A new five-year National Banana Development and Extension program will give northern NSW banana growers access to the latest research and development results.
This project is funded by the banana research and development levy, with co-investment from the QLD Department of Agriculture and Fisheries and NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and contributions from the Australian Government.
NSW DPI Development Officer, Tom Flanagan said the project aims to build stronger relationships with growers and share learnings from research trials to better understand how industry issues directly affect growers on a local, regional and national level.
“Growers are encouraged to be a part of this valuable project to identify opportunities and achieve optimum productivity through small, on-farm production changes that can make a big difference,” Mr Flanagan said.
“This project will improve knowledge and awareness of industry issues and ensure that growers are informed of the latest research and development to make the best business-based decisions.
“The one-on-one approach will help us to understand the barriers to adaptation and opportunities to assist growers in prioritising best management practices or technologies that are achievable for their individual circumstances.”
Mr Flanagan said growers will have the opportunity to access the latest research and development through region specific workshops and field days, including the National Banana Roadshow and Australian Banana Industry Congress.
“Due to the COVID-19 restrictions, some activities may be delivered through webinars or at a later date,” Mr Flanagan said.
“The project team will soon be consulting with growers and other stakeholders to identify and prioritise current and emerging industry issues. This will then provide a focus for the RD&E activities undertaken during the project.
“An example of future farm research trials may be to tackle Banana Weevil Borer, which is a serious pest in subtropical climates.
“The trial could evaluate the effectiveness of both traditional and novel treatment strategies to provide growers with the information needed to successfully control this pest and protect their plantation.”
To be a part of this project please contact Tom Flanagan on 0437 654 633 or email tom.flanagan@dpi.nsw.gov.au
Source: NSW DPI