WA Grower June 09

$19.00 + GSTP.P 602669/00248

Potato GrowersAssociation Inc.

SINCE 1948Vol. 42 No 2. JUNE 2009

Australian Vegetable Industry

Conference

Werribee National Vegetable Expo

2009

Vegetable & Potato Growers Address Nitrate

Issue

Carnarvon Grower Visit

APC-VPCAPC-PPC

Agricultural Produce Commission

FEATURES

4 Australian Vegetable Industry Conference Wrap-Up

6 Werribee National Vegetable Expo

8 ExecutiveOfficervisits Toolangi in Victoria

9 Vegetable & Potato Growers address Nitrate Issue

11 Improving your Farms Viability

12 Health Festival brings School Together

14 Ministers visit to Tedesco’s & Bogdanich Farms

14 Carnarvon Growers Field Day

15 The Potato Diet Makeover The Potato Diet

18 Tomato Growers Poll

19 Carnarvon Growers Visit

20 From the President’s Keyboard 21 Vegelink

27 Good Practice Demonstration

28 Orius - The New Saviour in the fightagainstWesternFlower Thrip

30 Unfair Dismissal makes a comeback

33 Nourishing the Future: 7th World Potato Conference

34 WA Seed Potato Evaluation Committee

35 WA Vegetable Marketing Project Wins Funds

36 The Seal of Freshness

38 The Virtues of Vegetable Juice

40 Fungus at the Root of Disease Problems

41 Potatoes may Hold Key to Alzheimer’s Treatment

43 Classifieds

Cover photo of Thanh Van with his capsicum crop in Carnarvon

Contact Details for Horticulture House vegetablesWA, Potato Growers Association, Western Potatoes Horticulture House 103 Outram Street West Perth 6005 t: (08) 9481 0834 f: (08) 9481 0024 e: [email protected]

ExecutiveOfficer Jim Turley m: 0410 697 842 e: [email protected]

Program Manager Georgia Thomas m: 0431 444 918 e: [email protected]

Caring for Our Country Project Manager Gavin Foord t: 0435 018 189 e: [email protected]

Finance / Administrator / Magazine Advertising Valeria Kozak t: 9481 0834 e: [email protected]

PA/CommunicationsOfficer Elizabeth Daly t: 9481 0834 e: [email protected]

FieldExtensionOfficer Timothy Aldridge t: 0466 414 794 e: [email protected]

Life Members A.J. Anderson, D.J. Arbuckle, J. Arbuckle Snr*, J.H. Arbuckle* (M.B.E.J.P), S. Calameri, G. Kiriros*, R.G.Leach*, F. Natoli, S. Sawle, R.M. Schultz. C.P.Stevens, W.R. Stevens* (M.B.E.J.P), HR. Ashby*, Amy Harris*, A. Ingrilli. * deceased

EnviroVeg visits (Vegelink page 2)

•Agspread

•BejoSeeds

•ChemCert

•DrumMuster

•FairbanksSeeds

•GlobalOmegaGrow

•Landmark

•SouthPacificSeeds

•UnitedCrates

•WACrates

• APC-VPC• Caring for Our Country•GoodPracticeProject

•PotatoGrowers Association

•Premier’sWater FoundationProject

•WAIndustry DevelopmentOfficer

•WesternPotatoes

ThisissueoftheWA Growerisbroughttoyouby:

22

Produced by vegetablesWA

vegetablesWA

Articles reflect the opinions of the authors and are not necessarily those of the publisher.

Vegetable Growers Association

President Maureen Dobra Gingin East t: 9575 2086 m: 0417 174 110

Vice President Andrew Bogdanich Metro North t: 9575 7741 m: 0419 248 422

Treasurer Jason Neave Metro North m: 0418 927 410

Committee H. Shapland t: 9845 1064 Albany K. Sue m: 0417 986 467 Busselton R. Shain m: 0429 988 809 Carnarvon I. Gaylard m: 0409 292 367 Carnarvon R. Kuzmicich m: 0400 542 812 Carnarvon L. Canzirri m: 0438 004 015 Carabooda B. Metcalfe m: 0488 948 736 Geraldton K. Edwards m: 0427 724 243 Manjimup D. Anderson m: 0418 195 759 Metro (Immediate Past President) D. Le m: 0417 962 427 Metro P. Bogdanich m: 0421 575 124 Metro North L. Canzirri m: 0438 004 015 Metro North M. Nanovich m: 0407 401 664 F. Natoli m: 0438 628 517 Metro North S. Calameri m: 0418 957 236 Metro South D. Ellement m: 0417 975 158 Metro South P. Humble m: 0419 917 302 Metro South A. Marinovich m: 0419 801 824 Myalup/Bunbury

Potato Growers Association

President Darryl Smith Busselton m: 0428 933 154

Vice President Simon Moltoni Pemberton m: 0427 761 693

Treasurer Pennie Patane Myalup m: 0407 993 580

Committee T. Ackley m: 0427 423 684 Albany B. Russell m: 0429 318 216 Donnybrook A. Tempra m: 0417 097 729 Manjimup S. Calameri m: 0418 957 236 Metro South G. Bendotti m: 0427 569 903 Pemberton

Western Potatoes Pty Ltd

Chairman Ross Taylor m: 0412 446 512

ExecutiveOfficer Georgia Thomas m: 0431 444 918

A. Kirou m: 0400 996 153 D. Niciejewski m: 0400 996 180

Management Committees

4 WA Grower June 2009

Australian Vegetable Industry Conference Wrap-Up Focusonconsumersandmarkets

This years conference was heavily focused on consumers and markets with key

presentations from Jin Ju Wilder, President of Los Angeles based produce wholesaler, Coast Produce Company, Professor David Hughes, Emeritus Professor of Food Marketing at London’s Imperial College, and Nutritionist, Dr Joanna McMillan.

The key messages regarding the impact of the global economic crisis on consumer behaviour were clear. Consumers are now:

Eating out less •

Shopping less often•

Buying own-brands (e.g. home •brand, black and gold)

Reacting to price specials •

Buying foods with a longer shelf •life to minimise waste.

Jin Ju Wilder called on the industry to “inspire” consumers to buy products by making an emotional connection. For example, consumers are eating at home more, so as an industry we need to support this (through recipe ideas and promotions).

Professor David Hughes also commented that “buying local” is no longer a niche, but a discernable market option for consumers. He also emphasised the importance of marketing to children with relevant product offers through their own language (i.e. social networking sites online).

Retailers are also striving to help consumers to make savings (e.g.

meals for under $10 and home-brand promotion).

Nutritionist Dr Joanna McMillan provided another perspective to the conference, by encouraging the industry to “not make vegetables the side dish, but the main event”.

High plant food diets are associated with less obesity and chronic disease. However, obstacles for consumers include convenience, preparation and perishability of vegetable products.

Take home points for industry:

Spend time to develop your •offer to consumers (think about consumer benefits);

Be pro-active in dealings with •wholesalers and retailers;

by Georgia Thomas

Kevin Dobra receiving the Certificate of Environmental Assurance

5WA Grower June 2009

Meet current consumer needs by •considering production of low-cost alternatives. For example, smaller packs of produce at a lower price point.

Make sure food supply maintains •integrity.

Finally, ensure that industry doesn`t devalue its products by competing on price and instead focuses on product differentiation to meet consumer demand.

Remember: “It’s not what you grow, it’s what you know” (Professor David Hughes 2009).

Other highlights of the conference:

Over 40 exhibitors participated in the conference trade exhibition, providing colourful and informative displays

showcasing the latest products and innovations to delegates.

Sessions on Work Cover and Biosecurity on Farm were of great value to the Western Australian growers that attended - both sessions providing practical information that can be implemented on-farm.

New appointment - Richard Mulcahy, was announced as the new Chief Executive Officer of AUSVEG. Richard Mulcahy is a former parliamentary representative with nearly two decades of experience in employer associations.

AUSVEG was also proud to announce the winners of the 2009 Australian Vegetable Industry Awards at the Gala Dinner in front of 350 guests:

Syngenta Researcher of •the Year: Dr Paul Horne, Hurstbridge, VIC

Brisbane Produce Market •Innovative Marketing Award: Ladybird Organics, Keilor, VIC

AUSVEG Industry Recognition •Award: Peter Dal Santo, Strathfieldsaye, VIC

Landini Grower of the Year:• Kim Vincent, Crossmaglen, NSW

Landmark Young Grower of the •Year: Nathan Clackson, Peats Ridge, NSW

Speakers’ presentations will be available on the conference website, www.vegieconf.com.au in the coming weeks.

Vegetable Seeder Dusanka Milunovic with Erhardt Joubert from Sativa Gardens


Werribee National Vegetable Expo 2009A valuable opportunity for growers

Every two years the National Vegetable Expo provides a venue for vegetable growers,

seed companies and industry suppliers to gather and discuss the best our industry has to offer.

This year there was an excellent Western Australian contingent visiting the show and making the most of the various displays, including:

New machinery and equipment•

Food demonstrations by chefs•

New plant varieties offered by •seed companies (including a large range of lettuce)Soil testing demonstrations •

Other exhibits including •chemicals, fertilisers, irrigation, filtration, packaging, computer software and material handling equipment.

The Western Australian growers who attended found the new varieties in the field demonstration to be a major highlight. Erhardt Joubert from Sativa Gardens commented that “this allows the grower to see the product as it is, as opposed to a glossy picture in a brochure”.

Salanova (www.salanova.com) developed a particularly exciting display, with an innovative variety of products including gourmet lettuce

and spinach. The Western Australian Area Manager, Dusanka Milunovic guided the growers around the crops and demonstrated the key qualities such as, head and leaf size, disease resistance, ease of processing and taste variations.

Transplant Systems (www.transplantsystems.com.au) wowed onlookers with a demonstration of their new Field Transplanting Automatic Machines. The machines are designed to plant a range of vegetable seedlings including Lettuce, Endive, Chinese Cabbage, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Cabbage and Asian vegetables. The TS HD 144/3 model is a 3-row transplanter with a planting

by Georgia Thomas

Demonstrating the transplanting of young lettuce plants


rate of over 10,000 plants per hour using only 2 people.

New varieties and innovative machinery provided the growers with plenty of ideas to take back to the farms in Western Australia.

A valuable opportunity for growersThe Western Australian growers and staff who attended strongly recommend that others consider participating in future years. Some comments below:

“…there is no other event that I know of that allows growers to network with each other as well as have such a large range of suppliers and services on display”

“I believe it is important for growers to see what other produce and products are available.”

“…may I say that it opened my eyes! You can relax and actually listen to what people are saying without the distraction of work!”” WA AusVeg representative Paul Bogdanich with Dusanka Milunovic


Executive Officer Visits Toolangi in VictoriaNational Breeding program

While attending the Australian Vegetable Industry Conference in

Melbourne, I took the opportunity to visit the National Breeding Program in Toolangi.

Tony Slater, the Program Breeder, took me through all the processes relating to the breeding production and evaluation of seed potatoes. I was very keen to learn because, as a member of the WA Seed Potato Evaluation Committee (WASPEC), it is vital that we achieve success in producing new varieties.

I was fortunate in that they were halfway through cooking evaluations

which were very interesting and I was able to capture a few photos.

The damage from the Victorian bushfires was apparent all around Toolangi, with the fire reaching all the way to the fence line. Although some trees and bushes were lost, luckily all of the buildings were saved by the water bombers and a number of volunteer fire fighters.

by Jim Turley

Acceptable Not Acceptable

Acceptable Not Acceptable

Tony Slater with Jim Turley


Both vegetable and potato growers are taking their role in community environmental

issues seriously. At a meeting organised by vegetablesWA in Carabooda in May, more than 25 local growers met with a panel of experts to discuss the issue of nitrates in the ground water.

The panel of experts included Warren Vanalopulos from the Department of Water, Richard Theobold from the Department of Health, Steve Appleyard from the Department of Environment and Conservation, Mark Donnelly from the City of Wanneroo and Eric Wright, Rohan Prince and Dennis Phillips from the Department of Agriculture and Food WA.

The panel was asked a range of questions relating to the recent discovery of elevated nitrate levels in some ground water supplies; what causes elevated nitrate levels; how they can be reduced; and the effect it could have on the community.

Experts from the panel noted that nitrates are naturally occurring and elevated levels in ground water can come from many sources, not exclusively vegetable production.

Steve Appleyard from the Department of Environment and Conservation commented that “this is a whole of community issue; the issue of raised nitrate levels is not solely caused by vegetable growers”.

Growers are aware that where elevated nitrates occur, these can be measured and utilised as a source of nitrogen for the crop, reducing the amount of fertilizers required.

Growers are already adapting new technologies and sustainable practices to improve sustainability. This is in part due to guidelines developed by vegetablesWA and the Department of Agriculture and Food WA.

Rohan Prince from the Department of Agriculture and Food WA said he felt the meeting was very productive. “The growers are now more aware of the issues and the programs that are in place to assist them. Many growers have the motivation to continually improve

their practice to make their business sustainable”.

The State Government has certainly recognised the value of the vegetablesWA Good Practice Guide that has been distributed to all vegetable and potato growers in Western Australia. The manual includes sustainable management guidelines for nutrients, water, soil, pest and disease and biodiversity, air quality and energy on farms. The Guide is a crucial resource for all growers in the sustainable management of their farm.

Vegetable & Potato Growers Address Nitrate IssueElevated levels found in ground water

by Jim Turley

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Schematic Hydrogeological Cross Section


COUNCIL SITE FOR BOOKINGSMurray (Pinjarra) Corio Rd Waste Transfer Station 9531 7777

Waroona Buller Rd Refuse Site 9733 7800

Augusta - Margaret River Davis Rd Waste Transfer Facility For Info 9757 6077

Boyup Brook Boyup Brook Recycling Centre 9765 1200

Bridgetown - Greenbushes Bridgetown Waste Facility 9761 1555

Busselton Dunsborough Waste Facility 0417 179 596

Donnybrook- Balingup Donnybrook Landfill Site 9780 4200

Balingup Landfill Site 9780 4200

Harvey Harvey Landfill 0428 950 120

Manjimup Manjimup Refuse Site 9777 2332

Pemberton Waste Transfer Station 0427 767 010

Armadale City Armadale Landfill & Recycling Facility 9399 0127

Mindarie Tamala Park 9305 5246

Broome Broome Waste Management Facility 9193 8018

COUNCIL SITE/ COLLECTION INFORockingham Miller Rd Landfill

One day in March & September

Gingin Frogmore Shire DepotFirst Wednesday each month by appointment ph: 9571 2211

Carnarvon Browns Range Landfill SiteMonday to Friday 8.00am to 5.00pm

Eastern Metropolitan Red Hill Waste Disposal SiteSecond Wednesday each month between 8.00am to 12 noon

Wyndham - East Kimberly KununurraContact the council

STANDARDS FOR WASTE DISPOSAL..


COUNCIL SITE FOR BOOKINGSMurray (Pinjarra) Corio Rd Waste Transfer Station 9531 7777

Waroona Buller Rd Refuse Site 9733 7800

Augusta - Margaret River Davis Rd Waste Transfer Facility For Info 9757 6077

Boyup Brook Boyup Brook Recycling Centre 9765 1200

Bridgetown - Greenbushes Bridgetown Waste Facility 9761 1555

Busselton Dunsborough Waste Facility 0417 179 596

Donnybrook- Balingup Donnybrook Landfill Site 9780 4200

Balingup Landfill Site 9780 4200

Harvey Harvey Landfill 0428 950 120

Manjimup Manjimup Refuse Site 9777 2332

Pemberton Waste Transfer Station 0427 767 010

Armadale City Armadale Landfill & Recycling Facility 9399 0127

Mindarie Tamala Park 9305 5246

Broome Broome Waste Management Facility 9193 8018

COUNCIL SITE/ COLLECTION INFORockingham Miller Rd Landfill

One day in March & September

Gingin Frogmore Shire DepotFirst Wednesday each month by appointment ph: 9571 2211

Carnarvon Browns Range Landfill SiteMonday to Friday 8.00am to 5.00pm

Eastern Metropolitan Red Hill Waste Disposal SiteSecond Wednesday each month between 8.00am to 12 noon

Wyndham - East Kimberly KununurraContact the council

Improving your Farms ViabilityYanchep and Mandurah workshops

Workshops held at Yanchep in March and at Mandurah in May, focused on putting

research into practice to improve viability of vegetable production on the Swan Coastal Plain.

Our aim is to raise awareness of the range of activities that are currently running in the regions and how individual growers can participate and benefit.

The program included:

Detailed grower survey results, •presented by Peter O’Malley (DAFWA, phone 9368 3319).

Water and nutrient use project •results, the actual versus survey, presented by Rohan Prince (DAFWA, 0429 680 069).

The background to the new •3Phase fertiliser program, presented by Dennis Phillips (DAFWA, phone 9368 3319).

The Soil Story, presented by Bob •Paulin (DAFWA, 9368 3308).

The Good Practice Guide and •demonstration sites, presented by Gavin Foord (vegetablesWA, 0435 018 189).

Waterwise on the Farm, •presented by David Gibb (Perth Region NRM, 0428 113 391).

Introduction to the Vegetable •Irrigation Scheduling System (VISS) and other useful tools by Tim Aldridge (vegetablesWA, 0466 414 794).

All of the items on the program have been regularly reported on in the WA Grower. The key message is that there is a range of programs

and activities demonstrating tools and practices that can be used in a system to improve your farms viability. If you want to know more, contact vegetablesWA on 9481 0834 or any of the presenters on the numbers provided above.

STANDARDS FOR WASTE DISPOSAL..

by Gavin Foord


Health Festival Brings School TogetherA few obstacles never get in the way for a school like Cyril Jackson

Due to the unfortunate event of a fire last year, big plans for their Health Festival were

temporarily shelved. Bigger and better than ever, the festival was held at the school on Wednesday 20th May 2009.

Targeting the community surrounding students and staff from Cyril Jackson as well as other school groups, the objective of the festival is to create links to healthy lifestyles, leading to achieving personal and educational goals. It is also an opportunity to introduce students to community agencies that provide health services, information and support.

The Year 11 and 12 Health Studies Classes were involved in coordinating the day as part of their assessment. Each student was assigned exhibits

and participants to liaise with, making this event truly grass roots.

Western Potatoes participated in this event by hosting an interactive stand distributing information on the health benefits of potatoes and their varieties. Perhaps the most enjoyable part of Western Potatoes’ presence was having a demonstration and sampling of pan-fried potatoes and new mash potato product.

According to Western Potatoes Retail Sales and Development Officer Daniel Niciejewski, events like these are vital to the role of marketing Western Potatoes in the community.

“As development officers, our role is to not only support the retail chain but also the general community who need to understand the benefits of potatoes.

“The school is regarded as diverse and multi- cultural, representing 50 countries, therefore not everyone is aware of how different varieties of Western Australian potatoes should be cooked and a bit of education is required,” said Daniel.

“After our demonstration, most of our audience at the festival were pleased to note that a few Royal Blues with their skins on come up trumps on the barbeque – and much healthier than they thought.

“By participating in grass roots activity like the Cyril Jackson’s Health Festival we are not only glad to spread the good word about potatoes, but we also feel privileged to learn about our consumers – present and future.”

by Western Potatoes

“Growers Supporting Growers”

United Crate Co Operative Providing a low cost alternative

United crate is a Co Operative formed by growers to provide a low cost packaging Solution. We pride ourselves in offering good service together with Perth’s most competitive crate and bin pricing.

We also have four regional depots to better serve our customers in the Carnarvon, Manjimup and Donnybrook areas.

Please view the table below for an example of our Perth pricing.

Crate Type Cash price On Account price Trays 40c Plus GST 45c Plus GST

22L 40c Plus GST 45c Plus GST


84L Cabbage 45c Plus GST 50c Plus GST

84L Square 40c Plus GST 45c Plus GST

Deposit $3.00

$8.00

$8.00

$8.00

$8.00

Uni Bin $200.00* $5.00 Plus GST $5.00 Plus GST

Contact our friendly staff onPh: (08) 9455 1540 Fax: (08) 9455 2376 Email: [email protected] Web: www.unicrate.com.au

* New bin deposit amount to commence as of July 1st 2009.


“Growers Supporting Growers”

United Crate Co Operative Providing a low cost alternative

United crate is a Co Operative formed by growers to provide a low cost packaging Solution. We pride ourselves in offering good service together with Perth’s most competitive crate and bin pricing.

We also have four regional depots to better serve our customers in the Carnarvon, Manjimup and Donnybrook areas.

Please view the table below for an example of our Perth pricing.

Crate Type Cash price On Account price Trays 40c Plus GST 45c Plus GST



84L Cabbage 45c Plus GST 50c Plus GST

84L Square 40c Plus GST 45c Plus GST

Deposit $3.00

$8.00

$8.00

$8.00

$8.00

Uni Bin $200.00* $5.00 Plus GST $5.00 Plus GST

Contact our friendly staff onPh: (08) 9455 1540 Fax: (08) 9455 2376 Email: [email protected] Web: www.unicrate.com.au

* New bin deposit amount to commence as of July 1st 2009.


In April this year, the Minister for Agriculture & Food, Terry Redmond, along with Steve

Thomas, his Principal Policy Officer, took time out and demonstrated how keen they were to meet with vegetable growers on their properties in Carabooda and Gingin West.

The photos taken capture the enthusiasm the Minister displayed and how interested he was to discuss production and marketing issues with the growers. He focussed on any impediments that may be preventing the growers from developing their business and improving market access.

The Minister inspected carrot and lettuce production in the Carabooda and Gingin West areas.

Ministers Visit to Tedesco’s & Bogdanich FarmsProduction & marketing issues discussed

Left to right - Paul Bogdanich, Steve Thomas, Minister Terry Redmond, Andrew Bogdanich and Michael Bogdanich inspecting crops

Left to right: Minister Terry Redmond, Peter Wauchope and

Steve Thomas

Carnarvon Growers Field DaySuppliers and growers gather

On Thursday May 7th the Carnarvon Growers Association (CGA) in

conjunction with Landmark held a Horticulture Field Day to provide an opportunity for suppliers to meet CGA members and display their latest products. The event hasn’t been held for a number of years and was a welcome return to field days being held in the growing district.

The day was officially opened by local MP Vince Catania to a sizeable gathering of growers and industry

representatives after which there was a steady flow of visitors to the various displays and stands throughout the day. The award for best stall went to John Deere.

The event was closed with a BBQ dinner with drinks over the bar and all in all, the day was a great success for suppliers and growers. Many thanks must go to Ivor Gaylard and the hard working staff at the Carnarvon Growers Association for organising a fantastic event for Carnarvon.

by Tim Aldridge

by Jim Turley

John Deere display


The Potato Diet MakeoverThe Potato Diet Book transformation

As store manager of Friendlies Chemist Claremont, Natalie Woolley immediately took

interest in their promotion of local publication The Potato Diet Book, hoping that it would help her weight battle. She didn’t expect to undergo a complete transformation.

After taking part in the 28 day program, Natalie’s approach to eating was forever changed, shedding 6 kilograms. She was so impressed with the program that she invited her mother Leonie to take part, and she too has lost 7 kilograms.

“Jo Beer’s program is so easy to follow, it’s as if you are receiving health coaching not dieting,” said Natalie.

“Not only did The Potato Diet help me understand that there is a healthy way to eat carbohydrates, it also gave me some great recipes which makes use of wonderful fresh foods.”

To celebrate Mothers’ Day and their dieting achievement Jo Beer, together with Maurice Meade for Hair treated

Natalie and Leonie with a Maurice Meade Makeover. The results speak for themselves!

The Potato Diet

The Potato Diet is designed to re-educate people on the benefits of potatoes, the varieties available, the ease of cooking and how they play a key role in weight loss.

“In recent years all sorts of fad diets have been promoted, many of which have resulted in carbohydrates and potatoes in particular being given a bad name,” says author Jo Beer, who has worked in the food and nutrition industry for more than 20 years.

“This is incorrect and for this reason we decided to set the record straight by launching The Potato Diet book.

“Potatoes are one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables available, packed full of vitamin C, potassium, zinc, magnesium, folate and B vitamins. They’re virtually fat free, have no cholesterol and are a good source of fibre.”

The book includes easy to prepare foods for all the family that use basic pantry ingredients with a combination of fresh and frozen foods. It has guidelines for healthy eating and portion control, as well as a five and 28 day program. It also dispels common food myths and helps you choose the right foods for optimum health. All this for just $14.95. For more information or to purchase your own copy visit www.potatodietbook.com.au.

In just over 10 years, the proportion of Australian adults who were overweight or obese has increased

by around 25%. If this trend continues, it is estimated that at least 60% of Australians aged 18 years and over will be overweight or obese by 2010, and that this will increase to 65% by 2020.

And to make matters worse statistics from Adelaide University show people in southern WA are among the fattest in the country!

Almost 60 per cent of great southern men are overweight or obese, compared to a national average of 53 per cent, while 42 per cent of the region’s women are overweight compared to 37 per cent nationally.

To supposedly help us is a booming weight loss industry selling books and DVD’s on the next ‘fad diet by the bucket load and yet we don’t seem to be getting results.

One of the main fads that has come out over the years is the low carb diet which has changed people’s attitudes to basic everyday foods such as bread, cereal and potato. Instead of being a regular in the supermarket trolley they are seen as the enemy – the reason for our weight increase.

Difficult to understand if you know the facts as potatoes are:

readily available•

easy to cook • continued...

The Potato DietSynopsis

John Deere display


one of the most versatile •vegetablespacked full of vitamins and •mineralspractically fat free•

gluten free•

cheap to buy•

Yet the low carb fad has made people forget this.

The Potato Diet is designed to re-educate people on the benefits of potatoes, the varieties available, the ease of cooking and how they play a key role in weight loss.

The book will include easy to prepare foods for all the family that use basic pantry ingredients with a combination of fresh and frozen foods. It will have guidelines for healthy eating, portion control, myth busting, and information on special diets (diabetes, caeliac etc) as well as celebrity and non celebrity testimonials.

There will be 2 simple programs to follow, a 5 day and a 28 day program. Each will have easy to follow recipes, daily menus, healthy snacks, shopping lists, motivation tips, personal goals section and exercise recommendations.

The book will be approximately 90 pages, full colour, a handy A5 ring bound style with easy to find coloured sections and priced at $9.95.

It will be written by Nutritionist Jo Beer and the team at Western Potatoes.

Jo Beer BSc (Hons) Nutritionist, Diabetes Educator and Health Coach

Jo Beer has been involved in the food and nutrition industry for nearly 20 years and gained an honours degree in Nutritional Sciences in the UK specialising in nutrition and the immune system.

Over the years she has helped hundreds of clients to achieve their health and weight goals through a series of personal, group and

corporate programs. Working closely with her medical husband Dr Trevor Beer and a team of exercise physiologists, Jo brings the latest scientifically proven nutritional medicine to her clients to enable them to gain optimum health. She is currently based at Hollywood Private Hospital where she works with Professor David Wood and Dr Helen Gilbey on orthopaedic and diabetic pre and post operative programs for weight loss. Jo also assists Craig Cheetham at the WA Cardiac Rehabilitation centre with their rehab programs.

Jo developed the revolutionary Revitalise Portion Plate and Grazing Box to keep her clients in the best of health and in 2007 just launched her home based Revitalise Your Life in 6 Weeks Program for individuals, groups and corporate clients. She is also author of “Revitalise – invigorating recipes for increased vitality”.

Jo regularly speaks to schools, businesses and the community on all areas of health and weight loss and contributes to newspapers such as the Sunday Times, The West Australian as well as other media such as Channel 9 and ABC Radio.

Sample 3 Day Diet

Day 1

Breakfast:½ cup raw muesli or ½ cup raw porridge with low fat milk and 1 cup chopped fruit of choice

Lunch:Vegetable and lentil soup about 300-400mls (see recipe) or6 slices of vegetable or fish sushi (not tempura)

Dinner:Tamari Salmon BakeThinly slice 1 medium carrot and 1 small zucchini and place on a foil square. Top with a piece of salmon

(100 - 125g) or fish of choice and bring the sides of the foil around fish to make a pouch, leaving a gap at the top. Add 2 tbsp Tamari, close foil pouch and bake in oven (200C) for 15 - 20mins. Serve with baked Royal Blue potato (150g) with green salad

Day 2

Breakfast:2 slices wholegrain or wholemeal toast topped with 2 tbsp ricotta cheese and 1 mashed banana

Lunch:Hummus (2 tbsp) or chicken (75g) plus grated carrot and 1 cup chopped salad in wholegrain pita

Dinner:Warm potato and spinach salad (see recipe)

Day 3

Breakfast:1 thick slice sourdough bread (70g) with ¼ avocado and 1 tomato

Lunch:Vegetable and lentil soup about 300-400mls (see recipe) or

Wholegrain sandwich with tuna (75g), handful chopped dill (optional) and 1 cup mixed salad

Dinner:Mustard ChickenGrill a chicken breast (100g) and serve with steamed vegetable of choice and Kipler potatoes (150g). Mix 1tbsp grain mustard mixed with 2 tbsp natural yoghurt and drizzle over potato and chicken

Snack allowance:2 pieces fresh fruit or 6 pieces dried fruit1 200g pot of natural or fruit yoghurt1 glass milk2 vita weats crispbreads with sliced tomato or cottage cheese12 nuts (almonds, Brazils, walnuts)


Drinks:1 – 2 litres water per dayMax 2 cups coffee (no sugar)Max 4 cups tea (black, green or herbal)

Recipes:

Warm Potato and Spinach Salad (serves 4)

400g potatoes (Choose Kipfler, Ruby Lou or Royal Blues) scrubbed and chopped into small pieces225g baby spinach175g button mushrooms, thinly sliced8 sun dried tomatoes200g pumpkin, chopped into cubes1 x 400g can mixed beans, drained

For the dressing:1 garlic clove, crushed2 tsp wholegrain mustard2 tsp balsamic vinegar1 tbsp olive oil

Roast pumpkin for 40 minutes in •oven at 200CCook potatoes in boiling water for •8-10 minutes until tenderDrain and toss potatoes and •pumpkin with spinach leaves. Set asideMix all dressing ingredients •together in a bowl.Add mushrooms, sun dried •tomatoes and mixed beans and leave to stand for 5 minutesAdd potatoes and spinach to the •mushrooms and toss together. Serve

Fresh Vegetable and Lentil Soup (Serves 4 - 6)1 medium onion, chopped1 medium Ruby Lou potato (150g)2 celery stalks, sliced3 carrots, chopped2 tomatoes, cubed2 medium zucchini, cubed2 leeks all chopped

2 cloves garlic, crushed2 tbsp olive oil1.5 litres vegetable stock2 good handfuls chopped basil50g pearl barley50g lentils2 tbsp tomato paste2 tbsp chopped parsleyFreshly ground pepper

Heat oil in large saucepan and •cook onion, garlic for a few minutes then add potato, celery, carrots and tomatoesCover and leave the vegetables •to sweat for about 10 - 15 minutes on low heat checking to make sure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the panPour in stock and basil. Add •leeks, zucchini, pearl barley and lentils and cook for 45 minutesStir in tomato puree and cook •for further 5 minutes. Just before serving add parsley

Fairbanks Seeds ‐ We’ve got the West covered.

Disclaimer: All cultural and descriptive information is given as a general guide only. Substantial variations may occur due to many environmental factors, including climate, soil type, location, management and cultural practices. No liability will be accepted by Fairbank’s Selected Seed Co. Pty. Ltd. (ABN 86 007 138 276), or its representatives as to the accuracy of the information. All information is given in good faith . Fairbanks Seeds Ph 03 9689 4500 Fax 03 9689 8106

West Australian Agent: Mr. Don Arbuckle ‐ Mobile: 0411 437 299

Brittany – 12/13 week cauliflower, well covered curd, with excellent adaptability. Dual purpose, cuts well late autumn and again mid spring

Prophet – Uniform broccoli with thick stems, medium beads and heavy head weight. Cuts well from late autumn through winter into spring. Not recommended for cutting later in spring, as it performs best under cooler conditions.

Origin – New release, a top performer in trials. Relatively slow bolting with IR to some Club Root strains.

Miyako – Green stem Pak Choi which has dominated the market, especially where Club Root is a problem. IR to Club Root.

Celtic ‐ A revelation in the baby leaf market. Mid green oakleaf with very upright habit. Excellent tolerance to mildew pressure.


Tomato Growers PollTomatogrowersvoteyes

Tomato growers have voted with a resounding yes in a poll to include tomatoes in the

APC Vegetable Producers Committee (APC-VPC). This committee covers all of the functions listed (a) to (m) under section 121 of the Agricultural Produce Commission Act 1988.

A number of the tomato growers have already started talking about research, marketing and promotion and biosecurity prospects for the coming year.

Prior to receiving applications for fee for service funding in April/May each year, the consultation process with growers and stakeholders usually

commences in January although ideas for funding are recorded all year round.

Already the APC-VPC has approved projects that will have a positive effect on vegetable growers including those growing tomatoes.


Carnarvon Grower VisitWorking together

During the tomato poll campaign, I took the opportunity to visit a few

vegetable growers in Carnarvon and capture a few photos.

Thanh Van, is a very successful grower of capsicums, cucumbers and tomatoes in large shade houses and external crops as well. Ivor Gaylard advises that Thanh was one of the first Vietnamese growers to purchase a plantation in Carnarvon and has worked hard to develop the property himself.

Rosanda Yelash is another successful vegetable grower in Carnarvon, pictured with Committee of Management member Ivor Gaylard. Rosanda and her husband, Steve, have been growing a variety of vegetables in Carnarvon for decades and specialise in chillies.

The Carnarvon Growers Association has invested over $400,000.00 by purchasing two new cardboard box making machines. Ivor Gaylard CEO of the Carnarvon Growers Association stated that the machines have been very successful and by owning their own machines it has provided the CGA with a lot more flexibility.

Ivor explained that these new machines are not only more efficient, have less down-time and are more cost effective but one machine boxes a variety of other fruits and vegetables which allows them the opportunity to expand to other varieties.

Finally, one of the backbones of the Carnarvon Growers Association is Sarah Madsen with a charming personality and a great attitude towards work and the growers.

by Jim Turley

Ivor Gaylard & Mario Selinoski working the

machines

Ivor Gaylard & Rosanda Yelash inspecting chillies

Thanh Van & Ivor Gaylard inspecting cucumbers

Sarah Madsen - Carnarvon

Growers Association


From the President’s Keyboard

Winter is supposed to be here – now! We’re feeling a little cold – but where’s the rain?

For those that have had some rain – great - enjoy it! But for those that have not – we count each and every drop that is put on our crops.

vegetablesWA held a successful meeting, in Carabooda, during May. The meeting was to discuss the nitrates issue. It was great to see the number of growers that attended the meeting. With a panel of experts from the Department of Agriculture and Food, Water, Environment and Conservation, Health and the City of Wanneroo (Health Managers) questions were asked and answered – with lots of enthusiasm and everyone went away understanding a little more and encouraged to be more proactive. We also understood that the nitrate issue belongs to all of society and does occur naturally in some places on this earth. I would like to say a big thank you, to the Canzirri family, for hosting the meeting at the premises.

The Rural Women’s (RIRDC) Award was held in Canberra during May. The award provides a bursary of $10,000 for each of the seven state and territory winners, to help them achieve their vision in their industry and enhance their skills and capacity to contribute to agriculture, natural resource management and rural Australia. Many women have been recognised for their leadership skills and capacity to make a difference to primary industries and rural Australia. This year’s national award winner is Roma Britnell, a dairy industry leader from Victoria and the runner-up was Barb Madden, a beef feedlotter from Queensland. I would encourage the women in the horticulture industry to think about themselves and recognise the work they do and what they achieve – not only in their businesses but in their day to day lives.

During May we have seen the resignation of Ian Longston from the Department of Agriculture. vegetablesWA has had a very good relationship and has had great support from Ian whilst he has been with the Department. We wish him every success – wherever he goes.

The new Horticultural Industry Award is becoming a hot topic at present. Growers should familiarise themselves

of this award to see how it could and will impact upon them.

On a more serious, but also a lighter note, Purple Bra Day is happening on the 19th June. This is the day when purple bras are worn on the outside of clothing to show that we care and are breast aware. Breast cancer not only affects women but it can and does affect men.

The Browne’s Every Woman Expo is being held from the 26th to the 28th June. Come along and see how vegetablesWA will be promoting your produce.

Finally to one and all – keep well this winter. Remember – eat plenty of veg – it will keep you healthy.

Maureen DobraPresident, vegetablesWA

The Vegetable Industry Development Officer program is officially ending on June 30th 2009. The program has been in place for around 10 years with positive results in Western Australia thanks to the work of David Ellement (now CEO of the Wine Industry Association of WA).

Over the years, IDO’s have provided a local link for growers, a contact point for associations and government departments, and have assisted with HAL’s Industry Advisory Committee which advises the direction of future research and activities.

A recent HAL review has indicated that a new, national approach to industry development was needed (in place of the local approach). As such, the change will take place in the new financial year. IDO contracts

will effectively end and a new mode of service delivery will take over.

The new Vegetable Industry Development Program has been touted as an innovative, synergistic and coordinated approach to the delivery of services to industry. The key aim of the program is to “inform and empower those in horticulture to make better business decisions”.

The new program has already been put out for tender, with applications closing on the 18th of May. The Program Coordination role and four sub-programs, including Knowledge Management, People Development, Consumers and Markets and Local Information and Farm Productivity, were open for proposals. The tender is expected to be highly competitive as the stakes for leading Australia’s

Vegetable Industry Development Program are high.

vegetablesWA have been highly active in the HAL process and are working hard to ensure that WA growers will be represented and serviced to the highest possible standards going forward. The tender process is highly confidential, and as soon as any winners are announced we will communicate outcomes with growers.

For further information, please email or call:

Georgia ThomasProgram ManagerPhone: 9481 0834E: [email protected]

Georgia Thomas

Vegetable IDO Program Ends – June 30

western austral ia

ISSUE 38 | June 2009

Vegetable

Your nationalvegetablelevy at work

R&D

CONTENTS

EnviroVeg Visit ............................. . 2

Upcoming Events ......................... 3

Minor Use Permits Update ........... 4

A project to examine the extent and control options of Aphanomyces root rot and black root rot on green beans has begun. The project has developed from a previous project on beans that identified Aphanomyces root rot on beans in Tasmania for the first time. Black root rot is also of some concern to growers. Both display similar symptoms with brownish to black discoloration at the lower stem, main and finer roots. Black root rot is much darker than Aphanomyces root rot. Both diseases are caused by fungi Aphanomyces root rot caused by Aphanomyces euteiches and black root rot by Thielaviopsis basicola.

Roots infected by these two pathogens were found to be prone to further damage by other soilborne pathogens such as Pythium, Rhizoctonia and Fusarium species. Both Aphanomyces and Thielaviopsis can survive for many years in soil. There are currently no effective chemicals registered or cultural methods of managing ARR and BRR.

This project will look at the extent of the diseases in Tasmanian bean growing areas and examine rotational options to control the diseases. Varietal differences to disease expression and the use of fungicides to control the disease will be examined.

Any growers who may have seen these diseases and consider them to be an issue in their crops are asked to contact the research team.

For further information on the project contact Andrew Watson on 0269512611.

New project on bean root diseases has commenced Andrew Watson (NSW DPI) and Hoong Pung (Peracto-Tasmania)

New project on bean root diseases has commenced. Andrew Watson (NSW DPI) and Hoong Pung (Peracto-Tasmania) A project to examine the extent and control options of Aphanomyces root rot and black root rot on green beans has begun. The project has developed from a previous project on beans that identified Aphanomyces root rot on beans in Tasmania for the first time. Black root rot is also of some concern to growers. Both display similar symptoms with brownish to black discoloration at the lower stem, main and finer roots. Black root rot is much darker than Aphanomyces root rot. Both diseases are caused by fungi Aphanomyces root rot caused by Aphanomyces euteiches and black root rot by Thielaviopsis basicola.

Aphanomyces root rot (left) on showing brown discolouration of the lower stem and the darker brown to black colour of black root rot (right). Roots infected by these two pathogens were found to be prone to further damage by other soilborne pathogens such as Pythium, Rhizoctonia and Fusarium species. Both Aphanomyces and Thielaviopsis can survive for many years in soil. There are currently no effective chemicals registered or cultural methods of managing ARR and BRR. This project will look at the extent of the diseases in Tasmanian bean growing areas and examine rotational options to control the diseases. Varietal differences to disease expression and the use of fungicides to control the disease will be examined. Any growers who may have seen these diseases and consider them to be an issue in their crops are asked to contact the research team. For further information on the project contact Andrew Watson on 0269512611.

New project on bean root diseases has commenced. Andrew Watson (NSW DPI) and Hoong Pung (Peracto-Tasmania) A project to examine the extent and control options of Aphanomyces root rot and black root rot on green beans has begun. The project has developed from a previous project on beans that identified Aphanomyces root rot on beans in Tasmania for the first time. Black root rot is also of some concern to growers. Both display similar symptoms with brownish to black discoloration at the lower stem, main and finer roots. Black root rot is much darker than Aphanomyces root rot. Both diseases are caused by fungi Aphanomyces root rot caused by Aphanomyces euteiches and black root rot by Thielaviopsis basicola.

Aphanomyces root rot (left) on showing brown discolouration of the lower stem and the darker brown to black colour of black root rot (right). Roots infected by these two pathogens were found to be prone to further damage by other soilborne pathogens such as Pythium, Rhizoctonia and Fusarium species. Both Aphanomyces and Thielaviopsis can survive for many years in soil. There are currently no effective chemicals registered or cultural methods of managing ARR and BRR. This project will look at the extent of the diseases in Tasmanian bean growing areas and examine rotational options to control the diseases. Varietal differences to disease expression and the use of fungicides to control the disease will be examined. Any growers who may have seen these diseases and consider them to be an issue in their crops are asked to contact the research team. For further information on the project contact Andrew Watson on 0269512611.

Aphanomyces root rot (left) on showing brown discolouration of the lower stem and the darker brown to black colour of black root rot (right).

02

ISSUE 21 | DECEMBER 2005

western austral ia

2

western austral ia

EnviroVeg visits WAAn EnviroVeg visit to WA in late April included a Healthy Soils Awareness Day workshop at Myalup and an Enviroveg Workshop in Carnarvon.

Healthy Soils

The Myalup workshop, hosted by Ivankovich Farms, was presented by Jim Kelly and Alison Anderson (ARRIS – www.arris.com.au), co-authors of the Healthy Soils Ute Guide.

Participants were introduced to principles to assist them in making on-farm soil management decisions. The workshop showed how to conduct a simple soil pit inspection, perform on-site assessment of soil characters and how to interpret soil chemical analysis results.

The aim of the training was to demonstrate how to:

take soil samples on-farm •and understand the sampling methodologies for specific analysis

dig and prepare a soil pit•

map root systems in a soil pit•

identify main soil horizons and •presence/absence of compaction

prepare a 1:5 soil:water sample for •analysis

perform on-site measurement of soil •pH, salinity, slaking and dispersion.

understand the key properties •as contained on a soil chemical analysis report

While the course was designed in the eastern states for heavier soils, the principles are true for local conditions and the soil pit provided an excellent insight to ‘what lies beneath’ in the region. The cultivated soil in the top 400 to 500 mm displaying the characteristic, dark organic matter content was clearly defined over the yellow sand (in its natural state) to around 1 metre where a layer of limestone put an end to any further digging.

Second Party Audit

After the workshop, Helena Whitman (AUSVEG Environmental Manager) conducted an EnviroVeg second party audit at Ivankovich Farms. The successful completion of the audit has made Peter and Anthony Ivankovich the first in the region to attain accreditation to that level.

“The concept of the second party audit has only recently been introduced

within the EnviroVeg program to enable growers to display the EnviroVeg logo on packaging and other signage” said Helena. The Loose Leaf Lettuce Company is another WA business that has successfully completed the audit. Congratulations to both businesses.

EnviroVeg Workshop

The EnviroVeg workshop was hosted at the Carnarvon Growers Association on Wednesday 22nd April. Helena Whitman, Environmental Manager for AUSVEG and Alison Anderson (ARRIS) gave an excellent presentation that outlined the need for environmental management and described how EnviroVeg can be put into practice on-farm and assist growers to meet regional NRM targets. Finally, growers were able to work through the EnviroVeg Self Assessment themselves and consider how they rate within the program.

A key message during the workshop was that EnviroVeg is essentially a reporting mechanism that can be easily implemented on-farm and that many of the requirements of the program are already being done on most properties. EnviroVeg is the Vegetable Industry’s

Peter Ivankovich and Helena Whitman

033

U P C O M I N G E V E N T S

National Farmers’ Federation 1st National Congress and 2009 Innovation in Agriculture Awards 22-23 June 2009 Brisbane Convention Centre Brisbane, QLD For more information visit: www.congress.nff.org.au

2009 National Australian Hydroponics & Greenhouse Industry Conference, Sydney

19-22 July 2009 Sydney For more information visit www.ahga.org.au

Vegetable IAC and Advisory Group meetings—Strategic Priority Planning 25-27 August 2009

Asiafruit Congress & Asia Fruit Logistica 2-4 September 2009 Hong Kong For more information visit: www.asiafruitcongress.com.au Email: [email protected]

13th Symposium on Precision Agriculture in Australasia 10-11 September 2009 The University of New England, Armadale, NSW For more contact David Lamb Phone: 02 6773 3565 Email: [email protected]

Produce Marketing Association (PMA) Fresh Summit Convention and Exposition

2-5 October 2009 Anaheim, California, USA For more information visit www.pma.com

Southern Hemisphere Congress

14-16 October Cape Town, South Africa For more information visit www.shcongress.com

Eurofruit Middle East Congress

9-11 November 2009 Dubai, UAE For more information visit www.mideastcongress.com

own environmental program. Apart from the annual Self Assessment there is no extra paperwork. There is no membership cost.

An advantage of the program is that growers who are audited members are also able to use the EnviroVeg logo and signage to demonstrate to the public that they are looking after their farm and surrounding environment.

If you would like to know more about:

What you can do as a vegetable •grower to look after the environment

What NRM is and how this can •affect you

What resources and assistance is •offered (such as funding) by your regional NRM organisation

Environmental practices that can •lead to savings and the long term viability of your farm

How to become a member of the •FREE industry program

Please contact Helena Whitman on 0409 535 051 or [email protected]

EnviroVeg visits WA continued

4

western austral ia

CURRENT MINOR USE PERMITS PART ONE

Permit ID Type Description Status Date Issued Expiry DatePER3850 AG Copper hydroxide / Leeks / Downy mildew, Purple blotch CURRENT 14-Sep-07 13-Sep-12PER5776 AG Propachlor / Lettuce / Grass and broadleaf weeds CURRENT 10-Nov-05 3-Nov-10PER5815 AG Spinosad / Eggplant / Melon Thrips CURRENT 11-Aug-08 31-Jul-13PER5851 AG Chlorpyrifos / Sweet Potato / Sweet potato weevil, Bean spider mite, Wireworm CURRENT 12-Feb-07 12-Feb-12PER5956 AG Ioxynil octanoate / Shallots / Broadleaf weeds CURRENT 13-Feb-06 12-Feb-11PER6552 AG Chlorpyrifos / Pumpkin / African Black Beetle CURRENT 18-May-05 30-Sep-09PER6611 AG Clethodim (Select Herbicide) / Peas / Fops annual ryegrass and winter grass CURRENT 13-Feb-06 12-Feb-10PER6886 AG Dual Gold / Brassica Leafy Vegetables / Broadleaf and Grass weeds CURRENT 1-Aug-05 1-Aug-10PER6914 AG Lannate L (methomyl) / Spring onions and Shallots / Western Flower Thrips. CURRENT 23-May-08 31-Mar-13PER6920 AG Dacthal (chlorthal-dimethyl) / Lettuce / Stinging nettle. CURRENT 24-Aug-05 24-Aug-10PER6930 AG Ridomil Gold Plus / Spring onions / Downy Mildew. CURRENT 23-Jun-04 22-Jun-09PER7359 AG Bravo Fungicide (chlorothalonil) / Garden Peas / Black Spot CURRENT 21-Oct-04 30-Sep-09PER7374 AG Secure 360 SC / Spring Onions and Shallots / Western flower thrips CURRENT 11-Oct-05 31-Jul-09PER7416 AG Confidor 200SC (imidacloprid) / Lettuce, chicory, endive & radicchio / Lettuce aphid CURRENT 24-Mar-04 31-Dec-09PER7417 AG Iprodione / Silverbeet and Spinach / Sclerotinia Rot and Grey Mould CURRENT 1-Aug-05 1-Aug-09

PER7419 AGLambda-cyhalothrin / Snow Peas and Sugar Snap Peas / Pasture Webworm, Cutworm, Rutherglen Bug and Thrips. CURRENT 11-Aug-08 31-May-13

PER7422 AGMethomyl / Radish, Swede and Turnip / Cabbage White Butterfly, heliothis, cabbage Centre Grub, Cutworm, Cluster Caterpiller and Looper CURRENT 23-May-08 31-Mar-11

PER7436 AG Nature 2 the Natural Spa Purifier / Spa / Purifier CURRENT 29-Mar-04 30-Jun-09PER7500 AG Cultar / Eucalyptus / Promote Flowering CURRENT 24-May-04 30-Jun-10PER7523 AG Bacillus thuringiensis / Snowpeas / Helicoverpa armigera & H.punctigera CURRENT 12-Aug-04 31-Aug-09PER7530 AG Pymetrozine / Beetroot / Green Peach Aphid and Potato Aphid CURRENT 6-Jan-05 31-Mar-10PER7551 AG Glyphosate / Canning River Regional Park / Hydrocotyle CURRENT 3-Apr-06 2-Apr-11

PER7560 AG Fluazifop-p as Butyl / Eggplant or Aubergine / Various grass weeds CURRENT 24-Oct-05 20-Oct-10PER7561 AG Select Herbicide / Eggplant or Aubergine / Various Grass Weeds CURRENT 25-Oct-05 25-Oct-10PER7566 AG Nuclear Polyhedrosis Virus / Sesame & Linseed / Heliothis CURRENT 17-May-05 31-Dec-10PER7588 AG Lannate L Insecticide / Silverbeet / Various Insects CURRENT 4-Feb-05 30-Jun-09

PER7603 AGRovral Aquaflo Fungicide/iprodine/beetroot/alternaria Leaf Spot, Sclerotinia Rot and Grey Mould CURRENT 21-Apr-06 20-Apr-11

PER7604 AGAlpha-cypermethrin / Brassica Leafy Vegetables / Redlegged Earth Mite and Plague Thrips CURRENT 2-Jun-05 30-Jun-09

PER7607 AGAlpha-Cypermethrin / Radish / Redlegged Earth Mite, Cabbage White Butterfly, Cluster Caterpillar and Heliothis CURRENT 27-May-05 30-Jun-09

PER7632 AG Triadimenol / Parsnips, radish, Swede And Turnip / Powdery Mildew CURRENT 8-Aug-05 31-Dec-09PER7677 AG Propiconazole / Sweet Corn / Northern Corn Leaf Blight CURRENT 25-Aug-05 31-Dec-10PER7678 AG Iprodione / Brussels Sprout / Grey Mould CURRENT 1-Aug-05 1-Aug-09

PER7897 AGRidomil Gold MZ Systemic & Protective Fungicide / Snow Peas and Sugar Snap Peas / Downy Mildew CURRENT 17-Aug-05 17-Aug-10

PER7900 AG Graslan Herbicide / Rangeland / Parkinsonia CURRENT 9-Sep-04 30-Jun-09

5

PER7905 AGPhosphorous / Lettuce (leaf and hydroponic), Fennel and Bulb (Allium) Vegetables / Downy Mildew CURRENT 4-Apr-06 30-Sep-12

PER7916 AG Nuclear Polyhedrosis Virus / Watermelons / Heliothis CURRENT 7-Aug-06 31-Mar-11PER7918 AG Methomyl / Water Melons / Heliothis & Cucumber moth CURRENT 7-Jul-06 31-Mar-11PER7935 AG Dimethomorph / Lettuce / Downy mildew CURRENT 30-Jan-09 30-Sep-11PER8186 AG Agri-fos 400 and Agri-fos 600 / Leafy vegetables / Downy mildew CURRENT 25-Jan-05 24-Jan-10PER8231 AG Filan Fungicide / Alliums (other than onions) and Carrots / Sclerotinia Rot CURRENT 31-Jul-06 30-Jun-09PER8240 AG Tebuconazole / Bulb vegetables / White rot CURRENT 1-Apr-05 31-Mar-10

PER8249 AGPetroleum oil / Capsicum, Eggplant, Tomato, Okra & Cucurbits / Whitefly (Bemisre tabaci) CURRENT 4-Aug-05 31-Mar-10

PER8454 AG Success Naturalyte Insecticide / Pepino / Eggfruit Caterpillar CURRENT 23-Sep-05 1-Oct-10PER8489 AG Clethodim / Chilli pepper, paprika, silverbeet and spinach / Annual Grasses CURRENT 24-Oct-05 12-Oct-10PER8490 AG Chlorpyrifos / Various Vegetables / African Black Beetle and Wireworms CURRENT 7-Feb-06 6-Feb-11

PER8525 AGPymetrozine / Spinach and Silverbeet / Aphids, cotton/melon aphid and potato aphid CURRENT 23-Sep-05 1-Oct-10

PER8537 AGHelicoverpa Zea or Armigera / Eggplant, Snow Peas & Sugar Snap Peas / Helicov-erpa spp. CURRENT 7-Sep-05 7-Sep-10

PER8538 AG Products containing Copper / Various Vegetable Crops / Various Diseases CURRENT 4-Nov-05 31-Oct-10PER8542 AG Acifluorfen / Adzuki Beans or Azuki Beans / Broadleaf Weeds CURRENT 28-Sep-05 30-Jun-10PER8543 AG Helicoverpa / Adzuki Beans & Cowpeas / Native Budworm & Cotton Bollworm CURRENT 28-Sep-05 1-Sep-10

PER8572 AGLambda-cyhalothrin / Beetroot / Loopers, Vegetable weevil, thrips and Rutherglen bug. CURRENT 6-Sep-05 1-Sep-10

PER8576 AGBuprofezin /Specified leafy and woody herbs / Jassid, Mealybug, silverleaf and greenhouse whitefly CURRENT 23-Apr-09 30-Aug-12

PER8595 AG Cypermethrin / Specified leafy & woody herbs / Specified insect pests CURRENT 24-Dec-08 30-Sep-11PER8596 AG Propiconazole / Specified leafy & woody herbs / Various diseases CURRENT 24-Dec-08 30-Sep-11PER8597 AG Pymetrozine / Leafy & Woody Herbs / Aphids CURRENT 4-Sep-08 30-Apr-10PER8601 AG Pyriproxyfen / Herbs / Silverleaf whitefly & Greenhouse whitefly CURRENT 17-Apr-09 30-Aug-12

PER8608 AGChlorothalonil (Bravo) / Snow peas & sugar snap peas/ Downy mildew, Chocolate spot CURRENT 15-Dec-05 31-Dec-10

PER8612 AG Indoxacarb / Specified leafy & woody herbs / Lepidoptera CURRENT 24-Dec-08 30-Sep-11PER8613 AG Pirimicarb / Specified leafy & woody herbs / Aphids CURRENT 24-Dec-08 30-Sep-11PER8620 AG Tebuconazole / Specified leafy & woody herbs / Various diseases CURRENT 24-Dec-08 30-Sep-11PER8762 AG Maldison / Leeks, Spring onions and Shallots / Onion Thrips CURRENT 18-Apr-08 30-Sep-12

PER8765 AGPermethrin/ Cucurbits: Rockmelons, Watermelons, Pumpkin & Cucumbers/ Cucum-ber Moth Larvae (Phakelura Indica). CURRENT 5-Jan-06 31-Dec-10

PER8766 AGPendimethalin/ Beetroot & Horseradish/ Annual Grasses & Broadleaf Weeds as per Label. CURRENT 4-Nov-05 30-Nov-10

PER8768 AG Zineb / Eggplant, Spinach & Silverbeet/ Anthracnose (Colletotrichum spp.) CURRENT 10-May-06 10-May-11

PER8790 AGMethomyl/ Snow peas and Sugar Snap Peas/ Cucurbits/ Cucumber moths and Western Flower Thrips. CURRENT 3-Mar-06 31-Mar-11

PER8813 AG Trifluralin / Parsnips / wintergrass CURRENT 10-Aug-07 9-Aug-12

PER8819 AGFilan Fungicide (boscalid) / Brassicas & Brassica leafy vegetables, Lettuce & Beans / Sclerotinia rot CURRENT 10-Oct-05 31-Oct-09


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Work is well under way to demonstrate good practice and better environmental

outcomes in vegetable production at six sites on the Swan Coastal Plain.

Working closely with DAFWA, vegetablesWA is mindful that we avoid duplication of existing programs. The proposed outcome of the project is to achieve wider adoption of sustainable farm practices and our challenge is to utilise existing resources and expertise while providing a consistent message and adding real value to industry adoption efforts.

With this in mind, two of the sites have a history of water and nutrient management practices monitored and improved over time, by DAFWA. These have effectively become ‘shared’ sites. The value this project adds to those sites is:

a systems management •approach that looks beyond water and nutrient management

to make these sites open •demonstration sites

provide a stronger link to •industry promoting sustainable practices to local growers

By now, every Western Australian vegetable and potato grower should have their copy of the Good Practice Guide. This project is aimed at demonstrating that you can use the guide to realise the production and environmental benefits that can come with making positive changes.

Good Practice and Better Environmental Outcomes for Vegetable Production is funded by investment from the Australian Government through Caring For Our Country.

The Good Practice Guide produced by vegetablesWA forms part of a project funded by investment from the Australian Government through Caring for Our Country and administered by Perth Region NRM.

Good Practice Demonstration Kicks OffSustainable Farming Practices

Goodpracticedemonstrationkicksoff

Workiswellunderwaytodemonstrategoodpracticeandbetterenvironmentaloutcomesinvegetable

productionatsixsitesontheSwanCoastalPlain.

WorkingcloselywithDAFWA,vegetablesWAismindfulthatweavoidduplicationofexistingprograms.

Theproposedoutcomeoftheprojectistoachievewideradoptionofsustainablefarmpracticesandour

challengeistoutiliseexistingresourcesandexpertisewhileprovidingaconsistentmessageandadding

realvaluetoindustryadoptionefforts.

Withthisinmind,twoofthesiteshaveahistoryofwaterandnutrientmanagementpractices

monitoredandimprovedovertime,byDAFWA.Thesehaveeffectivelybecome‘shared’sites.Thevalue

thisprojectaddstothosesitesis:

• asystemsmanagementapproachthatlooksbeyondwaterandnutrientmanagement

• tomakethesesitesopendemonstrationsites

• provideastrongerlinktoindustrypromotingsustainablepracticestolocalgrowers

Bynow,everyWesternAustralianvegetableandpotatogrowershouldhavetheircopyoftheGood

PracticeGuide.Thisprojectisaimedatdemonstratingthatyoucanusetheguidetorealisethe

productionandenvironmentalbenefitsthatcancomewithmakingpositivechanges.

GoodPracticeandBetterEnvironmentalOutcomesforVegetableProductionisfundedbyinvestment

fromtheAustralianGovernmentthroughCaringForOurCountry.

TheGoodPracticeGuideproducedbyvegetablesWAformspartofaprojectfundedbyinvestmentfrom

theAustralianGovernmentthroughCaringforOurCountryandadministeredbyPerthRegionNRM.

Bob Paulin from the Department of Agriculture and Food speaking

with Janet Elliot

by Gavin Foord

Orius – The New Saviour in the Fight Against Western Flower ThripBeneficial bugs researched

The Western Flower Thrip has long been a major headache for Western Australian

vegetable growers and growers all over the world.

This resilient pest is a major vector for viral diseases in plants and is very efficient at spreading the destructive tomato spotted wilt virus. The spread of disease along with the feeding damage caused by western flower thrips costs vegetable growers millions of dollars in crop damage around Australia. Australian researchers have been actively researching this pest for the past 6 years and have been working to develop effective management strategies to combat it.

Western flower thrips live and feed on flowers and new plant growth by penetrating the plant cell and consuming the contents, which then causes the empty cells to collapse

and die. The resulting distortion, wilt or scarring is not always evident immediately after feeding, but becomes obvious when the affected leaves, flowers or fruits mature and distort. Total crop loss or a considerable reduction in the value of produce can occur where there are high numbers of thrips.

Growers have struggled to eliminate this pest through the use of insecticides; this is due to the pest developing resistance to nearly every possible insecticide. Lachlan Chilman from Manchil IPM Services commented that there are “very few chemicals that work at all on Western Flower Thrip. It has built up resistance to nearly every possible insecticide that is available to Western Australian and international growers”.

Crop-spraying is also problematic for other reasons, says Lachlan.

Not only is the constant application of chemicals expensive and environmentally damaging, “By spraying for Western Flower Thrip so much you are killing all of your other predators that control mites and other insects... the damage the growers are doing by controlling the one pest is causing much more damage to the rest of the insects in their crops”.

Since Manchil IPM Services began 6 years ago, the team has worked to develop alternative pest management methods in the horticulture industry. Lachlan and his team provide an insect and disease monitoring service for most horticultural crops which has attracted interest from growers keen to reduce their pesticide use.

Orius Armatus was discovered in WA by Manchil IPM Services a little over 2 years ago, since then research has been actively conducted into the


by Liz Daly

Breeding of the beneficial bug Orius Armatus is most effective in selected types of bean pods


growth and development of these beneficial bugs by Lachlan and his team. “It has been a very slow process” Lachlan commented.

Apart from the environmental benefits of reducing the use of chemical sprays, other advantages of using the Orius bug include increased cost efficiency, with a much lower rate of application required as opposed to chemically spraying crops two to three times per week and as a result achieving a higher crop yield. Lachlan advises that growers can expect the initial cost for the application of Orius to be higher for the first season but this will reduce as the Orius develops.

Although warm temperatures are required commercially to encourage an optimal rate of reproduction, the Orius can survive in both hot and cold conditions. Lachlan states that although their activity slows down in winter this correlates with the activity of the pests that they are trying to control and is therefore still effective.

Lachlan explained that with the application of Orius, growers could

expect to see results within 6-8 weeks of the first release.

Lachlan explained that in order to achieve maximum results from Orius it is important that growers are aware of chemicals that have been applied to crops before releasing the Orius. Toxic chemicals can often leave a residue on plants for a long period of time which can affect the growth and effectiveness of the Orius bug in reducing the appearance of Western Flower Thrip.

Other strategies to reduce the spread of disease include the control of weeds around crops by clearing a 10m barrier of bare ground, removing or destroying old crops, removing any plants showing symptoms and planting TSWV resistant seeds.

With commercial crops currently being trialled, the expected commercial release date of Orius Armatus will be around August – September this year.

Lachlan Chilman in his greenhouse in Muchea


Unfair Dismissal makes a comeback under the Fair Work Bill

Small Business Fair Dismissal Code Checklist

The recent passing of the Fair Work Bill by Parliament will bring changes to the way

businesses deal with unfair dismissal. Previously under Work Choices, businesses with less than 100 employees were unaffected by the unfair dismissal provisions.

However with the Fair Work Bill which comes into force on 1 July 2009 all businesses will be affected by the changes to the unfair dismissal provisions and need to be aware of them.

The unfair dismissal provisions under the Fair Work Bill protect employees on the basis of a two tiered test of:

minimum period of employment of •the employees; and

number of employees in the •business.

The employees given protection are those who have worked either:

12 months in a business with •less than 15 employees full time equivalent, or

6 months in a business with •more than 15 employees full time equivalent.

The calculation of 15 employees full time equivalent is based on the total hours worked by all employees each week divided by 38. This formula is applicable for 18 months from 1 July 2009 until 31 December 2010. From 1 January 2011, the basis of calculation of employees in a business will be on a straight headcount of all employees whether full time or otherwise.

Therefore businesses need to constantly calculate the number of full time equivalent employees within their businesses. In this way, the businesses will be aware of the applicable minimum period of employment for their employees, and whether each individual employee is entitled to bring a claim for unfair dismissal or otherwise.

A new Fair Dismissal Code has been put in place for small businesses (with less than 15 employees) when dismissing an employee. If the Code

is followed by the small businesses, then the dismissals will not be deemed to be unfair.

The Code contains a checklist (see attached) that is a series of questions that the employers have to complete at the time of a dismissal. The checklist is not mandatory but employers are strongly encouraged to use and complete the checklist, and keep the checklist on file.

The checklist may assist the employer in the future as an aid memoire or a written record of the events that led up to the dismissal of the employee in question.

Unfair dismissal provisions will not apply to employees who are employed with a salary of more than $100,000 per annum full time equivalent indexed from August 2007; or on a fixed term contract; or on a specific task contract.

For further information please contact Ian Tait of Tait & Co, Level 3, St Georges Terrace, Perth Tel: 9422 8111; Fax: 9322 9422; Email: [email protected]

It is in the interest of the employer to complete this checklist at the time of dismissal and to keep it in case of a future unfair dismissal claim. However, it is not a requirement of the Fair Dismissal Code that the checklist be completed.

How many employees are 1. employed in the business? (Include full time, part time and regular and systematic casual employees as well as the dismissed employee and any other employee dismissed at the same time).

❏ Under 15 employees ❏ 15 employees or more (If under 15 employees, the Fair Dismissal Code applies.)

Has the employee been 2. employed in this business as a full-time, part-time or regular casual employee for 12months or more? ❏ Yes ❏ No (If no, the employee cannot make an unfair dismissal claim.)

Did you dismiss the employee 3. because of a genuine redundancy? ❏ Yes ❏ No If yes, explain the reason for the redundancy (for example, economic down-turn, introduction of new technology therefore requiring less staff, or another such reason) and whether redeployment was considered. continued...


Ken Sue

Do any of the following 4. statements apply? I dismissed the employee because I believed on reasonable grounds that:

The employee was stealing a. money or goods from the business ❏ Yes ❏ No

The employee defrauded the b. business ❏ Yes ❏ No

The employee threatened c. me or other employees, or clients with violence, or actually carried out violence in the workplace ❏ Yes ❏ No

The employee committed d. a serious breach of occupational health and safety procedures. ❏ Yes ❏ No

Did you dismiss the employee 5. for some other form of serious misconduct?

❏ Yes ❏ No If yes, what was the reason?

If you answered Yes to any of the questions in parts 3, 4 or 5 you are not required to answer the following questions.

Did you dismiss the employee 6. because of the employee’s

unsatisfactory conduct, performance or capacity to do the job?

❏ Yes ❏ No If yes,

Did you clearly warn the a. employee (either verbally or in writing) that the employee was not doing the job properly and would have to improve his/her conduct or performance, or otherwise be dismissed? ❏ Yes ❏ No

Did you provide the b. employee with a reasonable amount of time to

improve his/her performance or conduct? If yes, how much time was given? ❏ Yes ❏ No

Did you offer to provide the c. employee with any training or opportunity to develop his/her skills? ❏ Yes ❏ No

Did the employee d. subsequently improve his/her performance or conduct? ❏ Yes ❏ No Before you dismissed the e. employee, did you tell the employee the reason for the dismissal and give him/her an opportunity to respond? ❏ Yes ❏ No

Did you keep any records f. of warning(s) made to the employee or of discussions on how his/her conduct or performance could be improved? ❏ Yes ❏ No

Please attach any supporting documentation.

Did you dismiss the employee for 7. some other reason? ❏ Yes ❏ No If yes, what was the reason?

Did the employee voluntarily 8. resign or abandon his or her employment? ❏ Yes ❏ No If yes, please provide details

DECLARATION

I declare that I believe every statement or response in this checklist to be true

Signature Date

For further information please contact Ian Tait of Tait & Co, Level 3, St Georges Terrace, Perth Tel: 9422 8111; Fax: 9322 9422; Email: [email protected]

Recipe PotatoandMushroomPieIngredients: 2 sheets wholemeal shortcrust pastry3 medium potatoes (450g) thinly sliced125g cheese, grated¼ cup parsley, chopped15g margarine125g mushrooms, slicedsalt and pepper

Instructions:Grease a 23cm pie plate. Cover with a sheet of pastry, trim and rest. Combine potatoes, cheese, parsley, salt and pepper in a bowl. Melt margarine and sauté mushrooms for 3 minutes. Drain. Spread half the potato mixture onto pastry and top with mushrooms. Spread remaining potatoes on top. Moisten the edges of pastry then top with second sheet, trimming and sealing the edge. Cut a steam vent in top. Bake in a hot oven, 230C for 15 minutes, then a moderate oven 180C for 25 minutes. * Not suitable to microwave.

Potato and Mushroom Pie

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Serves: 4

Ingredients:

2 sheets wholemeal shortcrust pastry

3 medium potatoes (450g) thinly sliced

125g cheese, grated

cup parsley, chopped

15g margarine

125g mushrooms, sliced

salt and pepper

Method:

Grease a 23cm pie plate. Cover with a sheet of pastry, trim and rest.

Combine potatoes, cheese, parsley, salt and pepper in a bowl.

Melt margarine and sauté mushrooms for 3 minutes. Drain.

Spread half the potato mixture onto pastry and top with mushrooms.

Spread remaining potatoes on top.

Moisten the edges of pastry then top with second sheet, trimming and sealing the

edge.

Cut a steam vent in top.

Bake in a hot oven, 230C for 15 minutes, then a moderate oven 180C for 25

minutes.

* Not suitable to microwave.

Servings: 4 Preparation Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 40 minutes


WA cratesThe professional packaging service

for WA’s finest fresh fruit and vegetables

Phone: (08) 9456 4092 - Fax: (08) 9256 1730 email: [email protected]


Nourishing Our Future: 7th World Potato ConferenceChristchurch New Zealand 22-25 March 2009

Following the 2008 International Year of the Potato, the 7th World Potato Conference sought to

build on the message that the potato is now being recognised as a truly remarkable food with potential to feed the growing numbers of people starving in the world. The productive capacity of the potato has been proven by China now the largest grower of potatoes, followed by India.

Over 500 delegates attended the New Zealand conference representing over 40 countries. Neil Graham and Annemie McAuliffe of the Potato Marketing Corporation were part of a

small Western Australian delegation who attended.

The conference emphasised the dual themes of marketing and quality (including technology and research and development). Conference proceedings were marked by international high quality speakers. The exhibition was well represented by major industry participants and research projects were well publicised and displayed. The conference proved an excellent venue for networking. A great deal of useful information is available on the website www.potatocongress.org

The Western Australian potato promotion campaign through Western Potatoes Pty Ltd compared most favourably with those of other countries and regions. In particular, the concept of a potato diet book was unique and drew interest.

Contact has been made with the Perth Convention Bureau to consider bidding for this event to come to Western Australia in the future. Hosting the World Potato Congress would be a great opportunity for industry to showcase its activities and for local growers to network and learn. The earliest opportunity would be around 2015.

by Annemie McAuliffe


WA Seed Potato Evaluation Committee (WASPEC)First Dig at Pemberton

A learned team of potato industry men were assembled in Pemberton to dig and

evaluate the first consignment of mini-tubers received and planted from the National Breeding Program at Toolangi in Victoria, earlier this year.

Bob Pessotto, the coordinator of the exercise was generally pleased with the tubers from the individual cultivars.

The families of the cultivars were selected on the basis of consistency, good shape, colour, clean skin, size, uniformity, yield, absence of disease etc.

The WASPEC Committee is now awaiting a further 1000 mini-tubers from Toolangi from the same cultivar families.

The seed potatoes planted from our Department of Agriculture – ex the National Breeding Program in Toolangi were all planted out at Darryl Smith’s property and is due to be harvested shortly.

Andrew Tempra

Bob Pessotto

Don Terigno & Bruno Pessotto

by Jim Turley


VegetablesWA (supported by the Department of Agriculture and Food WA) has been

successful in its application for funding under the Australian Governments Promoting Australian Produce initiative.

The purpose of the Promoting Australian Produce Program is to assist industry bodies responsible for food marketing to develop their capacity to better promote and market Australian produce to their traditional domestic markets and to new or established export markets.

The vWA project is entitled: Development of a Marketing and Promotion Program for WA

Vegetables’. The objectives of the year long proposal are:

To gain an understanding 1. consumer preferences for vegetables;

To complete a stock-take of 2. existing research and market intelligence, and marketing/promotional activities for vegetables in Western Australia;

To gain an understanding the 3. links between consumption of vegetables and various wines;

To outline potential events 4. and activities for the vegetable industry to become involved in;

To identify pathways to better 5. marketing and promotion of vegetables to the domestic market and internationally.

To assess the effectiveness of 6. the Buy West Eat Best program

The primary outcome of the project is a strategy for the future marketing and promotion of WA vegetables. This strategy will drive the domestic and international marketing activities of vegetablesWA and provide insights to growers for their own activities.

Market Strategy Ltd and Curtin University of Technology are key partners in this project. For more information contact vegetablesWA.

WA Vegetable Marketing Project Wins Funds!

Recipe BakedVegetableswithDatesandFetta

A great recipe, like Baked Vegetables with Dates and Fetta, isn’t just about flavour, it’s the combination of taste, texture and smell which make it something special. Preparation time: 15 min Cooking time: 80 min Servings: 6 Level: Easy

Ingredients:2 whole beetroot 2 red onions, cut into wedges 4 carrots, sliced 1cm thick on diagonal 1kg pumpkin, skinned and cut into 4cm pieces 1 eggplant, chopped into 2cm pieces ½ cauliflower, broken into florets 2 tablespoons olive oil ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper 6 fresh dates, stoned and quartered 100g reduced fat fetta cheese 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or glaze 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds ¼ cup coriander leaves

Preheat oven to 200°C. Wrap beetroot in foil and bake for 45 minutes. Put the onions, carrots, eggplant, cauliflower and pumpkin in a large wide shallow baking dish. Add oil, season and toss so the oil lightly coats the vegetables. Bake for 35 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Remove from the oven, peel beetroot and cut into chunks. Place the vegetables in a large serving bowl. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and toss lightly. Place dates and fetta on top, sprinkle with sesame seeds and coriander. Helpful TipsThis recipe works great as a main meal as well as a side dish.Balsamic glaze is thicker and sweeter than balsamic vinegar and can be found in most major supermarkets.This recipe contains 3g of saturated fat per serve.Nutrition Facts: per serve Kilojoules 1020 Calories 245 Protein 11g Fat 11g Carbohydrate 25g

Sodium 235mg Potassium 1100mgCalcium 145mg Iron 2mg Fibre 7g

© Recipe and images kindly provided by Sanitarium Health Food Company.


The Seal of FreshnessBrookland Piazza Fresh Canning Vale

The owners of Brookland Piazza Fresh Canning Vale have built an entire business based on

freshness. Their customers come from far and wide to take advantage of the extra days of freshness of their produce – often within just one or two days after picking.

Established in 2005 by owners Vince Cirillo, Indigo De Jesus and Rose Bergmans, Brookland Piazza Fresh has fulfilled the growing need to supply the suburbs of Perth gourmet foods and produce 7 days a week. Furthermore, the business has been a finalist in the WA Fresh Produce Retailer of the Year for three years in a row.

According to Vince Cirillo, their decision to expand lines of gourmet produce such as speciality cheeses, coffee, cold meats, Mt Barker Free Range Chicken and Pork, fresh seafood and condiments have served them well as a great match for fruit and vegetables. They also have a great selection of organically grown produce.

“We find that people are happy to dedicate time to shopping for finer foods that will give them prolonged freshness and a greater taste.

“Our customers can receive up to 4 days more shelf life from our fruit and vegetables because we eliminate the middleman in the supply process,” said Vince.

On the Rise

There is a growing supply of fresh growers markets in the Perth metropolitan area, says Western Potatoes Retail Sales and Development Officer Daniel Niciejewski.

“At first these sort of speciality outlets only existed in affluent suburbs, but as Perth continues to favour independent retailers in the trading hours debate they are becoming increasingly popular,” said Daniel.

“It’s a win-win for growers and organizations like ours as we have more input into the supply chain.”

Western Potatoes work closely with Brookland Piazza Fresh in keeping a wide selection of potato varieties well stocked. In addition, Western Potatoes supply an array of merchandise and point of sale material to help customers understand the benefits of eating potatoes and the best way of cooking varieties.

Brookland Piazza Fresh employs 20 local staff and supports local community organizations. Being a strong family business, they strive to ensure that the community also benefits from their success.

“We have been really pleased with the response we have received from the community,” continued Vince.

“We’re seeing customers come to see us often, probably because I think people expect more from their foods these days.”

“Why would you be prepared to accept anything less for your family?”

Vince Cirillo

by Western Potatoes


BRIDGE BLACK GLOVE ROUNDHOUSEBridge broccoli is

suited to the shoulder season & winter

climate.

Also suited to the difficult spring change-

over season.

Features a finer bead and less susceptibility

to White Blister!

Dark green spinach with exceptional winter harvest

properties!

Can be bunched, or as a babyleaf its

upright growth make it ideal to be machine harvested for babyleaf.

DMR 1-7.

Large frame iceberg lettuce!

Nice rounded heads, traditional Australian

larger style.

Very uniform variety with low big vein

infection under high pressure.

DMR 1-26 & NR(0).

South Pacific SeedS

www.spssa les . com.au

“You

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uccess is our Motivation”

CONTACT EMMA SMITH (0427 947 919) or DUNCAN LAMONT (0419 934 767) FOR MORE INFORMATION

CAFE NRMini cos 15-18cm tall.

Upright frame for warm weather

production, with dark green blistered leaves

& fast to heart.

Ideal for twin heart bags.

DMR 1-26 & Nr(0).

A delicious alternative to the traditional Shepherd’s Pie. Cooking Time: 40 min Servings: 6 Level: Easy

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon oil 1 medium onion, chopped 1 stick celery, finely chopped 1 large carrot, finely chopped 1 teaspoon curry powder

500g jar tomato pasta sauce (reduced salt) 2 x 415g can brown lentils 1 cup frozen peas 1kg potatoes, peeled & evenly chopped 1 tablespoon margarine 1/2 cup So Good soy or dairy milk

Heat oil in a medium pot and sauté onion, celery and carrot until soft. Add curry powder and sauté for 1 minute.

Add pasta sauce, lentils and peas and bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Place potatoes in a large saucepan and cover with hot water. Bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer until tender. Drain potatoes and add margarine and soy milk. Mash until smooth. Spoon lentil mixture into a large oven proof dish or 6 x 1 cup oven proof dishes. Top with mashed potato. Bake in a moderate oven, 180°C, for 40 minutes.

Nutrition Facts: per serve

Recipe LentilSheperd’sPies

Kilojoules 1440kJ Calories 345Cal Protein 16g Fat 8g Carbohydrate 46g

Sodium 690mg Potassium 1425mg Calcium 90mg Iron 4.7mg Fibre 11g

©. Recipe and images kindly provided by Sanitarium Health Food Company.


The Virtues of Vegetable JuiceThe Western Potatoes Chairman Sings the Praise of Raw Vegetables!

The Western Potatoes Chairman’s passion for food extends far beyond just

potatoes! In fact he believes he is one of the state’s largest private consumers of all types of vegetables...

In the past 15 years Ross estimates he has drank an astonishing 3,500 litres of vegetables.....all as freshly squeezed juice prepared by himself in his own home.

Ross’ passion for vegetable juice started with some devastating news in late 1993. As an international business executive and company director Ross was living life in the fast lane. Based in Singapore, Ross was jet-setting almost every second day. His wife Katherine and two children, Brenden and Lisa, hardly saw their husband and father as he dashed from one meeting to another and from one airport to the next.

Suddenly, a small lump under his arm changed everything.

Ross recalls “It was all quite simple. It was a small lump that I thought I should have examined, and then next thing I knew the doctor was telling me I was ‘terminally-ill’ with cancer”.

The ‘lump’ was found to be a secondary tumour originating from a melanoma. Doctors informed Ross that the diagnosis of a secondary tumour indicated conclusively that the original cancer had spread around his body and that the only hope was extensive chemotherapy and radiation therapy back in Perth.

“It was a most terrible and frightening time for our whole family”, said Ross. I lay in ‘Charlie Gardner Hospital’ with a drip in my arm and feeling ill every day, whilst Katherine was trying to pack-up our belongings in Singapore

and relocate the family back to Perth. We had no house, car or furniture in WA so we were certainly in a crisis”.

Often a health crisis can be a ‘wake-up’ call and this was certainly the case for Ross which led him to re-evaluate his life. Once the treatment was complete he got in touch with several World experts on nutrition and ‘wellness’.

Ross’ lifestyle undertook a massive overhaul, starting with daily meditation, quality time with his kids, exercise, laughter and most importantly he began to eat in a way that his body had craved for years.

With a devastating diagnosis of less than 12 months to live due to his aggressive cancer and suffering from a range of other illnesses including arthritis, cholesterol and raised blood pressure Ross believed that he had

Ross with a selection of fresh vegetables to be juiced.

by Ross Taylor


nothing left to lose. At the ‘old’ age of 42 a new diet was on the cards and this is when Ross discovered the amazing power of consuming raw vegetables.

‘My mentors explained to me that consuming raw vegetables as juice would bring my body into complete ‘balance’ and harmony; re-balancing my pH levels (most people consume highly acidic foods), cleansing my colon and supplying my 75 billion cells with all the vitamins, minerals and enzymes that I needed....without the need for drugs, and ‘magic’ potions!”

Ross began drinking 2-3 glasses of raw juice every day and then increased the amount to five glasses each morning on an empty stomach.

“When you consider that a pizza, for example, will take 24-48 hours to be digested, yet fresh veggie juice takes around 15 minutes, it is not hard to see the benefits of this program.”

Twelve months later Ross was not only very much ‘alive’ with no signs of cancer, but he also noticed that his arthritis had subsided to a point that it was no longer any problem, his blood pressure was excellent and cholesterol perfect. Ross was literally ‘bouncing’ into his cancer specialist’s office with clear eyes and plenty of energy. Life had never been better.

“I am sure my doctor classified me as a ‘non-conforming’ patient because I

refused to follow the prognosis! I even told my friends to try the veggie juice routine-which admittedly is demanding and takes time - and they too experienced a significant improvement in their health and sense of wellbeing.

Fifteen years later Ross continues to enjoy abundant health. He still juices his vegetables each day with passion, keeps fit and spends quality time with his family in addition to his business commitments; including leading the team at Western Potatoes.

“What I love about our potato industry, and the WA vegetable industry for that matter, is that we are in the business of making people well and vibrant. Not many businesses can boast that this is the outcome from their business.” said Ross.

“When I read that our state government spends billions of dollars treating sick people in hospitals every year I really worry, when many people could enjoy brilliant health by simply feeding their bodies well through the miracle of natural vegetables. Our veggie growers are a national treasure and should be acknowledged for the contribution they make to our society.”

Ross says that nature has finely balanced all the nutrients in vegetables to ensure the body can use all the vitamins and minerals in perfect harmony. How does this happen? We don’t know; but Ross is proof that it really works.

Ross’ Favourite Juice Recipe

‘The Champion’8 Carrots3 sticks of celery1 apple3 slices beetroot5 broccoli headsHalf a bunch of English SpinachHandful of lettuceParsleyHalf a cucumber sliced One whole red capsicum sliced A small slice of gingerHalf a glass of purified waterDrink within 40 minutes of juicing.

“You can make simpler variations” says Ross. Even celery, apple and carrots are a lovely way to start the day”,

And what does Ross’ doctor think about all this raw veggie juice?

“I can’t recall”, says Ross with tongue-in-cheek, It’s been so long since I have seen my doctor I think he may have retired!”


In late 2007, a number of New Zealand greenhouse tomato growers reported problems

in their greenhouse tomatoes. Transplants appeared healthy, but started to develop symptoms similar to that caused by root diseases after transplanting. This resulted in wilting, reduced yield and, in some cases, plant death.

Before proper control measures could be suggested, it was vital to first characterise the extent of the problem. A one-year study was commissioned by the Fresh Tomato Product Group of Horticulture New Zealand and undertaken by Plant & Food Research to identify the causes of these root disease symptoms. The study involved a phone survey of growers, visits to greenhouses across New Zealand and assessment of plant materials collected from the visits.

Results from the phone survey showed that root diseases, such as Phytophthora root rot, Pythium root rot and Fusarium wilt and root rot, are common in New Zealand tomato crops, but that the extent of the damage depended on the types of growing systems in place. For instance, disease spread and impact on crops were reportedly more severe in greenhouses using NFT (Nutrient Film Technique), where nutrient solution was run in a closed system, and were patchy in greenhouses using a run-to-waste system. Crop yield was estimated to be reduced by 10% in less severe cases, and by up to 70% in severe

cases. Study of samples of plants, growing media and water samples taken from greenhouses across the country showed that the most common plant pathogenic fungi present were Fusarium, Pythium and Phytophthora species. While some strains of these fungi do cause disease, there are also strains that do not cause disease. It was important, therefore, to find out whether the ones found in this study were pathogenic or not.

In controlled laboratory experiments, only Fusarium oxysporum isolates taken from greenhouse tomato plants were able to reduce plant growth and cause dark lesions within the stems of the tested plants. Although most commercial tomato cultivars are resistant to the currently identified races of F. oxysporum, the presence of pathogenic Fusarium along with Pythium and Phytophthora in New Zealand’s tomato greenhouses indicates the potential for root disease problems particularly if susceptible cultivars are grown, or if a new Fusarium race develops in the future.

Management of Fusarium wilt and root rots

As a rule of thumb, root diseases affecting tomatoes in the field can also damage tomatoes in the greenhouse, because the environmental conditions that favour tomato growth also favour the rapid build-up and spread of diseases.

Visual inspection of plants with wilt symptoms can be made by cutting

across the stem close to the soil line. If there is vascular discoloration within the stem it is highly likely that the disease could have started in the roots. The next step is to check the root system for dark lesions.

Unless proper precautions are taken, severe losses caused by Fusarium can occur in tomatoes grown under greenhouse conditions. Where possible, the risk of crop losses should be reduced by minimising all potential sources of inoculum in nurseries and grower greenhouses, and by implementing control measures to prevent the establishment and spread of the disease.

The key to effective management of Fusarium wilt and root rots is as follows:

• remove and destroy infected plants

• use good sanitation practices

• plant resistant cultivars

• use new growth media for each crop

• apply integrated pest management practices, combining regular crop monitoring and the integration of cultural, biological and chemical controls.

An improved understanding of other factors, such as infection timing and disease expression, will also help ensure that the risks of Fusarium wilt and root rots in greenhouse tomatoes can be minimised.

Fungus at the root of disease problems in Greenhouse TomatoesFungusFusarium oxysporum is common in New Zealand greenhousetomatoes. Senior Business Manager Ken Robertson, Grower April 2009


http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/08/080815170629.htmScienceDaily (Aug. 16, 2008)

A virus that commonly infects potatoes bears a striking resemblance to one of the

key proteins implicated in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and researchers have used that to develop antibodies that may slow or prevent the onset of AD.

Studies in mice have demonstrated that vaccinations with the amyloid beta antibodies canβprotein (believed to be a major AD contributor) to produce A slow disease progression and improve cognitive function, possibly by promoting the destruction of amyloid plaques. Some early human trials have likewise been promising, but had to be halted due to the risk of autoimmune encephalitis.

One way to make Alzheimer’s vaccinations safer would be to use

a closely-related, but not human, protein as the vaccine, much like cowpox virus is used for smallpox immunizations.

In the August 15 Journal of Biological Chemistry, Robert Friedland and colleagues used this concept on an amyloid-like protein found in potato virus (PVY). They injected PVY into mice followed by monthly boosters for four months. The researchers found that the mice produced strong levels of antibodies that could attach to amyloid beta protein both in both solution and in tissue samples of Alzheimer’s patients. And although the levels were lower, mice also developed antibodies if given injections of PVY-infected potato leaf as opposed toβA purified PVY.

Friedland and colleagues note that potato virus is a fairly common infection that poses no risk to humans (many people have probably eaten PVY infected potatoes). While

tests of PVY antibodies will ultimately determine how useful they can be, they may be a promising lead to treating this debilitating disease.

Potatoes may hold Key to Alzheimer’s TreatmentA promising lead to treating this debilitating disease.

Necrotic ringspots on a potato tuber

(cultivar Nicola) due to Potato virus Y

infection. (Credit: Karine CHARLET-

RAMAGE & Camille KERLAN Laurent

GLAIS & Camille KERLAN INRA-ENSA,

Rennes, France)


June, 2005 31

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European Greenhouse Study Tour–2009

The Australian Hydroponic & Greenhouse Association will be facilitating an escorted tour of the protected cropping industry in Europe (Holland & Belgium) in October 2009, to view firsthand the highly efficient Dutch growing methods and glasshouse systems that have been developed over more than 30 years.

In addition, the tour will visit a good number of commercial growers to inspect the latest techniques (and varieties) for a range of greenhouse vegetables (including: tomatoes, capsicum, cucumber, aubergine, lettuce, herbs & strawberries) as well as visit the national research centres and manufacturing centres for a diverse range of technology & equipment.

A highlight of the trip will be a 5-day intensive training course at PTC+ (Practical Training Centre – Ede – Holland), on greenhouse management, plant physiology, etc.

PTC+ has well developed training facilities that include classrooms connected to a glasshouse (divided into 10 different compartments for 10 different crops), that allows us to immediately put into practice the theory learnt. The course entry level is aimed at greenhouse managers & experienced growers, however ample time is allocated to ensure all participants’ needs are met. The course modules covered are subject to feedback from participants and can be tailored to best meet our needs. The main instructor will be Ben van Onna who comes with great credentials and was well received during his visits for the 2003, 2005 and 2007 AHGA national conferences.

Also included will be 2 days at Hortifair (NTV) at the RAI in Amsterdam. This Expo is the worlds largest in the protected cropping industry (last year over 1,005 trade booths) and showcases the latest (existing, new &

emerging) technologies. The area is so large that 1 day is required to have an overview of what is available, and the second day is to target the products of most interest. This is not to be missed.

It is anticipated that this tour will be limited to around 14 participants (due logistical reasons), therefore your early expression of interest is encouraged to ensure your place in this much anticipated tour. A more detailed draft itinerary & survey follows.

For more information: Graeme Smith President & Tour Leader Australian Hydroponic & Greenhouse Association Mobile: +61 (0) 427 339 009 P: +613 5427 2143, F: +613 5427 3843 [email protected]

Australian Hydroponic & Greenhouse Association PO Box 538 NARRABEEN NSW 2101 Phone/Fax +61 (02) 9907 6633 Mobile 0414 333 996

www.ahga.org.au [email protected]

Dear Greenhouse Manager/Grower (as addressed) 21st May 2009

European Greenhouse Study Tour – 2009

The Australian Hydroponic & Greenhouse Association will be facilitating an escorted tour of the protected cropping industry in Europe (Holland & Belgium) in October 2009, to view firsthand the highly efficient Dutch growing methods and glasshouse systems that have been developed over more than 30 years. In addition, we will visit a good number of commercial growers to inspect the latest techniques (and varieties) for a range of greenhouse vegetables (including: tomatoes, capsicum, cucumber, aubergine, lettuce, herbs & strawberries) as well as visit the national research centres and manufacturing centres for a diverse range of technology & equipment.

A highlight of the trip will be a 5-day intensive training course at PTC+ (Practical Training Centre – Ede – Holland), on greenhouse management, plant physiology, etc. PTC+ has well developed training facilities that include classrooms connected to a glasshouse (divided into 10 different compartments for 10 different crops), that allows us to immediately put into practice the theory learnt. The course entry level is aimed at greenhouse managers & experienced growers, however ample time is allocated to ensure all participants’ needs are met. The course modules covered are subject to feedback from participants and can be tailored to best meet our needs. Our main instructor will be Ben van Onna who comes with great credentials and was well received during his visits for the 2003, 2005 and 2007 AHGA national conferences.

Also included will be 2 days at Hortifair (NTV) at the RAI in Amsterdam. This Expo is the worlds largest in the protected cropping industry (last year over 1,005 trade booths) and showcases the latest (existing, new & emerging) technologies. The area is so large that 1 day is required to have an overview of what is available, and the second day is to target the products of most interest. This is not to be missed.

It is anticipated that this tour will be limited to around 14 participants (due logistical reasons), therefore your early expression of interest is encouraged to ensure your place in this much anticipated tour. A more detailed draft itinerary & survey follows.

I look forward to your timely reply and participation in this exciting study tour. Best Regards

Graeme Smith President & Tour Leader Australian Hydroponic & Greenhouse Association Mobile: +61 (0) 427 339 009 Phone: +613 5427 2143 Fax: +613 5427 3843 [email protected]

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Do you have something you want to sell? Or a special event you wish to let our members know about? Or even a job vacancy!

We will be accepting lineage advertising for future magazine editions. Some of the lineage advertising that we will be accepting is as follows:

We can accept special events e.g. a wedding, birthday, milestone etc

We can also accept items for sale that may be of interest to our growers.

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For SaleFor Sale IQF Frigoscandia Freezer tunnel. SS Belt, up to 10 m/t per hour. For full details email [email protected] or phone (08) 82675381

CongratulationsCongratulations to The Loose Leaf Lettuce Company, who were the recipients of the Certificate of Environmental Assurance at the Australian Vegetable Industry Conference dinner in Melbourne.

FarewellFarewell to Justin Wearne Retail Sales & Development Manager who is leaving Western Potatoes on the 29th May 2009 to start his own business.

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WA Grower June 09

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