On-farm management key to WA grower success

New pest treatment
solutions, cutting-edge vegetable treatment methods and a variety of farm
management tools will be featured at a comprehensive workshop on Australia’s
west coast next week.
 
Western Australian vegetable growers will receive the most up-to-date R&D
information on available nematode and irradiation treatments that can protect
vegetables from pests and increase shelf-life, as well as the latest farm
decision support tools in Wanneroo on Thursday 15 October.
 
“This workshop features a raft of information for Western Australian growers
operating in an ever-changing environment and will help them to manage
vegetable diseases and minimise the threat of pests and viruses,” said AUSVEG
National Manager – Scientific Affairs, Dr Jessica Lye.
 
“For example, information on ADAMA’s new nematode control method comes at an
ideal time given the cessation of fenamiphos use.”
 
AUSVEG is the leading horticultural body representing more than 9,000
Australian vegetable and potato growers.
 
“Growers are excited to hear industry expert Dr Peter Roberts discuss
post-harvest treatment irradiation technology that could help vegetable exports
access a range of international markets,” said Dr Lye.
 
Elders Senior Agronomist, Courtney Piesse, will be educating growers on a
variety of on-farm support tools that can improve farm yield and profit.
 
“Decision support tools are vital in ironing out inefficiencies and maximising
grower inputs to ensure that growing operations can run optimally. Satellite
NDVI mapping, digital insect monitoring and other such tools are designed to
help growers make hard choices, easier,” said Dr Lye.
 
The workshop will also feature AUSVEG speakers from the EnviroVeg and Minor Use
Awareness Programs, as well as an update on exotic pest incursions and how to
keep growing operations biosecure.
 
The workshop is free to attend for all Australian vegetable levy payers, with
dinner and refreshments to be provided. Growers are encouraged to register their
attendance with AUSVEG on (03) 9882 0277 or at info@ausveg.com.au
as spaces are limited.
 
The program has been funded by HIA using the National Vegetable Levy and funds
from the Australian Government.