NEW PLANT PRODUCTS - AgriFutures

RIRDC Completed Projects in 1998-1999 and

Research in Progress as at June 1999

Sub-Program 1.1

NEW PLANT PRODUCTS

September 1999 RIRDC Publication No 99/107

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© 1999 Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation. All rights reserved. ISBN 0 642 57905 9 ISSN 1440-6845 "RIRDC Completed Projects in 1998-99 and Research in Progress as at June 1999 - 1.1 New Plant Products" Publication No 99/107 The views expressed and the conclusions reached in this publication are those of the author and not necessarily those of persons consulted. RIRDC shall not be responsible in any way whatsoever to any person who relies in whole or in part on the contents of this report. This publication is copyright. However, RIRDC encourages wide dissemination of its research, providing the Corporation is clearly acknowledged. For any other enquiries concerning reproduction, contact the Publications Manager on phone 02 6272 3186. RIRDC New Plant Products Research Manager Dr David Evans RIRDC Level 1, AMA House 42 Macquarie Street BARTON ACT 2600 PO Box 4776 KINGSTON ACT 2604 Phone: 02 4454 3039 Fax: 02 4454 5131 Email: [email protected] RIRDC Publications Manager Eva Hickman Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation Level 1, AMA House 42 Macquarie Street BARTON ACT 2600 PO Box 4776 KINGSTON ACT 2604 Phone: 02 6272 3186 Fax: 02 6272 5877 Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.rirdc.gov.au

Published in September 1999 Printed on environmentally friendly paper by Canprint

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Foreword

This year RIRDC has produced Research in Progress, June '99, which contains short summaries of continuing projects as well as those that were completed during 1998-99 for all of the Corporation’s 20 program areas. The complete report on all the programs is only available in electronic format on our website at http://www.rirdc.gov.au The following report is a hardcopy extract covering Sub-Program 1.1. It contains all entries from continuing and completed New Plant Products research projects funded by RIRDC. This program aims to facilitate the development of new industries based on plants or plant products that have commercial potential for Australia. This report is the newest addition to our extensive catalogue of almost 400 research reports, videos and CD-Roms of projects supported by RIRDC. Please contact us for the latest publications catalogue or view it on our website: • downloads at www.rirdc.gov.au/reports/Index.htm • purchases at www.rirdc.gov.au/pub/cat/contents.html

Peter Core Managing Director Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation

http://www.rirdc.gov.au/reports/Index.htm

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Contents

1.1 NEW PLANT PRODUCTS COMPLETED PROJECTS

PROJECT

No PROJECT TITLE RESEARCHER PHONE ORGANISATION PAGE

No ANC-2A New Vegetable Crops from Australia's Sub-Antarctic

Islands Iain Dawson 02 6250 9450 Australian National Botanic

Gardens 1

AQU-1A Bushfood Industry Database scoping study Laslo Nagy 02 6251 3368 Atech Group 2 BUS-1A Marketing the Australian Bushfood (Native Food)

Industry Vic Cherikoff 02 9818 2800 Australian Native Fine Foods Pty

Ltd 3

BWM - 1A Duckweed - a potential high protein source for supplemenation of feeds for domestic animals and fish

John V. Nolan and Robert E. Bell

02 6772 8791 Bio-Tech Waste Management Pty. Ltd.

5

CSL-1A Development of an Australian cashew industry information support system

Noel Grundon 07 4091 8800 CSIRO Tropical Forest Research Centre

6

DAV-103A Value added culinary herbs Anita Chennell and Bruce Tomkins Researchers

03 9210 9222 Institute for Horticultural Development

8

DAW-90A First National New Rural Industries Conference Peter Walmsley 08 9368 3999 Agriculture Western Australia 9 HAS-4A Discovering the Market Potential for Australian

Jojoba Michael Clarke

02 9241 5655 Hassall & Associates

10

LGA-1A Australian Longan Industry Strategic Plan Neil Sing 07 4091 4365 Far North Queensland Longan Growers Assoc

11

PMP-2A Economic market analysis of fibre crops in Australia Stuart de Jong 02 9439 6545 Planning & Managing Projects Pty Ltd

12

POP-1A Australian ginseng program crop establishment project

Tony Sadler 07 3201 1027 Primary Options Pty Ltd 13

SAL-1A Realising the potential of olives Simon Field 03 9380 2531 Salsi Pty. Ltd. 14 USO - 1A A field evaluation of the productivity of hazelnut

varieties Basil Baldwin 02 63 605562 Orange Agricultural College,

University of Sydney 15

1.1 NEW PLANT PRODUCTS RESEARCH IN PROGRESS

PROJECT


No AGP-1A Food safety of Australian plant bushfoods Ron Wills 02 4348 4140 PO Box 77

OURIMBAH NSW 2258 17

AOL-3A Olive Press - Australian Olive Association Magazine John Eagen 02 6833 2086 Mount Harris 18 ASA-1A Condiment paprika breeding, harvesting and

commercialisation Nicholas Derera 02 9639 3072 ASAS Pty Ltd 18

CFO-1A Innovative Products from Indigenous Australian Bushfoods

Michael Forbes-Smith 02 9385 5788 CRC for Food Industry Innovation 19

CPE-1A Nutritional requirements of coffee trees in northern New South Wales

John Zentveld 02 6687 1004 Coffee and Processing Equipment Australia

20

CSP-6A Evaluation of growth habit, flowering behaviour and yield of cashew hybrids and layout of progeny trials with some high yielding hybrid selections (final phase of breeding project)

Nigel Scott 08 8303 8600 CSIRO 20

DAQ-177A Improved canopy management to maximise market opportunities for the tree crops lychee, longan and rambutan (Sapindaceae)

Chris Menzel 07 5444 9600 Department of Primary Industtries - Qld.

21

DAQ-211A Evaluation of the commercial potential of sugarbeet on the Atherton Tableland

Brett Weeden 07 4093 2246 Department of Primary Industries (Qld)

22

DAQ-251A Enhancing fruit yield and quality of rambutan and longan by optimising irrigation and nutrition management systems - QLD

Bob Williams 07 4064 3911 Department of Primary Industries (Qld)

23

DAV-124A A cholesterol-lowering extract from garlic: opportunities for an Australian industry

David Eagling 03 9210 9222 Department of Natural Resources & Environment

23

DAV-136A Total quality management for the production and marketing of buckwheat and honeybee pollination of buckwheat

Chris Bluett 03 5333 6784 Department of Natural Resources & Environment

24

DAV-73A High yields and early bearing for walnuts and quality timber

Harold Adem 03 5833 5231 Department of Natural Resources & Environment

25

DAW-95A The prospects of commercialising indigenous Boab Peter Johnson 08 9166 4026 Agriculture Western Australia 26

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1.1 NEW PLANT PRODUCTS RESEARCH IN PROGRESS

PROJECT


No tubers as vegetables

DNT-24A Integrated management of Phytophthora diseases of durian

Tong K Lim 08 8999 2222 NT Department of Primary Industry & Fisheries

26

DNT-26A Nutrition and Irrigation Management of Rambutan for maximisation of yield and quality - Northern Territory

Chris Wicks 08 8999 2309 NT Department of Primary Industry & Fisheries

27

DPH-1A Developing Irrigation strategies for coffee under sub tropical conditions

David Peasley 02 6677 7174 David Peasley Horticultural Services

28

OHG-1A A technical support package for the development of the Australian Herb growing industry

Doug Andrews 02 6622 0100 Organic Herb Growers of Australia 29

PTT-2A (Extension) The establishment and production of the French black truffle Tuber melanosporum in Tasmania

Duncan Garvey 03 6266 4213 Perigord Truffles of Tasmania 29

SAR-4A Development of an integrated pest management program (IPM) for the control of quandong moth in quandong orchards

Peter Bailey 08 8303 9537 South Australian Research and Development Institute

30

UA-41A Wild olive selection for quality oil production Margaret Sedgley 08 8303 7249 University of Adelaide 31 UA-47A Monitoring the relationship between olive water use

and yield Ian Nuberg 08 8303 7729 University of Adelaide 31

UCQ-12A Potential for seed gum production within Australia Kerry Walsh 07 4930 9707 Plant Science Group 32 UCS-19A Assessment of olive yield and oil quality and cultivar

identification Kevin Robards 02 6933 2547 Charles Sturt University 33

UM-42A Canary seed industry development for southeastern Australia

Robert Norton 03 5362 2222 University of Melbourne 33

UNT-5A Continuation of transplanted green ant colony monitoring and implementation of the ant technology in commercial cashew plantations

Renkang Peng 08 8946 6763 Northern Territory University 34

US-74A A field evaluaton of the productivity of hazelnut varieties

Basil Baldwin 02 6360 5562 University of Sydney Orange Agricultural College

35

USA-5A Characterisation of antiviral compounds in Australian bush medicines

Robert Flower 08 8302 2236 University of South Australia 35

UWA-47A New high quality oil seed crops for temperate and tropical Australia

CM Francis 08 9380 2505 University of Western Australia 36

ZTR-1A Durian germplasm evaluation for tropical Australia phase 1

Guiseppe Zappala 07 4067 5266 Zappala Tropicals 37

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1.1 New Plant Products Completed Projects

Project Title

New Vegetable Crops from Australia’s Sub-Antarctic Islands

RIRDC Project No.:

ANC 2A

Researcher: Iain Dawson Organisation: Australian National Botanic Gardens

Clunies Ross Road ACTON ACT 2601 GPO Box 1777 CANBERRA ACT 2601

Phone: 02 6250 9450 Fax: 02 6250 9599 Email: [email protected] Internet: http://www.anbg.gov.au Objectives

• To assess three edible species of plant from Australian sub-antarctic islands for their

suitability for introduction to the fresh vegetable market

Background

After the discovery by the Royal Navy in the 18th century of the role of fresh fruit and vegetables in the prevention of scurvy, sailors in southern oceans used to visit a number of small islands in the sub-Antarctic to replenish their supplies of leafy green vegetables. Plants used included the Kerguelen Cabbage (Pringlea antiscorbutica) and the Macquarie Cabbage (Stilbocarpa polaris). In recent times researchers based on Macquarie Island have also regularly consumed a cress like plant, Callitriche antarctica.

Research

Three key issues have been investigated. These include prospects for acclimatisation and mass production, sensory analysis to judge consumer reaction to the ‘new’ products, and chemical analysis of their nutritional value.

Outcomes

Pringlea antiscorbutica seed germinates easily at ca. 20°C and stratification at lower temperature accelerates germination. The optimum growth temperature is probably between 13 and 17°C. It could be grown as either a sprout crop or a leafy vegetable crop and is most likely to be used as a garnish. It can be consumed either raw or cooked. It is visually appealing to consumers and scores highly for taste. It contains high levels of potassium, and useful levels of carotenoids. It also contains high levels of vitamin C, even when cooked Stilbocarpa polaris is easily propagated by rhizome cuttings but grows very slowly. It requires temperatures below about 20°C. It must be cooked to make it palatable and has less visual appeal than the other species. It scores well for taste, but less well for texture. It has higher starch content than the other species, but lower vitamin content.

Implications

Pringlea antiscorbutica has significant potential and deserves further investigation, including field growth trials in a cool location, and toxicological studies. Its main use will be as a garnish. Callitriche antarctica despite its attractiveness as a food crop it would be unwise to introduce this plant because of its high potential to become an environmental weed. It should however be further investigated for potential pharmaceutical uses. Stilbocarpa polaris grows too slowly to be commercially practicable. Despite having a pleasant flavour it is less visually appealing than the other species. No further work is recommended at present

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Project Title

Bushfood Industry Database Scoping Study

RIRDC Project No.:

AQU-1A

Researcher: Dr Laslo Nagy Organisation: Atech Group

42 Jaeger Circuit BRUCE ACT 2617

Phone: 02 6251 3368 Fax: 02 6251 3060 Objectives

• The objectives of the research paper were to design a suitable database strategy to

address the information needs of the Australian bushfood industry.

Background

Recent research by the Australian Native Bushfood Industry Council (ANBIC) and the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC) identified information failure as a significant impediment to the continued growth of the Australian bushfood industry. RIRDC found information problems at all points in the bushfood production and marketing chain, observing that: • Production was constrained by limited information to enable and ensure a quality

product. • Manufacturing/retailing was constrained by a lack of generic marketing, inconsistent

marketing terminology, and minimal understanding of the uses of native bushfoods on the part of potential consumers.

Research

The research paper provides a detailed definition of the user requirements for a bushfood industry database, and a database design and development strategy. The report provides a description of the research undertaken, as well as its findings with the following report sections: • Review of key literature and information regarding the bushfood industry (section 2,

with detailed information in Appendix I). • Issues to be considered in developing a bushfood industry database (section 3). • Consultation with the bushfood industry on a bushfood industry database (section 4). • Synthesis of consultation findings into a user requirements specification (section 5). • Design of the database from the user requirements specification (section 6). • Implementation strategy for the database (section 7). • Conclusions (section 8). • References used in the report (section 9). Appendices to the report contain: • Review of information on bushfood (Appendix I). • Individuals and organisations contacted for consultation (Appendix II). • Questionnaire used for consulting with the bushfood industry on the bushfood

industry database (Appendix III). • Background information used in consulting with the bushfood industry on the

bushfood industry database (Appendix IV). • Summary of consultation process: a paper provided to respondents for any additional

comments following the consultation process (Appendix V).

Implications

The findings of the study indicate the following conclusions: • A single central database was not viable, because of lack of general support and little

need for more information of a general nature. • An internet based set of smaller, specialist databases would be viable because of: • widespread support within growers/harvesters/processors; and • low maintenance costs, with each database being managed by its appropriate group

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(or association). • These smaller, specialist databases can nevertheless be linked together under a top-

level internet site, to provide an overall public face for the Australian bushfood industry. This site, potentially called the “Australian Bushfood Industry Database” could provide an overall structure, but at the same time allow a level of individuality for the different specialist databases.

• The top-level internet site, with links to the smaller, specialist databases, could most effectively be provided (and funded) by government.

• The smaller, specialist databases, would most effectively be provided (and funded) by the different specialist groups (or associations) that have information relevant to some aspect of the bushfood industry, and which wish to link to the top-level internet site.

• Groups (or associations) in the bushfood industry that are not yet ready to have such an internet presence can link to the top-level internet site at a later date.

Project Title

Marketing the Australian Bushfood (Native Food) Industry

RIRDC Project No.:

BUS-1A

Researcher: Vic Cherikoff Organisation: Australian Native Fine Foods Pty Ltd

30 Gordon St, ROZELLE NSW 203

Phone: 02 9818 2800 Fax: 02 9818 2900 Email: [email protected] Objectives

• To assess the current and preferred image for the Australian bushfood (native food)

industry and to contribute towards an industry strategy to align efforts in addressing the image change and determining future marketing directions.

Background

The bushfood (native food) industry covers plant and animal products which are derived from Australian indigenous species. The main focus in this report is on the plant products. The bushfood (native food) industry is now at a hiatus needing a uniform and firm image and positioning. Several species are in oversupply and concerns exist from the impact of recent product and company disappearances. Some growers are already facing inadequate markets for their products. Cottage users cannot absorb the excess product nor can specialty manufacturers. The current bushfood (native food) range is also unsuitable for the fresh fruit market due to the fast ripening times (short shelf-life) and the intensity of taste in most of the products. There is obviously the problem of lack of knowledge of use as well. Demand must expand to the middle market with some urgency and mainstream products established before the Olympics, which provides a strategic link to continued overseas expansion. As identified in RIRDC Research Report No 97/22 and also in the Victorian Food Industry’s Indigenous Food Processing Feasibility Study 1999, the determination of the current perception of bushfood (native food) and re-positioning as necessary, is crucial to developing successful marketing strategies. This study focused upon the two markets of food service and manufacturers, which are the volume areas for short to medium returns and building these markets, indirectly addresses the more difficult (and expensive) task of educating the general consumer.

Research

The current status of native foods was assessed amongst influencer (chefs and food media) and consumer groups using interviews. Additionally, native food industry members and chefs were surveyed for their input on status and preferred industry directions. The individual in-depth interviews were conducted by either telephone or face-to-face

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and interviewees included leading chefs in both Sydney and Melbourne grouped as user or non-users of native ingredients. Additionally, equal numbers of food media in these cities were interviewed. Stimulus inputs used in the groups included ranges of packs of foods with bush ingredients (teas, relishes, sauces, juices, biscuits etc), pictures of dishes containing native ingredients along with a descriptive name for the dish, books, category descriptors, potential product concepts and positioning concepts.

Outcomes

The overall outcome of the research is encouraging: All the indications are that native ingredients have considerably more market potential if appropriate strategies are used. • There is at least a segment of top class chefs and influential food writers who are

enthusiastic about and strongly believe in native foods, which they see as underdeveloped. This is critical since it is very clear that there is a powerful top-down impact on the broader market’s food adoption trends.

• The category has inherent distinctive and powerful values, which could be further exploited to better advantage; those opinion leaders who support native foods, focus on two essential and strong benefits which should underpin wider marketing activity.

1. A number of the ingredients are perceived to have real food interest. 2. Native foods are also thought to have the capacity to bring another

dimension, an exciting and unique Australian flavour to the country’s rapidly evolving cuisine.

• There is strong interest at the consumer level in “the new bush flavours”. Admittedly, this is greatest amongst those with a keener interest in food (the foodies). However, their early adoption of the new, often migrates to the broader market, even if sometimes simplified.

If native ingredients are to be popularised and flourish, there are a number of inhibitions and barriers to overcome: Critically and fundamentally, an unequivocal finding is that “bush foods” and especially “bush tucker” are inappropriate terms which will inhibit the growth of the industry. ‘Australiana’ is another term with mixed appeal and could be included in the inappropriate term category. However, some food categories suit the pioneer or outback image, for example, there is the success of the Bush Breads of Australia. There will no doubt be others. Additionally, tourist markets find these labels entirely appropriate maintaining opportunities for boutique product ranges. Chefs and food writers are familiar with these labels and strongly resist them, insisting that a more contemporary image is needed. Supermarket consumers are no less dismissive of these descriptors when it comes to everyday foods.

Implications

The industry should actively reposition the category to a contemporary, prestigious, stylish, innovative and proudly Australian collection of unique, interesting, easy to use, clean, green and healthy flavours. Tools available include State and National instrumentalities and allied food associations and the regional and specific food programs they promote. The industry should support the formation of a peak body of representatives of associations and major value-adders. Over and above these is the influence for change, which can be exerted by individuals through their own purchasing power, with their own industry and future at heart. Through some strong cohesive actions, this uniquely Australian industry has the ability to become a significant force in the Australian food scene both here and overseas.

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Project Title

Duckweed - A Potential High Protein Source for Supplementation of Feeds for Domestic Animals and Fish

RIRDC Project No.:

BWM - 1A

Researcher: Associate Prof John V. Nolan and Robert E. Bell Organisation: Bio-Tech Waste Management Pty. Ltd.

P.O. Box 870, ARMIDALE NSW 2350


When removing N, P, K and other minerals in municipal wastewater, duckweed, when harvested, becomes a high protein-rich biomass which can be used as a feed for animals and fish. • The project analysed various drying technologies for drying the duckweed (the plant

is 92-94% water) and worked on converting the dried duckweed into a feed for animals and fish.

Background

Duckweed species, botanical name Lemnaceae, have great potential to remove mineral contaminants from wastewaters emanating from Sewage Treatment Works, intensive animal production industries, abattoirs and food processing industries. Duckweed needs to be managed, protected from wind, maintained at optimal growth rates and harvested regularly. When effectively managed, duckweed yields 10-30 tonnes dry matter/ha/year containing up to 43% crude protein. Research on using the duckweed on the rations of domestic animals has been scarce, therefore this project was aimed at finding ways to dry the duckweed and use the dried plant as a high protein feed supplement for animals.

Research

The principal research focus was on using the harvested duckweed, referred to as biomass, which can be cultivated on municipal wastewater ponds, and on intensive animal production, food processing and abattoir wastewater ponds and identifying and /or developing technologies to economically dry the duckweed and convert it into a high protein, high value feed supplement for poultry, ducks and ruminants.

Outcomes

Bio-Tech Waste Management (BTWM) identified an economical method for drying the harvested duckweed and conducted a number of trials of feeding the dried duckweed to laying hens, Pekin ducks and sheep achieving excellent results in each trial. BTWM also conducted trials feeding fresh duckweed to the Pekin ducks and sheep and found that it was not necessary to dry the duckweed. The results were as good as or better than the results for the control group in each trial. The Company was also very sucessful in having laying hens and cattle eating the fresh duckweed within minutes of introducing the animals to the plant. The trials proved that duckweed is an excellent high protein feed supplement for animals.

Implications

The results derived from these trials could decide the viability of many businesses in the poultry, eggs, pigs, lot-fed lambs, extra fine wool using shedded sheep and the dairy industries, to mention a few. With the recent introduction of the Load Based Licensing laws in NSW, any business or organisation generating wastewater will be required to cleanse it to EPA standards for discharge into rivers or for continuous irrigation prior to disposing of it. Duckweed can cleanse the wastewater and become a high protein plant, in the process.

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Publications

Two papers have been published in the Australian Poultry Science Journal. Results from the two Peking duck trials and the shedded sheep trials are being prepared for publications.

Project Title:

Development of an Australian cashew industry information support system

RIRDC Project No.:

CSL-1A

Researcher: Dr Noel Grundon Organisation: CSIRO Tropical Forest Research Centre

PO Box 780 ATHERTON QLD 4883


The project objectives were to foster the establishment and expansion of an Australian cashew industry by providing an Information Support System comprising:a database of published literature on the culture, processing and marketing of cashews; • an overview of the published literature relevant to the culture of cashew in Australia; • an Australian Cashew Growers’ Manual; and • a mechanism for regularly updating the manual and maintaining on-going contact

within the Australian cashew industry.

Background

Over recent years, Australia has imported cashew kernels, valued at up to A$30 million annually. However, there are large areas of land in northern Australia that are climatically and edaphically suitable for growing cashews. Over the past decade, RIRDC-funded research has lead to the development of high-yielding cashew hybrids that produce kernels of superior quality to that available in overseas countries. This combination of suitable soils, a suitable climate, and superior genetic material offers an opportunity to expand the Australian cashew industry, initially to replace imported kernels, and ultimately to become a net exporter of cashew nuts and/or kernels. Existing and potential cashew growers at the RIRDC Review of Cashew R&D Workshop held in August 1996 at Kuranda, North Queensland, strongly supported the need for a manual of ‘best estimate’ management practices to guide decision making in the Australian cashew industry. This project aims to provide an Information Support System to assist in the establishment of an Australian cashew industry that is sustainable, economically viable, and environmentally neutral.

Research

Database and overview of cashew literature: A comprehensive database of the cashew literature was prepared from library databases provided by CAB, Agricola, Biological Abstracts, and Current Contents. Consultants were employed to search the ‘grey literature’ in Australia (eg. RIRDC reports) and the less accessible Brazilian, African, and Indian literature for references relevant to the Australian cashew industry. It was decided to restrict content of the database to literature published since 1979 because previously published cashew bibliographies provided lists of published literature up to that year. The recovered references were compiled into a database using Procite® software. Search profiles were developed to extract relevant information into 53 subject matter areas. Output from each subject matter area was forwarded to resource personnel who had agreed to attend the Information Gathering Workshop for the manual. Key resource people critically reviewed of the literature relevant to their area of specialisation; these overviews were made available to all participants at an Information Gathering Workshop.

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Australian Cashew Growers’ Manual: A three-step process was used: • An Information Gathering Workshop was held, facilitated by QDPI Agrilink Project

team members, at which key resource people (members of the Australian cashew industry and cashew researchers from CSIRO, QDPI, QDNR, AGRIC. WA, and NTDPIF) provided input for the manual.

• Preparation and editing of the various drafts of the manual was undertaken by a joint CSIRO-QDPI editorial team. The first and penultimate drafts were checked by the resource personnel.

• Marketing of the manual will be undertaken by the QDPI Agrilink Project. Updating the manual: It is proposed that the content of the manual be updated on a regular basis by the QDPI Agrilink Project. A separate agreement may be needed between RIRDC and QDPI to achieve this objective.

Implications

There are good prospects for the future of an Australian cashew industry: • World trade exceeds A$3 billion, and is increasing steadily. • Australian imports of cashew kernel are valued at A$20–35 million annually, and

demand is increasing steadily. • CSIRO has produced high-yielding, precocious hybrids that have kernels with

superior quality to that available from our overseas competitors. • Northern Australia has sufficient areas with suitable soil with local water resources to

become a net exporter of cashews. • Recent developments provide for a fully mechanised operation, including harvesting,

processing and shelling, within Australia. • The cultural requirements of the cashew tree under Australian conditions are better

understood. New investors are keen to expand the plantings of cashew from its current size of about 280 ha to over 2,000 ha by 2002. If the experimental yields of 15–35 kg NIS tree-1 obtained from the CSIRO hybrids can be converted into commercial yields of 20 kg tree-

1, an Australian cashew industry of 2,000 ha at a planting density of 200 trees ha-1 could be expected to yield about 8,000 tonnes of nut-in-shell annually. Assuming a price of A$1.63 kg-1 for nut-in-shell, and a shelling percentage of 30% with kernel valued at $5.45 kg-1, the industry would produce kernel valued at about A$13 M annually. In 1995, Australia imported about 5,000 tonnes of cashew kernels, valued at about A$30 M. When these new plantings become mature trees by about the year 2010, they could be expected to replace 20-30% of Australia’s imports of cashew kernels, and to establish a firm basis for continued expansion of the industry. The manual is expected to play a major role in encouraging new investors into the infant Australian cashew industry where it will play an important role as a source of ‘best practices’ for the establishment and management of new and existing cashew plantations.

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Project Title:

Value added culinary herbs

RIRDC Project No.:

DAV-103A

Researcher: Anita Chennell and Bruce Tomkins Researchers:, Phone. Fax. Email or Organisation: Institute for Horticultural Development

Knoxfield, Agriculture Victoria Private Bag 15 SOUTH EASTERN MAIL CENTRE VIC 3176.

Phone: 03 9210 9222 Fax: 03 9800 3521 Email: [email protected]; [email protected] Objectives

• To minimise quality loss and add value to culinary herbs and fresh herb products by

developing optimum postharvest protocols and new modified atmosphere packaging systems.

Background

An earlier RIRDC project No. DAV-89A (Postharvest Handling and Packaging of Fresh Herbs. A review.) identified that there was little information available and little industry knowledge of the proper postharvest handling practices for fresh culinary herbs. In particular, there was considerable confusion as to how to package herbs.

Research

The optimum storage environment including CO2 and O2 levels and temperature, was identified for seven major culinary herb crops. These were basil, chervil, continental parsley, coriander, mibuna, mizuna, rocket and supreme cress. A number of packaging systems were then tested to identify the best packages available and to gather information on existing packaging systems. The research results were then used to develop a generic, optimum postharvest handling and packaging protocol for fresh herbs.

Outcomes

Storage at the correct temperature increased the shelf life of all herbs substantially. Storage at 3oC to 4oC rather than 8oC (which is a common storage and retail display temperature) increased the storage and shelf life of some herbs by nearly 50%. Modified atmosphere packaging increased the storage life of most herbs under both temperature regimes. Some of the information generated by this project is in use by industry with one company exporting substantial volumes of fresh herb products. Industry interest in the project is high with many requests for information and two contract research projects are currently under negotiation

Implications

This project has shown that the use of a good handling and packaging protocol can increase the storage life of herbs substantially compared to existing practices. Consequently, wastage will be reduced and new market opportunities can be developed.

Publications

Chennell A.L., Tomkins R.B., Franz P.R., Curwen N.S. and Mason K. 1997. Controlled

atmosphere storage of fresh culinary herbs. Proceedings Australasian Postharvest Horticulture Conference, August 1997, (Poster and Abstract). University of Western Sydney, Hawkesbury, NSW, Australia.

Chennell A.L., Tomkins R.B., Franz P.R., (1998). The storage potential of fresh culinary herbs. Proceedings 4th Australian Horticulture Conference. 14-18th October 1998 (Poster and Abstract). Carlton Crest Hotel, Melbourne.

Tomkins, R.B. and Chennell, A.L. (1998) Postharvest handling and packaging of culinary herbs. Proceedings. Herb Conference 1998. 4-5th July, p53-61. Dookie College, Dookie, Victoria.

mailto:[email protected]

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Project Title

First National New Rural Industries Conference - ‘New Industry Development; an Imperative for Australian Agriculture’

RIRDC Project No.:

DAW-90A

Researcher: Peter Walmsley Organisation: Agriculture Western Australia

Baron-Hay Court SOUTH PERTH WA 6151

Phone: 089368 3999 Fax: 089368 3971 Email: [email protected] Objectives

The conference aimed to raise the level of awareness, and highlight the importance of innovation and diversity within the rural sector, providing the stakeholders of new rural industries with a forum to: • outline how and why rural communities establish new industry businesses for their

advantage, • clarify the role of interventionists, government, consultants and other stakeholders in

new industry development, • build alliances of skills and resources to deliver on new industry opportunities, • highlight the importance of new rural industries in the wider community, • present developed approaches and frameworks for new industry development, • highlight new industry opportunities and • capture and disseminate research findings.

Background

There is a growing imperative for the development of new industries across rural Australia as the profitability and sustainability of traditional enterprises is being challenged. However those actively involved in developing new industries do not currently have a forum which brings them together. Agriculture Western Australia established a New Industries Program in 1996 in response global changes in agricultural production, processing and marketing. They are mindful of the need to build partnerships to foster new industries and identified a New Rural Industries Conference as an integral process in the formation of these collaborative partnerships.

Research

A conference steering committee met regularly to develop and tailor the conference to target its participants and meet its objectives. The conference was delivered in Perth, Western Australia, October 18-21, 1998. The program consisted of plenary and concurrent sessions offering an innovative and exciting program incorporating multi-media presentations, formal debate, keynote presentations and workshops on issues generated throughout the event.

Outcomes and Implications

By all accounts the conference successfully presented its underlying theme; challenging conventional thinking and stimulating innovation. In achieving this the need for new agricultural industry development was thoroughly dissected and justified and future directions for new industries in the Australian agriculture sector were discussed. The conference highlighted significant challenges for the Australian agriculture sector. Key recommendations include; • fostering the development of a national approach to new industry development • conducting the Delphi Report ‘Australia’s expert view on how to accelerate new

industry development’ biennially to act as a qualitative benchmark for progress towards effective support and development of new agricultural industries,

• developing Agriculture Western Australia's New Industries Program’s national new industries fellowship as an annual initiative and

• presenting the national new rural industries conference biennially.

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Project Title

Discovering the Market Potential for Australian Jojoba

RIRDC Project No.:

HAS-4A

Researcher: Michael Clarke Organisation: Hassall & Associates

Level 9 60 Pitt Street SYDNEY NSW 2001


To investigate the existing and potential domestic and overseas market for Australian Jojoba products and identify maximising market opportunities.

Background

Jojoba oil is technically a liquid wax, which can be used in its natural form, refined or chemically modified. The major oil forms are natural (coloured, with a nutty odour and preferred in the European market) and refined (clarified, with no odour and preferred in the Asian market). Jojoba oil has a wide range of applications, with the cosmetics/ personal care industry using some 90% of total production. Its substitutability with sperm whale oil, and the ability to thrive in marginal areas has contributed to its recognition. However there is still a lack of knowledge for intending growers in Australia about the market potential for Australian jojoba products.

Research

There were four major components to the research. • Firstly jojoba oil uses and substitutes were identified by surveying current and

potential oil users in Australia and overseas. • Secondly, based on available literature and survey responses, market size,

characteristics, contacts, prices and competition information was compiled. • Thirdly based on all available information, a combined market supply and demand

outlook statement was prepared. • Finally the Personal Care Ingredients Asia international conference in Shanghai,

China in April 1999 was attended by two industry representatives and the consultant to assess first hand the potential for export customers and confirm phone contacts.

Outcomes

It was found that Jojoba oil has a wide range of applications, with the cosmetics/ personal care industry being the major user. There is an increasing demand for plant oils as opposed to animal, mineral and synthetic oils. The most serious competition for jojoba oil is from fruit and kernel oils. The area planted to jojoba is expected to double to 700 hectares in the next few years, whilst production is expected to more than double due to the increasing yields per hectare of recent plantings. By year 2001 domestic production (approximately 28 tonne) will exceed current official consumption estimates ( 17.5 to 22.5 tonnes per annum). The Australian jojoba oil market is between 20 and 50 tonnes per annum. The largest domestic market sectors are the resellers and industrial users. However the highest value user is the cosmetics and personal care sector. The international market for jojoba oil is dominated by low cost high volume producing Argentina and by the value added product originating from the United States. Worldwide production is increasing and the product is finding its way into the main stream cosmetics products.

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Implications The Australian Jojoba industry needs to be active in encouraging import replacement amongst Australian buyers and increase awareness of the emerging Australian industry. Also the industry must identify core markets on which to concentrate sales efforts. In terms of export opportunities, the cosmetics industry should be targeted. In terms of export markets, the further growth potential of existing significant markets, ie Singapore and New Zealand should be reviewed. Argentina’s success in securing a low cost product for volume cosmetic markets and US success in producing high cost derivative products for cosmetic markets should also be analysed. Finally, the Australian Jojoba Industry should adopt certification standards in line with US standards to facilitate overseas purchase of Australian product.

Project Title:

Australian Longan Industry Strategic Plan

RIRDC Project No.:

LGA-1A

Researcher: Neil Sing Organisation: Far North Queensland Longan Growers Assoc

PO Box 196 ATHERTON QLD 4883


• The objective of this project was to produce a Strategic Plan for the longan industry

to use as a basis for future investment decisions by growers, other government bodies and the RIRDC.

Background

In October 1997 the Far North Queensland Longan Growers Assoc Inc recognised the need for more research into longans and the subsequent funding requirements. To achieve this a research levy was proposed but a prerequisite both of Government and the QFVG for such a levy was a Strategic Plan.

Research

The strategic plan was developed by calling a meeting involving growers from all over Queensland and northern New South Wales. The meeting was attended by 32 people including growers and QDPI and CSIRO scientists. Prior to the meeting a prioritisation worksheet allowing the ranking and suggestion of issues was sent out to all longan growers to aid the facilitator in carrying out the workshop. Introductory technical information concerning the research need: There was no single document or policy setting out the problems of the industry and preferred future directions.

Outcomes

The longan industry now has a plan it can follow and has been used by funding organisations in deciding upon research. Unfortunately priorities established within that strategic plan by the industry itself have not always been recognised and accepted by funding bodies reducing the value of the plan.

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Implications There is no doubt that growers, particularly those away from the major growing areas, have found the Plan useful background information to their management decisions. The benefits to Far North Queensland Longan Growers Association, who in effect represent the Australian industry through Queensland wide membership, have been to accurately identify future actions at an industry level. This can be done in the knowledge that it has the consensus of the major proportion of the industry. The cost to achieve this has been relatively small.

Project Title

Economic market analysis of fibre crops in Australia

RIRDC Project No.:

PMP-2A

Researcher: Stuart de Jong Organisation: Planning & Managing Projects Pty Ltd

Suite 15/56-62 Chandos St, ST LEONARDS, 2065, NSW


• to identify opportunities in Australia to: produce non-wood fibres by diversifying

agricultural practices and growing special crops; and to develop non-wood fibre products by utilising agricultural residues from cereal straw, bagasse and other crops.

• to determine: which fibres have the greatest potential for profitability and market growth; and which products are the most suitable for development in Australia.

Background

Previous research identified limited market opportunities for hemp fibre as textiles, but did not consider other bast fibres such as kenaf, flax and the residues of sugar cane or cereal straw.

Research

This report presents an overview of the production, harvesting and processing systems involved in the supply of non-wood fibres from bast crops and from agricultural residues. The market opportunities for those fibres are analysed in terms of their physical characteristics, and their delivered cost as a raw material for different manufacturing industries.

Outcomes

There are few opportunities to grow bast fibres or to utilise agricultural residues for pulping because agricultural fibre yields are lower than wood fibre yields from forestry; because the collection costs are high and small regional pulping mills cannot not compete with large wood pulping mills. Although it may appear economically viable to manufacture panel board from straw, a new venture is unlikely to succeed, because two major companies dominate the local market in which there is excess capacity. There are significant opportunities for bast fibres to be used in the manufacture of non-woven industrial textiles, particularly for insulation materials (replacing fibreglass batts) and automotive interior textiles, such as door panels and floor mats. Kenaf would be the most economical fibre to produce for non-woven applications, because of its high growth rate. The dryland conditions in Australia are ideally suited to the production of the un-retted fibre which is utilised in these products. The market for composite materials is in its infancy, and requires detailed study. The automotive market is the furthest advanced and has a particular interest in bast fibres

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because of their biodegradability. There may be a small business opportunity in the production of hemp oil seed for nutrition, cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications.

Implications

Opportunities for bast fibres to be used non-woven industrial textiles should be further explored focusing on insulation and automotive products, and fibre-reinforced composite materials. Developments in bast fibre retting technology should be monitored and assessed, to determine their potential to deliver a competitive advantage to Australia. Key requirements are the production extremely high quality fibre, with low water usage and minimal impact on the environment.

Project Title

Australian Ginseng Research Program: Crop Establishment Project

RIRDC Project No.:

POP-1A

Researcher: Tony Sadler Organisation: Primary Options Pty Ltd,

12 Coolibah Court, MT CROSBY 4306


To identify: • those areas in Australia that are suited for the production of ginseng; • factors involved in seed germination; • factors involved in root dormancy; • cultivars appropriate for Australian growing condition; and • test the feasibility of tissue culture for reproducing ginseng cultivars.

Background

Ginseng has the potential to be a multi-million dollar industry in Australia. Only China, South Korea and USA exceed Australia in the number of growers and yet our production is extremely small. This is seemingly due to reluctance for growing beyond a hobby scale, which in turn is perhaps due to the high risks that seem linked to ginseng production. Overcoming some of these risks could see the establishment of a viable industry.

Research

There were five major components to the research: • Firstly the establishment of the factors limiting the range for successfully growing

ginseng and identifying such boundaries. • Secondly determining ways of reducing seed germination time while maintaining or

increasing viability. • Thirdly understanding annual root dormancy. • Fourthly searching for cultivars to determine their suitability for Australian

conditions. • Finally assessing tissue culture as a means of commercial mass micropropagation.

Outcomes

Using meteorological data two mathematical models were developed to accurately predict soil temperatures using ambient air temperatures. Temperature criteria for root dormancy were determined and in concert with these equations, a map was generated for New South Wales of the likely boundary for successful ginseng cultivation. The software program CLIMEX was used to generate a similar map for Australia.

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In the eastern states the causal factor for the northern limit to ginseng cultivation appears to be a lack of lengthy low temperatures; the western limit appears to be low rainfall. In both main ginseng species, seed dormancy can be overcome physically by an extended period of cold or chemically by the use of gibberellic acid. Root dormancy can also be overcome by extended cold or the use of gibberellic acid. The best estimate for the cold requirement is 100 days of 10°C or less. No cultivars of Panax quinquefolius are known. Recent research in South Korea has identified a few cultivars of Panax ginseng the commercial characteristics of which are yet to be determined. Such cultivars have not been imported nor tested for Australian conditions. Tissue culture is relatively easy with both main ginseng species. Optimal physical and chemical conditions are yet to be determined. Laboratories overseas are working to identify such parameters.

Implications

The conditions identified and maps generated that locate boundaries for ginseng cultivation should enable growers to progress to commercial size enterprises with less risk of adverse climatic conditions. The use of prechilling seed prior to harvest could be successfully used in warmer climates to reduce seed germination by one year with concomitant increases in profit for growers. The use of gibberellic acid to reduce seed germination by a similar amount could be used in all climates. Tissue culture holds great promise for the future of the ginseng industry. Australian growers and researchers could develop and control significant intellectual property involving ginseng cultivars but only if a commercially viable tissue culture process is available.

Project Title

Realising the potential of olives

RIRDC Project No.:

SAL-1A

Researcher: Simon Leigh Field Organisation: Salsi Pty Ltd, PO Box 104, St Arnaud. VIC 3478 Phone: 03 9380 2531 Fax: 03 9380 2286 Objectives

• To better understand, strengthen and develop the Australian Olive product market. • To enhance the human capital of the Australian Olive industry. • Attract financial capital to the Australian Olive industry. • Disseminate information on research and development opportunities. • Establish industry networks.

Background

Substantial interest in the olive industry has been generated in Victoria and demand for information on the investment in olives is substantial. A conference and exhibition was staged to emphasise the linkages between the various stages of the Australian Olive industry supply chain and to foster understanding of the challenges and investment opportunities in the emerging industry.

Research

The conference papers presented valuable information that will assist the 253 participants to better understand the interrelationships of the supply chain and the importance of olive enterprise positioning. The session on marketing provided new important data on market segmentation, future supply and demand, and price elasticity. It encouraged consideration of supplying market segments other than the high priced niche market. Information provided to assist in the assessment of the viability of investment schemes

15

and capital raising will contribute to presentation of more credible investment scheme prospectuses. The exposure of the Draft Olive Industry R&D Plan disseminated information on research and development opportunities. Bringing 253 participants and prospective participants in the Australian Olive Industry together at the conference contributed to the establishment of industry networks, especially in Victoria.

Outcomes

There are three major issues emanating from the conference. The first is the emphasis amongst participants on the production end of the supply chain implies that the emerging industry is not paying adequate attention to planning, and attracting interest from the downstream participants in the supply chain. The second is that strategies for positioning and market entry into the range of segments of the Australian Olive industry are virtually non-existent with most producers targeting the niche markets for olive oil accounting for 2% of the Australian market. The third issue is that at the current rate of planting, there will be a price squeeze on olive products, especially olive oil within 5-10 years.

Implications

The emerging Australian Olive Industry needs to: 1. Overcome the emphasis on the production end of the industry, ensuring industry

structures have representation from all stages of the supply chain. 2. Develop strategies for market entry for Australian olive products. 3. Conduct detailed research into the table olive market.

Publications

Realising the Potential of Olives Conference Proceedings.

Project Title

A field evaluation of the productivity of hazelnut varieties

RIRDC Project No.:

USO - 1A

Researcher: Basil Baldwin Organisation: Orange Agricultural College,

University of Sydney P.O. Box 883, ORANGE NSW 2800.


• To determine the most productive hazelnut varieties that could be used for the

establishment of a hazelnut industry in south-eastern Australia and that would meet the nation’s requirements for hazelnut kernels.

• To assess the effects of geographical region on hazelnut production and varietal performance.

Background

The nuts of the hazelnut tree (Corylus avelana) are roundish in shape and contain a highly nutritious kernel. Australia imports approximately 1800 tonnes of kernels per year with a total value of nearly $A10 million. Although hazelnuts were introduced into Australia more than 100 years ago, this crop is only grown in a very small way. Many varieties have been imported into Australia in the last decade, but there has been no systematic evaluation of these. This research is designed to assess these imported varieties compared with Australian seedling types. Hazelnut trees are cross pollinated. The pollen shed by the male catkins is blown through the orchard and trapped by the small female flowers as it drifts, so timing of pollen shed and female bloom between genetically compatible varieties is critical for effective pollination and nut production.

Research

Varietal trials have been established at four centres, two in NSW (Orange and Moss Vale) and two in Victoria (Myrtleford and Toolangi). The sites have been selected to evaluate the varieties under differing climatic conditions. The sites at Orange and Toolangi were planted in 1995, those at Myrtleford and Moss Vale in 1996. The trees

16

are now well established and starting to produce nuts. Automatic weather-recording equipment has been installed at each site to monitor weather conditions and assess the effects of them on growth and production. Measurements are being made of tree growth and the period of flowering for each variety. When the trees produce nuts, yields and kernel quality will be assessed.

Outcomes

The periods when pollen is shed and female flowers are open has been recorded at Orange. Some varieties were found to shed pollen much earlier than others. In nearly all varieties pollen shed commenced before the female flowers opened. A chilling period (temperatures in the range 0oC-7oC) is needed to trigger pollen shed and female bloom. There were differences between sites in the amount of chilling the trees received in winter which may have implications for varietal selection. A few nut samples have been obtained at Orange in the summer of 1998. These samples, with data on periods of pollen shed and female bloom, are being used to describe and assess the varieties.

Implications

As the trees are only just coming into production, limited data on varietal performance has been obtained so far. The trials need to be conducted for at least another 4 years to obtain data on varietal performance.

Publications

Baldwin, B. 1996. A review of Australian hazelnut production. Proc of 4th Int.

Symposium on Hazelnut, Acta Horticulturae no. 445, pp. 359-367 Baldwin, B. and Snare, L. 1996. Hazelnut varietal research. Proceedings of the 1996

ANIC Conference, Australian Nutgrower, pp. 52-56. Baldwin, B. 1998. Hazelnuts in the New Rural Industries. A handbook for farmers and

investors .ed. K.W. Hyde, Rural Industries and Development Corporation, Canberra. Baldwin, B.,Snare, L. & Gilchrist,K. 1998 Evaluating hazelnut varieties under differing

climatic conditions Australian Nutgrower, vol. 12, no.3, pp 23-26.

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1.1 New Plant Products Research in Progress

Project Title

Food safety of Australian plant bushfoods

RIRDC Project No.:

AGP-1A

Start Date: 15/01/98 Finish Date: 31/12/00 Researcher: Prof Ron Wills Organisation: PO Box 77

OURIMBAH NSW 2258 Phone: 02 4348 4140 Fax: 02 4348 4148 Email: [email protected] Objectives

The project will generate a report on: • detail endogenous anti-nutritive factors that may present a health hazard in the major

plant species currently used in the industry. • report on laboratory investigations into the presence of the major potential hazards • advise on a protocol for the safe selection and usage of bushfoods

Current Progress

The aim of the project is to provide information on anti-nutritive factors that may be present in the major plant species marketed by the Australian native bush foods industry. This information will facilitate development of quality assurance programs for the industry and public perception of bush food products as inherently safe. A thorough literature review has been conducted of available information pertinent to the safety of the major bush food species with respect to anti-nutritive factors. Information on the actual or potential anti-nutritive factors was obtained form reference libraries, industry knowledge and specialist chemical, botanical and medical literature as well as commercial and technical Internet sites. This search suggests that few of the commercial bush food species are likely to require special care to ensure safe use as normally consumed in mixed diets. The second phase of the study will carry out tests on samples of the parts of plants actually used as bush foods. The new major constituents identified as requiring analyses are the cyanogens, saponins, alkaloids, oxalates and for a limited number of species, potential undesirable constituents in the essential oils. This first phase of testing will be a general qualitative screening for these classes compounds, and analytical methods have been developed. A range of samples for testing are being collected at the appropriate harvest period of the year. Analyses has commenced on harvested material.

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Project Title

Olive Press - Australian Olive Association Magazine

RIRDC Project No.:

AOL-3A

Start Date: 4/08/98 Finish Date: 10/09/01 Researcher: Mr John Eagen Organisation: Mount Harris

WARREN NSW 2824 Phone: 02 6833 2086 Fax: 02 6833 5414 Objectives

• Oliveaus is to be the principle communications forum for the olive industry, and as

such to have a significant and positive impact on the development potential of the infant Australian olive inustry and ultimately on its success as a significant import replacement and exporting industry.

Current Progress

The magazine is progressing satisfactorily, with two professional issues (Summer 98 and Autumn 99) now published. Circulation of the magazine is increasing steadily. Print run is 1800 per issue and AOA membership is around 1300, both are a head of the project’s budget. The AOA Editorial Committee are currently undertaking a review of progress to date, especially regarding editorial content and a stricter adherence by the editor to editorial policy as set out in the Editorial Policy Guidelines. To this end the editorial committee will be meeting with the editor Margaret Chidgey during April to fine tune future directions, including an increase in scientific and technical research content. For many members of the AOA The Olive Press is the most tangible benefit of their membership. The “big picture” tasks such as: R&D programs; truth in labelling regulations; QA programs etc. will take a number of years to take shape and show tangible benefits. The importance of these programs is poorly understood by many new growers and the magazine is playing a major role in communicating the message that the Australian olive industry must pull together to meet these challenges. An adjunct to the magazine is the web site. The AOA is now moving to put the web site on to a commercial footing and to completely revamp the site.

Project Title

Condiment paprika breeding, harvesting and commercialisation

RIRDC Project No.:

ASA-1A

Start Date: 1/07/97 Finish Date: 30/06/00 Researcher: Prof Nicholas Derera Organisation: ASAS Pty Ltd

5 Lister Street WINSTON HILLS NSW 2153


• To introduce and further develop genetic material of condiment paprika to produce

cultivars with a high initial pigment (>200 ASTA) and dry matter content suitable for direct seeding and mechanical harvesting.

• To develop a commercially viable integrated production, harvesting and processing system for identified markets by 2002.

19

Current Progress

Using new introductions and reselections from the Hungarian cultivars variety and strain trials were conducted at Cobbitty and Merriwa. The reselected lines are showing significant improvement when compared to the original population. The best performing ten lines will be further tested next season and the outstanding ones will be considered for plant variety protection. The crossing program concentrated on back crosses of the F1 plants of interspecific hybrids. Further crosses were also made using high yielding American, Spanish and French origin condiment paprika cultivars. Single plant selections were made from F2 and F3 generations. With the help of the genetic male sterile capsicum lines, obtained from Hungary, the production of male sterile paprika lines has been initiated. To enable us to do our own quality tests a hammer mill was purchased and during the winter months we will conduct test millings. From November to February Dr Norbert Somogyi, Hungarian paprika breeder, worked with us. Consequent to his visit a close cooperation was established between his institution and us. Part of this cooperation is that some of our breeding material will be grown in Hungary during their summer months and we will grow their material during our growing season

Project Title

Innovative Products from Indigenous Australian Bushfoods

RIRDC Project No.:

CFO-1A

Start Date: 15/02/99 Finish Date: 31/01/02 Researcher: Dr Michael Forbes-Smith Organisation: CRC for Food Industry Innovation

Department of Food Science and Technology University of NSW SYDNEY NSW 2052


• To evaluate isolates from identified bushfoods • To develop novel and improved foods and food ingredients currently unexploited

across the food industry both nationally and internationally leading to a significant increase in demand for the raw material with subsequent growth of the Australian Bushfood Industry.

Current Progress

Immediately following the commencement of the project in February 1999, a meeting was held between key staff to finalise details of research. The work has initiated and is progressing as follows: • extension of postharvest shelf-life: modified atmosphere packaging systems are

currently being assessed to determine the optimum storage requirements of fresh mountain pepper and warrigal greens

• bushfood flavour research: initial studies have focussed on developing GC-MS methods for the analysis and development of flavour components of lemon myrtle and lemon aspen

• application/product development: oxidation of flavours was determined as a possible cause of lemon myrtle oil instability, when incorporated into further valued food products such as mustards. Methods to monitor oxidative events (eg. peroxides) under accelerated test conditions are presently being evaluated. Depending on the cause of degradation, methods will be developed to maintain the characteristics of

20

lemon myrtle oil flavour, possibly by the addition of natural antioxidants • microbiological issues: assessment of possible microbiological contamination in

akudjura (ground bush tomato) and ground mountain pepper is underway • novel antioxidants and antimicrobial compounds: certain bushfood sources (eg.

lemon aspen) have been identified to potentially contain antioxidants and antimicrobial compounds (research to begin July 1999)

Project Title

Nutritional requirements of coffee trees in northern New South Wales

RIRDC Project No.:

CPE-1A

Start Date: 1/07/97 Finish Date: 30/06/00 Researcher: Mr John Zentveld Organisation: Coffee and Processing Equipment Australia

Broken Head Road NEWRYBAR NSW 2479


• To establish optimal nutritional requirements of Arabica coffee grown under sub-

tropical conditions in northern New South Wales for sustainable yields of high quality cofee using N.P.K fertilisers together with leaf and soil analysis.

Current Progress

A trial block was established Oct. '98 with the trees presenting enormous growth patterns almost straight away, when the area was devastated in March '99 by a week of torrential rain. The rain was so constant and heavy that a land slip occurred in a number of spots washing trees out of the ground and down the slope. Repairs were conducted as soon as possible, however the Agronomist and Biometritician attached to the project both advised abandoning the present trial for experimental purposes because of the intermingling of soils which would spoil any true analysis of findings. A new site has been selected and plantings should take place this October.

Project Title

Evaluation of growth habit, flowering behaviour and yield of cashew hybrids and layout of progeny trials with some high yielding hybrid selections (final phase of breeding project)

RIRDC Project No.:

CSP-6A

Start Date: 1/07/98 Finish Date: 30/06/01 Researcher: Dr Nigel Scott Organisation: GPO Box 350

ADELAIDE SA 5001 Phone: 08 8303 8600 Fax: 08 8303 8601 Objectives

• Complete the evaluation of cashew hybrids planted during 1989-93 • Identify at least 30 trees, each yielding in excess of 20 kg/tree (raw nuts) at 5 years

old • Layout progeny trials in NT and north Queensland with high yielding selections from

the hybrids planted between 1988 and 1991 • Finalise commercial arrangements with existing and new growers to allow large-scale

multiplication and commercial planting of selected hybrids • Breeding/genetic values of parental and hybrid lines established.

21

Current Progress

Yield data from 1998 have been assembled. Trees from each site will be evaluated in terms of nut yield, nut size and kernel recovery. The performance of family groups from Cashews NT and Cashews Australia will be statistically compared to separate genotype and environmental components of variation. These analyses are underway. At Cashews NT 176 of the hybrids produced in either 1991 or 1992 were assessed. On an individual tree basis yield was variable, ranging from less than 1 to more than 12 kg nut-in-shell per tree. Average nut size ranged from about 4 to almost 9 g. Kernel recovery was variable, ranging from less than 20 to over 35 %. At Cashews Australia 698 hybrids were assessed. On an individual tree basis yield was generally low, with average yields of 4.9, 1.5 and 1.1 kg nut-in-shell per tree in blocks D, G1 and G, respectively. Many hybrids (Blocks D, G1approximately 30 % of trees; Block G 20 % of trees) had average nut weight greater than 5g and kernel recovery above 30 %. Trees in the replicated trials are well established and at the NT site (La Belle Downs Station) assessments will commence during the 1999 season.

Project Title

Improved canopy management to maximise market opportunities for the tree crops lychee, longan and rambutan (Sapindaceae)

RIRDC Project No.:

DAQ-177A

Start Date: 1/7/94 Finish Date: 29/9/99 Researcher: Dr Chris Menzel Organisation: Department of Primary Industries QLD

PO Box 5083 SCMC NAMBOUR QLD 4560


To improve profitability in the lychee, longan and rambutan industries by: • Developing pruning strategies to synchronise and promote flowering, leading to

increased and regular yields. • Developing protocols for the application of Ethrel sprays to control winter flushes

which prevent flowering in lychee. • Evaluating early growth of lychee trees in high density plantings. • Developing high density orchard management systems for early production and

profitability. • Working closely with industry to assist the rapid adoption of best crop management

systems. Current Progress Lychee trees have been pruned at various times over summer and autumn in

experimental plots in Queensland and northern NSW. In northern Queensland, Kwai May Pink at Mareeba gave the best response, with good flowering when the trees were pruned in early January (two flushes out from flowering) or in early March (one flush out from flowering). Flowering in the other cultivars or in coastal localities was not as strong, possibly reflecting warmer than average temperatures this year. In southern Queensland, best flowering generally occurred with pruning from mid to late February, while in northern New South Wales, pruning in early February was better than a pruning in late February. A model has been applied to long term weather records to examine variations in flush development with latitude along the major lychee growing areas of eastern Australia. This was then related to window of low temperatures required for floral induction in lychee.

22

Three orchards were pruned at Bundaberg to provide trees with young red flushes going into winter. The best flowering occurred with trees pruned in May or sprayed with Ethrel in June. Trees pruned in June generally produced only leaves. Overall, the response was best in cultivar Kwai May Pink. These experiments demonstrate the benefits of winter Ethrel applications to trees with red flushes which are unlikely to flower. A model is being developed to describe longan leaf flushing in various environments in eastern Australia. Trees of cultivars Kohala and Chompoo have been pruned at various times over spring and summer at Nambour in southern Queensland. Similar experiments have been carries out with rambutan in Darwin.

Project Title

Evaluation of the commercial potential of sugarbeet on the Atherton Tableland

RIRDC Project No.:

DAQ-211A

Start Date: 1/07/97 Finish Date: 30/06/00 Researcher: Mr Brett Weeden Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Qld)

Agronomist Southedge Research Station PO Box 174 MAREEBA QLD 4880


• To assess the commercial potential of sugarbeet (Beta vulgaris) on the Atherton

Tableland as a sugar source for the Queensland Sugar Industry.

Current Progress

The sugar beet trial at Southedge was harvested over two days (23-24/9/98) with plots dug by hand to give accurate fresh root yields. Sub-samples were taken for sugar analyses (all varieties) and dry matter and nutrient analyses of tops and roots (5 selected varieties). Fresh root yields ranged from 48 to 60 t/ha with an average of 55.6 t/ha over the 9 varieties tested, CCS levels averaged 15.8 % giving a sugar yield of about 9 t/ha. Given a 22 week growth period this equates to sugar production of 1.6 t/ha/month, in comparison sugar cane would be expected to yield 14-18 t/ha of sugar over a 52-60 week growth period (~1.5 t/ha/month). Individual plots in the trial did produce the equivalent of over 11 t/ha of sugar indicating the potential for higher sugar production. Further research into the manipulation of nutrition and irrigation would further enhance sugar production. The trial received about 4.5 megalitres of irrigation giving sugar production of 2 t/ML, which is much less water use per tonne of sugar produced compared to that of flood irrigated sugar cane. The variety giving the highest average sugar production was a hybrid (F 734) specifically bred as a short cycle/high sugar type for USA (California) conditions and has been used in further trials planted in 1999. Dry matter and nutrient analysis of tops and roots showed them to be highly nutritious with potential for use in local dairy rations.

23

Project Title

Enhancing fruit yield and quality of rambutan and longan by optimising irrigation and nutrition management systems - QLD

RIRDC Project No.:

DAQ-251A

Start Date: 1/07/98 Finish Date: 30/09/01 Researcher: Mr Bob Williams Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Qld)

Tropical Fruit Program Centre for Tropical Fruit South Johnstone Road SOUTH JOHNSTONE QLD 4859


• To improve the understanding of nutrient and irrigation management in rambutan and

longan. • The key research issues for improving yield and fruit quality will be identified for

both rambutan and longan. • The monitoring and reporting components of the project are linked with industry

participation hence the uptake of new findings will be rapid and lead to improvements in productivity.

Current Progress Meetings were held with grower cooperators from the rambutan and longan associations

in late April and early May respectively, re the new management of the project. A summary of data collected and phenology data required was also discussed. Soil sampling will occur twice per year (pre and post for both rambutan and longan orchards) whereas leaf sampling will occur six times per year for rambutan and four times per year for longan. Discussions have been held with Dr Phil Moody (Senior Principal Soil Scientist with Queensland Department of Natural Resources) re potential improvements to the soil and leaf nutrient sampling program. Six weather stations are now under constructions and should be installed (three each for longan and rambutan orchards) by late June. Data to be collected includes; rainfall, temperature, relative humidity, soil temperature and soil tension. The program is on target and grower cooperator feedback is positive.

Project Title

A cholesterol-lowering extract from garlic: opportunities for an Australian industry

RIRDC Project No.:

DAV-124A

Start Date: 1/07/96 Finish Date: 30/06/99 Researcher: Dr David Eagling Organisation: Department of Natural Resources & Environment

Private Bag 15 South Eastern Mail Centre SOUTH EAST VIC 3176


• To identify garlic varieties and develop production protocols that optimise yields of a

bioactive extract used as a cholesterol lowering agent in human preventative medicine.

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Current Progress

Recent evidence has shown that garlic contains a compound, alliin, that has cholesterol-lowering activity. Based on the levels of this compound, a significant opportunity has been identified for the sale of Australian garlic to international pharmaceutical and health food markets. Australian grown garlic contains naturally high levels of the compound (up to 20 mg/g by cured weight) compared to garlic grown elsewhere in the world (commonly recorded as 8-10 mg/g by cured weight in the scientific literature). Our research has determined that levels of the compound above 10 mg/g can be consistently achieved with a wide range of garlic varieties when grown under Australian conditions. The research has also shown that most areas where garlic is currently produced could supply garlic with high alliin levels. Production protocols have also been developed to further enhance the level of the compound in the bulbs using nutrient supplementation during growth. These findings have identified a significant opportunity for the Australian garlic industry to supply elite garlic and/or partially-processed garlic to international pharmaceutical markets.

Project Title

Total quality management for the production and marketing of buckwheat and honeybee pollination of buckwheat

RIRDC Project No.:

DAV-136A

Start Date: 1/07/97 Finish Date: 30/06/00 Researcher: Mr Chris Bluett Organisation: Department of Natural Resources & Environment

Cnr Mail and Doveton Streets BALLARAT VIC 3340

Phone: 03 5333 6784 Fax: 03 5333 6540 Email: [email protected] Internet: Objectives

• To export 5,000 tonnes per year of buckwheat and buckwheat products and increase

the use of buckwheat in new and existing food products in Australia to 3,000 tonnes per year, by the year 2000.

• To determine the effect of honeybee pollination on buckwheat seed yield and quality, refine the agronomy required for consistent yield and quality and publish grower guides.

• To develop a total quality management package for the production and marketing of buckwheat.

• To achieve export quality grain from 75% of total harvest by the year 2000 by supporting grower's efforts to optimise production technology.

Current Progress

The project achieved its most successful year in 1998/99. Production was a record 2500 tonnes, payments to growers were over $1.125 million and the gross value to Australia’s economy reached at least $2.5 million. Victorian exports to Japan of about 600 tonnes grossed $500,000 and exports from NSW were at a high level. The enthusiasm of growers and the skills and hard work of buckwheat agronomists and buckwheat marketing companies were responsible for this excellent result. Flow on economic benefits included work done by contractors, grain carters, seed cleaners, packers and shippers and grain millers. Those benefits are enhanced because many buckwheat growers are in districts where farm incomes are depressed because of

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reliance on grazing industries. Domestic demand is growing for organic and conventional buckwheat, with new food industry uses being regularly developed. Planning has commenced for a buckwheat processing and milling plant in Victoria. Hakubaku, the Japanese owned export wheat noodle factory in Ballarat will shortly commence manufacture of a soba noodle containing 30 –40% Australian buckwheat. Production targets for 1999/00 are anticipated to be at least 5,000 tonnes. If realised, grower returns increase to $2.25 million and economic benefit to Australia reaches at least $5 million.

Project Title

High yields and early bearing for walnuts and quality timber

RIRDC Project No.:

DAV-73A

Start Date: 1/07/93 Finish Date: 30/06/99 Researcher: Mr Harold Adem Organisation: Department of Natural Resources & Environment

Institute for Sustainable Agriculture TATURA VIC 3616


• To raise walnut yields from 1.5 to 4 t/ha. • To reduce the time needed for commercial yeilds from 10 to 4 years. • To improve the quality of the produce. • To facilitate the expansion of the walnut industry in the irrigated areas of northern

Victoria.

Current Progress

Walnut trees in the Tatura trial produced commercial yields in their fourth year. The mean yield from 5 year-old walnut trees was 1.2 t/ha last season. The predicted yield from this season is 1.5 t/ha, which is generally above that produced from traditional orchard trees over 50 years old. The quality of nuts from the new cultivar Chandler is excellent, producing large nuts with light coloured kernels, good nut seal and tolerance to walnut blight. Demand for quality Australian walnuts is high, reflected in the average price of $5 /kg for in-shell nuts at the farm gate. The highest prices are paid for the largest nuts which bring up to $8 /kg. In the last 5 years, membership in the Australian Walnut Industry Association has doubled from 45 to 90. As a result of the walnut project at Tatura, around 500 ha has been planted in the Goulburn Valley alone and an 800 ha planting at Robinvale has commenced this year. To overcome the high cost of trees (@$23 each) and a shortage of nursery stock, a technique for field budding of direct-seeded rootstocks has reduced the cost by around 75%. A simple, low-cost harvester has been adapted to reduce the cost of walnut harvesting.

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Project Title

The prospects of commercialising indigenous Boab tubers as vegetables

RIRDC Project No.:

DAW-95A

Start Date: 1/02/99 Finish Date: 30/07/01 Researcher: Mr Peter Johnson Organisation: Agriculture Western Australia

Agriculture WA Locked Bag No 4 BENTLEY DELIVERY WA 6983


• To conduct a primary investigation into Boab tuber to determine its commercial

potential. • Provide an information package as the basis to establish an industry, thereby reducing

the risk for investors and primary producers.

Current Progress

A small germination trial was undertaken to ascertain seed viability, germination time and possible production time. Results germination percentage > 90%, potential production time could be as little at 6 to 8 weeks. Seed has been collected and a small trial plot has been established on a growers property: From this established plot samples will be collected for mineral analysis and sent to restaurants for sampling.

Project Title

Integrated management of Phytophthora diseases of durian

RIRDC Project No.:

DNT-24A

Start Date: 1/07/98 Finish Date: 30/06/01 Researcher: Dr Tong K Lim Organisation: NT Department of Primary Industry & Fisheries

Berrimah Agricultural Research Centre GPO Box 990 DARWIN NT 0801


• To improve durian orchard establishment and sustainability, and the consistency of

quality fruit supplies to expanding markets by developing components of an integrated management program for pre-production and post harvest diseases caused by Phytophthora. This involves a thorough understanding of the pathogen-host-environment interactions to mitigate disease incidence and spread.

Current Progress

The project to date has been in the establishment phase. A number of different Durio species have either been collected as seed or as marcotts for future pathogen resistance testing. A number of varieties of D. zibethinus have been identifies as being possibly resistant to Phytophthora and these are being propagated as well. The various pot and field trials have been commenced however assessment is only in its early stages. A number of isolates of Phytophthora have been collected for NT durian orchards. These isolates were collected fro soil samples and not tree issue. It is interesting to note

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that 2 isolates of P. nicotianae were isolated. Only one other report of P.nicotianae being associated with Durian has been made – by the Department of Agriculture Sabah, Malaysia. Some initial pathogenicity testing of these isolates plus some Phytophthora palmivora isolates obtained from an PNG cocoa farm has been done. The results to date show that the isolates from the NT (Both P.palmivora and P.nicotianae) are pathogenic to durian while the cocoa sourced P.palmivora are (as expected) not. Further testing is being carried out.

Project Title

Nutrition and Irrigation Management of Rambutan for maximisation of yield and quality - Northern Territory

RIRDC Project No.:

DNT-26A

Start Date: 1/07/98 Finish Date: 30/06/01 Researcher: Mr Chris Wicks Organisation: NT Department of Primary Industry & Fisheries

Berrimah Agricultural Research Centre GPO Box 990 DARWIN NT 0801


• To improve the understatnding of nutrient and irrigation management in rambutan,

with particular emphasis on management through the fruit filling stage.

Current Progress

To date there have been four rounds of soil and leaf sampling with the first occurring in June 1998 while the fourth round was completed in late January 1999. Data from these four samplings show that soil and leaf nutrient levels do not always correspond. For example growers with high soil Zinc (Zn) levels do not necessarily have sufficient levels of Zinc in the leaf. Similarly soil and leaf levels of Potassuim (K) do not always match with some growers having low soil levels of K having more than sufficient leaf levels. An important trend which is already showing, is that growers who have high soil magnesium (Mg) levels may have low levels of leaf Calcium (Ca) despite having sufficient levels of soil Ca. A similar trend has already been noticed in Banana nutrition monitoring carried out by NT DPIF Banana Horticulturist, Mr Kevin Blackburn. The current though is that grower with high soil Mg levels are irrigating with water form dolomite bores high in Mg. The high levels of Mg are replacing Ca in the soil and hence making is harder for the trees to take up Ca. The project, still in its infancy, is already proving to be of value to rambutan grower. The initial nutritional data is creating much grower thought and management changes. Hopefully the newly installed irrigation monitoring equipment will do the same. The next two and a half years of the project should see a lot more information gained on how management inputs influence the productivity of rambutans.

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Project Title

Developing Irrigation strategies for coffee under sub tropical conditions

RIRDC Project No.:

DPH-1A

Start Date: 1/07/98 Finish Date: 30/06/03 Researcher: Mr David Peasley Organisation: David Peasley Horticultural Services

PO Box 542 MURWILLUMBAH NSW 2484


• Determine optimum water requirements to grow qulaity coffee in the sub tropics • Investigate the relaitonship between water and the phenological cycle establish design

criteria for irrigation and storage systems • Develop a best practice management system for coffee irrigation to achieve quality

production with minimum environment impact • Increase the viability of coffee growing in Australia as an export and import

replacement industry with limited available water resources.

Current Progress

• Harvest of coffee completed at Newrybar site comprising three harvests on 8th

October, 6th November and 11th December. This is an exceptionally late season for coffee maturity due to unseasonal growing conditions.

• Coffee cherry has been processed to the parchment stage ready for hulling and roasting. The hulled bean will be size graded to assess any physical quality differences between treatments prior to irrigation treatments being applied. Samples will then be roasted, ground, and evaluated for taste by the NSW Coffee Growers Association taste panel and independent experts.

• The second trial site at Mountain Top is currently being prepared for planting this inland, high altitude site represents a contrasting climatic extremity of coffee production for the sub-tropics.

• To maximise the value of information from this site the research cooperators have decided to duplicate the treatments on two different soil types and two aspects at Mountain Top. Soil moisture sensors in each site will be linked to the EnviroSCAN recorder and a single weather station.

• Heavy rain in late February and a single extremely heavy rainfall event in early March at Mountain Top, caused some erosion of the rows that were prepared for planting. This means that planting cannot proceed prior to winter and will now be held over till spring.

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Project Title

A technical support package for the development of the Australian Herb growing industry

RIRDC Project No.:

OHG-1A

Start Date: 1/07/98 Finish Date: 30/06/00 Researcher: Mr Doug Andrews Organisation: Organic Herb Growers of Australia

PO Box 6171 SOUTH LISMORE NSW 2480

Phone: 02 6622 0100 Email: [email protected] Objectives

• To develop an elctronic data base which will enable people in the industry to readily

access technical infomration so that the industry can expand and become commercially viable

Current Progress

The Research Committee along with the Research Officer has contracted an Internet design organisation to design a Web page aw well as a Virtual Web server and domain set up. The Website has been registered and is now under construction and can be found at www.organicherbs.org. This is well under way. The committee and officer have compiled a list of the first 30 herb species. The list comprises of 20 culinary and 10 medicinal herbs. Among the 30 some include: astregalus, basil, burdock, chamomile, chervil, chives, coriander, echinacea, feverfew, garlic, ginkgo, horseradish, goldenseal, lemon balm, lemon grass, marjoram, mint, meadowsweet, oregano, parsley, passionfruit, rocket, rosemary, sage, skullcap, sorrel, tarragon, thyme, valerian. We envisage that the list of 30 herb species selected will be on the Website which will be up and running by the end of June 1999.

Project Title

(Extension) The establishment and production of the French black truffle Tuber melanosporum in Tasmania

RIRDC Project No.:

PTT-2A

Start Date: 1/10/98 Finish Date: 30/09/00 Researcher: Mr Duncan Garvey Organisation: Perigord Truffles of Tasmania

Rockdale Tasman Road GROVE TAS 7109


• To develop a detailed understanding of the technical production aspects, post harvest

practices and marketing strategies necessary to successfully establish a French Truffle Industry in Tasmania.

Current Progress

There are now 26 trufferies established across Tasmania with a total area of just under 70 hectares. The planting’s include new sites along with an expansion of existing sites.

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Regular root and soil sampling has been maintained on the established sites and the results are very encouraging. There has been very little evidence of other fungi contaminating the sites which is very positive.. The directors are cautiously optimistic that the first French truffles will be harvested in Tasmania in the winter of 1999. The company will have four fully trained dogs available. The tree nutrition trial is continuing on schedule, which is investigating the effects of increasing tree growth rate on the level of mycorrhization and hence reducing the time from out-planting to the commencement of truffle production. Monitoring of soil moisture levels on the trufferies is continuing . Importing truffles continued during the French truffle season. Valuable experience has been gained in the handling of the fresh product, transportation, understanding varying qualities of the truffle, and most importantly the chefs understanding of the truffle. Regular communication is being maintained with scientific and marketing contacts in France made during trips to Europe. There is a great deal of interest and anticipation in Tasmania’s premier truffle harvest.

Project Title

Development of an integrated pest management program (IPM) for the control of quandong moth in quandong orchards

RIRDC Project No.:

SAR-4A

Start Date: 1/06/97 Finish Date: 30/06/01 Researcher: Dr Peter Bailey Organisation: South Australian Research and Development Institute

Entomology Section GPO Box 397 ADELAIDE SA 5001


• To deliver a package which enables quandong growers to control quandong moth

with minimum use of insecticides.

Current Progress

Continued fortnightly sampling of quandong trees at Quorn and Sedan in South Australia is providing a second season of data on the population trends of the quandong moth. At this stage the generation times appear to be following similar trends to those found for the first season of data. Quandong moth larvae were again found in quandong flower buds and developing fruit providing further evidence that the moth population exists on quandong trees all year round, with numbers increasing as the fruit develop to maturity.

A field trial with dimethoate, the chemical temporality registered for use on quandong moth is being conducted in a quandong orchard at Whyalla, South Australia. The primary focus of this trial is to examine spray timing, and at a later stage in the season will also examine residue levels. Alternative insecticides to dimethoate will be trialed in the laboratory in the coming months. Those showing potential for management of quandong moth will be trialed in the field next season.

Surveys of natural enemies of the quandong moth and other insect fauna associated with quandong trees are continuing. Rearing techniques for the quandong moth, and subsequently the natural enemies are still being investigated.

The postgraduate fellow working on the project, Kaye Ferguson, maintains regular contact with quandong growers throughout the state, and will again present findings at the annual Australian Quandong Industry Association conference scheduled for August 1999.

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Project Title

Wild olive selection for quality oil production

RIRDC Project No.:

UA-41A

Start Date: 1/07/97 Finish Date: 30/06/00 Researcher: Prof Margaret Sedgley Organisation: University of Adelaide

Department of Horticulture, Viticulture and Oenology Waite Agricultural Research Institute GLEN OSMOND SA 5064


• The aim of the project is selection, oil analysis, DNA fingerprinting, breeding and

propagation of new improved olive cultivars based on wild southern Australian material. This will improve yield and quality of olive oil for domestic and export markets, and provide quality assurance to the industry.

Current Progress

Feral olive sampling is continuing in 1999 with a further ten populations to be visited throughout South Australia. Feral material is also being sent from collaborators at Agriculture WA and Charles Sturt University. Of the 45 superior trees identified from the 188 feral trees sampled in 1998, 20 have been selected for further propagation and resampling in 1999. Oil yield range of the selected ferals was 33.4% to 21.5 % w/w. Oleic acid levels ranged from 87.7% to 60% while linolenic acid levels ranged from 0.4% to 1.1%. Olive tissue culture is progressing well with cultures now proceeding onto rooting media. Genetic analysis of a feral population on Kangaroo Island is complete showing three distinct clusters of trees which are genetically different from each other. Bulked segregant analysis is being used on a segregating olive production to find a marker for Peacock Spot disease. A trial looking at the viability of olive DNA after long tem storage at –80C is continuing.

Project Title

Monitoring the relationship between olive water use and yield

RIRDC Project No.:

UA-47A

Start Date: 1 July, 1998 Finish Date: 31 March, 2001 Researcher: Dr Ian Nuberg Organisation: University of Adelaide

Roseworthy Campus ROSEWORTHY SA 5371


• To understande the water use requirements of olives in the southern Australian

environment we shall establish for a range of olive groves: • their annual water requirements • how these water requirements change over the season so that financially efficent

irrigation schedules can be developed • and to indicate under which circumstances drainage may be a problem.

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Current Progress

We have identified seven mature olive groves in South Australia under different evaporation and water-supply regimes at Angle Vale, Auburn, Balaclava, Palmer, Port Germain (2), and Waikerie. As we were trying to eliminate confounding factors such as site slope, tree health, availability of meteorological data, reliability of irrigation facility, and reliable growers this task took much longer than anticipated. Access tubes for neutron moisture probe measurements have been installed in a manner to characterise the water extraction profile at different distances from trees. Some measurements will be made before the 1999 harvest but we will not have enough data for a detailed analysis of this season’s crop. However, more meaningful measurements will be made over the full1999-2000 season after which it will be possible to determine which groves will be suitable for detailed evapotranspiration measurements with sap-flow instruments.

Project Title

Potential for seed gum production within Australia

RIRDC Project No.:

UCQ-12A

Start Date: 1/07/98 Finish Date: 30/11/00 Researcher: A/Prof Kerry Walsh Organisation: Plant Science Group

Research Laboritory Central Queensland ROCKHAMPTON QLD 4702


• Report on quality of gum when used in conmination with other gelling agents (eg:

carageenan) relative to other gelling agents (eg locust bean gum); with characterisation of the chemical structure of the gum

• Report on the presence of the toxin anthroaquinone within the plant product • Preparation of prelininary cost-benefit analysis • Botanical description of species including breeding system • Characterisation of eclogy of species • recommendations for cropping systems (with cost analysis)

Current Progress

Central Queensland University, is investigating the commercial viability of food gum production from a native Australian plant. A phenological study of flowering and fruiting has been completed (which may be useful in an amenity horticulture sense, as the plant has aesthetic value). A study has been undertaken to determine the limits of distribution of the species, and to allow predictions of where the plant might be grown. Work is underway with respect to further characterisation of the gum, data analysis of the phenology and limits to distribution study, and analysis of genetic diversity. A preliminary costing of production (economic analysis), based on data from the field studies, indicates that commercial production requires substantial increases on the yield of seed achieved on 'wild' stands. This study has also delivered information on the distribution of the 'peanut bruchid', an insect pest which infests the seed of the plant under consideration. We surmise that the insect was introduced to Australia in tamarind or bauhinia seed, and is spreading -infesting native species. This insect is a serious pest of peanuts on other continents.

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Project Title

Assessment of olive yield and oil quality and cultivar identification

RIRDC Project No.:

UCS-19A

Start Date: 1/07/97 Finish Date: 30/11/00 Researcher: A/Prof Kevin Robards Organisation: Charles Sturt University

PO Box 588 WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2678


• To develop a database on Australian olives which may be used to indicate best time

to harvest the olives, the variability of individual cultivars between sites and the variability in quality between select cultivars by measuring quality parameters such as oil content, fatty acid, polyphenols, etc. based on IOOC standards.

• To develop family trees (relatedness) for selected olive cultivars by developing DNA identification procedures and producing a database of DNA fingerprints to meet Objective 1. This is necessary to ensure that future projects identify cultivars correctly and comparisons of data are on the same cultivars.

Current Progress

Experimental work has been completed on the "first" season fruit from Yanco and Wagga Wagga olive groves with data including fruit size, flesh-to-pit ratio, oil content and fatty acid composition. Oil content showed a constant, rapid increase in the early stages of fruit development, followed by a plateau towards the end of the maturation period. Development of fatty acids showed very similar trends across all cultivars. Linolenic acid content was very high at the beginning of fruit development, but rapidly decreased in the first 10 weeks followed by a gradual decline to about 1 percent of the total fatty acids. This is commercially very important to growers. At the beginning of fruit development, the palmitic acid content was high, followed by a sudden and extreme decrease until about 10 weeks after flowering. The palmitic acid content then decreased gradually until the end of fruit development. Oleic acid, quantitatively the most important fatty acid, increased dramatically in the first 10 weeks of development and then plateaued. Linoleic acid content was high at the beginning of development followed by a rapid decrease in the first 10 weeks after flowering. It then remained stable for a number of weeks. Studies on DNA fingerprinting and phenolic content are also continuing.

Project Title

Canary seed industry development for southeastern Australia

RIRDC Project No.:

UM-42A

Start Date: 31/07/98 Finish Date: 30/06/01 Researcher: Dr Robert Norton Organisation: University of Melbourne

RMB 3000 HORSHAM VIC 3401


• To develop and promote appropriate crop management practices, suitable varieties

and a marketing package to establish a canary seed in the main croppin reions of southeastern Australia.

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Current Progress

Market development work by the Lentil Company has shown the main quality criteria for the birdseed trade are even seed size and cream coloured seed. Seed size of the two cultivars is about the same and seed colour is considered suitable for the birdseed trade. The absence of silacous hairs on the glabrous line will be a key Occupational Health and Safety advantage in the marketing of the product. The annual field day held by the Lentil Company attracted 400 growers, with trial inspections and talks on canary seed. The Masters student was appointed in April 1999. Additional germplasm from overseas will be evaluated this year. Current trials are investigating the phenology of canary seed compared to wheat and how this may affect seed size and colour. Plant density is being investigated as another way to manage seed size. Four experimental sites are planned for 1999/2000, plus four demonstration sites.

Project Title

Continuation of transplanted green ant colony monitoring and implementation of the ant technology in commercial cashew plantations

RIRDC Project No.:

UNT-5A

Start Date: 1/01/99 Finish Date: 30/12/00 Researcher: Dr Renkang Peng Organisation: Northern Territory University

Faculty of Science PO Box 40146 CASUARINA NT 0811


• To continue the monitoring of the transplanted green ant colonies in the current

RIRDC project in order to determine how many years cashew growers can benefit from each transplantation of the ant.

• To introduce and promote the use of green ant technology in commercial casheew orchards for the purpose of controlling the main cashew insect pests. This will be achieved by producing booklets and posters. These materials will highlight key procedures in the stabilisation of populations of existing and transplanted colonies of green ants. They will be used in field workshops and future consultation for cashew growers.

Current Progress

The field experiment with transplanted green ant colonies was initialised in April 1997, and it has been continuing after the completion (December 1998) of the RIRDC project UNT-4A. In this experiment, apart from the treatment of transplanted colonies (TPC), there are four other treatments: isolation of existing colony (IEC); no isolation of existing colony (NIEC); trees protected by insecticides(TPBI); and trees without insecticides or green ants (TWIG). The results show that the ant population in TPC and IEC was more stable throughout the flowering and fruiting period (May to October 1998) than in NIEC. The treatments of TPC, IEC, TPBI, NIEC and TWIG produced a yield of 2342 kg/ha, 1800 kg/ha, 1012 kg/ha, 1120 kg/ha and 364 kg/ha respectively in 1998. Compared to the treatment of TPBI, the treatments TPC and IEC obtained an average benefit of $2273/ha. The transplanted colonies are still persisting after the wet season (November 1998 - April 1999), and more benefit will be expected in TPC than in TPBI in 1999. The methods that use green ants at the colony level to manage the main cashew insect pests have been developed in the RIRDC project UNT-4A. To promote the use of green ant technology in commercial orchards, posters and booklets will be produced. These teaching materials are currently under preparation.

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Project Title

A field evaluaton of the productivity of hazelnut varieties

RIRDC Project No.:

US-74A

Start Date: 1/07/98 Finish Date: 30/06/00 Researcher: Mr Basil Baldwin Organisation: University of Sydney Orange Agricultural College

PO Box 883 ORANGE NSW 2800


• To determine the most productive hazelnut varieties that could be used for the

establishment of a haszelnut industry in south-eastern Australia and that would meet the nation's requirements for hazelnut kernels.

• To assess the affects of environmental conditions on hazelnut production and varietal performance.

Current Progress

Four field trials have been established to evaluate a total of 24 varieties. Most of these varieties originate from Europe or the USA, although some Australian seedling types with potential have been included. Two of the trials are sited in NSW, at Orange and Moss Vale, and two in Victoria, at Myrtleford and Toolangi. The sites have been selected to test the varieties under different climatic conditions. Each site comprises a randomised block design with four replicates of each variety. Planting commenced at Orange and Toolangi in 1995 and at Moss Vale and Myrtleford in 1996. Data is being collected on the growth of trees as assessed by changes in butt diameter. The periods of pollen shed and female bloom were recorded at each site in the winter of 1998 This will be repeated in 1999. Automatic weather stations have been installed at each of the sites to record climatic data. The trees are just coming into production and nut samples and yield estimates were obtained at Orange and Toolangi in 1999. The quality of nuts and kernels is also being assessed. A report has been prepared on results to-date, RIRDC Publication No 99/6.

Project Title

Characterisation of antiviral compounds in Australian bush medicines

RIRDC Project No.:

USA-5A

Start Date: 1/07/97 Finish Date: 30/08/98 Researcher: Dr Robert Flower Organisation: University of South Australia

GPO Box 2471 ADELAIDE SA 5001


• The isolation and identification of the chemical structure of antiviral compounds from

Australian bush medicine plants and thus development of demand for cultivation of these plants.

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Current Progress

A database of plants used as a source of medicines used in treatment of symptoms indicative of viral infection was assembled. Extracts from 40 different species were screened for antiviral activity against three different viruses. The most active extracts were Pterocaulon sphacelatum (Asteraceae) and Dianella longifolia var. grandis (Liliaceae). The extracts of Euphorbia australis (Euphorbiaceae) and Scaevola spinescens (Goodeniaceae) active against cytomegalovirus. Extracts of Eremophila latrobei subsp. glabra (Myoporaceae) and Pittosporum phylliraeoides var. microcarpa (Pittosporaceae) exhibited antiviral activity against Ross River Virus. P. sphacelatum, yielded the antiviral flavonoid chrysosplenol a 4'-hydroxy-3-methoxyflavone, one of a group of compounds known to be potent and specific inhibitors of replication of picornaviruses including the most frequent causative agent of the common cold. Activity-guided fractionation of the root extract of D. longifolia resulted in the identification of chrysophanic acid (1,8-dihydroxy-3-methylanthraquinone) as the anti-polioviral component. Anthraquinones have not previously been found to inhibit non-enveloped viruses. Chrysophanic acid inhibited an early stage in the poliovirus replication cycle and it may act as an inhibitor of proteases cleaving the picornaviral polyprotein. E. australis yeilded polyphenolic compounds responsible for the anti-HCMV activity. In this study known and novel antiviral compounds were isolated from Australian native plants traditionally used by Aboriginal people as a source of medicines.

Project Title

New high quality oil seed crops for temperate and tropical Australia

RIRDC Project No.:

UWA-47A

Start Date: 1/07/98 Finish Date: 30/06/02 Researcher: Dr CM Francis Organisation: University of Western Australia

CLIMA NEDLANDS WA 6907


• To introduce new edible and industrial oil seed options to Australia within the four

years of the project

Current Progress

The project (UWA47A) is evaluating new oil seed options. Niger (Guizotia abyssinica) produces an edible oil, high in linoleic acid. Over 80 accessions have been introduced from Ethiopia and Nepal where it is widely cultivated. With an oil content around 40 percent, it is best adapted to subtropical conditions. A link with the Vavilov Institute, St Petersburg has proven an invaluable source of germplasm of the alternative oilseeds. Beside Niger more than 50 lines of Camelina (Camelina sativa) and of the industrial oil species Crambe (Crambe abyssinica), have been introduced. The project has evolved to include oils high in essential fatty acids. The herb Borage, and other members of the Boraginaceae, are being investigated because of their content of GLA (gamma linolenic acid). One of the most intriguing species is the Stock (Matthiola incarna) - a common garden flower. A perennial, it has a remarkably high proportion of the Omega 3 fatty acids. A flowering line from Israel has a high harvest index. Other

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lines, apparently highly salt tolerant, were collected locally from beach front locations. A wild card is the remarkable leguminous oil seed Morama (Tylosema esculentum). Originating from the Kalahari desert, it is prized there for the leaf as well as its oil rich hazel nut sized fruits.

Project Title

Durian germplasm evaluation for tropical Australia phase 1

RIRDC Project No.:

ZTR-1A

Start Date: 1/07/96 Finish Date: 30/06/01 Researcher: Mr Guiseppe Zappala Organisation: Zappala Tropicals

Cmb No. 2 Bellenden Kerr VIA CAIRNS QLD 4871


• The introduction of the best durian clones of Asia from guaranteed budwood sources. • Propagation of these clones (single and multi-rootstocked) with the best nursery

practices. • Development of an Industry Strategic Plan • To compare growth rates and performances under different clonal tolerances to pests,

diseases and strong winds. • To identify clones best suited for Phase 2 (Yield and Fruit Quality Assessment) for

future Australian planting and export potential.

Current Progress

• Forty new durian clonal introductions from Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia are

now successfully established in Australia. • These clones were propagated and two evaluation areas of 300 trees, on differing soil

types, are planted. Plantings were damaged again from the effects of Cyclone Rona in February 1999 resulting in tree losses of 12%. Further replacement trees were planted in April 1999.

• The Industry Strategic plan was successfully reviewed in August 1998. Grower meetings were held in NT (Darwin) and NQ (Mossman and South Johnstone). The implementation / work program ensures continued momentum by all stakeholders to complete the priorities identified in our industry plan. Our major industry strength is that currently Australia is free of Mudaria sp. (Durian seed borers)

• Regular tree growth measurements and pest observations have been conducted. Healthy trees are growing at an average rate of one metre per year. First fruiting has occurred on tree number 305, which produced 45 kg of marketable fruit in April 1999.

• Growth measurements, pest and disease tolerances and early fruiting charastics will be matched to the project’s weather station data and used to identify the most suitable clones for Australian conditions and Phase 2 by 2001.

NEW PLANT PRODUCTS - AgriFutures

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