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VegNET Western Australia Regional Update
Masterclass- Live training – Measuring plant temperature and light transmission characteristics in the greenhouse.
The Protected Cropping Starter Pack Series, a VegNET Innovation Funded project, concluded with a successful Masterclass in Protected Cropping, held at the Piney Lakes Environmental Centre, during the summer.
This event capped off a year-long series of specialised workshops, providing growers and industry across Western Australia with accessible, theoretical and hands-on learning opportunities to enhance their own business decision making and improve on efficiencies
The VegNET funded project hosted Graeme Smith Consulting to deliver the Greenhouse Technical Management masterclass, providing growers, advisors and agronomists from widely diverse
production systems with an invaluable opportunity to access a training program that would otherwise be rarely available in WA.
Attending participants demonstrated significant commitment off the farm, dedicating up to 4.5 days of intensive learning and traveling from six different growing regions across Western
Australia—some attendees covering hundreds of kilometres—to attend and contributing to its success.
A wide range of businesses commodities and production systems came together for the week, including seedling nurseries, cucumber and capsicum operations, berry farms, and a prison farm, providing a treasure of information sharing and experience in the group, adding to the value of the training.
A comprehensive learning experience
Participants left with actionable takeaways and knowledge to enhance their specific skillsets, to drive long-term business and production systems improvements. The event helped growers:
- Understand the principles of controlled production systems.
- Use new strategies and technologies to manage greenhouse climates and irrigation.
- Understand plant growing requirements and plant production techniques.
- Develop new strategies for plant protection and integrated pest management.
- Understand plant nutrition and fertigation programs
Feedback from participants was very positive, with many expressing keen enthusiasm in applying their new knowledge and eager for future learning opportunities during 2025.
A brighter future for WA’s protected cropping sector
The VegNET WA project has made significant strides in advancing protected cropping skill level in the state. The workshop series commenced with an Introduction to Protected Cropping and mini workshops in nutrition, irrigation and substrate, through to advanced skills training.
Looking ahead in 2025, several key areas of interest have emerged from grower engagement in the series. Many participants expressed a strong interest in transitioning into protected cropping via horticultural netting structures, converting to recirculating water and nutrient systems, and progression from low-tech to medium-tech production systems for improved monitoring and decision-making and capability.
These priorities highlight the growing appetite for integrating advanced technologies and sustainable practices into WA greenhouse and PC production operations.
To continue this momentum, future extension activities will prioritise building local expertise to reduce reliance on costly external consultants and further tailor training to the diverse needs of WA growers.
The conclusion of the 2024 Protected Cropping Series is a significant step forward for WA’s protected cropping horticultural sector. By equipping growers with a range of technical skills, VegNET has contributed to building a more sustainable, efficient, and innovative local industry. With continued support, WA vegetable producers are better positioned to thrive in an increasingly competitive market while addressing both environmental and economic challenges.