably more to hit record levels this past season arrived just as the Aussie dollar took off important than actual diameter, though (2008/09). Asia accounted for the again. Returns tumbled and there were big berries are preferred. vast majority of exports with all major claims of thousands of dollars. Meeting specifications makes the markets taking more fruit and paying The industry should have pulled up difference on returns. Markets will pay good dollars too. stumps on export a month early, but a good price when the quality is there, As of the end of June, shipments to there was pressure to sell the whole but they will punish you when it’s not! Hong Kong had more than doubled, crop. Changing consumption climbing to 26,000 tonnes from around Although the season finished on a sour Table grapes is a growth category and 11,000t in the same period last season. note, it was a great success for most of consumption is generally increasing, This underlined Hong Kong’s position the way. especially in markets like Thailand, as Australia’s largest export destination, The question remains - was this Korea and China. accounting for 40% of all table grapes bumper year a one-off success or exported (Figure 1). In general terms, we’re seeing a change the beginning of something big for in consumption patterns. In traditional Indonesia remained the second Australian table grape exports? markets like Hong Kong/China grapes major market with close to 9,000t were sold predominantly for gift giving, and Thailand came a close third with “Meeting specifications but throughout Asia they are now sold 8,266t, almost double what was sent in for normal consumption. This signals previous years. Singapore and Malaysia makes the difference increased opportunities for small and saw moderate increases - both taking medium sizes in markets that have more than 5,000t while Vietnam almost on returns.” traditionally only taken larger fruit. doubled volumes to 4,300t. Another notable shift is that Chinese More than 70,000t of Australian table Table grapes in Asia New Year demand is not as steep as grapes were shipped in 2008/09, up Asia is a very diverse market and it used to be and demand is spread 73% on last season’s 40,000t. The provides a range of outlets for the crop evenly throughout the year. average value also increased 10%, depending on size, shape and colour. Most grapes are sold bagged or loose, from A$2.45 per kilogram in 2007/08 to At the top end are premium markets but many retailers are now selling A$2.70 in 2008/09. such as Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, grapes in punnets to cut their wastage. These bumper figures were enough to Vietnam and Thailand, then there are This repacking is done in-market rather see table grapes overtake citrus exports mid-range markets such as Singapore, than at source. So exporters who want to become Australia’s largest fruit Malaysia and Indonesia, and lower supply programs with retailers are export category (Figure 2). spec markets such as the Philippines, going to have to use a service provider So it was a record season in terms of Bangladesh and Sri Lanka which will to carry out this function. volumes and values, but how did the take smaller fruit. One of the big changes in Asia’s table season really go? There are also markets within markets grape consumption is the growing According to our trade sources, it was a - for instance, there is a growing niche demand for seedless grapes. season of two parts. of affluent people who want high-end Seeded Red Globe has always The first two-thirds went exceptionally fruit in a lower-end market like the dominated - and it remains king - but well. The quality of the crop ranked Philippines. seedless grape varieties are gaining among the best ever and competition Requirements vary from market to popularity in markets across the region, from other Southern Hemisphere market in Asia based on size, colour and particularly Crimson. producers was weaker than normal. For so on. For instance, China tends to want This is partly driven by changing instance, Chile had a late season and larger, pinker berries, while smaller, consumer demands - things like South Africa was barred from Thailand. darker berries are taken by Korea. increased spending power to buy more The currency ran in Australia’s favour It’s really important to understand expensive seedless varieties, desires for and export supplies were paced by and meet a particular market’s new tastes and for convenience. a slower-to-pick crop. The markets specifications as it can be disastrous if Suppliers are also driving the change. responded well with favourable returns you send the wrong product. The California grape industry in and some record prices! For instance, China wants its Crimsons particular has been pushing and But the last third was a different to be pinkish to light red in colour. promoting its seedless grapes in Asian story. From mid-May, colouration and Buyers look for the whitish bloom as a markets. Chinese exporters supply Red currency issues combined to bad effect. sign of freshness, and they want thin Globe at the same time as California A surfeit of green Crimson which just stems as thick stems are associated and their fruit is often mislabelled

32 Figure 1. Australian table grape exports by market October Figure 2: Australia’s fruit and vegetable exports 2005-2009. 2008-July 2009.

‘Grapes of California’, to try and secure size on berries and colour variations to make Australian product more a premium price. Californian suppliers were Australia’s main weaknesses. competitive. see seedless as an opportunity to Colouration of Crimson is a global Australia also has an opportunity in differentiate themselves from China. problem and was a big issue for airfreight to land just-in-time deliveries As well as Crimson and Thompson, the Australian growers in 2009. Several in Asian markets because it’s too black seedless Autumn Royal is another exporters point the finger at crop loads, expensive for its competitors to do this. variety that is seeing increased demand and say that vines were overloaded this Some buyers said Australia has a in markets like Hong Kong, China and year. window of opportunity in terms of Thailand. We saw earlier how important it is to timing, from April to June when Australia’s position in Asia meet market specifications in Asia. competitive supply from most other To gain an understanding of Australia’s Buyers often have to pay a significant countries tapers off. Grapes also face position in the Asian markets Asiafruit import duty on the product, so it doesn’t less competition from other fruits in Magazine surveyed key importers leave much margin for error - and the Hong Kong/China from after Chinese and retail buyers across the region product has to be right, which means New Year through to May. to produce a SWOT analysis detailing growing it properly for that market. Threats: The big threats to Australia’s Australia’s strengths, weakness, Higher pricing and at times ‘roller position came out as follows: opportunities and threats. coaster’ price was another weakness ■ Lack of market commitment and Strengths: Time and again, eating for Australia. The general feedback was a reluctance to comply with the quality came out of the survey as that the suppliers want high returns requirements of the supermarket Australia’s big strength - the flavour when the market is hot, but will not retail sector. and sweetness clearly scored highly as meet a difficult market as readily as ■ The current lack of direct access Australia’s big competitive advantage. other countries. to China and the pressures of The ability to grow red grapes with the maintaining access to other markets, pinker colour that many Asian markets Lack of management throughout the which keep introducing new rules of prefer was another key strength. chain was another problem highlighted by retail buyers. entry. Fruit texture is also very important to ■ The strengthening Australian dollar. Asian consumers and Australia again Then, there were things like: ■ tends to hit the spot with crunchy ■ Smaller production units, which lead Higher production costs than other berries that have a thinner skin than to inconsistent supply. Southern Hemisphere competitors and question marks over the those from parts of South America. ■ A shortage of well-known brand availability of water amid the ongoing Australia is closer to Asian markets names and very little promotional drought. than its competitors and this is another presence. strength. Shorter transit times mean ■ Timings could also be a threat as ■ A greater vulnerability to weather fresher fruit, longer shelf life and other countries push their seasons setbacks. cheaper transport costs. Buyers also longer and at lower cost. said it made it easier to control the Opportunities: China’s untapped Another factor Australia needs to be orders because there is not such a lag market potential was one of the biggest wary of is the potential for competitor on the delivery time. Suppliers from opportunities that came out of the supply countries to strengthen their further afield often miss schedules. survey - and gaining direct access to focus on Asia as the limitations of The proximity also makes it a lot easier unlock this potential. markets in Europe and North America to handle seedless grapes, which are of There are opportunities for suppliers become more of an issue. course growing in popularity in Asia. to take a stronger interest in the final In the next edition of The Vine John Hey On top of all this, buyers said it was destination of the product and to build a will look at the trends in Asia and how easier to communicate with Australian brand there. the table grape industry can capitalise suppliers due to the language and the Free trade agreements with Asian on these changes. time zone. countries provide an opportunity to John Hey is the Editor of Asiafruit Weaknesses: A lack of uniformity and lower tariffs and thereby cut prices Magazine.

33 Rising to the challenge

Plastic covers and netting over table grapes in Lachish.

Growing table grapes in an arid climate

Three consecutive years of factories and heard presentations from less wind, evaporation is reduced and unprecedented low levels in the water researchers at the Agricultural Research photosynthesis improved,” she said. “We storages in the Murray-Darling Basin Organisation’s Volcani Center. heard nets could save between 5% and and low water allocations in the Murray Netting 20% water, but the real effect was on River system along with climate change maturity and berry quality.” Mrs Strange said all table grapes in predictions of unreliable water in the There was much research and trialling Israel are grown with drip irrigation and future inspired 13 growers and service into the effects of different net colours on most are covered with a shade cloth providers to head to Israel to investigate a range of crops in various locations in netting or plastic covers. She said fruit growing table grapes in an arid climate. Israel. Some of the findings included: Victorian Department of Primary was also protected by a full canopy grown on a ‘Y’ trellis and the drip line ■ Red net increases berry size, but Industries (DPI) Horticulture Facilitator delays ripening Pam Strange told the Australian Table was often mulched to minimise losses ■ Grape Conference that table grape through evaporation and hide it from White net gave the highest total sugars growers were hesitant about converting rodents. ■ Pearl net resulted in poor early bud to drip irrigation for more efficient water “Nets change the temperature inside break application. the structure and because there is ■ Black net was the best at reducing “Growers are very aware of the need to save water, however, they are unsure about the ability of drip to deliver sufficient water to produce big berries as well as a large canopy,” she said. “Furthermore, sprinklers have the added benefit of being able to provide frost protection, grow a cover crop and cool the vineyard in the heat of summer.” The Sunraysia Table Grape Growers’ Association organised the tour in conjunction with Israeli irrigation specialists Netafim who also have offices in Mildura. Growers wanted to see first hand, examples of drip irrigation technology and techniques for growing quality table grapes in an arid climate The study tour took place in mid June, which is equivalent to November in Sunraysia. The group visited farms, Trailling different net colours in the Lachish region. research stations, learning centres and

34 amount lost through package that includes the drip irrigation evapotranspiration, system, the agronomic know-how, calculated.” IrriWise monitoring and the fertiliser The Victorian DPI dosing system. publishes weekly “The group saw the plant, soil and evapotranspiration irrigation system sensors and meters in data in a Sunraysia the field at the Yiftach orchard training newspaper, centre,” she said. “We were later however this is not told how IrriWiseTM, a wireless farm well understood or fully utilised by the management system, downloads the local table grape data from these sensors and meters and industry. alerts the farm manager of any warnings or failures. Mrs Strange said the group found the Mrs Strange said the group had learnt a water use and crop lot during their study tour of Israel. Research into table grape water use with lysimeters at the Gilat coefficient research R&D farm. “Much of the Israeli research and fascinating and knowledge of growing table grapes in an believe there is potential to improve temperatures, but gave poor bud arid climate is applicable to Australian irrigation scheduling in Sunraysia with a fruitfulness horticulture and should be validated for better use of local evaporation data and ■ Yellow, grey and blue nets are also the Sunraysia table grape growing,” she crop coefficient understanding. being tested. said. Mrs Strange said netting also affected “The table grape industry would do well colouring of berries. Grapes grown “Plastic mulch is placed to keep abreast of the findings of the without nets had the best colour, Israeli research and develop working followed by crops grown in white netting. over the drip line to relations with the research centres and “Traditionally netting and plastic minimise evaporation the agronomists working with Israel table protective coverings have been seen as grape growers.” expensive and hard to work with by the losses and protect the Australian table grape industry,” Mrs TG08010 ‘Study tour to Israel to Stange said. “As a result they are not line from rodents.” investigate growing quality table grapes widely used. with drip irrigation and limited water in “However, the study group were an arid climate’ has been facilitated by impressed by the extent of netting HAL in partnership with the Sunraysia in Israel and would do well to verify Management systems Table Grape Growers Association the effects of netting in the Sunraysia To take the guess work out of irrigation (STGGA). It has been funded by voluntary region.” scheduling and ensure water is only contributions from this group. The Water use and plant growth applied when the plant needs it, a Australian Government provides matched number of total management systems funding for all HAL’s R&D activities. With water so scarce in Israel growers have been developed. The Victorian Department of Primary commonly use a range of technologies Industries also contributed to this project to schedule irrigation, and tensiometers Mrs Strange said the group were TM were very common. Other methods used introduced to Netafim’s Nutrigation funds for the dissemination of the included evaporation data from a nearby package, a holistic crop management information. weather station, pressure chambers to measure leaf water potential and fruit size monitoring. Soil solution monitoring for nutrients and salts was also practiced. Mrs Strange said an interesting area of current research was water use and the development of seasonal crop coefficients,” she said. “This research measured leaf area index (LAI) monthly with the aim of developing crop coefficients for a foliage-based irrigation model for efficient irrigation management. “Several researchers were using lysimeters to study crop water use. In these cases a vine is grown in a large soil tank so that the water input from rainfall or irrigation and amount lost through the soil profile can be easily measured and the difference, the Chilean trellis, in the Kadesh Valley.

35 Rising to the challenge

Meeting consumer expectations – a grower’s perspective

In order to get consumers to eat more company to carry out the inspection During the Australian table grape table grapes you have to know what service. season, grapes in WA significantly they want and then deliver what they “The maturity system sharpens you up over-index the national share of fresh want every time. as a grower,” Mr Fahl said. produce revenue. Whilst WA volumes This is the strong message delivered “There are markets for premium grapes under-indexed the national average, by Table Grapes WA Chairman Roger and other cheaper lines, but they all total revenue is driven up by the 50% Fahl at the Australian Table Grape have to be sweet. premium paid by WA consumers. Conference. “Any infringements are reported to the Coles Fresh Produce WA State Trading Mr Fahl told delegates that 10 years Department of Agriculture and Food Manager Paul Neale said the minimum ago the Western Australia table grape WA for verification before products are quality standards gave more confidence industry didn’t know what consumers destroyed by AQIS WA.” to consumers, which overcame a barrier wanted and as a result the industry was At the coal face to category participation. in bad shape. Mr Fahl said as a grower he didn’t “Given the premium paid by consumers Consumer research and the introduction need to do much more to work within a for grapes in WA, this improved of minimum quality standards backed minimum maturity standards code. confidence is paramount to ensuring by legislation has changed that outlook grapes receive their rightful ‘share of and sales have doubled in the past 10 stomach’,” Mr Neale said. years. “Since the introduction “We rarely overlook an opportunity to “You can’t ask a grower what of maturity standards promote grapes in Summer, whilst most consumers want as I have often heard other categories do not have such an ‘I’ll eat any grape if the price is right’. enviable strike rate.” But if we serve up sour, immature fruit, the WA table grape consumers will react and that’s not industry has gone from Impacts for the national good for us as growers,” Mr Fahl said. industry “We have to remember that we are strength to strength.” Current domestic consumption of table in the food industry, not just the fruit grapes on the East coast is about industry and if we can’t deliver a “As an industry we spend a lot of time 50,000 tonnes or about 2.5kg/ head. with the Department of Agriculture and consistent product every time then Mr Fahl said that if consumer Food WA to conduct consumer research consumers will look elsewhere.” expectations could be met through a so that we know what consumers national maturity scheme the potential The maturity system means all varieties want,” he said. grown in WA have a minimum sugar/ to increase consumption was huge. acid level set that meets a 75% “New varieties are tested at the consumer level early in the breeding “An increase of 20,000t over five years consumer acceptance level. Varieties is achievable,” he said. “This would are divided into standard varieties and programs and if consumers don’t like them, we don’t pursue the variety. require 1,000 hectares of new plantings high acid varieties. High Acid varieties to meet these targets or demand for “As growers we check and recheck. are classed as problem varieties and current production would increase to a And when you think they are ready you are monitored each season with the point where wholesale prices have to ability to move the brix level up or down check again. rise to balance the supply and demand depending on the seasonal acid levels “We monitor sugar:acid ratios and curves. and the potential for damage to sales plot the seasons to look for high acid through high acid years. years. In those high acid years we delay “We know that our push point in WA is about $7/kg and it is not uncommon Mr Fahl told the conference that picking, while in the low acid years we for retailers to charge $9.99 during the the sale of table grapes in WA was pick a little earlier. season and $15.99 for the early part of controlled by the Agricultural Products “We also spend a lot of time ensuring season. Act 1929 and the Grape Grading and problem varieties ripen evenly. This Packing Code 2001. reduces multiple picks and ensures “As a national industry we can rise to The Agricultural Produce Commission harvest crews are clear on what to the challenge if we just remember the (APC) Act 1988, is the act which allows pick.” consumer is the key in growing table agricultural industries to form producers Benefits grapes. We must first satisfy them and then work the rest out from there. committees. Since the introduction of maturity The APC Growers’ Committee manages standards the WA table grape industry “Minimum maturity standards are a win the levy collection and manages the has gone from strength to strength. for consumers and a win for growers. maturity system on behalf of table “WA domestic production has doubled “We are sitting on a huge market grape growers in WA. The system is in the last 10 years. Consumption is opportunity, we just need to know what 100% funded by WA growers from now estimated at over three kilograms they want, then create the system levies raised by the APC. per head of population, double what it to ensure we meet the consumers The committee appoints a private was 10 years ago,” Mr Fahl said. expectations every time.”

36 Around the block How much water is enough?

Over the past three years water concluded that allocations in the Murray-Darling Basin additional water have been very low. This has forced purchases to growers to buy temporary water to meet ensure enough their immediate crop needs and for use water to have as carry over. 8.5ML/ha and Although early water allocations this produce a 3t crop, season have been encouraging, the final the extra cost amount of water that will be allocated of the water is for 2009/10 is unlikely to be enough for something like growers to realise the full potential of 1.86% of the value of the crop or their crop. around $33/tonne. Not many growers appear to have taken Growers should the decision to maximise their carry over not become at 50% of entitlement. Some have taken complacent by the early release of water pointless to skimp on water when it is the view that 30% is adequate; and with allocations and lulled into assuming that currently $190-$200/ML, only to grow current indications of water availability allocations will keep on coming and less fruit. this seems, unlikely to be enough to there will be sufficient water to grow a The ADFA strongly urges growers to grow the crop to its maximum potential. decent crop. This is entirely unknown. look at their budgets and see if water So how much water is enough and how purchases are feasible as it would be much should be bought? “To grow a highly a shame to miss out on the good crop Water authorities have told us that the potential observed at budburst. final water allocation for 2009/10 may productive crop of Maintain soil moisture be anywhere between 41% and 51% by November through to December is a 15 February, 2010 and more likely to be sultanas, somewhere critical time for determining the good in the low 50s. between eight and crop potential shown at bud burst. Let’s assume allocations will reach 50% It is important that adequate soil and that 30% of entitlement has been nine megalitres moisture is maintained to maximise carried over. the berry set as well as cell division To grow a highly productive crop of of the 9.144 ML and multiplication within the berries to sultanas, somewhere between eight maximise the crop size. and nine megalitres of the 9.144 ML entitlement is required Monitor for snails entitlement is required for each hectare; This is the time that snails will start assume 8.5ML or 3.4 ML/acre. for each hectare.” moving up into the vines. Snails will seek Over the last three seasons, experience out new protective cover as ground cover has shown that adequate water is It is believed that rice growers will is reduced by slashing or working up. essential to grow a good crop. strongly consider buying water if there The developing vine canopy is an ideal As a general observation, when optimal are any further reductions in the price of cover source for these unwanted pests. temporary water together with further water applications are reduced by 1ML/ Growers are advised to monitor their increases in low reliability water for NSW ha final yields will fall by about one properties for any problem infestations Murray irrigation areas. This is most tonne per acre (2.54t/ha); a 2ML water and lay baits around the trunks of the likely to increase the price of water and reduction will reduce production by vines or under the vine rows before any decrease its availability. about 2t/acre (5t/ha). snails start moving up into the vines. Careful and constant monitoring of the With the price of water now at $190- It is much easier to eliminate snails at water market and consultation with a $200 per ML it is worth doing the this stage than try to remove them from water broker should allow growers to calculations to see how much the extra harvested fruit or have fruit rejected. make the most of the lowering prices for water would cost to grow a crop to its water. However, growers need to be in Ideally baits should be laid ahead of full potential. a position to react to any rapid change rain as snails are active during this time Dried grape growers are in a fortunate of the prices, especially on the day of which facilitates the best kill. position in that the processors have told water allocation announcements on the There are a number of snail baits the industry the price paid for contracted 1st and 15th of each month, or the next available, with the pellets made from fruit next year will be equal to, or working day if the day happens to be on various materials. Some manufacturers greater than that received in 2009. This a weekend. claim to have products that attract the knowledge of expected income makes The bud burst for this season is looking snails; some have deterrents for pets it a lot easier to budget for temporary good with most growers reporting that and children, while others have pellets water. they expect to grow an average or better that last longer through irrigations and The Australian Dried Fruits Association crop for the 2010 season. rain events to last helping to effectively kill the snails. (ADFA) has made some simple Almost all input costs remain the same calculations on input costs and expected regardless of the final yield. It seems Further information can be sourced from yield and the information above. They the ADFA or chemical retailers.

37 Trade directory

Contact Gary Thomas Telephone: (03) 5022 8499 Fax: (03) 5021 4833 Mobile: 0418 997 730 Email: [email protected] PO Box 460, Irymple VIC 3498

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38 Growing the future together (One step at a time)

Rural Finance understands how important an investment in agriculture is to the next generation of your business. As a specialist provider of fi nance to the rural sector for more than 60 years, we’ve assisted many families to invest wisely in their future. So, the next time you’re thinking about how money can grow your business, call us. We won’t think twice about speaking with you, personally. mitch32298 from pg 29.... WATERFIND AD IS BIGGER THAN 1/3 OF PAGE. STORY IS TOO LONG TO FIT.

NWC STORY and clarity. The NFF welcomes the NWC recommendation for the development of guidelines and better communication to irrigators of each states’ approach to this issue. • More focus is required on structural adjustment to assist community change and make decisions on their futures. • Infrastructure investment is a positive contribution to better water management and requires coordination with a buyback program. NFF has made this point over and over again to governments but despite some progress with a $300 million Commonwealth on-farm program, many of the states are dragging their feet in the dust! It is simply not good enough. • There is confusion in regional communities between government programs, the environmental assets being protected and how the basin plan cap relates to buy water. Such confusion does nothing to help communities already under extreme stress and it undermines water reform in Australia. “The NFF understands this report will be presented to the Council of Australian Governments (COAG). COAG owes it to regional communities and the irrigation sector, which feeds, clothes and employs the nation, to seriously address the report’s findings and fast-track fixing the deficiencies... not do what they have done for too long and just shelve it.”