Tackling key production issues affecting Northern New South Wales vegetable producers will be the focus of a special information session to be held in Coffs Harbour tomorrow.

Growers will have the opportunity to hear from leading speakers in the field of environmental management and learn about innovative approaches to farm management and energy efficiency.

Arranged by AUSVEG as part of the EnviroVeg Program, the workshop will be held on Thursday 28 August from 4:00pm to 6:20pm in Coffs Harbour, New South Wales.

“With a star squad of speakers taking part, the information session will provide a valuable platform for northern New South Wales vegetable producers to hear about new energy saving technologies that could significantly benefit their operations,” said AUSVEG Environment Coordinator, Tim Shue.

AUSVEG is the leading horticultural body representing Australia’s 9,000 vegetable and potato growers.

Renowned horticultural researcher, Dr Gordon Rogers, from Applied Horticultural Research (AHR) will present at the event to champion the findings of several industry-funded R&D projects. Dr Rogers will discuss a number of energy saving techniques which can save vegetable growers from unnecessary expenditure.

Mr Jason Scherer from Netafim will join the workshop to present on the use of drip irrigation in greenhouse and field production.

AUSVEG Biosecurity Coordinator, Dean Schrieke, will discuss a new joint initiative between Plant Health Australia and AUSVEG, which aims to improve the preparedness and management of biosecurity issues within the Australian vegetable and potato industries.

“By building knowledge and capacity right across the industry, AUSVEG is working to ensure that the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of Australian vegetable producers remains secure,” said Mr Shue.

The workshop will be catered and is free to attend for all vegetable levy payers and other industry stakeholders.

Those interested in attending the workshop are asked to contact AUSVEG on (03) 9882 0277 or info@ausveg.com.au to register.

EnviroVeg is funded by Horticulture Australia Limited using the National Vegetable Levy and matched funding from the Australian Government. The AUSVEG Biosecurity Program is a joint initiative between Plant Health Australia and AUSVEG.

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT: Tim Shue, Environment Coordinator, AUSVEG; Phone: (03) 9882 0277 Mobile: 0404 799 166 E-mail: tim.shue@ausveg.com.au