Pick up some tips on Sunglo management

Like any variety, Sunglo is a little bit different to the rest. It's a relative newcomer to the dried grape industry, so growers are still learning some of the tips to successful management. DFA, as part of it's Hort Innovation-funded project, is running a field walk on Wednesday 11 December to look at successful Sunglo patches around the region.

But wait, there's more! Even those who don't grow Sunglo will be interested to hear from pest and disease guru Peter Magarey. He will run a session on pest and disease management and give an overview of his disease prediction model that we will soon release to industry as part of a funded project.

If you just want to catch Peter's presentation, meet us at Tony Martin's property at 2pm. To be part of the full program, meet us at Malcolm and Stephen Bennett's at 1pm.

The full program includes:

1.00 pm: Discussion in Sunglo patch – Malcolm and Stephen Bennett's (212 Calder Highway, Merbein)
2:15 pm: Discussion in Sunglo patch, talk pest and disease issues with Peter Magarey and learn about new disease prediction modelling – Tony Martin's (215 Main Avenue, Merbein)
3.45 pm: Discussion in Sunglo patch – Mike Maynard's (Wells Drive, Merbein)
4.45 pm: Discussion in Sunglo patch – John Hunt's (Corner Stewart and Wolfe Roads, Red Cliffs)
5.30 pm: Discussion in Sunglo patch and a BBQ to finish – Gordon Gardner's (239 Irymple Avenue, Nichols Point)

If you know somebody else that wants to attend, it might be an idea to share a ride.

To register, contact us on 03 5023 5174 or at projects@driedfruitsaustralia.org.au.

Apply now for a DFA Innovation Grant

Do you have an idea to boost production or increase efficiency on the block?

Applications are now open for the 2019 Dried Fruits Australia Innovation Grants.

DFA members can apply for up to $3,000 in funding for projects designed to advance Australia’s dried grape industry.

Applications close Wednesday 4 December. Contact us for an application form on 03 5023 5174 or at admin@driedfruitsaustralia.org.au.

Dried grape biosecurity levy – formal process

As part of the overall legislative process in introducing the new Dried Grape Biosecurity Levy, which members supported through the voting process during the year, the Department of Agriculture has advised DFA that there is now a formal objection period in place.

As per the Levies Revenue Service – Levy Principles and Guidelines:

Formal objections will be accepted by the Minister, Parliamentary Secretary or Department within six weeks of the date of formal lodgement of the proposal, along with its supporting documentation.
The objection should clearly outline the reasons why the levy is opposed and should include an analysis of the pro-levy argument. Most importantly, it should include documentary evidence that actual and/or potential levy payers oppose the implementation of the levy
Objections having little basis in fact or which are considered irrelevant, frivolous or vexatious will not proceed.

Lodgement of objections can be sent by email to levies.policy@agriculture.gov.au or mailed to Department of Agriculture, GPO Box 858, Canberra, ACT, 2601 before 9 January 2020.

News bites

Today is National Agriculture Day! From the city to the bush, Australians are joining together in support of farmers. Visit www.agday.org.au to find out more.
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The Victorian Government provides a range of assistance to help local communities and farm businesses manage the impact of drought. See the flyer for more information.

This publication has been funded by Hort Innovation using the dried grape R&D levy and funds from the Australian Government.

Disclaimer
All information is provided in good faith and is of a general nature. Growers should make their own decisions regarding individual situations and property conditions.