The Burst

This is an archive of our electronic newsletter called The Burst. Simply click on the edition number to view the newsletter.

2024

HEADLINES:

  • BQI25 welcomes two more international speakers
  • Varroa Mite detected in Victoria
  •  2024 Annual Food and Grocery Code Independent Reviewer’s Survey

CHEMICALS:

  • Chlorpyrifos uses – a summary of assessment outcomes in the final regulatory decision
  • Diazinon uses – a summary of assessment outcomes in the final regulatory decision
  • Emergency Use Permit issued for Fluopyram / Strawberry runners (field only) / Foliar nematodes
  • New emergency permit issued for Varroa mite treatment

INDUSTRY:

  • Freshcare sponsors one lucky certified berry grower to attend BQI25
  • Hort Innovation Webinar: Fresh fruit and vegetable retail wrap-up
  • Varroa Mite T2M Program Webinar 3 December
  • Hort Innovation Annual Investment Plans available now for 24/25
  • The Australian Farmer Digital Book live November edition out now
  • Latest BoM Climate Outlook

STATES:

  • QUEENSLAND:
    • Varroa Mite Development Officers
    • QFVG AGM 28 November 2024
    • QFF Breakfast event – Australia 2025 trends and what they mean for Agriculture
    • BFVG Wage Benchmarking Survey
  • VICTORIA:
    • New Horticulture Standards Webinar 10 December 2024
    • Temperate Variety Field Walk Wandin 18 December
    • 12 Varroa Mite Development Officers now onboard
  • TASMANIA:
    • Varroa Mite Development Officer appointed
    • Resilient Farming Tasmania Webinar Series
    • Tasmanian Berry Grower Voluntary Levy
  • WESTERN AUSTRALIA:
    • Upcoming changes to state employment laws
    • Expression of Interest: Chemical User Training 25-26 November 2024
    • EVENT: Agri Automation Autonomous control systems 25 & 28 November 2024

LABOUR:

  • PALM Scheme guidelines updated
  • Visa Options for Horticulture
  • Upcoming FWO Webinars

EXPORT:

  • Export Market Development Grants Round 4 now open

HEADLINES:

  • BQI25 Keynote Speaker announced: Rachael Robertson, Antarctic Leader
  • Strawberry Industry Breeding Update Meeting 4 November 2024

CHEMICALS:

  • APVMA suspends use of agricultural products containing chlorthal dimethyl
  • PERMIT EXTENDED: PER91327 Version 2 – Sulfoxaflor / Blueberries / Green peach aphid, cotton seed bug, scale insects, green stink bug, and flatid leafhopper

INDUSTRY:

  • Revolutionising farm labour: Berry growers embrace the latest tech
  • Hort Innovation Grower & Partner Survey Results
  • New AHBIC Varroa mite resources for beekeepers
  • PHA launches mobile-friendly pest reporting course for growers
  • Can biochar boost nutrient retention in blueberries?
  • Hort Innovation Annual Report 2023/24 released
  • Latest BoM Climate Outlook

STATES:

  • QUEENSLAND:
    • New Price Report launch increases transparency at Brisbane Markets
    • Best Management Practice Grants available now for target SEQ water catchments
    • Invasive Plants and Animals Strategy for 2025-2030 published
    • Final event of the year: Burgers at the Beerwah, 21 November 12pm
  • TASMANIA:
    • Emergency grants announced for September severe weather event
    • Enabling Business Grant Program opens 22 October
    • Requirements for Blueberry Trade into South Australia in 2024-25 season
  • WESTERN AUSTRALIA:
    • EOI – Chemical User Training available 25-26 November
    • Subsidised for Berry Growers – Protected Cropping learning opportunities – limited places still available

LABOUR:

  • Reminder: minimum hours for PALM scheme workers
  • Are you managing Piece Rates correctly?
  • Upcoming FWO Webinars
  • Fair Farms Program Review open for comments until 31 October
  • New resources about pay and conditions, enterprise agreements and bargaining
  • Fair Talk by Fair Farms: Managing the Compliance Load

EXPORT:

  • Amendment to Plant Quarantine Order – Blueberries to India
  • 2024-64: Plant Exports – Changes to Indonesia’s importing country requirements
  • Export Market Development Grants Round 4 opening soon

HEADLINES:

  • Backpacker Visa – National Growers in Horticulture ONLINE Consultation Session
  • Tackling food waste – UTAS Research Study needs your help
  • Hort Innovation AGM 29 November 2024 in Melbourne – attend in person or online

CHEMICALS:

  • PERMIT EXTENDED: PER91447 Version 2 – Zinc phosphide / Strawberry production / Mice

INDUSTRY:

  • FOR SALE: Spring Creek Seedlings, South-East Queensland Niche Horticulture Investment
  • On Farm Connectivity Program Info Webinar open for registration
  • Latest BoM Climate Outlook

STATES:

  • QUEENSLAND:
    • Negotiation Tactics 1 day FREE Masterclass available to attend ONLINE
    • Best Management Practice Grants now open for target SEQ water catchments
    • New fire ant self-treatment model coming soon
    • Join Agritourism Queensland
    • BFVG needs your input into a wage benchmarking study
    • National beekeeper training workshops for Varroa Mite
  • TASMANIA:
    • Report the impact of recent severe weather on your business
    • Fruit Growers Tasmania & Safe Farming Tasmania workshops
    • Enabling Business Grant Program opening in October
  • WESTERN AUSTRALIA:
    • Berry Farm ‘Amuri Creek’ for sale as a going concern
    • Protected Cropping learning opportunities – limited places still available

LABOUR:

  • Fair Farms Fair Talk with Ben Rogers online on 2 October 2024
  • Legal action taken against business and director for allegedly advertising about hire services without a licence in Victoria
  • Upcoming FWO Webinars
  • PALM information system September 2024 release
  • Are you receiving all the PALM scheme updates? Check your SPAM folder

EXPORT:

  • 2024-56: Horticulture – Review of the Accredited Properties Regulatory Framework
  • Share your ideas with DAFF for improving regulatory service delivery
  • Export Market Development Grants Round 4 opens 6 November

HEADLINES:

  • A ‘Stella’ day for strawberry growers and lovers at the Queensland EKKA
  • 2024 tax time resources for agriculture workers
  • Biosecurity focus: National Biosecurity Week, Have your say on the National Biosecurity Strategy Action Plan & find out more about the new AusTreat scheme

CHEMICALS:

  • PERMIT EXTENDED: PER91106 Version 2 – Abamectin / Blueberries / Six-spotted mite (Eotetranychus sexmaculatus) and Two-spotted mite (Tetranychus urticae)
  • PERMIT EXTENDED: PER89953 Version 2 – Azoxystrobin / Blueberries / Blueberry Rust; Stem Blight and dieback, Twig Blight

INDUSTRY:

  • FOR SALE: Spring Creek Seedlings, South-East Queensland Niche Horticulture Investment
  • 3G network shutdown has been extended to 28 Oct 2024
  • On Farm Connectivity Program Round 2 confirmed
  • WA Berry Farm for sale as ‘going concern’
  • Need help to tackle on-farm waste? Find out about the Australian Farm Waste Portal
  • 2024 Greenhouse Technical Management training course – a Masterclass in Protected Cropping – a few spaces still available
  • Latest BoM Climate Outlook

STATES:

  • QUEENSLAND:
    • Varroa surveillance map available and updated daily
    • More Rubus growers needed to assist with pollinator research
    • Changes to Work Health and Safety legislation now in force
  • NEW SOUTH WALES:
    • Applications for on-farm efficiency projects to recover more environmental water now open
    • Online training for water users now available
  • VICTORIA:
    • Varroa mite found in Victoria
    • Farm Business Resilience Program in-person and online training for growers
    • More Rubus growers needed to assist with pollinator research
  • TASMANIA:
    • Action Plan for Varroa Mite 2024-2034 consultation deadline extended to 23 August
    • Nominations open now for the 2024 Tasmanian Biosecurity Awards
  • WESTERN AUSTRALIA:
    • Grants increased to $100k for water use efficiency improvements – don’t miss out
    • Protected Cropping learning opportunities – limited places still available

LABOUR:

  • Evaluation of the regional migration settings for backpacker visas – In Person Consultations National Locations and Dates
  • Changes made to the Pay and Conditions Tool for the Hort Award on the FWO website
  • Department of Home Affairs launches BIRO officers to assist with employing migrant workers
  • Upcoming Fair Work Ombudsman webinars covering a wide range of important topics
  • PALM Scheme – Government launches monthly data release of comprehensive data
  • Calling all PALM scheme employers – check your information is up-to-date

EXPORT:

  • Berries Australia export team has a successful visit to China

HEADLINES:

  • Berries Australia welcomes two new team members: Jesse White and Ella Roper

CHEMICALS:

  • PERMIT EXTENDED: PER14422 version 4 Switch Fungicide (cyprodinil + fludioxonil) / Rubus and Rubus Hybrids / Grey Mould
  • PERMIT EXTENDED: PER13859 Version 3 Dimethoate / Orchard cleanup fruit fly host crops / fruit fly

INDUSTRY:

  • National Varroa Management Program – pollination industry information survey
  • Hort Innovation is seeking applications for two Non-Executive Director positions
  • WA Berry Farm for sale as ‘going concern’
  • Plant Breeders Rights system undergoes major overhaul
  • CSIRO Webinar ‘Transforming how we manage trade-related plant biosecurity risks’ 2 August
  • Protected Cropping Masterclass training course on offer at 4 locations
  • Latest BoM Climate Outlook

STATES:

  • QUEENSLAND: 
    • Rubus growers needed to assist with important new pollination research project
    • Biosecurity Grants now open
  • TASMANIA:
    • Emergency General Biosecurity Direction for European Honey Bees and Associated Products
    • Action Plan for Varroa Mite 2024-2034
  • VICTORIA:
    • FREE Young Farmers Business Bootcamp, Yarra Valley 30-31 July
  • WESTERN AUSTRALIA:
    • Grants increased to $100k for water use efficiency improvements
    • Protected Cropping learning opportunities – places are limited so don’t miss out

LABOUR:

  • Minimum wage increase in effect from 1 July 2024
  • Other labour law changes in effect from 1 July 2024
  • Webinar recording: IR changes unpacked by QFVG
  • Changes to the PALM Scheme – updated guidelines now published by DEWR

EXPORT:

  • Launceston Berry Export Workshop 6 August
  • Advancing phytosanitary irradiation in Australian horticulture

HEADLINES:

  • Changes to minimum hours settings in the PALM scheme
  • Hort Innovation sets ambitious $500 million goal for Frontiers R&D
  • Educate yourself and your team against scams and cyberthreats

CHEMICALS:

  • NEW Registration: PROBLAD Fungicide  /   All Berries  /  Botrytis grey mould
  • PERMIT EXTENDED: PER82986 version 3 Boscalid + pyraclostrobin / Blueberries, Rubus and Rubus hybrids / Various diseases
  • PERMIT EXPIRED: PER90666 Chlorpyrifos / Blueberries / Scarab Beetles
  • Ever wondered how a chemical gets registered for use in Australia?

INDUSTRY:

  • Agrifutures Varroa Expert Interview Series available to listen online
  • Telstra 3G Network shutdown delayed until 31 August 2024
  • Join Hort Innovation for a Consumer Outlook Webinar 27 June 11am AEST
  • Last chance to have input into the Freshcare Standards Review
  • Rural Aid offers funding to support primary producers to learn more about sustainable agricultural practices
  • Protected Cropping Masterclass training course on offer at 4 locations
  • Latest BoM Climate Outlook
  • Future Drought Fund program details now available
  • Smart Farming Down Under: Free Seminars Introducing Next-Gen Farm Management Software

STATES:

  • QUEENSLAND: 
    • Strawberry Field Day 17 July Maroochy Research Station
    • QFVG Negotiation Tactics Masterclass – locations across Qld June-July-August
    • National Renewables in Ag Conference & Expo Toowoomba 4 July
    • New Energy Services for Qld Agriculture
    • Agritourism Queensland launches
    • Inquiry into Supermarket Pricing report published
    • Surveillance map helps track Varroa mite
  • TASMANIA:
    • Navigating new labour laws – Workshops in Devonport – Launceston – Hobart
  • NEW SOUTH WALES:
    • Clean Coastal Catchments – latest news
  • WESTERN AUSTRALIA:
    • Grants bumped up to $100k for water use efficiency improvements
    • State minimum wage and WA award pay rates to increase from 1 July 2024

LABOUR:

  • Migrant worker exploitation laws in effect from 1 July  2024
  • Minimum wage increase in effect from 1 July 2024
  • Fair Work Ombudsman: Understanding the National Employment Standards – FREE Webinar 26 June

EXPORT:

  • Australia and Japan to strengthen horticultural ties
  • Australian Exporter Diversification Survey
  • Little Farms Singapore inbound trade mission to Hobart

HEADLINES:

  • Biosecurity Protection Levy update
  • Hort Innovation wants to hear from you
  • Federal Budget 2024 – what’s in it for Agriculture

CHEMICALS:

  • PERMIT UPDATES:
    • PERMIT EXTENDED: PER88174 Version 2 – Danadim / Blueberries / QLD Fruit Fly
  • Rapid evaluation of the APVMA structure & governance: the Federal Government’s response

INDUSTRY:

  • ACCC Supermarkets inquiry – primary producer round tables
  • Managing Blueberry rust in a cool climate 2024 update
  • Nutrition Gold: scientists demystify the secret health benefits of fresh produce
  • Plant Health Australia launches new website
  • Women in Leadership scholarships – are you eligible?
  • Latest BoM Climate Outlook
  • The Australian Farmer 2024 digital magazine now available

STATES:

  • QUEENSLAND: 
    • Foliar Nematodes – Please check and report sightings
    • QSGA Industry Dinner 1 June 2024 – get your tickets now
    • Circular Economy Program Grants available now
    • Biosecurity Strategy 2024-2029
    • Webinar: Know your risks, know your options 31 May
    • Expo: Soil & Water 31 May Stanthorpe
  • TASMANIA:
    • Are you a berry farmer and interested in reducing Food Waste?
    • Fee-free TAFE short courses – upskill your team
    • Asia Fruit Logistics 2024 grower opportunities on offer with FGT
    • Business information sessions 5 June (Hobart/Devonport) on changes to Fair Work Act

LABOUR:

  • Skilled visa positions potentially under threat – please complete this short survey now
  • Harvest Trail Information Service loses funding in 2024 Federal Budget
  • Fair Work Ombudsman: Closing Loopholes changes – FREE Webinar 12 June

EXPORT:

  • Mapping India’s Horticulture Supply Chain – help with this short survey
  • 2024 Applications for the export of strawberries to Thailand now open

HEADLINES:

  • Are you a Rubus grower looking to boost your leadership skills?
  • New Varroa mite detection technology to be tested
  • Tips for transplanting strawberries

CHEMICALS:

  • Permit Updates:
    • PER14740 v4 Propiconazole / Blueberries / Blueberry rust
    • PER90208 v2 Sulfoxaflor / Raspberries & Blackberries / Cottonseed Bug
    • EMERGENCY PERMIT ISSUED: PER94616 Version 1  Simodis Plinazolin technology Insecticide (isocycloseram) / Various berries / Chilli thrip
  • APVMA performance drop costs Australian farmers millions
  • Latest AgChem Update March 2024 from project MT20007

INDUSTRY:

  • Berries Australia Submission to the Agriculture Levies Bill 2024
  • Independent Review of the Food & Grocery Code of Conduct – Interim report available for consultation
  • Greenhouse Strawberry School: Ohio State University – registrations now open
  • Last chance to apply for this years’ Churchill Fellowship
  • Australian Farm Data Code to help protect your valuable data
  • Latest BoM Climate Outlook

STATES:

  • QUEENSLAND: 
    • Current Pest Update
    • QSGA Industry Social Get-Together 1 June 2024 – Tickets on sale now
    • Bundaberg Growers – Save the Date – 22 May 2024 – Workshop
  • NEW SOUTH WALES:
    • Connect with local students to find your next generation of employees
    • Young Farmer Business Program 2024 Conference
  • SOUTH AUSTRALIA:
    • Horticulture Netting & Emergency Water Infrastructure grants closing soon

LABOUR:

  • Employee or Independent Contractor?  Know the rules and classify your workers correctly
  • Fair Farms Webinar: National Labour Hire Licensing Scheme (24 April)
  • Fair Work Ombudsman Webinar Series: a small business guide to understanding recent workplace legislation changes
  • WHM numbers have bounced back surpassing pre-Covid levels

EXPORT:

  • Previously published Export articles are now available at the website RESOURCE LIBRARY
  • Events Calendar

HEADLINES:

  • ACCC supermarkets enquiry invites farmer and industry views
  • Monster sized Blueberry grown in Corindi NSW smashes Guinness World Record
  • Rubus IDO Mark Salter visits SEQ growers

CHEMICALS:

  • Permit Updates:
    • PER91907 v2 Tebufenozide / Blueberry / Lepidopteran (including but not exclusively Tortricidae and Helicoverpa)
  • Latest SARP report for the berry industry published

INDUSTRY:

  • Raspberry & Blackberry IPM newsletter
  • Greenhouse Strawberry School: Ohio State University
  • Cultivating new ideas in horticulture with a Churchill Fellowship
  • Freshcare Standards Review requests your feedback
  • Total Food Network pays penalties for alleged Horticulture Code breaches
  • Latest BoM Climate Outlook
  • Hort Innovation releases latest Impact Update
  • ABARES Insight report highlights the current state of Australian agriculture
  • Delivering and storing bulk fertiliser safely
  • Klaas Plas Webinar: In case you missed this Strawberry plant establishment Webinar you can watch it online

STATES:

  • QUEENSLAND: 
    • Varroa mite confirmed in Asian honey bee nest found at the Port of Brisbane
    • Work Health & Safety (Quad Bikes) Amendment Regulation has commenced
    • Stage 2: Reef Place-based Integrated Projects Grants Program closing date extended
  • TASMANIA:
    • Blueberry Growers Field Day – 18 April Castle Forbes Bay
    • Drought Relief Extended Statewide
  • NEW SOUTH WALES:
    • Showing off the DPI’s Wollongbar Blueberry Research Site – Open Day 10 April Wollongbar
  • SOUTH AUSTRALIA:
    • Horticulture Netting & Emergency Water Infrastructure grants available
  • WESTERN AUSTRALIA:
    • Energy efficient grants now open – closing 8 April
  • VICTORIA:
    • ASBP temperate varieties field walk at Wandin

LABOUR:

  • FWO urges you to know the new workplace laws
  • Fair Farms April Webinar: Mental Health

EXPORT:

  • Events Calendar

HEADLINES:

  • Berry Basket Marketing campaign goes live
  • 2022/23 Australian Horticulture Statistics Handbook available online now
  • Nominate now for the 2024 Horticulture Awards for Excellence

CHEMICALS:

  • Permit Updates:
    • PER87408 v2 Success Neo Insecticide / Blueberries, Strawberries, Rubus and Rubus hybrids / fruit fly
    • PER90178 v2 Versys Insecticide / Raspberries & Blackberries (Cane berries) / Aphids & Greenhouse Whitefly
    • PER87245 v2 Apparent Sulfur 800 WG Fungicide and Miticide / Blackberries / Broad mites, Two-spotted mites, Bean spider mites and Red berry

INDUSTRY:

  • WEBINAR: Strawberry nursery tray plant quality and establishment 28 February
  • Food and Grocery Code Independent Review Submissions encouraged by ACCC
  • Six inquiries currently investigating supermarket supply chains
  • Backpackers are back: latest data from the Harvest Trail Information Service
  • 2024 Churchill Fellowship applications now open
  • Freshcare ‘RegTech’ survey needs your input
  • Boost your Negotiation Skills with this 2-day workshop
  • BoM Latest Climate Outlook
  • Harvest to Home consumer sales data now updated to September 2023

STATES:

  • QUEENSLAND: 
    • Save the dates for upcoming Industry Events
    • $3.3m boost for rural agricultural businesses through RED Grants scheme
    • Energy grants to help primary producers open 22 February
    • Assistance for ex-TC Kirrily is available
  • NEW SOUTH WALES:
    • Do you have a farm drainage and erosion management plan?
  • VICTORIA:
    • Horticulture Netting Grants fresh funding available
    • Environment and Planning Committee | Inquiry into securing Vic’s food supply | Have your say
    • Biosecurity Update – Import of Red Imported Fire Ant host materials
  • SOUTH AUSTRALIA:
    • Horticulture Netting & Emergency Water Infrastructure grants available
  • WESTERN AUSTRALIA:
    • Energy efficient grants open 27 February
    • Online Information Session 6 March for new National Food Safety Standards in berries, leafy greens and melons

LABOUR:

  • New ‘Closing Loopholes’ law changes coming into effect
  • Fair Farms February Webinar: Recent WHS statistics in Agriculture

EXPORT:

  • Grants to enhance agricultural exports
  • Your chance to participate in Asia Fruit Logistica with Hort Innovation
  • Latest Export Action Plans now available in the Export Hub
  • Events Calendar

HEADLINES:

  • 2022-23 Australian Horticulture Statistics Handbook being launched via Webinar 7 February
  • Growers – don’t miss $1000 funding to attend #HortCon24
  • Scrutiny is mounting over ‘un-Australian’ Supermarket Pricing

CHEMICALS:

  • Ag-Chem Update for December 2023
  • Fruit Fly-Specific Agrichemical Issues for Horticulture

INDUSTRY:

  • Hort Connections 2024: Early Bird tickets now available
  • Varroa mite: Monitoring techniques and tools available at Hort Innovation website
  • Annual Report: 2022-23 Independent Review of the Food and Grocery Code
  • Negotiation Skills: Two day Retail Negotiation Skills Workshops
  • BoM Climate Outlook: Latest forecast is hot for February to April
  • New Scholarships Available: Leadership Scholarships for Women in Farming
  • Japanese Strawberries: More information about the upcoming JPFA Strawberry Training Course

STATES:

  • QUEENSLAND: 
    • Financial Assistance available for ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper recovery and the Christmas Severe Storms in SEQ
    • Save the dates for upcoming Industry Events
  • VICTORIA:
    • Assistance with damage from recent Floods and Storms
  • TASMANIA:
    • Biosecurity Tasmania has gone back to basics in new industry campaign
    • FGT is celebrating the best time to eat local Blueberries in conjunction with leading local independent retailers
    • Fruit and Water testing forms updated for 2023-24
  • SOUTH AUSTRALIA:
    • One billion sterile fruit flies released over the Riverland

LABOUR:

  • New ‘Closing Loopholes’ law changes coming into effect
  • New rules for Employee authorised deductions
  • Superannuation now an entitlement under the National Employment Standards from 1 January 2024
  • Fair Farms January Webinar: Fair Work & WHS Changes
  • SafeWork launches new online tool for the Agriculture sector
  • New positive duty around Sexual Harrassment takes effect
  • PALM Scheme employer saved from collapse
  • Next stage of changes to minimum hours for PALM Scheme workers started 1 January 2024

EXPORT:

  • International Tradeshows expressions of interest closes 12 February
  • FASTA appoints new chair of Governance Committee
  • WA Access Asia Business Grants Round 6 Launch and Alumni Event 12 February
  • Events Calendar

2023

HEADLINES:

  • Download the latest edition of the Berry plant protection guide brought to you by NSW DPI

  • Growers – you can now apply for funding to attend #HortCon24

  • New NFF Campaign to Keep Farmers Farming

CHEMICALS:

  • Reconsideration of Chlorpyrifos: APVMA recently published a proposed regulatory decision for public consultation
  • Glyphosate: EU approves weedkiller for another 10 years
  • Berry SARP Survey closes 22 December: Please complete it now to have your say
  • Minor Use Permits:
    • Fenhexamid / Blueberry / Grey Mould
    • Copper Hydroxide / Rubus / Rust & Leaf Spot
    • Methomyl / Blueberries / Red-shouldered leaf beetle, Helicoverpa spp. & Plague thrips

INDUSTRY:

  • BeeConnected Free App: Now available to download to allow farmers & beekeepers to communicate and coordinate
  • New Biosecurity Training Resource: Australia’s National Biosecurity Training Hub launched
  • NFFC Fruit Fly Management Guides: Download these new crop-specific resources
  • Negotiation Skills Workshops: AUSVEG offering 2-day workshops in Brisbane, Perth, Tasmania and Adelaide in 2024
  • Environmental Claims: ACCC releases eight principles to guide businesses
  • Hort Innovation Performance: 2018-23 Independent Review just published
  • UTAS Post-graduate Agriculture course: Work on your business, not just for your business in 2024
  • Japanese Strawberries: Learn how to grow Japanese strawberry varieties in Japan March 2024
  • New Drought Resource portal: Hort Innovation launches the Dealing with Dry Times web portal
  • BoM latest Climate Outlook: Hot & dry continues
  • Bushfire-affected regions: Be aware of the microbial food safety risks
  • Safe Farms: Safe Work Australia launches Know Your Duties interactive online tool
  • Food Science Students seek work placements: Monash University offering free internship students in Feb 2024

STATES:

  • QUEENSLAND: 
    • Join the Farm Business Resilience Program to plan for drought
    • Get help with developing your agritourism experience
  • NEW SOUTH WALES
    • Red imported fire ants detected in NSW – be on the lookout
    • Drought Ready & Resilient Fund launched to support growers
  • TASMANIA:
    • On-farm Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate Scheme applications close 31 December
  • WESTERN AUSTRALIA:
    • Qfly Industry update – Quarantine Area reinstatement

LABOUR:

  • New rules for Fixed Term Contracts: Changes took effect from 6 December 2023
  • Holiday Season: Get your rostering right
  • New Victorian Labour Hire campaign: Targets Horticulture workers with support materials in nine languages
  • Record penalties handed down: Victorian Labour-Hire provider penalised $617,916 for unlicensed operation

EXPORT:

  • International Tradeshows expressions of interest sought by Hort Innovation
  • Austrade Go Global Toolkit updated
  • Events Calendar

HEADLINES:

  • Jumbo blueberries key to WA farm Western Berry’s plans for major expansion
  • FPSC-ANZ annual survey open
  • National Farmers Federation welcomes second review of the Food & Grocery Code

INDUSTRY:

  • Chemical News:
    • Berry Industry SARP survey is open now – all growers are urged to participate
    • SARP Online Workshop Wednesday 22 November
    • Fenhexamid (Blueberry) permit updated
  • Unsustainable supermarket practices: British berry growers voice concerns
  • Hort Innovation AGM 24 November: Join in-person or online
  • BoM releases latest Climate Outlook: Extreme temperatures now highly likely
  • Future Drought Fund: Have your say on how the next phase of funding is spent
  • Freshcare Board of Directors: Meet the team members
  • Digital Connectivity Boost: Telstra & Starlink to work together to connect remote Australia
  • New On-Farm Connectivity Program: Rebates available to improve connectivity and productivity

STATES:

  • QUEENSLAND: 
    • Drought assistance available to primary producers
  • NEW SOUTH WALES
    • Funding opportunities for priority water infrastructure projects
    • Have your say – Non-urban water metering review
  • TASMANIA:
    • EVENT: Forthside Research Farm Field Day 11 December
    • Fruit industry induction videos are available now
    • On-farm Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate Scheme
    • TIA announces major investment in Ag research and education
  • WESTERN AUSTRALIA
    • EVENT: Irrigation tech greenhouse walk & mini trade show 7 December, Carabooda
    • WEBINAR: The Soil Foodweb with Graeme Sait from Nutri-Tech Solutions 23 November online

LABOUR:

  • PALM Scheme: Labour sending unit shutdown over Christmas period
  • Join this month’s Fair Farms Webinar: Diversity & Inclusion 29 November
  • $360,000 fine: Handed out to unlicensed NQ labour-hire provider
  • Public Holiday Payroll: Get it right during the holiday period
  • New rules for Fixed Term Contracts: Changes in effect from 6 December 2023
  • Harvest Trail Report: Who is using the service to find work?

EXPORT:

  • Painting the town red – Strawberry delegation trains Makro & Tops retail staff in Thailand
  • Events Calendar

HEADLINES:

  • Berries Australia team coming to Tasmania in November
  • Hort Innovation Annual Investment Plans & Annual Reports now available for 2023-24
  • Varroa mite response moving to management

INDUSTRY:

  • Chemical News: Switch Fungicide (Rubus) updated permit
  • BoM releases latest Climate Outlook: It is looking dry and hot

STATES:

  • QUEENSLAND: 
    • Get help to build your resilience plan which opens up grant and loan opportunities to help you manage drought
    • Don’t miss the AgTech Showcase on 1 November at Gatton, Lockyer Valley
  • NEW SOUTH WALES
    • Harvestable rights limit in coastal-draining catchments reduced to 10%
    • Full-day workshop 31 October Coffs Harbour: Managing native bee pollinators of your crops
  • TASMANIA:
    • Soil Moisture Mapping System developments
    • Grants to access training for your staff
  • WESTERN AUSTRALIA
    • WA Horticulture Update -get your tickets today – 31 October – 1 November, Ascot
    • Save the date: Agrifutures AgTECH event coming to Perth 20-21 February 2024

LABOUR:

  • FWO Enforcement activity: FWO finds a mixed bag as Ag sector inspections continue
  • Join this month’s Fair Farms Webinar: The heat is on!  25 October 12.00 AEST
  • New limits on using Fixed Term Contracts: Changes in effect from 6 December 2023

EXPORT:

  • Singing the blues in Vietnam – trade delegation success
  • Austrade new economic strategy to boost trade with Southeast Asia
  • Events Calendar

HEADLINES:

  • Varroa mite response switches to ‘Management’ from ‘Eradication’
  • Food & Grocery Code Independent Reviewer releases 2023 survey
  • Help shape the future of the berry industry by joining the industry Ideation panel

INDUSTRY:

  • Chemical News: Two fungicide permits updated
  • Congratulations Kirsty Dickenson from Costa: 2024 Nuffield Scholarship winner
  • BoM releases latest Climate Outlook: Its looking hot and dry
  • Tackling Farm Waste: new project from Agrifutures to develop solutions for waste management and resource recovery
  • Fair Farmer of the Year Award: Nominations now open & are closing 29 September 2023
  • Agrifutures Rural Women’s Award & Acceleration Grant now open: Applications close 25 October 2023
  • IBO releases 2023 State of the Global Blueberry Industry report: Supply peak windows are changing as volume grows in newer markets
  • New National Biosecurity Levy: Don’t miss your chance to have your say
  • National Farm Safety Education Survey: Help shape the future requirements of farm safety
  • $100m investment in National Agricultural traceability systems: Grant funding available to deliver improved outcomes

STATES:

  • QUEENSLAND: 
    • Strawberry Growers asked to check their patches for Foliar Nematodes
    • Business Resilience Planning Assistance: What is available and how can you access it?
    • Are you Bushfire-ready? Preparation is critical – explore the tools and resources available
    • Climate Workshop 3 October Mareeba, FNQ
    • AgTech Showcase 1 November Gatton, Lockyer Valley
  • TASMANIA:
    • Berry Growers Field Day 18 October, Cressy
    • Farm Business Resilience Program
  • NEW SOUTH WALES
    • Business Resilience Planning Assistance: What is available and how can you access it?
    • Interested in setting up your own on-farm trials? Access this FREE online course
    • Applications are now open for Business Resilience Program Coaching
    • New Blueberry water use model in development – just in time for a return to drier conditions
    • TUFF Workshop seeking expressions of interest from the ‘blokes’ in the industry
  • WESTERN AUSTRALIA
    • WA Horticulture Update event program and tickets now available 31 October – 1 November, Ascot
    • Farm Business Resilience Program – your tailored business resilience toolkit
    • Queensland fruit fly (Qfly) Bayswater response update
  • VICTORIA
    • Pre-season Grower Meeting 28 September, Wandin
    • Access the resources available under the Farm Business Resilience Program

LABOUR:

  • FWO Enforcement activity: Sunshine Coast growers checked for underpayment
  • PALM Scheme changes: In place from 1 October 2023
  • Next wave of IR reforms explained: Three-part series produced by ABLA
  • Join this month’s Fair Farms Webinar: When the union calls 27 September 12.00 AEST

EXPORT:

  • HEICC forum for consulting with export industries and government
  • Events Calendar

HEADLINES:

  • Hort Innovation announces historic $130m trade alliance to supercharge Australian horticulture exports
  • New and extended Minor Use Permits published
  • Berries MRLs App now available for use by all berry growers

INDUSTRY:

  • Freshcare Announces Changes to FSQ4.2 Rules: Affecting unannounced audit requirements
  • AgChemical Update: Download the latest release from Hort Innovation
  • Are you guilty of Greenwashing?: ACCC publishes draft guidance for businesses about making environmental and sustainability claims
  • To net or not to net?: If you’re considering installing netting on your farm then you need to read this before making a decision
  • Hort Innovation AGM: Secure your voting rights now
  • Webinar: Traceability – the why and the how
  • Having a tough time?: ifarmwell is available free for all farmers to help you and your family through the tough times

STATES:

  • QUEENSLAND: 
    • Register your unwanted chemicals before 31 August for the upcoming ChemClear collections
    • Future Fields Seed Funding of up to $20,000 is available for projects which achieve impact in horticulture
    • Grub & Grants evening event – 19 September Bundaberg
    • Get drought ready with the Farm Business Resilience Program
  • TASMANIA:
    • New irrigation projects announced which will benefit the Northern Midlands, Sassafras and Wesley Vale regions
    • Near-real time weather map application launched for Tasmania
  • NEW SOUTH WALES
    • Round 2 Supply Chain Support Program now open
    • Get your production back on track and fix farm erosion issues with the help of North Coast Local Land Services
  • WESTERN AUSTRALIA
    • Biosecurity import rules update
    • Save the date: 31 October-1 November WA Horticulture Update event is back
  • VICTORIA
    • AgVic are increasing enforcement activities around chemical record-keeping
    • WorkSafe Victoria launches new safe chemical use tools

LABOUR:

  • FWO Enforcement activity: Lockyer Valley Qld growers checked for underpayment
  • Workplace Conditions changes for Small Business: Paid Family & Domestic Violence leave is now compulsory for all including small business
  • Labour-Hire provider in court: Victorian Supreme Court action taken against Labour-Hire provider in the horticulture industry

EXPORT:

  • Webinar: Join Hort Innovation for a deep dive into international consumer demand for the berries industry
  • New Tools: New Export rules finder tool is now available
  • Events Calendar

HEADLINES:

  • Berries Australia Team Changes: Welcome Kylie & congratulations Wendy on your new role
  • Save the date 20 September 2023 – Open Day at Hillwood Berries near Bundaberg showcasing the Total Vent Haygrove tunnels
  • Contribution of Australian horticulture industry report available now from Hort Innovation

BERRY MARKETPLACE:

  • Queensland: Assorted conveyors & rotating grading tables last used at the Twist Brothers Strawberry Farm on the Sunshine Coast
  • Victoria: Assorted cool room, fridge, freezer and AC equipment available from Wandin

INDUSTRY:

  • Tax Amnesty granted for Small Business – get up-to-date with any overdue activity
  • Farm Safety Week 16-23 July focusing on tractor and machinery safety
  • Hort Innovation Board seeks three new Directors
  • Hort Innovation AGM: Secure your voting rights as a levy-paying grower
  • Listen Up: Agrifutures releases a report on young people’s perspective on the future of Australian agriculture and rural industries
  • Minor Use Permit Extended: PER89870 Version 2 – Entrust Organic Insecticide / Fall Armyworm
  • Minor Use Permit Extended: PER14425 version 3 – Bifenazate (Acramite) / Specified Rubus and Rubus Hybrids / Two Spotted Mite & European Red Spider Mite

STATES:

  • QUEENSLAND: 
    • New renewable Energy Landholder Toolkit available from QFF
    • Strawberry Breeding Program Field Day 26 July 2023 at Maroochy Research Station
  • TASMANIA:
    • FGT Bass Strait Freight and the Tas Freight Equalisation Scheme workshop 26 July 2023
    • Inaugural Biosecurity Awards are now open for nominations
  • NEW SOUTH WALES
    • Fixing Farm Erosion: A plan to get back on track with help from  North Coast Local Land Services
  • WESTERN AUSTRALIA
    • Growers now have a Fair Farm local representative: Katrina Hill at VegetablesWA
    • State Wage Case decision from 1 July 2023
    • Biosecurity Workshops across August
    • Trial Opportunity: Strawberry varieties grown from F1 hybrid seed

LABOUR:

  • FWO alleges Victorian grower underpaid vulnerable pickers
  • Legal action commenced for alleged subcontracting to unlicensed providers in Victoria
  • Queensland labour-hire company penalised
  • Fair Farms Webinar: 26 July 2023 ‘Behave Yourself’ focusing on workplace Codes of Conduct
  • Superannuation Guarantee changed to 11% from 1 July 2023
  • Paid Parental Leave Scheme changes from 1 July 2023
  • New National Employment Standards videos launched by FWO to help you understand minimum workplace entitlements

EXPORT:

  • New MRL App launched to support berry exporters
  • New resource: Understanding international consumer demand reports covering 13 countries and providing valuable market insights
  • Export Trade Events Calendar

HEADLINES:

  • A limited number of FREE Grower Registrations at still available for the PCA Conference 17-20 July in Brisbane
  • Fair Work Commission issues its decision relating to overtime for casual staff
  • It’s almost Tax Time – get your ag deductions right

INDUSTRY:

  • AgTech is transforming our food chains from farm to market – see the latest video resources to help you learn more
  • Australian Rural Leadership Program intake for 2024 is open now
  • Limited places still available on the Greenhouse Technical Management course in 3 locations (Qld, SA, Vic)
  • Watch the latest Varroa mite briefing from NSW DPI & the Australian Honey Bee Industry Council
  • Permit Extended: PER86586 version 2 – Fluazifop-p / Blueberry / Broadleaf weeds
  • Permit Extended: PER14234 version 3 – Eco-Oil / Rubus / Two Spotted Mite

STATES:

  • QUEENSLAND: 
    • Free trial of Ag Jobs Queensland employment advertising platform finishing 30 June
    • Plan for drought today to protect your business tomorrow – check out the latest Queensland Drought Assistance
    • State budget delivers on Biosecurity
    • Spate of serious tractor incidents prompt safety warning
    • Land parcels available for sale in the Wamuran area
  • TASMANIA:
    • Ag Logic Workshops to help you understand your soils 20 June & 21 June
  • NEW SOUTH WALES
    • Fee-Free Forklift & Supply Chain training available now

LABOUR:

  • Fair Farms Webinar – 28 June Donna Mogg covers Industrial Manslaughter Legislation
  • Superannuation guarantee changes to 11% from 1 July 2023
  • Fair Work Commission announces changes to the Minimum Wage

EXPORT:

  • Export Supply Chain Service Snapshot #19 looks at sea freight
  • ESCS Program is closing down from 30 June 2023
  • Simplified Trade System Summit in Melbourne 26 June 2023
  • Coming soon – Berries Australia MRL Search App

HEADLINES:

  • 2023 Federal Budget summary provided by the NFF
  • Zombie Agreements are officially dead from 7 December 2023 – it’s time to act now
  • Spray Drift – there simply is no excuse

INDUSTRY:

  • New NFF Hort Council Chairperson named as Jolyon Burnett
  • Independent Review of Hort Innovation’s performance is underway soon – find out how to share your feedback
  • Webinar recording now available online: Food & Grocery Code of Conduct Fundamentals
  • Future Drought Fund Science to Practice Forum 6-8 June being held online with free attendance
  • Women in Leadership partial scholarships of $1,000-5000 applications close 9 June
  • APVMA review of guidelines determining a minor use is inviting public feedback until 15 June
  • Permit Extended: PER13289 version 5 – Indoxacarb / Blueberries & Rubus spp. / Light Brown Apple Moth and Elephant Weevil borer

STATES:

  • QLD/SA: 
    • Hort Netting Grants are still available but only for a limited time
  • TASMANIA:
    • Fruit Growers Tasmania Conference 15 – 16 June at the Country Club Tasmania in Launceston
  • NSW:
    • Free Workshop reporting on the latest research into alternative pollinators Wednesday 31 May 6-8pm Woolgoolga
  • QUEENSLAND/NT/WESTERN AUSTRALIA
    • Want to win a free rain gauge? Complete a short benchmarking survey for the Drought and Climate Adaptation Program
  • WESTERN AUSTRALIA
    • Spotlight on Safety: New App to make WHS information more accessible on farms and the report from the Safety Inquiry into the agricultural industry in WA
    • Qfly Update in Bayswater area
  • VICTORIA
    • Horticulture company faces legal action for allegedly operating without a labour hire licence
    • Primary Producers Loans and more disaster recovery assistance for hail-impacted producers

LABOUR:

  • Fair Farms Webinar – 31 May Using the Horticulture Hours of Work to maximise flexibility
  • Farms remain in the Fair Work spotlight
  • Seven HR tasks your business cannot afford to ignore right now
  • Fair Farms Manual now available online for program participants
  • Avoid extra costs & penalties for your business by making sure you’re on top of your super obligations

EXPORT:

  • Export Supply Chain Service Snapshot #18 looks at airfreight including the latest intel on pricing
  • Asia Fruit Logistica is back in Hong Kong 6-8 September 2023
  • Last Chance! EOI for the International Market Tour 3-9 September has been extended to COB 25 May – Register your interest now
  • NFFC Think Tank Market Access Webinar recording is now available online

HEADLINES:

  • Hort Connections bursaries worth $1000 now available to eligible levy-paying growers
  • A modernisation of the agricultural levies legislation is now underway with 2 phases
  • Congratulations to NFF President Fiona Simson

INDUSTRY:

  • US Blueberry Industry mourns Bernadine Strik
  • 150 FREE Grower Registrations available for the PCA Conference 17-20 July in Brisbane
  • Hort Innovation welcomes Claud Warren as the new Regulatory Affairs & Cropt Protection Manager
  • WEBINAR: Join Hort Innovation for an insightful ‘Consumer Outlook’ discussion on 28 April
  • Check out the application of Smart Farming technologies in 4 videos released from the Smart Farming project
  • A date for the diary: 26-27 October 2023 NFF Conference in Canberra
  • The APVMA wants to hear from all stakeholders in their latest annual survey
  • Just launched – the Regional Tech Hub providing independent advice and support to improve digital connectivity in rural areas
  • National Lean Leaders leadership program starts 21 April with funded places available for Rubus levy payers
  • WEBINAR: NFFC Think Tank on Area Wide Management of Fruit Fly
  • Free Farm Safety Online Workshops for Qld, NSW & Vic farmers – reserve your place

STATES:

  • QLD/SA: 
    • Hort Netting Grants are still available but only for a limited time
  • QUEENSLAND
    • Plan today for future drought to protect your business tomorrow
    • Free Workforce Planning Course – available as online or in-person attendance (Moreton Bay & Sunshine Coast locations)
  • NEW SOUTH WALES
    • Mid-North Coast Industry & Schools Forum – 3 days across Coffs, Taree & Kempsey
  • VICTORIA
    • Financial Assistance following floods and storms – applications extended until 13 July 2023
  • WESTERN AUSTRALIA
    • Get the latest information about the Bayswater Qfly response

LABOUR:

  • Are you fully across the changes to job advertisement regulations?

EXPORT:

  • Export Supply Chain Service Snapshots #15, 16 & 17 provide insights into new vessels joining the global fleet, an update on air freight rates and an analysis on global schedule reliability for sea freight.
  • Accreditation applications for farms, packhouses and treatment facilities wishing to export strawberries to Thailand in 2023 are now open

HEADLINES:

  • Nuffield Scholarship applications are open now and close 9 June
  • Limited number of free energy audits now available for Coffs Blueberry growers – get in quick
  • 2021/22 Australian Horticulture Statistics Handbook available online now – see how the berry category performed

INDUSTRY:

  • Energy Efficiency Grants for SMEs are available now – funds already allocated fully in Tasmania, ACT & SA
  • Calling all female farmers: Access a scholarship from WLA and invest in your leadership skills
  • Permit extended for Emamectin in Blueberry
  • Freshcare + HARPS shared resources are now available online to simplify the demands of multiple audits
  • WEBINAR: HARPS Version 2.0 31 March
  • Latest news from the Varroa response team
  • WEBINAR: NFFC Think Tank Market Access re-scheduled from 16 March to 30 March
  • Hort Innovation Director Nomination Committee seeks new levy-payer
  • New fully-funded PhD Scholarship opportunities open now from UTAS/TIA with a Rubus focus

STATES:

  • QLD/SA: 
    • Hort Netting Grants are still available but only for a limited time
  • QUEENSLAND
    • Worker tragically killed in farm ute rollover – are you effectively managing your on-farm risks?
    • New Rural Workers’ Accommodation Initiative allowing farmers to build small-scale accommodation on-farm without planning approval
    • WEBINAR: Managing the psychosocial hazards at work
    • Seize the chance for upskilling with fee-free TAFE courses in Ag
    • AgJobs Queensland launches: the new one-stop portal to connect employers and job-seekers in Qld farming
  • TASMANIA
    • BIOSECURITY ALERT: Small Hive beetle detection in Northern Tasmania
  • WESTERN AUSTRALIA
    • Green snail baiting season is here again
    • BIOSECURITY ALERT: Confirmed detection of Qfly in Perth

LABOUR:

  • New workplace sexual harassment laws apply from 6 March 2023 – do you understand your obligations as en employer?

EXPORT:

  • WEBINAR: Join Hort Innovation online for this International Trade Industry Forum 28 March
  • Export Supply Chain Service Snapshot #14 provides insights into air freight supply chains for fresh produce
  • ECSC Spotlight on India following the new Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement

HEADLINES:

  • Churchill Fellowship applications open 1 March
  • Join Hort Innovation for the launch of the latest industry insights

INDUSTRY:

  • Permit extended for Mainman 500 WG Insecticide for Rubus
  • Join the NFF Hort Council for a 2 part webinar series: No better time to get to know fresh produce codes of conduct
  • Latest news on the Varroa mite response – including a new outbreak outside the current purple zone
  • Join GS1 for a Webinar update on state and territory action plans to provide practical pathways for enhancing biosecurity through traceability
  • Join the National Fruit Fly Council for their first Think Tank Webinar to discuss the importance of strong biosecurity to support market access
  • Join the IFPA A-NZ for a Webinar on the challenges connected with microbiological testing for food safety
  • Please take 10 minutes to complete this Food Supply Chain Survey being carried out by the University of Tasmania

STATES:

  • QLD/SA: 
    • Hort Netting Grants are still available but only for a limited time
  • QUEENSLAND
    • Have your say about quad bikes
    • Disaster assistance recovery grants from the 2022 flooding events are closing soon
  • WESTERN AUSTRALIA
    • Join VegetablesWA for an economic update for production horticulture
    • Updated horticulture statistics just released
    • Help shape policy about how resources are allocated to training and workforce development

LABOUR:

  • New Domestic & Family Violence leave started on 1 Feb 2023 for non-small business employers
  • Victoria: Changes to labour hire accommodation regulations start in February 2023

EXPORT:

  • Export Supply Chain Service Snapshot #13 provides insights into the current sea freight supply chains for fresh produce

HEADLINES:

  • Responses from the recent Grower Survey reveal the Top 5 priorities for berry growers
  • If you’re interested in substrate growing methods, then you can read the latest project report into viable options
  • Last chance to have your say on the proposed Rubus levy amendment

INDUSTRY:

  • Latest update on the Varroa mite response
  • Check out the 2023 Action Plan from PHA
  • Fee-Free Agriculture courses on offer in 2023 from TAFE
  • New grant opportunity: National Agriculture Traceability Program open until 23 February 2023
  • Churchill Fellowship applications for 2023 are now open with Horticulture sector members encouraged to apply
  • NFF National Agricultural Leadership Program is seeking young leaders to step up and build their skill set this year
  • Can bacteria really munch their way through nitrates in wastewater? Find out the latest news from the NSW DPI Clean Coastal Catchments project doing just that

STATES:

  • QLD/SA/TAS: 
    • Hort Netting Grants are still available but only for a limited time
  • VICTORIA
    • Smart agri-food supply chain of the future – join CSIRO for a 1-day seminar on 15 February
  • QUEENSLAND
    • Rural worker accommodation initiative announced to assist with ongoing shortage in rural areas
    • Horticulture Irrigation Pricing Rebate Scheme available to eligible irrigators
  • WESTERN AUSTRALIA
    • Have your say about future workforce needs – complete this 5-minute survey

LABOUR:

  • New Domestic & Family Violence Leave starts for some businesses from 1 February 2023
  • New pay secrecy and job advertising laws are now in force
  • Secure Jobs, Better Pay – an update on the implementation dates of the key changes to legislation passed in late 2022

EXPORT:

  • Export Supply Chain Service Snapshot #11 provides insights into the current air supply chains for fresh produce
  • Join the Export Supply Chain Service team for an Industry briefing online on 6 February 2023

2022

HEADLINES:

  • We want to hear from YOU!  – please complete our 3-minute Grower Survey now to help shape the next Industry Development project
  • Berries Australia launches new Recovery & Resilience project welcoming John Hay as a new team member
  • Congratulations to Ashbern Farms – Organic Farmer of the Year 2022
  • Improved compliance in key berry growing regions despite FWO fines across hort sector – breaches of pay slip and record-keeping laws

INDUSTRY:

  • Latest update on the Varroa mite response
  • ACCC wants to hear from you about mobile coverage in regional and rural areas
  • HARPS version 2.0 is now live – in case you missed it, you can now watch the Webinar held on 29 November
  • Food and Grocery Code Review: don’t miss your chance to provide feedback on the effectiveness of the dispute resolution provisions in the Act
  • Hort Innovations welcomes two new Directors following the November AGM
  • Read the latest Ag Chemical Update and find out more about the proposed regulatory decision on malathion (a.k.a Maldison used in Fruit Fly baits)

STATES:

  • WESTERN AUSTRALIA
    • Grants are still available to eligible growers north of Perth to help improve irrigation efficiency – don’t miss this opportunity as it could be used to help transition to table-top growing
    • APC Strawberry Growers Committee releases 2022-27 Industry Strategic Plan
  • VICTORIA
    • Primary Producer Flood Recovery Package including grants and concessional loans – applications close at 4pm on 30 April 2023
    • Support for small business with grants up to $50,000
  • SOUTH AUSTRALIA
    • River Murray flood support for primary producers announced
  • QUEENSLAND
    • New drought grants to boost farm resilience
    • Growing food and fibre exports and jobs via the Food and Fibre to Market – Industry Partnerships Program now open
    • Quad bikes are Qld farming biggest killer so a new advertising campaign has just been launched
    • Two new Workforce Liaison Officers are available to help support Pacific Island and Timor-Leste ag workers
  • NEW SOUTH WALES
    • Supply Chain Support Program announced to rebuild, repair and enhance processing businesses within the primary industry supply chains impacted by the Feb/Mar 22 floods

LABOUR:

  • Managing Public Holidays this festive season
  • The Respect@Work Bill passes Parliament

EXPORT:

  • Export Supply Chain Service Snapshot #9 provides insights into the current air supply chains for fresh produce

HEADLINES:

  • DIRECTOR ID: Apply now to avoid a significant fine
  • CHRISTMAS PARTIES: Don’t let a work party spoil a safe working year

INDUSTRY:

  • Eradication of Varroa mite in NSW continues – get the latest update here
  • Growcom provide a useful round-up of advocacy progress following the latest recent Federal Budget
  • Agriculture businesses have reported over $300,000 in losses to fake invoice scams this year – find out how to avoid getting scammed
  • Hort Innovation has just published the latest Annual Fund Reports for 2021/22 – you can download & read the Berry Fund report here
  • HARPS version 2.0 is now live – join the Webinar on November 29 to learn more – register to attend
  • Hort Netting Grants – some states have already exhausted their allocation of funds – find out more
  • Catch up on the Webinar held by RMCG in early November discussing emerging substrate alternatives for hydroponic berry production
  • Catch up on the Webinar held by Berries Australia & Levity Crop Science discussing Nitrogen & Calcium in berries
  • Find out more about two new national grant opportunities
  • Freshcare talks with experts in financial counselling and mental health in a FREE interactive, online chat

STATES:

  • WESTERN AUSTRALIA
    • Consultation period is now open for WA Strawberry Growers to provide feedback on the draft Industry Strategic Plan
    • AgWatch tip-off service is now available online to report illegal activities in WA agriculture
    • Grants are still available to eligible growers north of Perth to help improve irrigation efficiency – don’t miss this opportunity as it could be used to help transition to table-top growing
  • VICTORIA
    • ChemClear is coming in early 2023 – Register your unwanted AgVet chemicals online now
    • Webinar: Smarter electricity management – Doing more with less – Register to join  14 December 11.30am AEDT
    • Primary Producer Flood Recovery Package announced including grants and concessional loans
  • QUEENSLAND
    • Biosecurity Alert: Polyphagous shot-hole borer
    • Biosecurity Alert: Varroa Mite Movement Control Order update
    • With storm season starting, are you fully prepared for a natural disaster this summer?
    • DAF needs your feedback – how do you want to connect with them for information, transactions and other business services?
  • NEW SOUTH WALES
    • NSW DPI is consulting with stakeholders in the Far North Coast region on several key water programs – don’t miss your chance to have your say
  • TASMANIA
    • Join Mark Salter and Jack Beattie for a Strawberry Runner Field Day at JCLM Farming in Ouse on Thursday 8 December 2 – 5 pm AEDT

LABOUR:

  • Find out about the recent High Court decision about Independent Contractors, roosters & ducks
  • From February 2023, employees will have a new leave entitlement – paid family & domestic violence leave

CROP:

  • STRAWBERRIES: Luna Experience Fungicide label extension approved
  • RUBUS: Mastronardi BerryWorld of America launching new Rubus varieties
  • BLUEBERRIES: Eureka Blueberry wins Superior Taste Award
  • BLUEBERRIES: IBO Report shows the industry is undergoing a transformation

INDUSTRY NEWS:

  • NEWS QUICKBITES:
    • NSW: Red Tape slashed for Agritourism
    • NSW: Hort Netting Grants now open – get in quick
    • $6.4m Boost for cool climate Horticulture growers
    • QLD: Is your Business Natural Disaster Ready?
    • QLD: Energy & Jobs Plan
    • The National Mentoring Program connecting rural Australian is now open for applications
    • Backpackers return to Regional Qld
    • Agrifutures Rural Women’s Award applications extended to 16 November
    • HARPS v2.0 launched on 17 October
    • Unannounced Freshcare Audits: Webinar & Q&A 31 October 1pm
  • Varroa Mite update from NSW DPI
  • Ag Machinery Scams – a case of buyer beware
  • If you are a Company Director you must register for a Director ID by 30 November 2022
  • QLD: Natural Disaster Impact Survey to support disaster recovery assistance
  • WA: Strawberry Strategic Plan Update
  • WA: Grants of up to $50,000 are available to an expanded number of growers north of Perth to help improve irrigation efficiency and enhance production and profitability

LABOUR NEWS:

  • COVID-19 Isolation Rule changes – it is no longer a legal requirement to isolate if you are diagnosed with COVID-19

EXPORT NEWS:

  • Asia Fruit Logistica will be held in Bangkok from 2-4 November – check out the AUSTRADE site for information to support growers & exporters

INDUSTRY NEWS:

  • NEWS QUICKBITES:
    • Businesses urged to act on domain name changes as .au domains become available
    • Microdrones cause a buzz in protected cropping
    • Hort Innovation AGM coming up in November
    • HARPS v2.0 launches on 17 October
  • Varroa Mite update from NSW DPI
  • ACCC updates guidance for the Horticulture Code
  • Australasian Plant Genetics launches new website to showcase new varieties from the Australian Strawberry Breeding Program
  • On-Farm Carbon Management: An opportunity?
  • University of Sydney research into how fruit farmers are managing compliance with minimum wage laws
  • COVID-19 Isolation Rule changes – isolation days reduced from 7 days down to 5 days in certain circumstances

LABOUR NEWS:

  • FWO continues farm inspections
  • Jobs & Skills Summit Outcomes report by NFF
  • Useful Resource Links

EXPORT NEWS:

  • Plant Export Reform Program – Recognition of food safety certification to streamline export audits
  • Export Supply Chain Service issues 2nd Supply Chain Snapshot

INDUSTRY NEWS:

  • NEWS QUICKBITES
    • VIC: Berry Women in Industry Dinner planned for 15 September 2022 – save the date!
    • National Security Strategy set to protect our borders
    • VIC: Horticultural Netting Grant program now open for applications
    • QLD: $22 Million boost to Queensland’s Biosecurity preparedness
    • Nominations for the 2022 Australian Biosecurity Awards now open
    • QLD: Agriculture Awards Announced – nominate someone today
    • Hydroponic Rubus Growers: We need your opinions
    • Hort Innovation Members: Get ready to secure your voting entitlements
    • Registrations now open for 2022 Farmsafe Conference
    • Seasonal leaf nitrogen in Southern Highbush Blueberry – access this research paper from Dr Sophie Parks
    • Fair Farms Conference registrations now open
  • EVENTS
    • TAS: Pre-Season Field Day 2 September 2022
    • NSW: CCC Webinar 26 August 2022
    • WA: Climate Services grower consultation 22 August 2022
    • VIC: Berry industry biosecurity field day 14 September 2022
  • ICA-31 for WA Blueberry growers shipping to South Australia now available
  • Australasian Plant Genetics launches new website to showcase new varieties from the Australian Strawberry Breeding Program
  • Varroa-targeting pesticide under development in new Hort Innovation-University of Sydney project

LABOUR NEWS:

  • Labour-Hire provider agrees to refund workers for sub-standard accommodation – do you understand the requirements?
  • From 1 July 2022 ABN & USI have changed for all employee super contributions to Australian retirement Trust (formerly Sunsuper) – ensure you update your systems

EXPORT NEWS:

  • FREE FOR BERRY GROWERS: Online Export Training Course is now available – places are strictly limited so don’t miss this opportunity to upskill your teams NOW

INDUSTRY NEWS:

  • NEWS QUICKBITES
    • USA: EPA ordered to reassess Glyphosate’s impact
    • QLD: Have your say in the future of low emissions for Qld Agribusiness
    • Hort Innovation Members: Get ready to secure your voting entitlements
    • Latest Ag Chemical Update is available from Hort Innovation
    • QLD: 5-year plan to grow Queensland’s agriculture workforce released
  • Varroa Mite detection confirmed: Eradication plan in action
  • Horticulture Netting Infrastructure Grants: Update by State on eligibility and how to access the grant funding
  • Farm Safety Week: Stop burning the candles at both ends
  • Do your bit: The importance of fungicide rotation
  • WA: Blueberry Rust Update
  • QLD: BerryQuest International 2022 25-28 July at Sea World Resort & Conference Centre
  • QLD: Agworkforce Summit 3-5 August

LABOUR NEWS:

  • FWO announces a National Minimum Wage increase & an Award Minimum Wage Increase
  • Important changes to the Super Guarantee – rates rose to 10.5% from 1 July and the $450 threshold was REMOVED
  • FWO announces priorities for 2022-23 and Agriculture remains a key industry of focus
  • WA changes to State Award wages

EXPORT NEWS:

  • FREE FOR BERRY GROWERS: Online Export Training Course is now available – places are limited so register NOW

INDUSTRY NEWS:

  • NEWS QUICKBITES
    • QLD: Labour Hire marks 4th anniversary with 3600 licensed providers
    • QLD: Tools to help you plan the future of your agribusiness
    • QLD: Free Training Opportunity: Developing Leadership Skills in your team
    • QLD: State of Horticulture Survey – Qld Growers please give us your thoughts
    • Early Bird Registrations open for Fresh Produce Safety Conference 11 August 2022
  • WA: Farm Business Resilience Program dates in Peel, Carnarvon & Perth
  • Women in Farming & Agriculture eligible for Leadership Development Scholarships
  • QLD Horticulture Farm Business Resilience Program Stanthorpe 21 June Workshop

EVENTS:

  • QLD: Berry Industry Prep ‘n’ Party Granite Belt region 23 June
  • WA: SGAWA AGM & Field Day 1 July
  • QLD: Agworkforce Summit 3-5 August

LABOUR NEWS:

  • FWO announces a National Minimum Wage increase & an Award Minimum Wage Increase
  • FWO webinars scheduled for 29 June 2022 to help explain the Horticulture Award changes
  • Important changes to the Super Guarantee – rate rises to 10.5% from 1 July and the $450 threshold is REMOVED

EXPORT NEWS:

  • FREE FOR BERRY GROWERS: Online Export Training Course is now available – places are limited so register now
  • Australian Strawberries showcased as part of Saudi Food Expo 22
  • Australian Government launches “Busting Congestion for Agricultural Exporters”

INDUSTRY NEWS:

  • NEWS QUICKBITES
    • NSW: Disaster relief and support for primary producers
    • QLD: Disaster assistance available for primary producers
    • DAF creates an AgTech Roadmap to provide direction for Queensland
  • WA: Blueberry Rust detected
  • VIC Labour-Hire Farm Case Study
  • QLD Drought Assistance Programs provides relief across all of Agriculture under new program
  • QLD Horticulture Farm Business Resilience Program

EVENTS:

  • ALL STATES: Hort Masterclass Information Session 23 May
  • ALL STATES: National Fruit Fly Council Webinar Series 24 May and 31 May
  • TAS: Fruit Growers Tasmania Annual Conference 26-27 May
  • QLD: Berry Industry Prep ‘n’ Party Granite Belt region 23 June
  • QLD: Agworkforce Summit 3-5 August

LABOUR NEWS:

  • PALM Scheme changes now complete
  • Changes to Hort Award Piecework rules came into force on 28 April –  make sure you access all the right resources from FWO

EXPORT NEWS:

  • Online Export Training Scheme is available shortly: Export fundamentals for Australian Fruit Growers: From Farmgate to International Markets

INDUSTRY NEWS:

  • NEWS QUICKBITES
    • Australian Retirement Trust is the Super fund formed through the completed merger of Sunsuper and QSuper
    • WA Quarantine Weekend/Public Holiday Fees
    • ACCC Flags increased focus on Horticulture Code enforcement
    • Horticulture industry unites to firm up sustainability approach
    • NBN transformative changes to bush broadband
    • Update on HARPS Version 2.0
    • National Plant Biosecurity Strategy released by Plant Health Australia
  • Reminder for WA Strawberry growers selling fruit to SA
  • Blueberry Rust WA Biosecurity Alert
  • Building Business Capacity, Resilience & Drought Preparedness: WA & QLD state programs
  • NFF launches #timetothrive campaign to make sure agriculture is front of mind for prospective governments

EVENTS:

  • ALL STATES: Hort Masterclass Information Sessions – 2 May and 23 May 2022
  • NSW: Clean Coastal Catchments Fertiliser Stewardship Research Update & Farm Walk 12 May 2022
  • QLD: Berry Industry Prep ‘n’ Party Granite Belt region 23 June 2022
  • QLD: Agworkforce Summit 3-5 August 2022
  • VIC-SA-NSW-QLD: Greenhouse Technical Management Training Course – dates from June – September 2022

CHEMICAL NEWS:

  • Latest Ag Chemical Update released
  • Agrichemical Regulatory Risk Assessments for each berry industry update

LABOUR NEWS:

  • Changes to Piecework rules come into force on 28 April – access all the latest resources from FWO
  • QLD: #pickqld update & Workforce accommodation
  • QLD: Share your wins in work health and safety or return to work

EXPORT NEWS:

  • Have your opportunity to provide views on a Free Trade Agreement between Australia and the GCC countries
  • Australia-India Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (AI-ECTA) news

INDUSTRY NEWS:

  • NEWS QUICKBITES:
    • Clean Coastal Catchments Nitrogen Removal Bioreactors Webinar now on Friday 8 April
    • Adelaide Fruit Fly outbreak over
    • Farm Safety Course Library updated by SafeFarm
    • Changes to FWO website mean you need to re-register to access ‘My Account’
    • Three new Hort Innovation funded investments underway for the berry industries
  • Check out the impact of levy-funded projects across 2017-21
  • Events:
    • NSW: New Product Launch (Intervene Fungicide) and DPI Disease Update Information Sessions 22, 23 & 24 March
    • NSW: PCA Conference 28-31 March with FREE Grower Workshops 28 March  & FREE Trade Show-Only passes for grower for 29 or 30 March
    • TAS: Bitwise Agronomy Field Day 23 March 2022
    • TAS: Blueberry Growers Post Season Workshop & Blueberry Rust update 6 April 2022
    • QLD: Future Fields Workshop 21 March 2022 Nambour
  • Flood Assistance now available across Qld and NSW
  • New AgVet legislation commenced on 7 March 2022
  • New Green Snail baiting requirements for Strawberries

LABOUR NEWS:

  • FWO releases new information to assist with new piece-rate requirements
  • FWO Coronavirus and Workplace laws – new look information hub
  • WA: Implementing covid-safe settings in a workplace
  • WA: Access to interstate workers
  • SA: Isolation requirements reduced from 10 to 7 days

EXPORT NEWS:

  • Join Hort Innovation for an International Trade Industry Forum online on Tuesday 22 March

INDUSTRY NEWS:

  • NEWS QUICKBITES:
    • Clean Coastal Catchments March events postponed due to COVID-19 concerns
    • AgMove program extended to 30 June 2022
    • Check out the Berry Industries Strategic Investment Plan for 2022-26
    • Are you an aspiring female leader in the Ag space? Check out the FMC LEAD Scholarship program
    • Coles Nurture Fund Round 10 applications close Friday 25 February
    • Churchill Fellowship Applications open now
    • NFFC Phase 4 project to coordinates fruit fly management from 2021-26
    • Hort Innovation industry Annual Investment Plans are available to view now
    • Feedback requested for Hort Innovation Draft Regional Extension plans
    • Find out about the NFF AgCAREERSTART program and how your farm business can get involved
  • 2020/21 Horticulture Statistics Handbook is now available
  • QLD EVENT: Berry “Prep N Party” Tuesday 22 February
  • New CEO for Hort Innovation announced – please welcome Brett Fifield
  • Horticultural Netting Program Update

LABOUR NEWS:

  • FWO Coronavirus and Workplace laws – new look information hub
  • STP Phase 2 – start reporting now to be in compliance for Q1 2022
  • New Horticulture skills & training program – the ‘Green card’
  • Freshcare certified businesses have access to FREE Employee Assistance Program via Benestar
  • QLD: No quarantine required for PLS/SWP workers
  • SA: Changes to symptomatic close contact testing requirement
  • SA: Access to properties as an isolating Primary Producer
  • WA: Access to interstate Workers from 6 February

EXPORT NEWS:

  • Consultations underway for Rubus growers interested in export
  • New Trade Data dashboards added in the Export Hub – now features Market profiles, Competitor Profiles and Global supply and average price data by month
  • Join Hort Innovation for an International Trade Industry Forum online on Tuesday 22 March

INDUSTRY NEWS:

  • NEWS QUICKBITES:
    • Welcome to Stuart Burgess – New NFFC Manager
    • Scientists imagine a future where consumers always like fruit
    • Federally funded Horticulture Netting Trial Program to be extended
    • SA: Berri, Cooltong, Monash declared QFly Free, Renmark and Pike River remain restricted
    • VIC: Recovery funds now available for farmers affected by the Victorian Floods and Storms in June 2021
    • QLD: QFF welcomes action on illegal dumping
    • QLD: Flood disaster recovery support available now
    • WA: Update on plastics ban
  • RAT Wholesale orders – stock available for bulk purchase now
  • ONLINE EVENT: Rubus Levy Amendment Information & Consultation Session Monday 17 January
  • QLD EVENT: Berry “Prep N Party” Tuesday 22 February
  • WA EVENT: Tour of Southern Growing Regions 1-3 February
  • WA: North Wanneroo water use efficiency grants open now – limited funds available
  • Business Continuity Planning – get your plans in place using the tools available

EXPORT NEWS:

  • TAS: Export Workshops – All sessions have been cancelled due to the COVID-19 situation
  • Berries Australia secures $239,000 Agricultural Trade and Market Access Cooperation (ATMAC) grant to expand berry export opportunities for the industry

CHEMICAL NEWS:

  • Permit Amendment: PER12219 Version 5 Dichlobenil (Blueberries)
  • Study completed to investigate Fruit Fly specific agrichemical issues
  • Latest Hort Innovation Ag Chem Update

LABOUR NEWS:

  • Unpaid Pandemic Leave entitlements extended in the Horticulture Award
  • Special COVID-19 Exemptions for ‘close contact’ Essential Workers
    • New South Wales
    • Queensland
    • South Australia
    • Victoria
    • Tasmania

2021

INDUSTRY NEWS:

  • NEWS QUICKBITES:
    • $35 million added to the Horticulture Netting Program
    • Fresh Produce Safety Centre ANZ announces new board members including Miffy Gilbert
    • Hort Innovation releases protected cropping strategy
  • TAS: Raspberry & Blackberry Levy Information & Consultation Session – Monday 17 January 2022 – Country Club Tasmania
  • TAS: Export Workshops 19 January 2022
  • TAS: Bitwise Field Day – postponed until early 2022
  • FSANZ announces second call for public submissions on Food Safety Management of Berries
  • WA: North Wanneroo water use efficiency grants open now – limited funds available

EXPORT NEWS:

  • Global Trade data for Blueberry, Strawberry & Rubus is now available in the Export Hub
  • TAS: Export Workshops 19 January 2022

CHEMICAL NEWS:

  • New Agvet chemical legislation passed
  • Label cancellation: Fyfanon 440 EW Insecticide

LABOUR NEWS:

  • QLD: Agribusiness continuity planning – lots of tools available now
  • QLD: Managing COVID-19 cases in the workplace from 1 January 2022
  • VIC: Phase D of the National Plan commenced on Thursday 18 November

COVID-19:

  • TAS: Border opens to fully vaccinated travellers 15 December 2021
  • WA: Border to open from 5 February 2022
  • QLD: Border opened to fully vaccinated travellers from 13 December 2021

COVID-19:

  • National Vaccination Dashboard shows we are at 82.2% of all eligible persons having received a first dose
  • Check out the new COVID-19 Vaccination page

INDUSTRY NEWS:

  • NEWS QUICKBITES:
    • Hort Innovation Fund News
    • Hort Innovation AGM 26 November 2021
    • Hort Connections Earlybird Registration now open
    • PCA Conference Earlybird Registration extended to 21 January 2022
    • PhD Scholarship in Horticulture now available from Edith Cowan University
  • SAI AGM – 14 December 2021 – Online
  • CSIRO: SME & CyberSecurity Workshop 2 December 2021
  • Irrigation Updates
    • WA: $600k in grants available for North Wanneroo district to improve water use efficiency
    • QLD: Horticulture Irrigation Pricing Rebate Scheme
  • New Industry websites:
    • DAWE – moves 3 sites to awe.gov.au
    • Fair Work Ombudsman updated site
  • Plan Bee Pollination Survey – Have your say – please complete this short survey

LABOUR NEWS:

  • Piece Rates determination from the Fair Work Commission
  • New Ag Visa press release from DAWE Minister Littleproud
  • VIC: Phase D of the National Plan commenced on Thursday 18 November
  • PALM is the new streamlined approach to SWP/PLS – find out more

COVID-19:

  • National Vaccination Dashboard shows we are at 82.2% of all eligible persons having received a first dose
  • Help your workers get vaccinated
  • What to do if an employee refuses to get vaccinated
  • Stay informed about the latest COVID-19 requirements in your region

INDUSTRY NEWS:

  • NEWS QUICKBITES:
    • FREE Farm Safety 2022 Calenders are available now
    • NSW 20 year Water Strategy launched
    • Get ready to celebrate National Ag Day on 19 November
    • Agriculture Victoria is offering grants from $25,000 up to $100,000 to eligible small-scale and craft agribusinesses
    • Fresh Produce Safety Centre invites industry to complete its Rapid Diagnostic Methods in the Fresh Produce Industry Survey
  • Welcome new Berry IDO: Mark Salter
  • AGM’s Online again this year
  • WA: Strawberry Growers Association of WA AGM & Field Day 22 October 2021 – register now
  • NSW: Reopening Roadmap now in effect
  • Minor Use Permits Update – Correction to Miravis Prime
  • ACCC: Independent Reviewers Direct Grocery Suppliers Survey – don’t miss this chance to provide your candid feedback
  • WLA offers Scholarships for the Farming & Agriculture Sector for Women
  • Update on HARPS 2.0
  • Infopest: 2 FREE subscriptions up for grabs – don’t miss out!
  • Masterclass in Horticultural Business Information Sessions
  • China blueberry operations earns Impact Award
  • Mental Health Week – make your mental health your priority

LABOUR NEWS:

  • Reminder: Deadline now passed for casual worker conversion assessments – what next?
  • PALM is the new streamlined approach to SWP/PLS – find out more
  • Vic: Compulsory COVID-19 vaccinations for all workers who cannot work from home
  • Vic: Workforce Planning & Labour
  • Qld: New mandatory requirements for horticulture
  • Qld: Project to grow Southern Qld’s agriculture workforce
  • Vic: 32 more Labour Hire licence applications refused

INDUSTRY NEWS:

  • NEWS QUICKBITES:
    • John Hopkins Medicine researchers make Parkinson’s Disease breakthrough with a compound found in berries
    • Berries Post-Harvest Masterclass online in October & November
    • New M.O.A. fungicide gets Australian registration
    • Are you a farmer looking for a wife? Casting is open now for the next season of ‘Farmer wants a Wife’
    • 2022 Science & Innovation Awards are now open for applications
  • AGM’s Online again this year
  • Berry industry pulling together in new North Coast working group
  • Have the chance to win one of two FREE 1 year subscriptions to Infopest
  • Grant & Scholarship opportunities now open for women in horticulture – applications close 8 October
  • Smart Farming Online Conference 1 October – Sensors, drones and satellites
  • National Protected Cropping map tool being compiled – farmers urged to contribute information about their protected cropping assets
  • Hort Frontiers funds re-aligned to meet Sustainability Framework
  • QLD: Weathering the ups & downs of Ag
  • Tas: Irrigation Field Days with Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture
  • Tas: Primary Producers have access to a Safety Rebate Scheme
  • WA: Provide Perth NRM with your ideas about what is making it difficult for your food business to operate

LABOUR NEWS:

  • A new era for Pacific Australia labour mobility as the first stage of reforms to the PLS/SWP are announced – PALM Scheme
  • Border Watch: Use this to report absconding workers
  • WA: Changes to employment conditions – a reminder to all
  • Tas: Seasonal worker agreement with Victoria extended

COVID-19:

  • At the time of publication, case numbers are continuing at a high level in NSW, and restrictions on movement are continuing in Victoria and ACT – get the latest information directly from our COVID-19 HUB.

EXPORT NEWS:

  • Join the Berries Australia Export Group and get access to the new Export Hub
  • IFAM has been extended until June 2022
  • WA Strawberry grower adapting to new trade scenario

INDUSTRY NEWS:

  • NEWS QUICKBITES:
    • Qld Strawberry growers’ plea as lockdowns cause price of punnets to plummet
    • American Serpentine Leafminer has been detected in the Torres Strait
    • Farmers are urged to complete the Agricultural Census
    • Learn how to pilot a drone, Frozen berries suspected in Swiss Norovirus outbreak
    • FPSC produces a new factsheet about creating a food safety culture
    • Compostable packaging may outperform plastic for fresh produce shelf-life
    • Watch the Robotics for the Berry Industry Webinar anytime on our YouTube channel
    • Find out about the South Australian Mulberry farmer who has created a new farming model to allow machine harvesting
    • Learn more about the latest research from Agriculture Victoria scientists who have created a new method to identify pests in traps that is more time-efficient and less destructive
  • Hort Innovation releases the Australia-grown Horticulture Sustainability Framework
  • The consultation closes on 27 August for the proposed changes to AgVet legislation
  • Biosecurity Queensland launches the new Farm Check-in tool to complement the other resources designed to improve on-farm biosecurity
  • Tasmanian Government announces pollination small grants program to support the local honey bee industry

EVENTS:

  • National Webinar: DIY Research on-farm trials & the R&DTI providing targeted tax offsets
  • WA: Cold Chain Optimisation Project Pilot – 25 August 2021
  • TAS: Blueberry Rust Information Workshop – 25 August 2021
  • Online Only: XII International Vaccinium Virtual Symposium – 30 August – 1 September 2021
  • National Webinar Predictive Modelling and Forecasting of Fruit Flies in Australia – 6 September 2021
  • Vic: Blueberry Rust Information Webinar – 8 September 2021

LABOUR NEWS:

  • NSW: Stay-at-home orders in place across the state
  • Qld: Growing the Agriculture Workforce – regional industry consultation
  • Qld: SWP / PLS update
  • Qld: Protecting agribusinesses against COVID-19
  • WA: Updated Flight Schedule for Seasonal Workers

COVID-19:

  • At the time of publication, case numbers are growing rapidly in NSW, and restrictions on movement are changing almost daily in Victoria and ACT – get the latest information directly from our COVID-19 HUB.

EXPORT NEWS:

  • Join the new Berries Australia Export Group and get access to the new Export Hub
  • IFAM Briefing sessions for the Hort Industry 30 August
  • Toowoomba Export Hub is open for business
  • Changes to Export Market Development Grant (EMDG) provides funding certainty for SMEs for export marketing

INDUSTRY NEWS:

  • Quickbites: Pay & Super changes now in effect, FWO priorities for 2021-22 retain horticulture as a focus area, Protected Cropping postgraduate courses available, Agvet legislation changes open for consultation and Tasmanian berry growers racking up awards.
  • Welcome Wendy Thorsborne to the Hort Innovation extension team
  • Agrifutures Plan Bee seeks input from Blueberry growers and beekeepers
  • WA: Fresh produce cold-chain improvement project seeking participants
  • WA: Expression of Interest open for Building Horticulture Business Capacity Program
  • Qld: Major drought reform for Queensland producers
  • 2019-20 Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Grants submissions open 22 July 2021
  • Drought Resilience Mentoring Program opens late July 2021
  • New research now open for participation detecting disease and plant pest outbreaks early
  • New permit for Rubus: Sulfoxaflor (Transform)

EVENTS:

  • TAS: Blueberry Rust Information Workshop – 25 August 2021
  • Online Only: XII International Vaccinium Virtual Symposium – 30 Aug – 1 Sep 2021

LABOUR NEWS:

  • Qld: Growing the Agriculture Workforce – regional industry consultation
  • Qld: New #pickqld bonus to attract workers
  • Vic: Support continues for seasonal harvest workforce
  • WA: Opportunity to access SWP/PLS dedicated workforce
  • SWP: Safe Driving Posters in participating countries’ languages

COVID-19:

  • At the time of publication, case numbers are growing in three states and restrictions on movement are changing almost daily – get the latest information directly from our COVID-19 HUB.

EXPORT NEWS:

  • Join the new Berries Australia Export Group and get access to the new Export Hub
  • IFAM Briefing sessions for the Hort Industry 26 and 30 August
  • 2021-22 Horticulture Exports Cost Recovery Implementation Statement (CRIS)
  • Market Access improvement for strawberries to New Zealand

INDUSTRY NEWS:

  • Director positions available at Hort Innovation and Plant Health Australia
  • Superannuation changes to 10% on 1 July
  • NSW: Beehives deliberately doused in fuel killing thousands of bees
  • QLD: Emergency On-Farm Water Infrastructure rebate is back
  • Events: Qld Berry Industry Fair 8 July, NSW Managing hydroponic crop water in substrate systems 16 July
  • NSW: State of the art facility supports advanced nutrition research in Blueberries
  • Rubus: New permit issued

LABOUR NEWS:

  • Public consultation process open to examine future arrangements for the Seasonal Worker Program (SWP) and the Pacific Labour Scheme (PLS)
  • Did you know that if you employ Pacific Islander workers that you must provide induction and training in their language?
  • Fatal dismount from moving tractor leads to $150,000 fine
  • SafeFarm free induction training still available until 30 June – make the most of inducting your new workers before the free period ends

COVID-19:

  • At the time of publication, borders are mostly open – get the latest information directly from our COVID-19 HUB.

EXPORT NEWS:

  • AFPA publish their response to the Agricultural Cost Recovery changes for Exporters
  • IFAM Briefing – 23 June 11.30 – 12.00pm register to join in

INDUSTRY NEWS:

  • 2021 Federal Budget update – what’s in it for Agriculture?
  • Draft Strategic Investment Plan – now a combined plan for all of the berry industries – needs your review and feedback now
  • National Fruit Fly symposium calls for national strategy commitment
  • WA: Green Snail baiting update
  • WA: Officially Qfly FREE
  • Qld: Last chance to register your unwanted AgVet chemicals for collection
  • Tas: Agriculture Minister confirmed

LABOUR NEWS:

  • Federal Relocation Incentive Scheme relaunched as AgMove
  • Piece Rate Visual Agreement tool from the Fair Work Ombudsman
  • WA: New Labour Scheme Facilitator & update on SWP from Melissa Denning
  • Qld: Schemes from the state government to incentivise workers, Check In Qld App free for all businesses to use, SafeFarm FREE induction training extended until 30 June 2021
  • Vic: Key seasonal workforce initiatives

COVID-19:

  • At the time of publication, borders are mostly open – get the latest information directly from our COVID-19 HUB.
  • Victorian Update

EXPORT NEWS:

  • DAWE Consultation sessions – register now
  • Austrade ASEAN Market Briefing – webinar & slides available
  • Agri-Business Expansion Initiative explained
  • IFAM Briefing – 23 June 11.30 – 12.00pm register to join in

CHEMICAL NEWS:

  • New Rubus permit issued for Afidopyropen
  • Growcom unveils new look Infopest agvet chemical database service
  • Qld ChemClear collection – register before 13 June
  • APVMA issue recall notice on Genfarm Panzer 540 herbicide
  • Read the latest Ag Chemical Update

EVENTS:

  • NSW: Berry Plant Protection Fair – Bucca, 28 April 11-4pm
  • NSW: Soil Biology Workshop – Wollongbar, 19 May 10-12pm
  • QLD: Reef Water Quality Program Information Sessions – Online  & in person from 18 May
  • WA: Transitioning to substrate Workshop (strawberries) – Bullsbrook, w/c 24 May 2021

LABOUR NEWS:

  • Important survey on the use of Piece Rates – PLEASE PARTICIPATE
  • Week of action in Bundaberg region to support seasonal workers – report from Border Force
  • FWO updates Horticulture Showcase
  • QLD: Support payments, Back to Work Incentive scheme, Check In Qld App & #pickqld
  • VIC: Seasonal worker incentives, subsidised quarantine & seasonal sign-on bonus
  • Federal Relocation Incentives – for taking up horticulture work

COVID-19:

  • At the time of publication, borders are mostly open – get the latest information directly from our COVID-19 HUB.

HORT INNOVATION NEWS:

  • Meet the Regional Extension Team
  • New plant biosecurity community established

DISASTER ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FOR ALL FLOOD AFFECTED FARMS IN NSW

  • Find out what you need to do and what you are eligible for

EXPORT NEWS:

  • The Australian Government has announced the extension of IFAM to the end of September 2021
  • New plant export legislation starts at 3am on 28 March 2021
  • Austrade announces new services to help business grow overseas

EVENTS:

  • NSW: Berry Plant Protection Fair – Bucca, 28 April 11-4pm
  • Online: Global Berry Conference – Morocco, 7-8 April
  • Online: Strawberry Symposium – Italy, 1-5 May
  • Online: Climate Research Strategy for Primary Industry Forum – Australia, 29-30 March

INDUSTRY NEWS:

  • Permit extension issued for Trichlorfon in berries
  • ChemClear are collecting unwanted AgVet chemicals across Queensland in July & August
  • Quad Bikes and Side-by-Sides are the largest cause of injury on farms – how can you be safe on these vehicles

LABOUR NEWS:

  • National Roadmap to guide Ag Workforce vision has been released by the government
  • Jobseeker changes
  • Jobkeeper comes to an end on 28 March
  • National Farmers Federation implores workers to report underpayment
  • Victorian seasonal worker incentives
  • Relocation assistance for taking up horticulture work

COVID-19:

  • At the time of publication, borders are mostly open – get the latest information directly from our COVID-19 HUB.

BIOSECURITY NEWS:

  • QFly eradicated from Dalkeith
  • New QFly incident in Coolbellup brings new fruit management requirements at Perth Markets
  • National Fruit Fly Symposium, 4-6 May – save the date
  • New Fall Armyworm project announced by Hort Innovation

INDUSTRY NEWS:

  • If you’re looking for grant or loan funding opportunities, visit this aggregated information database – AgFunding Database – online at Farm Table
  • The Lost Crop Register now recording losses topping $48m – make sure you record any monetary losses you experience due to labour shortages
  • All WA Berry Growers are invited to an industry meeting on 5 March – live Vietnamese translation will be available (Cuộc họp người trồng WA Berry với bản dịch tiếng Việt)
  • Qld: ChemClear are coming in June – register your unwanted Agvet chemicals now
  • Qld: QFF partners with Airbnb to grow Qld Agritourism
  • NSW: NRAR returns to Coffs Harbour with continued focus on compliance
  • NSW: Webinar about growing blueberries in substrate with a focus on nutrition requirements on 12 March
  • NSW/Vic: Farmers encouraged to join funded trials to improve phone coverage in rural areas
  • WA: Green Snail baiting & inspection time is here

LABOUR NEWS:

  • COVID-19 vaccination and the workplace – guidance from FWO and Safe Work Australia
  • Victoria announces a series of new initiatives including the Seasonal Harvest Sign-On bonus
  • Agribusiness exemption for Qld & NSW extended until 31 March 2021
  • Qld: Free industry training on offer for Farm employers to induct new workers
  • WA: Recruitment options factsheet available

COVID-19:

  • At the time of publication, borders are mostly open – get the latest information directly from our COVID-19 HUB.

BIOSECURITY NEWS:

  • QFF Outbreak in the Riverland, SA
  • Khapra beetle – lets keep it out
  • National Fruit Fly Symposium online 4-6 May 2021
  • Tougher new biosecurity penalties announced by the Australian Government
  • DAWR still wants to hear from you about the sterile insect technique policy

INDUSTRY NEWS:

  • FAO declares 2021 International Year of Fruits & Vegetables
  • The Lost Crop Register has captured over $41m in losses from horticulture producers in the last month.  Have you logged your losses?
  • The administrators of HARPS have released a revision of the HARPS Standard Version 2.0 for public consultation and grower feedback.
  • FSANZ need your input to understand the primary production and processing of berries, leafy vegetables and melons food safety culture, and impacts of COVID-19
  • Masterclass in Horticultural Business starting soon – scholarships available for members of the berry industries
  • NSW Consultations now open:
    • Land Use Planning Strategy
    • Coastal Harvestable Rights Review

LABOUR NEWS:

  • Useful COVID-19 training and induction video available from Safe Farming Tasmania
  • Agribusiness exemption for Qld & NSW extended until 31 March 2021
  • FarmReady Hub has a range of resources and helps to prepare workers for jobs in ag

COVID-19:

  • At the time of publication, the situation in NSW is still evolving – get the latest information directly from our COVID-19 HUB.

BIOSECURITY NEWS:

  • Approval given to research a biopesticide that can target the FAW caterpillar stage
  • New Biosecurity Plan for the Berry sector
  • Queensland Fruit Fly outbreak in WA

2020

UPCOMING EVENTS:

  • Berry NextGen Supply Chain Field Trip – 18 February – SEQ
  • Moving from Soil to Substrate – 19 February – Woolgoolga NSW

FEATURES:

  • 2020 International Year of Plant Health
  • GROWER SURVEY: Improving supply chains for horticulture products
  • Coffs Harbour area berry growers invited to Fertiliser Stewardship Group Workshop 20 February
  • Strategic Agrochemical Review Process starts for all berry crops – we need your input

CLIMATE, DROUGHT & BUSHFIRE INFORMATION:

  • Check out the latest BoM Climate outlook issued 16 Jan 2020
  • Resources to assist with managing scarce water supplies
  • Assistance for Primary Producers affected by bushfires
  • NSW Special Disaster Grants of up to $75,000
  • A message of support from Hort Innovation

AND IN OTHER NEWS:

  • Labour News updates
  • 12th International ISHS Vaccinium Symposium – Canada August 28 – September 3, 2020
  • Strawberry News
  • All Berries News
  • Blueberry News

UPCOMING EVENTS:

  • Berry Industry Information Day – 10 March – Launceston, TAS
  • Bee Pollination Expo 2020 – Tuesday 10 March – Woolgoolga, NSW
  • Running Brilliant Meetings – 19 March – Launceston, TAS

FEATURES:

  • Leadership Programme available for a Rubus Grower – do you have the desire to grow your skills?
  • BIOSECURITY ALERT: Fall Armyworm makes its way to Australia’s mainland
  • Alternative pollinators for the industry after bee populations seriously damaged by fires
  • Woolworths Organic Growth Fund invests heavily in Australian farms with more on offer
  • Kaufland stops expansion in Australia
  • Queensland – draft requirements for new or expanded cropping and horticulture activities in the Great Barrier Reef catchment under the Reef protection regulations – time to have your say

PEST, DISEASE & CHEMICAL ACCESS UPDATE:

  • Methidathion (Suprathion 400 EC Insecticide) – registration cancelled
  • Read the latest Ag Chemical Update
  • Your industry needs your input – please complete the SARP survey today – deadline extended to Friday 13 March

AND IN OTHER NEWS:

Labour News

Packaging News

Export News

  • Berries Australia joins forces with other Horticulture bodies to make joint submission to the Department of Agriculture’s consultation on the Cost Recovery Implementation Statement Plant Exports Certification 2019-2020
  • Export Control Bills Package 2019 – Passed by Parliament

BIOSECURITY NEWS

  • Fall Armyworm reaches Carnarvon and Bundaberg
  • QFly outbreak in Perth
  • cesar launch PestCase series of videos

EXPORT MARKET UPDATES:

  • WA Government Supported Air Freight into Singapore up to 23 May 2020
  • International Freight Assistance Mechanism (IFAM) proposals
  • China grants access for US blueberries
  • Asia Market Update Series Online Seminar: China

BERRY INDUSTRY NEWS 

COVID-19 State Updates

HORT INNOVATION NEWS

  • Join Hort Innovation for an exclusive Brain Dates webinar on the consumer market environment for horticulture growers during COVID-19

ATO Scam Alert: 
Please warn your employees about a scam targeting the JobKeeper payment

AgVet Chemical News:

  • the Adverse Experience Reporting Program
  • the Recall process for AgVet products
  • Agvet Chemicals Regulatory Reform – your feedback is requested
  • COVID-19 pesticide training exemption for NSW

In Labour News:

  • Fair Farms now backed by all three major retailers
  • Fair Work Ombudsman’ Hort Showcase available in 36 languages
  • Labour Hire – Queensland – make sure your agency is correctly licenced
  • Labour Hire – Victoria – new information campaign for labour-hire workers and an enforcement exemption for all applications submitted prior to midnight on 30 June 2020
  • FWO has a dedicated COVID-19 website to help employers understand their responsibilities
  • Temporary changes to the Fair Work Act
  • Workplace Legal Advice Program pilot
  • National Agricultural Workforce Strategy consultation extended to 3rd August

From Hort Innovation:

  • Catch the latest Insight Webinar focused on the impact of COVID-19 on produce in the Foodservice sector
  • Check out the new International Trade Hub
  • Applications are open and supported for a number of scholarship’s for Berry growers to complete the Masterclass in Horticultural Business
  • And we’re all in the mood for some good news – watch the latest TV advert in the new The Good Mood Food initiative from Hort Innovation

A round-up of industry news:

  • Strawberry Industry News
    • DAF Market Trends working group outputs
  • Blueberry Industry News
    • Tumbarumba Blueberry Farm FOR SALE
    • Latest Blueberry Marketing Program
  • Rubus Industry News

Important News for all NSW growers – Be informed about NRAR Water Rules

  • NRAR’s compliance checks and action will get water users a level playing field
  • Wednesday 24th June – webinar on learning how to comply with NSW water laws

COVID-19:

  • The COVID-19 hub on our website is continually being updated and expanded to provide an access point for all growers across the country to get the latest information

WEBINAR EVENTS:

  • The NSW Marine Estate Clean Coastal Catchments project is inviting you to the next Fertiliser Stewardship Group’s webinar on Friday 17 July at 10.30am
  • The latest Blueberry Rust Workshop is also taking place this Friday – register now to attend
  • For WA growers, there are two online workshops coming soon

IN OTHER NEWS:

  • New Quad bike safety standard fact sheet from the ACCC
  • Now is the time to become a change maker: Nuffield applications are now open for 2021
  • The state of plant biosecurity in Australia
  • Masterclass in Horticultural Business offering online study options

LABOUR NEWS:

  • Using Labour Hire – a useful video from the FWO Horticulture Showcase
  • Increase to the minimum wage announced
  • Penalty charged for the underpayment of Mushroom workers
  • FWO extends unpaid pandemic leave and annual leave at half pay
  • The Victorian Ag Workforce Plan unveiled

HORT INNOVATION NEWS:

  • Trade assessment panels
  • My Market Kitchen
  • Women in horticulture scholarships
  • Category & Consumer Impact Monitor
  • Hort Innovation signs a new agreement with the Government

COVID-19:

The COVID-19 hub on our website is continually being updated and expanded to provide an access point for all growers across the country to get the latest information

AGM EVENTS:

  • ABGA will be holding their AGM online 14/10/20 from 2pm
  • SAI will be holding their AGM online on 15/10/20 from 10am
  • RABA will be holding their AGM on 15/10/20 from 2pm
  • Please REGISTER to attend these events – Zoom meeting details will be provided to all registrants.

IN OTHER NEWS:

  • Export Advices have been issued
  • Women who work in the Horticulture sector are invited to apply for funding grants to support their participation in a leadership development program
  • Another Permit has been issued to tackle Fall Armyworm in Berries
  • An update from the Permits to Label project sees a series of Minor Use Permits surrendered
  • Two Strawberry permits renewed

LABOUR NEWS:

  • Backpacker tax ruled not discrimatory
  • WA Labour webinar available to view on YouTube
  • Qld Farms Health Management Plans explained on Podcast
  • Qld Workplace Essentials workshops & webinars back on
  • Qld Granite Belt audits about to occur
  • NSW-Vic Border region permits now available for seasonal workers

HORT INNOVATION NEWS:

  • Secure your voting rights now
  • Hort Innovation to establish a Levy Payer Register
  • Get a Good Mood Food update
  • Plant Biosecurity funding has been renewed

LABOUR NEWS:

  • Tips for using Labour-hire in Queensland
  • NSW launches HelpHarvest web portal
  • Fair Work Ombudsman update on compliance activities
  • Queensland launches #pickqld campaign
  • State governments invest heavily to attract Aussie workers to horticulture jobs during COVID-19 pandemic
  • Sage advice on managing workers – especially young backpackers

COVID-19:

  • The COVID-19 hub on our website is continually being updated and expanded to provide an access point for all growers across the country to get the latest information

PEST & DISEASE MANAGEMENT:

  • What is the notification process following detection of fruit fly larvae in produce sold interstate?
  • Corteva to launch new organic insecticide to the Australian market\
  • APVMA extends another permit for use on Blueberries and Rubus
  • Glyphosate safety remains unchanged – letter from CropLife CEO Matthew Cossey
  • APVMA launches its Stakeholder Engagement Framework
  • Sterile fruit flies contribute to a reduction in Queensland fruit fly population in two test areas
  • WARNING: Unsolicited seed packages arriving by post

OPTIONS FOR UPSKILLING & BUSINESS TRANSFORMATION:

  • Women in Horticulture Scholarships still available – deadline extended to 9th October
  • Interested in Protected Cropping? Graduate courses now open for enrolment
  • Smart Farms Small Grants Round 4 is now open for submissions until 9th October
  • Thought about PYO but not sure if it is a good idea – let these growers tell you more

HORT INNOVATION NEWS:

  • Extraordinary General Meeting called for 9th October
  • Don’t forget to Secure your voting rights now for this years’ AGM
  • Get the facts on pollination: Manual now available for the Blueberry industry

AGM EVENTS:

  • ABGA will be holding their AGM online 14/10/20 from 2pm
  • SAI will be holding their AGM online on 15/10/20 from 10am
  • RABA will be holding their AGM on 15/10/20 from 2pm
Don’t forget to REGISTER to attend these events – Zoom meeting details will be provided to all registrants.

LABOUR NEWS:

  • Annual Wage Review: 1 November increase includes the Horticulture Award
  • Relocation subsidy to take up a new job
  • State Updates: WA, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, NSW, Queensland

COVID-19:

The COVID-19 hub on our website is continually being updated and expanded to provide an access point for all growers across the country to get the latest information

INDUSTRY NEWS:

  • AGMs bring new committee members
  • Women in Technology Awards – Jodi Neale is recognised for her work on the Australian Strawberry Breeding Program
  • ACCC announces changes to the Food & Grocery Code
  • Queensland Reef Credit Scheme officially launched
  • Export PEMS system now available on your mobile phone
  • AgTech Strategic Plan triggers $2.4 million investment
  • IFAM extended until mid 2021

PEST & DISEASE MANAGEMENT:

  • Fall Armyworm reaches NSW
  • Get on top of Fruit Fly early
  • APVMA launches new Spray Drift guidance documents

HORT INNOVATION NEWS:

  • Qld innovative Berry company awarded Churchill Fellowship
  • Extraordinary General Meeting outcomes
  • International Market Access Assessment Panel meets again on 25th November
  • Annual reports now available for 2019/20 – download them here
  • Masterclass in Horticultural Business open for 2021

CELEBRATE NATIONAL AGRICULTURE DAY:

  •  #AgDayAU – Share the love on Social Media on Friday 20 November

LABOUR NEWS:

  • Horticulture Award 2020 now fully in force – make sure you’re using the rates
  • TAS restarts SWP with Tassie Government covering quarantine cost

COVID-19:

  • The COVID-19 hub on our website is continually being updated and expanded to provide an access point for all growers across the country to get the latest information – check the latest Border Restrictions and keep up with what you need to manage workers in your state.

INDUSTRY EVENTS:

  • NSW Fertiliser Stewardship Group Webinar 20 November 10:30 AEDT – learn about common chemical, physical and biological soil constraints that can affect crop production.
  • Rubus SARP industry consultation workshop open to all Rubus growers 26 November 10:00 AEDT
  • Bugs you really don’t want – Five key pests are discussed focusing on what to look for and how to manage them 24 November 17:00 AEDT (16:00 Qld Time)

INDUSTRY NEWS:

  • Help the Fight Food Waste CRC to improve the competitiveness, productivity and sustainability of the Australian food industry by completing this 15-minute research survey.
  • A handy summary has been produced which outlines the different funding schemes, loans, grant & subsidies that are currently available to support primary producers in Queensland
  • A blueprint for national cooperation on fruit fly has been released covering 2020-2025
  • Western Australia commits $25m to Healthy Estuaries WA focusing on improving the health of 7 key estuary systems
  • Small-to-medium sized enterprises in WA – including primary producers – can now apply for vouchers to the value of $10,000 to engage experts to help them to grow their business.

HORT INNOVATION NEWS:

  • The strategic investment planning process gets an overhaul, based on feedback from growers
  • An update on the progress of the Levy Payer Register proposed by Hort Innovation
  • Don’t forget that the AGM for Hort Innovation is coming up on Friday 27 November at 12pm AEDT

LOST CROP REGISTER:

  • The NFF Hort Council in conjunction with Growcom, have launched a Lost Crop Register to capture information from horticulture about the impact of labour shortfalls.

NSW DISASTER ASSISTANCE:

  • Disaster assistance has been made available for a number of local government areas in Northern New South Wales through jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

LABOUR NEWS:

  • The Seasonal work (SWP/PLS) trial program has been extended in Queensland until 4 March 2021
  • Big Victorian Harvest program launched by Agriculture Victoria
  • South Australia’s government announces $4.45m boost to create a multi-pronged approach to fill vacancies
  • In a cheeky trans-Tasman move, Tourism Australia launches a campaign to attract Kiwis to work in Australia
  • NSW Government launches a $15m initiative for upskilling Agriculture
  • AFPA releases its plan for Australia’s Hort Harvest workforce
  • In Qld, the FarmReady Hub is launched to help address skills and labour shortages
  • Thankful4Farmers launches Go and Pick campaign to attract school leavers to rural jobs

COVID-19:

  • At the time of publication, the situation in NSW is still evolving – get the latest information directly from our COVID-19 HUB.

BIOSECURITY NEWS:

  • Serpentine Leafminer has been detected in Queensland – find out more about this significant pest and how to identify it
  • Be a biosecurity warrior – a new campaign launched by the departments of agriculture and primary industries across Australia

ACCC NEWS:

  • The ACCC’s Perishable Agricultural Goods Inquiry Report recommends the introduction of an unfair trading practices prohibition

HORT INNOVATION NEWS:

  • A further FAQ about the Levy Payer Register proposed by Hort Innovation
  • Check out the new Directors, Chair, and Deputy Chair elected at the AGM for Hort Innovation

2019

  • Welcome to the new industry development & communication project from Berries Australia
  • Australian Pollinator Week – 10-17 November – Get involved in your community
  • Documentary film made by Driscoll’s – The Last Harvest
  • Bureau of Meteorology launches Climate Guides by region
  • LABOUR NEWS – FWO Updates, Qld Govt prosecutions under Labour Hire Laws, ABARES Farm Survey Results, NFF Response to ABARES Survey, Backpacker Tax ruled invalid
  • Chemicals needed for farming but so is cooperation
  • NSW Natural Resources Access Regulator (NRAR) Coffs Harbour compliance campaign enters Phase 2
  • Consumer Goods (Quad Bikes) Safety Standard 2019 from 11 October 2019
  • AgriFutures™ Horizon Scholarship applications now open
  • HORT INNOVATION NEWS – AGM 22 November, Annual fund reports now available, Latest Minor Use Permits
  • It’s time to get bush fire ready
  • Report released from the Inquiry into Wage Theft in Western Australia
  • National Landcare Program: Smart Farms Small Grants Round 3 Closes 19 December
  • Property Identification Reform: View the Berries Australia submission to the consultation
  • Future Drought Fund: Have your say
  • LABOUR NEWS – Regional Agriculture Migration Package, Christmas parties & safety, Sun Safety at work, Victorian Labour Hire rules now in force, Qld: Changes to Workers Comp
  • Masterclass in Horticultural Business: Apply now for 2020
  • HORT INNOVATION NEWS – New Board Members New podcast: bust myths and boost business

DROUGHT & WATER EFFICIENCY FOCUS:

  • QFF welcomes additional drought declarations across SEQ
  • Getting help with managing drought – there is a lot of assistance available
  • Latest climate outlook from the BoM issued 12 Dec 2019
  • Assorted tools & resources to help you manage your water more efficiently

IN OTHER NEWS:

  • Are you ready for FRESHCARE 4.1?
  • Be Quad Safe this Summer
  • Masterclass in Horticultural Business: Apply now for 2020
  • Labour News
  • Amended Minor Use Permit: PER87797 FOR CONTROL OF APHIDS IN STRAWBERRIES
  • HORT INNOVATION NEWS – Horticulture Sustainability Framework

And finally – Berry Nog for Christmas thanks to Driscoll’s USA