Food drying technology short course
2024-02-20 - 2024-02-21 | CSIRO’S FOOD INNOVATION CENTRE, 671 SNEYDES ROAD, WERRIBEE, VIC, Australia
Drying is one of the most frequently used operations across the food processing sector and is critical to the safety, quality and functionality of many food products and ingredients. However, it is one of the most energy-intensive processes and is often poorly understood and inefficient.
This course is held in collaboration with Dennis Forte & Associates and aims to give participants an understanding of drying technologies commonly used across the food industry and how we can improve current processes and products and design/select new systems that are safe, effective and efficient.
The program combines the practical experience and in-depth technical knowledge of industry professionals and CSIRO. It was first run at Werribee in March 2016, and has received ongoing very positive feedback from participants.
We will present basic drying theory, how the theory relates to practical application and systems currently used in the food industry. We will then go on to discuss water activity in foods and how it relates to both the quality/preservation of products and the efficiency of the drying process.
Principles of psychrometrics will be combined with heat and mass balance techniques to analyse and design drying processes, demonstrated using practical examples.
On Day 2, we will explain more advanced drying concepts, using practical examples to demonstrate how drying curves can be modelled and predicted based on real data. Quality issues in dried products will also be discussed in more detail, and case studies presented to show how a range of drying processes can be improved.

VIC BioCheers at CSIRO
2024-02-22 17:00 - 19:30 (Australia/Melbourne) | CSIRO Clayton, Research Way, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
We are excited to bring you the first Victoria networking event of 2024, in partnership with Australia’s national science agency CSIRO. BioCheers brings together AusBiotech members and non-members in the life sciences, including therapeutics, medical technology (devices and diagnostics), digital health, and agri-biotech sectors. These informal networking events provide an opportunity to catch up with friends and colleagues, share ideas, build relationships and make new contacts in Victoria’s vibrant biotechnology community.
The venue, drinks and nibbles are being generously provided by our host partner CSIRO.

AgVic: 'Let's Have a Yarn': Orbost
2024-02-23 11:00 - 13:00 | Orbost Football Club, Lochiel Street, Orbost, VIC, Australia
This is a great opportunity to have a chat with other farmers in the area or talk about recovery after the recent floods and storms.
Network with farmers and industry, plus contacts from horticulture, beef, dairy, and sheep. The day will also be attended by agencies servicing the farming industry – meet with representatives from the State Government, local shire, water corporations, industry, and others.

HARPS V2 and HACCP Refresher Training
2024-02-26 08:30 - 17:30 | NT Farmers Conference Room, Shop 15A, Coolalinga Shopping Centre, 460 Stuart Highway, Coolalinga, NT, 0839, Australia
A trainer led course covering HARPS V2 requirements
HACCP Refresher training meeting HARPS V2 requirements
Designed for the fresh produce industry in the NT
Certified trainers with qualifications and experience in fresh food and manufacturing establishments
Contact them to discuss Freshcare or HAACP training available

Soil Symposium 2024 Katherine
2024-02-27 08:00 - 14:00 | Katherine Research Station
Join Territory Natural Resource Management for a ground-breaking symposium dedicated to unravelling the mysteries of soil! Delve into the crucial topics of soil health and agriculture with expert presenters covering topics such as soil biology, landscape rehydration, horticulture, vertical and hydroponic farming, and discuss current research and activities aiming to improve soil health and conditions in Australia and the Northen Territory.
Events are free and include morning tea and a networking lunch. Registration required.

Making sense of carbon emissions for Victorian farmers
2024-02-27 12:00 - 13:00 | Webinar
Victorian farm businesses are getting on with the job of growing more food and fibre, while dealing with changeable seasons and weather patterns. We also know that more attention is being paid to the carbon and emissions performance of our agricultural industries and farms.
In this webinar, Agriculture Victoria’s climate team will share some of the carbon and emissions tools and resources they have developed to support the farming communities of Victoria to make sense of carbon and emissions on farm.
Agriculture Victoria presenters:

Heather Field, Climate Change Service Development Officer
Graeme Anderson, Climate Specialist
Alison Kelly, Farm Emissions Specialist

Soil Symposium 2024 Darwin
2024-02-28 08:00 - 14:00 | CDU Waterfront

Drought Loan Information Webinar
2024-02-28 12:00 - 13:00 | Webinar
Discover how a RIC Drought Loan can assist you and your farm.
This free webinar is for:

Primary Producers
Rural Financial Counsellors
Agricultural industry groups

About the Regional Investment Corporation
Regional Investment Corporation (RIC) is an Australian Government farm business lender providing low-cost loans for farmers and farm-related small businesses in financial need to strengthen Australian agriculture. RIC loans can be used for management, recovery and future proofing following severe business disruption due to drought, natural disasters and other biosecurity issues. RIC loans can also help farm businesses to get established for first generation farmers and succession planning for next generation farmers.

Feel free to submit any questions at the time of registration so they can address them in the forum.

Can’t attend? Register for the event to receive the recording after the webinar.
Regional Investment Corporation (RIC) is an Australian Government-backed specialist finance provider of concessional loans for farmers and farm-related small businesses in financial need.
Their loans help to accelerate start-ups, or when faced with severe business disruption, they support to recover, prepare and grow. Their vision is to build thriving regional communities. They look forward to having you attend the event!
They value your privacy please read the RIC Privacy policy.

Soil Symposium 2024 Alice Springs
2024-02-29 08:00 - 14:00 | Springs Desert Park

ABARES Outlook Conference 2024
2024-03-05 - 2024-03-06 | Hyatt Hotel Canberra, 120 Commonwealth Ave, Yarralumla, ACT, 2600, Australia
ABARES Outlook Conference is where we come together with ideas and evidence to progress issues that affect the agricultural, fisheries and forestry sector.
The redesigned event for 2024 is going hybrid. The theme is Shaping the Future: Opportunities, risks, and resilience.
This reflects ABARES’ commitment to explore the critical issues that will define the future of Australian agriculture, fisheries and forestry.
The challenges we face today, such as climate change, evolving consumer preferences, technological advancements, and global trade dynamics, require us to adapt and innovate continuously.
The conference is the perfect arena to discuss how we can navigate these challenges and seize the opportunities they present.

Foodex Japan 2024
2024-03-05 - 2024-03-08 | Tokyo Big Sight, 3 Chome-11-1 Ariake, Koto City, Tokyo, 135-0063, Japan
Foodex Japan is the leading food and beverage tradeshow in Japan, providing business expansion opportunities and solutions for Australian fresh produce exporters. Japan is an important trading partner for the Australian vegetable, onion, and melon industries.
Foodex will be held from 5 – 8 March 2024. AUSVEG has secured a 54sqm space at Foodex Japan, which will incorporate Australia’s nation brand and provide a centralised space for fruit and vegetable growers to meet with international buyers and businesses from across Asian and ASEAN countries.
AUSVEG will be leading a trade delegation to attend and exhibit at this prominent international trade event.

Field Day at Oolloo Farms, NT: Explore Climate Smart Agriculture!
2024-03-05 09:00 - 11:00 | Oolloo Farms
An insightful field day at Ti Tree Food and Fodder, Oolloo Farms. This event, supported by NT Government, NT Farmers Association, and the Northern Hub, is a unique opportunity to delve into sustainable farming practices.

What’s on the Agenda?

– Exclusive farm tour of irrigated pastures.
– Engaging presentations & interactive Q&A sessions.
– Learn about the Northern Hub Climate Smart Agriculture project.
– Insights into compost application by Daryl Troy.
– Understanding different compost types with John Lyne from Tropical Soils & Plant Nutrition NT.
– Discover how soil organic matter contributes to climate resilience, presented by DITT staff.

Sausage sizzle and refreshments provided.

RSVP today by contacting Dr Girija Page at Girija.Page@nt.gov.au

Australian Organic Conference 2024
2024-03-07 - 2024-03-08 | Pullman Melbourne on the Park, 192 Wellington Parade, East Melbourne, VIC, 3002, Australia
Looking to grow your business or learn more about the organic state of play in Australia? ‘Our Future: Growing Together‘ is nearly upon us, with two days of networking and inspiration awaiting you at Pullman Melbourne on the Park in early March.

NSW Women in Life Sciences Luncheon 2024
2024-03-08 12:00 - 15:30 | Doltone House, Darling Island Wharf, 48 Pirrama Road, Pyrmont, NSW, 2009, Australia
Innovations in equality: Investing in the future of women in life sciences

Doltone House, Darling Island Wharf: Friday, 8 March 2024
The NSW Women in Life Sciences Luncheon, co hosted by AusBiotech and Medicines Australia, is a must attend event on the annual life sciences calendar.
More than 550 leaders and changemakers will join the Luncheon on International Women’s Day, 8 March, to celebrate women’s achievements and support the removal of barriers to build a better future for us all.
Featuring fantastic speakers, and ample networking opportunities to connect with leaders and mentors in the industry, it’s an opportunity to be inspired, share insights, and forge valuable connections.
Seats are limited, and this event always sells out, so secure your place early!

Carbohydrate monitoring for orchard management - Childers
2024-03-08 12:30 - 16:30
If your trees could talk...
What would they tell you about carbohydrate levels?
How will knowing more about carbohydrate stores help you, to help them?
How will measuring plant carbohydrates help you on farm?
Growers are invited to join Growcom and precision-ag farming experts from Agri Technovation this March.
At this practical workshop you will explore the multiple benefits of tools like carbohydrate sampling to improve nutrient budgeting and management practices.
Presenters will cover:

Crop physiology – carbohydrates, managing energy and nutrient demand.
Crop and soil physiology – managing soil health for root development (in field).
Carbohydrate monitoring for orchard management and productivity gains.
Results and critical actions based on carbohydrate data. For example pruning schedule.
Potential impact on nutrition and water management.

Carbohydrate monitoring for orchard management - Mareeba
2024-03-12 12:00 - 16:00

Resilience in Agriculture Workshop
2024-03-14 09:00 - 13:30 | The Vista Room, 69 Drayton St, Dalby, QLD, 4405, Australia
Join the Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) Industry Resilience and Recovery Officer (IRRO) team for a free informative ‘Resilience in Agriculture Workshop’. The workshop has been designed to cover the many opportunities and challenges of running a primary production enterprise.
The workshop will provide key insights and information for primary producers in the Western Downs region, including:

The importance of Farm Business Resilience and Flood Management Plans
Current QRIDA funding availability
Agronomic and financial advice

Keynote speaker

Nigel Corish will discuss the topic of ‘Resilience on Farm’. Nigel is a fourth generation food and fibre producer, Managing Director of New Leaf Ag as part of Corish Farms Group, Chair of Ability Agriculture and Deputy Chair of Grain Growers.

Additional topics and guest speakers

Farm Business Planning | Kerry Battersby and Bec Tkal, QFF
Agronomy | Clancy Cosgrove and Angus Blair, Agrished
Finance | Helen Ruddy, BMO
QRIDA funding | Kate Dunk, QRIDA
Resilience in business | Andrew Smith, Deputy Mayor and Portfolio of Agribusiness, WDRC

Registrations close Monday, 11 March 2024
This workshop is a joint initiative of the Industry Recovery and Resilience Officer Program (funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements) and the Farm Business Resilience Program (funded through the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund and the Queensland Government’s Drought and Climate Adaptation Program).

Working Lunch: A chat about electricty
2024-03-14 12:00 - 13:30 | Lockyer Valley Cultural Centre, 34 Lake Apex Dr, Gatton, QLD, 4343, Australia
An Interactive presentation to help us all get a better understanding of our energy costs.
Come and hear from Andrew Chamberlin from QFF on Electricity Tarriffs and Electricity Audits.
Have some questions answered such as: What is an energy audit, how much of growers time do they take, how much do they cost, is there any funding available to assist.
There will also be an opportunity for Questions
Open to business owners and employees who want to get a better understanding of electricity costs.

Bundaberg, QLD field event: Sustainable soil management
2024-03-14 12:00 - 15:00 | South Kolan, Queensland
Delivered in conjunction with Soil Wealth Integrated Crop Protection, VegNET, and PotatoLink. Join this field event where you will gain insights on how to maximise crop returns through improved soil health and input use efficiency.
Topics include:

Rotations – breaking the cropping cycle with cover crops, how to choose the right species, considerations for timing of planting, termination and termination methods.
Managing the cost of inputs – with a focus on nitrogen, nitrogen budgeting, the use of legumes to supply nitrogen.
Soil biology – its functions in the soil, practices that build it and degrade it, tools for measuring it, understanding it (including its challenges).
Improving soil health – reduced tillage, building soil organic matter, structure, infiltration, soil biology.

Domestic and Export Markets Workshop
2024-03-14 12:00 - 16:00 | DAF Bowen Research Station, 45 Warwick Road, Bowen, QLD, Australia
This workshop is tailored for growers interested in or currently selling produce through domestic and/or export markets.
RSVP before 11 March 2024 by email: admin@bowengumlugrowers.com.au or phone: (07) 4785 2860

Perth: Retail Negotiation Skills Workshops
2024-03-18 - 2024-03-19 | vegetablesWA, 702-704 Murray St, Perth, WA, 6005, Australia
To expand your skills in managing commercial sales relationships with retailers, AUSVEG is hosting two-day Retail Negotiation Skills Workshops in 2024, in collaboration with NextGen’s Neil Rechlin.

Most growers are very good at negotiating the price of farm equipment and understanding the latest technology. However, it is often not the case when dealing with retailers. Effective engagement will ensure growers get a fairer return for their hard work to grow fresh produce.
AUSVEG, in partnership with NextGen, recently conducted a training course in Melbourne for growers to learn retailer negotiation skills.
Presenter Neil Rechlin says that many growers receive the contract details from the retailer, but often don’t understand them, or the strategy that underpins the discussion. To be in a better position, grower knowledge of what drives retailer behaviour and their tactics goes a long way to improving the outcome for the grower.
Neil says there is consistent poor behaviour from retailers because they face no punishment, and no consequences. The ability to police and fine retailers for poor behaviour would be a significant step forward that can only be achieved through making the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct mandated. Under the legal framework, the current voluntary code does not allow for fines to be levied against retailers for a breach.
“It really does come down to the supplier understanding where they can benefit, what the change of behaviour from their trading partnership should look like, and then being in the position to start enforcing that. Many fear upsetting the retailer and pushing their rights too far and risking the contract.”
For the past seven years Neil has led the NextGen involvement in the Grocery Code of Conduct, working with manufacturers, industry bodies and the ACCC to continue the evolution of the Code in Australia. Neil has a passion for helping suppliers in their sometimes challenging engagements, with the major retailers and wholesalers.
Download the course details pdf here: Negotiation_AusVeg_23
Please indicate your Expression of Interest by emailing publicaffairs@ausveg.com.au. Don’t forget to include which event you are interested in attending.

Post flooding to current season pest & disease management in practice
2024-03-22 09:00 - 12:30 | Local Land Services Demonstration Farm, 40 Edwards Road, Richmond Lowlands, NSW, 2753, Australia
NSW vegetable growers and sweet corn field day.
Future proofing against weather events: How can monitoring & integrated pest and disease management (IPDM) assist your farm?
Where: The Greater Sydney Local Land Services Demonstration Farm
40 Edwards Rd, Richmond Lowlands.
Register Here: https://regionalnsw.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6nxEIpTWXVHCzYy

Farming with Floods Workshop
2024-03-26 08:30 - 13:00 | The Bowl, 42 Coronation Dr, Boonah, QLD, 4310, Australia
Join the Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) Industry Resilience and Recovery Officer (IRRO) team for a free informative ‘Farming with Floods’ workshop. The workshop has been designed to cover the many opportunities and challenges of running a primary production enterprise.
The workshop will provide key insights and information for primary producers in the Scenic Rim region, including:

The importance of Farm Business Resilience and Flood Management Plans
Current QRIDA funding availability

Keynote speaker

Cover Cropping in Flood Mitigation with Rob Hinrichsen from Kalfresh
Flood Resilience on Farm with Luke Stock from Daloram Dairy Farming

Additional topics and guest speakers

Farm Business Planning | Kerry Battersby and Bec Tkal, QFF
Available funding and Q&A | Kate Dunk and Brian Coe, QRIDA
Flood management planning, why it’s important, how to prepare and response, and technical rebate information | Julia Jurgs and Eloise Cosgrove, QFF

Registrations close Friday, 22 March 2024

This workshop is a joint initiative of the Industry Recovery and Resilience Officer Program (funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements) and the Farm Business Resilience Program (funded through the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund and the Queensland Government’s Drought and Climate Adaptation Program).

Tasmania: Retail Negotiation Skills Workshops
2024-04-09 - 2024-04-10 | TFGA, Tasmania, Australia

Post flooding to current season pest & disease management in practice.
2024-04-10 09:30 - 12:30 | Val & Sam Micallef’s, 240 White Rock Rd, White Rock, NSW, Australia
Building biosecurity capacity and resilience in the NSW vegetable industry.
Future proofing against weather events: How can integrated pest and disease management (IPDM) and soil health practices assist your farm?
Where: Val & Sam Micallef’s
240 White Rock Rd, White Rock NSW 2795
Register Here: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1182593?

Post flooding to current season pest & disease management in practice.
2024-04-11 09:30 - 12:30 | Simplot Australia’s Cowra Farm, 2394 Lachlan Valley Way, Cowra, NSW, Australia
Building biosecurity capacity and resilience in the NSW vegetable industry.
Future proofing against weather events: How can integrated pest and disease management (IPDM) and soil health practices assist your farm?
Where: Simplot Australia’s Cowra Farm
2394 Lachlan Valley Way, Cowra NSW 2646
Register Here: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1182627?

Drone Spray Demonstration Night
2024-04-11 17:30 - 20:00 | 935, 935 Tarwin Lower Road, Middle Tarwin, Australia
VegNET Gippsland, Schreurs & Sons, Syngenta and E.E. Muir & Sons would like to invite you to a Spray Demonstration Night and BBQ at Schreurs’ Tarwin Farm on Thursday, April 11th. The night will showcase both drone and tractor mounted spray applications on vegetable crops. Limited capacity, register now!

FutureAG Expo - Melbourne
2024-04-17 - 2024-04-19 | Melbourne Showgrounds, Epsom Rd, Ascot Vake, VIC, 3032, Australia
FutureAg Expo 2024 Powered by Agritechnica will be an exciting exhibition, sales and networking opportunity for: suppliers of agricultural and agro-industrial products, services and technology serving the markets of Australia, New Zealand and Asia Pacific. Manufacturers, producers, importers and distributors of products and services related to agricultural, aquacultural, horticultural, livestock processes.
WHEN
The show will be held across three days annually commencing Wednesday, 17 April – Friday, 19 April 2024. Open to the industry 8.30am to 4.30pm (Wednesday and Thursday) and 8.30am to 4.00pm (Friday).
WHERE
This inaugural event will be at Melbourne Showgrounds, Ascot Vale, Victoria, Australia – the largest participation rate in events in Victoria, the largest exporting state of agricultural products in Australia.

Mulloon Institute Bootcamp – NT
2024-04-17 - 2024-04-19 | Old Cameron Downs, 0845, 65 Perreau Rd, Eva Valley, NT, 0822, Australia
Territory NRM presents: How to catch water and restore landscapes for your property with Mulloon Institute
Learn how to apply simple strategies to improve productivity and drought resilience. Extend your wet season, grow more grass!
Day 1
17 April 2024
1:30pm-5:30pm (followed by a free BBQ)
$30 to attend Day 1 only.
In this afternoon introduction, participants gain a foundational understanding of a farm’s water cycle and our approaches to rehydrating rural landscapes. Participants learn to read water processes to interpret landscape health. Day 1 tickets only are available.

Days 2 & 3
18-19 April 2024
8:30am – 4:30pm (includes all catering)
$440 to attend all 3 days.
A skills-based course about harnessing the water cycle to improve landscape function on your property. See first-hand how these solutions are working for Old Cameron Downs.
Through activities that blend scientific principles and practical skills, you will learn about:

The role of the water cycle and plants in farming landscapes.
Drivers and indicators of a healthy and unhealthy water cycle.
How to identify and prioritise issues on your property to ‘heal your hydrograph’.
How to apply sound planning and design principles to give your landscape rehydration project the best chance of success.

Ag Innovation Day 2024
2024-04-18 09:00 - 16:00 | Hagley Farm School, 2508 Meander Valley Road, Hagley, TAS, 7292, Australia
