RIRDC Completed Projects in 2003-2004 & Research in Progress as at June 2004

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To New Plants Products Research in Progress
 

1.1 NEW PLANT PRODUCTS - COMPLETED PROJECTS
PROJECT NO.	PROJECT TITLE	RESEARCHER	PHONE	ORGANISATION

Native Foods

CSL-11A	Evaluating performance of cultivated bushfood plants in South Australian environments	Dr Maarten Ryder	(08) 8303 8534	CSIRO Land and Water
CSL-20A	Soil biological constraints and benefits to quandong and other native food production	Dr Maarten Ryder	(08) 8303 8534	CSIRO Land and Water
AQI-2A	Do our own quandong production research (DOOR) feasibility study	Dr Ben Lethbridge	(08) 8383 6181	Australian Quandong Industry Association

Extractive and Fibre Crops

DAT-40A	Preliminary feasibility of ethanol production from sugar beet in northeastern Tasmania	Mr. Robin Thompson	(03) 6352 2588	Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment (Tas)
NEL-1A	Establishment of environmental management systems for the olive industry	Mr. Nelson Quinn	(02) 6230 2372	Nelson Quinn and Associates
UQ-112A	Value chain and market analysis for the Australian guar industry	Dr. Kim Bryceson	(07) 5460 1617	The University of Queensland
UCS-27A	Diagnosing diseases affecting mature jojoba plantations and developing strategies to reduce their effect on commercial production of jojoba seeds	Dr Gavin Ash	(02) 6933 2765	Charles Sturt University
UA-54A	Wild olive selection for quality oil production	Prof. Margaret Sedgley	(08) 8303 7242	The University of Adelaide
CWT-2A	Processing and market assessment for cottonised fibre from linseed stalks	Dr. Peter Lamb	(03) 5246 4000	CSIRO Textile and Fibre Technology

                                            Fruit, Vegetables and Nuts

DNT-24A	Integrated management of Phytophthora diseases of durian	Mr. Chris Wicks	(08) 8973 9769	Department of Business, Industry and Resource Development (NT)
RTE-3A	Edible tropical crops germplasm database for Northern Australia	Mr Roger Goebel	07 4063 2526	Rambutan and Tropical Exotic Growers Association
TMB-1A	Myrtus ugni berries: market research	Mr. John Bailey	(03) 6223 5804	Tas Myrtus Berries Pty Ltd
DAQ-274A	Rambutan IPM Development Phase1: Insect Monitoring/Insecticide screening	Mr. David Astridge	(07) 4064 1160	Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)
HUD-1A	Market opportunities for the Northern Territory tropical fruits industry	Mr. Neil Howells	(08) 8211 7168	Hudson Howells
PTT-3A	Increasing the productivity of truffieres in Tasmania	Dr. Daryl Brown	(03) 6224 1207	Perigord Truffles of Tasmania

Miscellaneous

UT-25A

Leguminous browse species as forage plants for temperate environments

Dr. Peter Lane

03) 6226 2621

University of Tasmania

Native Foods

Project Title:	Evaluating performance of cultivated bushfood plants in South Australian environments
RIRDC Project No.:	CSL-11A
Researcher:	Maarten Ryder and Yvonne Latham
Organisation:	CSIRO Land and Water PMB 2 Glen Osmond SA 5064
Phone:	(08) 8303 8534
Fax:	(03) 8303 8684
Email:	Maarten.Ryder@csiro.au; Yvonne.Latham@csiro.au
Objectives	·1 Diversification of farming practices, with increased and more widespread cultivation of native food plants in southern Australia ·2 Informed decision making on the choice of native food species or cultivars for climatic and soil type zones. ·3 Information about quality of produce derived from selected native food species. ·4 Specific training (both formal and on-the-job) of an Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander traineeship scheme.
Background	The native food industry is expanding and the cultivation of native food species is increasing. Diversification options for agriculture and horticulture are also being sought. Wild harvested produce is still commonly used, but with the improvement (selection and breeding) of some species, plants must be cultivated to take advantage of these developments. However there has been little effort to compare the performance of native food plants across a range of conditions and growers have had to discover for themselves where and how to grow these plants.
Research	Field trials were established in southeastern Australia, at 9 sites with contrasting soils and climate conditions. The trials were designed to compare the establishment, growth and (later) yield of key native food species. The trials each contained approx 300 trees and 120 shrubs on 2/3 ha with drip irrigation, planted in spring 2001. The species trialled were quandong, Acacia victoriae, native and hybrid Citrus, mountain pepper, lemon myrtle, lemon aspen, riberry, munthari (muntries) and bush tomato. Selections, provenances and hybrids within species were included where possible. Data on survival, growth (height) and vigour were recorded during the first two years after planting and the information was then analysed.
Outcomes	Plants that appear to be adapted to a wide range of conditions are Acacia victoriae, Citrus (on standard rootstock), lemon aspen. Plants that have more specific requirement and are therefore restricted to certain areas are mountain pepper (high water requirement and low tolerance of hot, dry conditions) and bush tomato (if being considered as a perennial crop, requires well drained, warmer conditions). Plants that can establish and grow in an intermediate range of conditions are quandong, munthari, lemon myrtle, riberry and bush tomato (as an annual crop). Where several selections of a species were tested, these often showed differential performance at particular trial sites. If quandong seedlings (early stage) are given extra protection the range can probably be increased; if munthari and quandong establishment problems (suspected soilborne disease) can be controlled, their range can be increased. Munthari and bush tomato are the two crops that have flowered and fruited to the greatest extent though not at all locations. Trees have produced only very small, sporadic yield at this early stage.  Industry interest in the project is high with many requests for information.
Implications	When planning the production of native food crops, consideration can be given to the following: small-scale trials of improved , good quality planting material and using different selections / provenances / hybrids when available; soil preparation such as deep ripping and mounding; irrigation to assist the establishment and production phases. Attention can also be paid to the special requirements of particular crops.
Publications	The results of this work will presented at two conferences in 2004:  "New Directions in Agroecology: Productivity and Sustainability", Aug- Sept 2004, Mildura Vic. and the Second Australian New Crops Conference "Innovation & Change for Australian Agriculture & Horticulture"  Sept 2004, Gatton Qld.


 
 
 
 

Project Title:	Soil biological constraints and benefits to quandong and other native food production
RIRDC Project No.:	CSL-20A
Researcher:	Dr Maarten Ryder
Organisation:	CSIRO Land and Water
Phone:	(08) 8303 8534
Fax:	(08) 8303 8684
Email:	maarten.ryder@csiro.au
Objectives	·1 Determination of the extent and cause of quandong seedling loss in nurseries. ·2 Assessment of methods that may have potential to control quandong seedling loss, including the use of chemical controls and/or beneficial soil fungi to protect against soil borne pathogens.
Background	"Sudden death syndrome" (also called "dieback") of quandong is of considerable concern to the industry (worth >$1 million p.a.), as its cause has not been positively identified. The syndrome is characterised by dieback and rapid death of trees. It has been thought that sudden death is caused by a soil-borne fungal pathogen such as Phytophthora or Pythium species, as both of these root-rotting fungal pathogens have been previously isolated from quandong orchards. The use of the fungicide phosphorous acid appears to have some beneficial effect, providing further evidence that the cause is a fungal pathogen. However, to date no scientific research has been conducted on soil-borne pathogens in association with any native food species.
Research	The two phases of the work were (1) to collect information on current practices from nurseries and growers and (2) experimental work which focused on the effect of different watering regimes, potential pathogens and possible control measures.
Outcomes	The results indicate that both excessive and inadequate water can lead to problems with decreased seedling survival when pathogens are present in the potting medium or soil. Quandong survival and seedling height were improved by the use of the chemical fungicide Banrot and by the use of formulations of Penicillium bilaiae and Trichoderma koningii. Quandong appeared to be more sensitive than other plants to the chemical fungicide Ridomil Gold Plus. The use of broad-spectrum biocides for pre-treatment of quandong seed before germination is highly desirable.
Implications	The control of seed-borne and soilborne pathogens in quandong propagation is extremely important. If the causal agent of quandong sudden death is a pathogen with a wide host range such as Phytophthora or Pythium this may pose a serious threat to the long-term economic viability and environmental sustainability of not only quandong but also other native food crops.


 
 
 
 

Project Title:	DOOR in quandong production–a feasibility study
RIRDC Project No.:	AQI-2A
Researcher:	Dr. Ben Lethbridge
Organisation:	Australian Quandong Industry Association (AQIA)
Phone:	(08) 83836181
Fax:	(08) 83836181
Email:	lethbm62@bigpond.com.au
Objectives	·1 Introduce the Do Our Own Research (DOOR) protocol to AQIA for quandong production
Background	With reduced funding for institutionalized research, an underutilized grower resource and need for specific production information to suit local conditions the DOOR ‘statistically sound’ protocol developed by Hunter (2000) was considered a useful addition to the quandong industry.
Research	AQIA has a well established communication network of newsletters and annual conferences allowing significant opportunities for networking and exchange of information. This was the initial vehicle chosen to deliver the DOOR process to members. The acceptance rate would be monitored with survey forms, telephone polling and face to face general meetings and the DOOR methodology modified to suit the prevailing psychology of the new industry participant.
Outcomes	There was much resistance to accepting the complex nature of the consultant assisted ‘recipe approach’ of continuous variable, parametric statistics. Newsletter articles were found to inefficient methods of two way communication. The final method adopted was based on a field ready ‘distribution free’ non-parametric statistical methodology delivered as face to face workshops on important production issues. Non parametric statistical methods allow for easy understanding, scoring and calculation of common, complex variables (eg leaf greenness, sourness of fruit etc) whilst still retaining the important randomisation and replication components of statistical analysis. The workshop approach facilitated high intensity, time efficient, learning opportunities.
Implications	DOOR in a new industry environment, as compared to emerging or established industries is an evolutionary rather than revolutionary process where principal rather than sensitivity of analysis is of prime importance. Statistically sound research could be delivered at a more holistic level to the native food industry demonstrating the general universality of the method.


 
 
 

Extracive and fibre crops

Project Title:	Preliminary feasibility of ethanol production from sugar beet in northeastern Tasmania
RIRDC Project No.:	DAT-40A
Researcher:	Mr. Robin Thompson
Organisation:	Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment (Tas) KINGSMEADOWS TAS 7249
Phone:	(03) 6336 5291
Fax:	(03) 6344 9814
Email:	robin.thompson@dpiwe.tas.gov.au
Objectives	· To complete a preliminary economic and physical feasibility assessment of growing sugar beet for ethanol production in North Eastern Tasmania. · The field trail enables identification of varieties and sowing times on the two major soil types in North East Tasmania. Some observations and assessments will be made of potential herbicides and equipment for harvesting and transporting sugar beet. · The value of sugar beet tops and pulp for animal production will also be assessed in order than an economic value for these by-products can be determined.
Background	The rural region around Scottsdale, in North Eastern Tasmania, has seen the decline in employment opportunities with the closure of two factories in 3 years with the loss of 156 jobs. Production of sugar beet for ethanol offered a realistic alternative enterprise, given that there was a major Australian company who had commercial interest in expanding ethanol as a renewable fuel. Tasmania currently imports all motor vehicle fuels and ethanol is imported for use as a solvent in the poppy industry.  The Federal Government has a policy to encourage the use of renewable fuels with an announcement on its application to ethanol specifically to be made in the near future. Ethanol is used widely in other countries as an additive to fuels. Ethanol burns cleaner and more efficiently than petrol, resulting in less environmental pollution. The combination of ethanol production and utilisation of plant tops and extracted mash for livestock feed appear to offer an attractive return for potential growers. The introduction of an additional crop into this region, with an associated processing component, will lift employment and generate wealth in this regional community. If the feasibility demonstrates that ethanol could be produced economically, the proposed plant would annually produce 40 million litres of ethanol and require 6,000 hectares of sugar beet crop, worth $25m as raw material. Additional value can be placed on the tops and fermented mash for stock-feed purposes. A 20 million litre sugar beet to ethanol plant in USA is quoted as directly employing 25 people.
Research	The project included a desktop component to complete life cycle analysis and economic feasibilities of both crop production and conversion of sugar beet to ethanol. The field component was designed to commence confirming the physical and financial crop production parameters for the major inputs and outputs. CSR engaged a consultant to complete the life cycle analysis and confirm the ethanol production costings. As physical and financial data was generated from the field trial, a DPIWE economist prepared a crop costing model to assess the potential return from sugar beet. The field trial included three replications of 3 varieties by 5 sowing times on the two predominant soil types of the North East region. Observation and measurement of establishment, bolting, disease and pest incidence, plant form, yield of tops, roots and sugar and nutritional value of tops and extracted mash. The trial areas were also used at the end of the yield measurement to evaluate the suitability of currently existing potato, onion and carrot harvesting equipment for harvesting sugar beet. Animal performance to grazing sugar beet plants was assessed using material available at the conclusion of the agronomic assessments.
Outcomes	Good root yield results were recorded along with suitable sugar levels from the field trials. Economic analysis is still being undertaken. A number of agronomic issues including disease resistant varieties, weed management, irrigation scheduling and harvest technologies require further investigation.
Implications	The future development of a sugar beet based ethanol industry will be determined by analysis of data from this work, together with that of global economic issues.


 
 
 
 

Project Title:	Establishment of environmental management systems for the olive industry
RIRDC Project No.:	NEL-1A
Researchers:	Mr. Nelson Quinn
Organisations:	109 Holmwood Road WALLAROO VIA HALL NSW 2618
Phone:	(02) 6230 2372
Fax:	(02) 6230 2940
Email:	aranmohr@austarmetro.com.au
Objectives	·1 To provide a comprehensive basis for establishment of an Environmental Management System (EMS) framework for the Australian olive industry  ·2 Preparation of a framework for the introduction of Environmental Management Systems (EMS) for the Australian olive industry
Background	EMS development is consistent with the Australian Olive Association – RIRDC R&D strategy for the industry.
Research	The research involves literature search, consultation with industry and research parties, and analysis of experience to date in other industries.
Outcomes	The outcome will be a report with recommendations, including on industry training needs.
Implications	Application of EMS in the industry should reduce many costs, support food safety and quality standards, harmonise industry practices with natural systems and meet community and retail industry expectations for environmental management.


 

Project Title:	Value chain and market analysis for the Australian guar industry
RIRDC Project No.:	UQ-112A
Researcher:	Dr. Kim Bryceson
Organisation:	The University of Queensland School of Natural & Rural Systems Management Gatton Campus GATTON QLD 4343
Phone:	(07) 5460 1617
Fax:	(07) 5460 1324
Email:	k.bryceson@mailbox.uq.edu.au
Objectives	·1 To explicitly characterise and analyse the Australian Guar Industry Value Chain ·2 To identify and evaluate high value market segments that may be used to focus the development of the Australian Guar Industry's business and competitive strategy.
Background	The Guar Industry Development Association Incorporated (GIDA) have identified that there is real interest from growers in the crop but only if suitable, reliable markets are available and if the business models and processes to access those markets can be developed and managed appropriately. The findings from this study will allow an industry business strategy to be developed that will align the industry with current market requirements and production capability.
Research	Explicit characterisation, description & mapping of the Guar Industry Value Chain identifying domestic & export markets, drivers, barriers, the information supply chain, products, current value-add components and potential areas for new business development, as well as the type of significant local, regional, national and global changes occurring in the industry. The primary data collection mechanism will be a national & international survey with representative stakeholders in the Guar Industry chain via face-to-face interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire.
Outcomes	1. A detailed qualitative and quantitative overview and understanding of the guar value chain including current and future potential market segments.  2. Development of business models to maximise the Australian Guar Industry’s competitive advantage on the world market
Implications	The investigation has shown that there are considerable challenges to developing an Australian Guar Industry – both from a production and from a market perspective. However a number of opportunities have also presented themselves that indicate: 1. Developing industry standards for handling seed and growing guar would help to ensure a consistent and reliable supply of high quality guar grain to a domestic processor 2. Alternative buyers of Australian guar splits do exist and dialogue with these players in the market would be advantageous 3. A splitting facility has been developed in Dalby, Qld during 2004, with plans in place to further develop guar processing capability to include dehusking and guar gum powder production 4. Guarmeal, because of its extremely high protein content, is of interest to the domestic, stockfeed industry and this market should be concentrated on
Publications	Bryceson Kim P. & Cover M. (2004) The Innovator’s Dilemma and Solution in New Crop Development - A Case Study of Australian Guar. ( Accepted for Oral Presentation and Publication in Proceedings of Second Australian New Crops Conference, Qld, 20-24 September 2004). Bryceson, Kim P, Binotto, E & M. Cover (in prep). A new model of Knowledge Creation in Australian agriculture and the implications for innovative new crop development using Guar as an example (J of Australian Agriculture).


 
 

Project Title:	Diagnosing diseases affecting Jojoba plantations and developing strategies to reduce their impact on commercial production of jojoba seeds.
RIRDC Project No.:	UCS-27A
Researcher:	Dr Gavin James Ash
Organisation:	School of Agriculture Charles Sturt University PO box 588 Wagga Wagga NSW 2678
Phone:	(02) 6933 2765
Fax:	(02) 6933 2812
Email:	gash@csu.edu.au
Objectives	·1 The naming and classification of the currently observed diseases afflicting jojoba plantations. ·2 To determine the impact of diseases in plantations. ·3 The development of management practices to minimize the effect of these diseases in commercial plantations. ·4 Providing base information to allow the breeding and development of resistant jojoba varieties.
Background	Jojoba plantings in Australia currently cover 400 ha and are increasing annually at 20%. All current plantings are based upon the use of three varieties registered and bred in Australia. All plantations are showing evidence of disease. Currently these diseases are undescribed and hence there are no management strategies to minimize or eradicate them. Plantations are noting tree losses of up to 1% per annum. The yield loss has still to be quantified. Individual growers have attempted to have these diseases diagnosed. The attempts have been uncoordinated and have met with little success. This basic research of identification will enable the industry to develop management strategies for these diseases, if required. The research results will form the basis of any future varietal breeding program, and best management practice strategy the industry adopts.
Research	Disease surveys of jojoba were undertaken in south eastern Australia. Isolations of fungi from symptomatic and asymptomatic plants were made from all locations and the incidence and severity of symptoms were noted. Studies were undertaken on the ability of all organisms to cause disease on jojoba. The fungi and the bacteria isolated were identified using a battery of morphological, chemical and molecular tests.
Outcomes	Two diseases were positively identified. 1. Death of adult and juvenile plants was associated with infection by Fusarium oxysporum. The fungus was identified as occurring throughout south eastern Australian plantations where it was isolated from both symptomatic and asymptomatic plants. Genotyping of the fungus revealed that common genotypes were found throughout its range and that the endophytic F. oxysporum as well as the disease causing isolates shared genotypes. This indicates that the fungus maybe being distributed through cuttings. Attempts to isolate it from nursery-grown cuttings were unsuccessful. 2. A leaf spot of jojoba caused by Burkholderia andropogonis was described for the first time. Symptoms ranged from necrotic flecking with comparatively large water-soaked halos to larger ‘eyespot’ lesions c.3 mm in diameter with water-soaked halos 1-1.5 mm wide. The necrosis was light tan in colour. Jojoba isolates displayed variable pathogenicity to other known hosts of B. andropogonis (Dianthus, Cicer, Gypsophila and sorghum) but were not pathogenic, or only weakly so, to sweet corn, Limonium and Trifolium. Identification was confirmed by cell wall fatty acid composition and the bacterium’s possession of a single polar flagellum. There were widespread black spot symptoms on leaves and fruit, associated with the fungus Alternaria tenuissima. Symptoms of the diseases could not be reproduced in the laboratory. Leaf spotting was also associated with herbicide damage. A bunchy-top symptom of unknown etiology was also noted as occurring in some plantations.
Implications	Jojoba in Australia is relatively free of serious diseases which may affect yield. The exception is the presence of F. oxysporum causing a premature death of plants in some plantations. The fungus appears to be widespread and can be found in both symptomatic and asymptomatic plants. Furthermore, genotypes of the fungus are common between the isolates from symptomatic and asymptomatic plants and are also widely distributed. This could indicate that the fungus is present in cuttings. This could not be confirmed however. A system of assessing F. oxysporum infection in cuttings should be developed. The use of a molecular approach to this assessment is underway but has not been completed as at the writing of this report. The types of diseases found during this study are amenable to cultural control (the use of disease free cutting material). It is not recommended that fungicides or plant breeding be implemented to control any of the diseases found in this study.
Publications	1. Albiston, A, Ash, G.J., Cother, E.J., Bentley, S. and Pattemore, J. 2003. First report of collar rot caused by Fusarium oxysporum in Australian jojoba plantations. Australasian Plant Pathology. 32: 319-320. 2. Albiston, A., Ash, G.J. and Cother E.J. 2003. Aspects of jojoba agronomy and management. Advances in Agronomy. (in preparation). 3. Albiston, A., Ash, G.J., Cother, E.J., Pattemore, J. and Bentley, S. 2003. Fusarium oxysporum in jojoba plantations. International Congress of Plant Pathology, Christchurch, New Zealand. 4. Ash, G.J., Cother, E.J. and Albiston, A. 2003. Diseases of jojoba in Australia. North East Meeting of the American Phytopathological Society. New Hampshire, USA. 5. Cother, E.J., Albiston, A., Ash G.J. and Noble D. 2003. A new bacterial disease of Jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis). International Congress of Plant Pathology, Christchurch, New Zealand. 6. Cother, E.J., Noble, D., Peters, B.J. Albiston, A. and Ash, G.J. 2004. A new bacterial disease of Jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis) caused by Burkholderia andropogonis. Plant Pathology. 53: 129-135.


 
 

Project Title:	Wild olive selection for quality oil production
RIRDC Project No.:	UA-54A
Researcher:	Professor Margaret Sedgley
Organisation:	University of Adelaide Discipline of Wine and Horticulture PMB1 Glen Osmond SA 5064
Phone:	(08) 8303 7242
Fax:	(08) 8303 7116
Email:	margaret.sedgley@adelaide.edu.au
Objectives	·1 The aim of the project is selection of new improved cultivars from wild southern Australian material based on oil analysis, DNA fingerprinting, propagation and field trials. This will improve yield and quality for domestic and export markets, and provide quality assurance to the industry.  ·2
Background	Despite the range of cultivars currently available, plant improvement programs are rated highly in all olive producing countries and new cultivars continue to benefit the industry.
Research	The approach is based on initial field selection and oil analysis to identify high yielding trees with high levels of oleic acid. Superior trees are evaluated further by sensory evaluation and propagation. Molecular markers are used to determine family relationships and to develop a genetic fingerprint for each new genotype. New superior selections are expected to be adapted to Australian conditions and will be evaluated against existing cultivars.
Outcomes	The best selections were identified and cuttings from each tree were planted in a field trial at the University of Adelaide Roseworthy campus. The performance of these trees in cultivation will be evaluated as they mature and bear fruit.
Implications	Benefits to the industry arising from the olive program include improved planting material, quality assurance services and the development of techniques for DNA analysis, oil chemistry analysis, and propagation.
Publications	Mekuria G, Collins G, Sedley M (2003) The Olive Press Autumn edition:15-17. Guerin J, Wu S, Mekuria G, Collins G, Jones G, Burr M, Wirthensohn M, Lavee S, Sedgley M (2002) Adv Hort Sci 16:198-203. Guerin J, Sweeney S, Collins G, Sedgley M (2002) J Amer Soc Hort Sci 127:977-983. Mekuria G, Sedgley M, Collins G, Lavee S (2002) J Amer Soc Hort Sci 127: 673-676. Mekuria G, Collins G, Sedgley M (2002) Scientia Horticulturae 94:91-105. Wirthensohn M, Burr M, Granger A, Jones G, Sedgely M (2001) Olivae 87:39-43. Sedgley M, Wirthensohn M (2000) Olivae 83:27-30. Mekuria G, Collins G, Sedgley M, Lavee S (2000) J Amer Soc Hort Sci 126: 305-308. Guerin J, Collins G, Sedley M (2000) Outlook on Agriculture 29:269-274. Mekuria G, Collins G, Sedgley M (2000) Australian Olive Grower 16:16-19 Guerin J, Wirthensohn M, Mekuria G, Neaylon K, Collins G, Sedgley M (2000) The Olive Press summer edition:16-18.


 
 
 
 

Project Title:	Processing and market assessment of cottonised fibre from linseed stalks
RIRDC Project No.:	CWT-2A
Researcher:	Peter R. Lamb
Organisation:	CSIRO Textile and Fibre Technology PO Box 21 BELMONT VIC 3216.
Phone:	(03) 52464019
Fax:	(03) 52464057
Email:	Peter.R.Lamb@csiro.au
Objectives	·1 An evaluation of the feasibility of processing field-retted linseed stalks into high value cotton-like fibre that can be further processed on existing cotton machinery, and in blends with cotton. A comparison of the technical feasibility, economic attractiveness and environmental impact, relative to the conventional high-labour cost processes, used for producing flax yarns. ·2 Assessment of cultivars, time of harvest, and growing and retting conditions by measurement of the achievable fibre properties (diameter, length and strength). A market assessment, with input from fabric makers, of the potential for yarns spun using cottonised seed flax.
Background	Linseed stalks are a waste stream from growing short flax for seed. Preliminary studies indicated that the bast fibre from linseed, if fully individualised, was as fine as cotton and might therefore be broken down into fibre than could be spun on cotton machinery. The conventional machinery for tall flax for fibre is both unsuitable and antiquated and labour intensive.
Research	A range of machinery, chemical treatments and measurement instruments were used to clean, individualise and establish the properties of the ultimate fibres of a number of linseed varieties plus conventional flax and hemp.
Outcomes	Although a fibre that was judged as nearly spinnable was produced the efforts were eventually halted when it was found that fully individualised fibre of all the varieties examined was too short to be spun without blending with a long cotton or synthetic. It appeared likely that this fibre would also be more expensive than cotton and the production of suitable fibre in more than kilogram quantities would require further development and capital investment. However, a number of achievements were made which could help improve linseed fibre, or other bast fibre, for use in alternative applications, or provide a means to produce higher quality "cottonised" fibre from flax or hemp. These included cleaning methods, a method to form a strong sliver, a rapid chemical treatment to break down the glues and bleach the fibres without significant damage, combined mechanical and chemical treatment, and softeners for inhibiting re-glueing of fibres on drying. These developments enabled the linseed stalks to be turned into a clean white product of excellent strength and of the finest diameter for bast fibre reported in the textile literature.
Implications	Further work on processing linseed for input to the cotton system should await the demonstration of varieties with longer fine fibre or the specification of a blend product. Sample quantities of individualised and/or bleached fibre should be used for assessment of the fibre in composites or medical products.
Publications	Lamb P.R. and Denning R.J. 2003. Cottonised Fibre from Linseed Stalks, RIRDC Final Report.


 

fRUIT, VEGETABLES AND NUTS




Project Title:	Integrated management of Phytophthora diseases of durian
RIRDC Project No.:	DNT-24A
Researcher:	Mr. Chris Wicks
Organisation:	Department of Business, Industry and Resource Development (NT) Horticulture Division Berrimah Agricultural Research Centre GPO Box 3000 DARWIN NT 0801
Phone:	(08) 8973 9769
Fax:	(08) 8973 9777
Email:	chris.wicks@dpif.nt.gov.au
Objectives	·1 To improve durian orchard establishment and sustainability, and the consistency of quality fruit supplies to expanding markets by developing components of an integrated management program for pre-production and post harvest diseases caused by Phytophthora. This involves a thorough understanding of the pathogen-host-environment interactions to mitigate disease incidence and spread.
Background	Durian was rated as one the top three fruit crops (from 41 crops assessed) with the best market potential and developmental prospect in an RIRDC sponsored workshop held in Cairns, July 1997. Local demand for durian far outstrips supply and the domestic market for durian is expanding. The most significant threat to the development of a durian industry in Australia, recognised in the Australian Durian Industry Strategic Plan, is the soilborne fungus Phytophthora. This pathogen causes seedling dieback, root rot, patch canker, leaf rot, shoot dieback, pre- and post-harvest fruit rots. The pathogen causes annual tree deaths up to 40% in Southeast Asian orchards and losses ranging from 15 to 30% due to fruit rots. Worldwide durian losses caused by Phytophthora diseases are in excess of A$ 600 million in an industry valued at A$ 3 billion.
Research	The project had three avenues of research within it. A field-based project investigated the effect of composting and cover cropping on the level of disease while a (long-term) pot-based trial looked at the affects of irrigation regimes, level of inorganic fertiliser and types of organic fertiliser on disease levels. Attempts were also made to identify disease-tolerant trees in the field and vegetatively propagate them for further studies into selecting varieties with some inherent tolerance to the disease. It should be noted that this project was conducted alongside a larger regional project (ACIAR PHT/95/134), addressing wider issues related to managing Phytophthora in durian orchards in Australia, Thailand and Vietnam.
Outcomes	It was found that mulching and composting improved the growth and vigour of field and potted trees while large fluctuations in irrigation and high levels of inorganic fertiliser could lead to poor vigour and tree death. It was further found that while cover crops did reduce growth, they did protect and improve the soil in which the trees were planted.
Implications	The implications of this work were not lost upon Northern Territory durian growers. The positive effect of mulching and cover crops on field trees was so clear that the collaborators had incorporated the practises into their management regimes within two years of the project commencing. The negative affects of dramatic fluctuations in irrigation have been recognised and the growers have initiated improved irrigation systems to ensure it doesn’t happen in the field. It must be noted that these findings are based upon research in the Wet-Dry climate of the Northern Territory and may not hold for the Wet tropics of Queensland and South East Asia.

Publication

Wicks, C. 2002. Effect of mulching, water and nutrient management on Phytophthora and related diseases of Durian. "Phytophthora in south east Asia" workshop at conclusion of 1st International Conference of the Thai Phytopathological Society - Tropical and Subtropical Plant Diseases.


 
 
 
 

Project Title:	Edible tropical crops germplasm database for Northern Australia
RIRDC Project No.:	RTE-3A
Researcher:	Mr Roger Goebel
Organisation:	Rambutan and Tropical Exotic Growers Association
Phone:	(07) 4067 5266 (07) 4063 2526
Fax:	(07) 4067 5315 (07)-4063 2641
Email:	zappala@iig.com.au / goebel@comnorth.com.au
Objectives	·1 Define and document tropical edible crop germ plasm introduced and currently available in Australia
Background	Horticultural food and medicinal plants have been imported since the arrival of the first fleet and to some extent prior to that. In the late 1800’s the Acclimatization Society was very active in searching for and importing plant germplasm. Since then, both private citizens and Government Agencies like Q.D.P.I.&F. have been importing plants with potential in our wet tropical climate. Although various keen individuals and other organizations have monitored most of the imported plant material, no centralized reference exists. Anyone wishing to track a plant type has to look far and wide with no guarantee of success even though it may be growing in commercial quantities somewhere in northern Australia. The 2003 R.I.R.D.C. workshop at CWTA South Johnstone highlighted the need to establish formal documentation of tropical crop germplasm importations for both clonal and seed introductions
Research	The large number of imported plants and their locations meant that the best recording option was a computer database. MS Access was chosen and a data base was constructed that allowed input of fruit/ plant details including  Plant Family, Botanical name, Common names, Conservation status, Usefulness, Plant descriptions, Photograph, References Grower details including Name, Locations, Contact details, Crops grown, Commercial status The master list of over 900 crops was drafted from various sources such as Kamerunga Hort. Res. Stn. Working plans, A.Q.I.S. records and crop reference publications and lists. Key grower co-operators were identifyied and visited to commence collecting current information. Arrangements are in place to site the database at the Flecker Botanical Gardens in Cairns.
Outcomes	The database is continually evolving and each version/up date is a snapshot of information at that time. With the most significant cost being the data base, major up dates will result from its usefulness. The database is of a size that is transferable on data CD and the master crop list can be printed as a small booklet.
Implications	The process of gathering information on crops from co-operators has had a rekindling of interest effect for these growers and has highlighted the need for continued contact and exchange of ideas. The data collected has already been helpful in addressing Tropical Fruit Monographs for assistance in trade issues with the U.S.A.
Publications	An article has been drafted for submission to the Rare Fruit Council of Australia inc. newsletter.

Project Title:	Myrtus ugni Berries–Market Research
RIRDC Project No.:	TMB-1A
Researcher:	John Bailey
Organisation:	Tas. Myrtus Berries Pty. Ltd. 29 Davey Street HOBART Tas. 7000
Phone:	(03) 6223 5804
Fax:
Email:	johntbailey@ozemail.com.au
Objectives	·2 Gain a firm indication of the demand for the fruit of myrtus ugni especially an understanding of taste preferences in Asian markets, an early indication of the requirements of a feasible storage and packaging protocol for export of berries.
Background	Myrtus ugni (also known as Chilean guava) has been called a "forgotten fruit" in that it seems no commercial cultivation of the shrub for its berry crop has been attempted anywhere in the world since the mid-19th Century. Chileans harvest berries in the wild and people who have tasted the berry express admiration for its flavour. One writer stated: "This is a much underused plant that highly merits cultivation on a commercial scale for its fruit". The Tasmanian company, Tas. Myrtus Berries Pty. Ltd., now has over 30,000 shrubs planted but the lack of any myrtus ugni berry industry has necessitated considerable research, not the least being market research. Asia was seen as a potential market, hence this study.
Research	Cooking demonstrations were conducted in Taipei and Hong Kong in the course of which questionnaires were completed. In Taipei, the audience comprised restaurant owners, chefs, pastry cooks, bakers and importers. In Hong Kong, a smaller group attended, selected for their key status among that city’s leading restaurants, clubs and food supply firms.
Outcomes	Only one respondent had heard of the myrtus ugni berry, but there was an overwhelmingly positive response after tasting the berry and foods containing the berry. Almost three-quarters of the respondents indicated that their customers would like the berry. There was a willingness (though not universal) to consider purchasing frozen or freeze dried berries when fresh berries are unavailable, there does not seem to be a need to provide a more tart (or more sweet) berry to suit Asian tastes and there was a preparedness to pay more than customary for better-known berries (e.g., raspberries). Conservatively, the combined demand in these two countries was estimated to be close to 30 tonnes p.a.; it could reach 300 t.!
Implications	The myrtus ugni berry was recognised as unique and able to fill a valuable niche. The market in Asia seems assured. Further research is planned to define harvesting, storage and transport protocols, but this current market study suggests that there is no overly difficult problem to resolve in order to supply Asian markets.


 

Project Title:	Rambutan IPM Development Phase 1
RIRDC Project No.:	DAQ-274A
Researcher:	David Astridge
Organisation:	Department of Primary Industries - Queensland P.O Box 20, Sth Johnetone Queensland 4859.
Phone:	(07) 40641160
Fax:	(07) 40642249
Email:	david.astridge@dpi.qld.gov.au
Objectives	·3 To reduce the frequency with which costly and environmentally threatening insecticides are used in the production of rambutan and other exotic fruit by educating growers to identify and monitor major pest and beneficial insects, and only apply pesticides as required. Environmentally safe insecticides suitable for sustainable pest management will also be screened to replace endosulfan and some organophosphates by 2003.
Background	The rambutan industry in Australia is confined to the growing areas of north Queensland and the Northern Territory. If left uncontrolled insect pests associated with this crop can cause serious fruit damage resulting in market rejection, yield decline and a loss of grower income. This industry has strong objectives in developing sustainable pest management practices, which are both environmentally safe and economically viable. As the industry is relatively new to the Australian environment the development of integrated pest management (IPM) research has been given a high priority by the industry.
Research	This project has three separate components, which include; (1) Conducting insect fauna surveys to identify the major pests and beneficials and their pest pressures over the growing season, (2) Testing environmentally safe insecticides for minor use registration and (3) Educating growers to identify and monitor pest and beneficial insect populations.
Outcomes	A monitoring strategy has been developed for the major pests of rambutan. Insect fauna surveys have resulted in the development of an insect identification and monitoring poster to assist growers with the identification and monitoring of the major pests and beneficial insects. This monitoring system will result in a reduction of insecticide applications over the growing season. QFVG has been approached to apply for minor use registration of 8 insecticides with unique modes of action and a safe environmental profile..
Implications	This monitoring system will result in a reduction of insecticide applications over the growing season. The insecticides identified have a safe environmental profile and are well suited to the goals of IPM. Their different modes of action will assist in future resistant management strategies and prolong their efficacy.
Publications	A series of DPI pest notes have been developed which include; Astridge, D. and Elder, R. 2000. Spider mites in rare fruits. DPI NOTE, Department of Primary Industries Queensland, Agdex 220/622, File No: H9840113. Astridge, D. and Elder, R. 2000. Red shouldered leaf beetle in rare fruit. DPI NOTE, Department of Primary Industries Queensland, Agdex 238/622, File No: H9840034. Astridge, D., Fay, H., and Elder, R. 2000. False spider mites in rare fruit. DPI NOTE, Department of Primary Industries Queensland, Agdex 220/622, File No: H9840039. Astridge, D., Fay, H., and Elder, R. 2000. Banana spotting bug and fruit spotting bug in rare fruits. DPI NOTE, Department of Primary Industries Queensland, Agdex 220/622, File No: H9840736. Astridge, D., Fay, H., and Elder, R. 2000. Fruit piercing moths in rare fruits. DPI NOTE, Department of Primary Industries Queensland, Agdex 220/622, File No: H9840732. Astridge, D., Fay, H., and Elder, R. 2000. Citrus mealybug in rare fruits. DPI NOTE, Department of Primary Industries Queensland, Agdex 220/622, File No: H9840750. Astridge, D., Fay, H., and Elder, R. 2000. Scale in rare fruits. DPI NOTE, Department of Primary Industries Queensland, Agdex 220/622, File No: H9840752. Astridge, D., Fay, H., and Elder, R. 2000 Red banded thrips in rare fruit. DPI NOTE, Department of Primary Industries Queensland, Agdex 220/622, File No: H9840039. Astridge, D., Fay, H., and Elder, R. 2000. Flower eating caterpillars in rare fruit. DPI NOTE, Department of Primary Industries Queensland, Agdex 220/622, File No: H9840039? Astridge, D., Fay, H., and Elder, R. 2000. Coastal brown ant in rare fruit. DPI NOTE, Department of Primary Industries Queensland, Agdex 220/622, File No: H9840761 Astridge, D., Fay, H., and Elder, R. 2000. Queensland fruit fly in rare fruit. DPI NOTE, Department of Primary Industries Queensland, Agdex 217/622, File No: H9840213. Astridge, D., Fay, H., and Elder, R. 2000. Carob moth in rare fruit. DPI NOTE, Department of Primary Industries Queensland, Agdex 217/622, File No: H9840724.


 
 
 
 

Project Title:	Market Opportunities for the Northern Territory Tropical Fruits Industry
RIRDC Project No.:	HUD-1A
Researcher:	Neil Howells
Organisation:	Hudson Howells, Level 8 ANZ House, 13 Grenfell Street, Adelaide South Australia 5000
Phone:	08 - 8211 7168
Fax:	08 - 8212-7144
Email:	neil@hudsonhowells.com
Objectives	To quantify the costs and margins associated with each link in the tropical fruits supply chain and to determine opportunities for reduced costs and improved service quality. The research was limited to rambutan, dragon fruit (pitaya), guava, hog plum, star apple, jackfruit and taro produced in the Darwin, Katherine and Kununurra areas for the Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane markets.
Background	The NT Tropical Fruit Industry has identified the need for specific information on its value chain in Australia. Many parts of the industry have been supply driven, which has resulted poor market performance and ongoing reduction in returns to the industry. It currently has limited market penetration and demand and competes directly with a broad range of other fruits in the market place for consumer loyalty and dollars. The industry has identified the need to refocus itself to being market driven in order to both compete and survive. The project directly benefits the producers of rambutan, dragon fruit (pitaya), guava, hog plum, star apple, jackfruit and taro. However a secondary and equally important benefit, of relevance to this project, was to the remainder of the tropical fruit and vegetable industry in the NT as the value chain analysis and principles identified were also applicable to these sectors.
Research	Research/consultation targets included: ·1 Growers. ·2 Packers. ·3 Freight Handlers (logistics). ·4 Wholesalers/Retailers/Food Service/Food Manufacturers. Research was undertaken by a combination of face-to-face and e-mail/telephone surveys. Face-to face interviews were undertaken in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. The research findings identified: ·5 Value chain mapped for the designated tropical fruits. ·6 Documented understanding of the value chain. ·7 Opportunities for cost reductions and enhanced service quality. ·8 Recommendations for improving the value chain.
Outcomes	It is recommended that growers collaborate in order to overcome the major supply chain and cost problems identified in the study including: ·9 Achievement of volume and critical mass for market purposes. ·10 Achievement of consistency of supply, especially to wholesalers/agents. ·11 Improvement in ‘on-time-delivery’. The subsequent improved market prices from such a strategy will increase the profit potential of participating businesses. The critical issues to be address by the partners in such an initiative include branding, packaging and labelling improvements, transport improvements, relationship development firstly via regular market visits and client contact, supply chain monitoring and reporting, produce pre-cooling, e-commerce and consumer education and product support materials.
Implications	The project has identified a range of opportunities for the NT tropical fruits industry to develop more profitable businesses through improved supply chain management practices.


 
 
 
 

Project Title:	Increasing the productivity of truffières in Tasmania
RIRDC Project No.:	PTT-3A
Researcher:	Duncan Garvey
Organisation:	Perigord Truffles of Tasmania
Phone:	(03) 62 664213
Fax:	(03) 62 664012
Email:	duncan@perigord.com.au
Objectives	·5 To increase the production of French truffles (Tuber melanosporum) by optimising soil pH through liming of existing and new truffières and to map using a geographical information system truffle production and related parameters.
Background	In 1999 Perigord Truffles of Tasmania produced Australia’s first French black truffle. In subsequent years the production of French truffles from a number of truffières in Tasmania has confirmed that Perigord Truffles of Tasmania is well advanced its endeavors to establishing a viable French truffle industry in Australia.  Research in the early nineties jointly funded by RIRDC (PTT-1A, PTT-2A) allowed Perigord Truffles of Tasmania to highlight the key issues to develop a strategy to successfully produce and market French black truffles. During the past 3 years the company have continued the research program on the French black truffle in addressing further issues on increasing the productivity of truffières in Tasmania.
Research	The truffle industry in Tasmanian is unique in that it is based on soils that are not naturally calcareous, but have been heavily limed in order to increase the soil pH. A soil pH of 7.5 (1:5 water) and above is considered acceptable, however production is at its maximum when the pH is in the range 7.9 to 8.1. The truffières in Tasmania are currently above the critical soil pH level of 7.5, but many are below the optimal range. The aim of the research was to determine how much liming material is required to obtain the optimum pH on both existing sites and new sites. In the longer term we aim to assess whether the increase in pH equates to increased production.
Outcomes	The field experiments indicated that it is possible to raise the soil pH to its optimum level for French truffle production by applying very high rates of limestone on a range of different soil types prior to the establishment of the truffière. The trial conducted on established truffières indicated that with additional fine grade lime and a shallow cultivation soil pH levels can be increased to the optimum levels.
Implications	Perigord Truffles of Tasmania are now recommending that additional lime be applied and incorporated along the tree line to existing truffières where the soil pH is below the optimal level. The company is also recommending significantly larger quantities of finer grade lime prior to the establishment of new truffières.


 
 
 

Miscellaneous

Project Title:	Leguminous browse species as forage plants for temperate environments
RIRDC Project No.:	UT-25A
Researcher:	Dr Peter Lane
Organisation:	Tasmanian Institute of Agricultural Research Private Bag 98 University of Tasmania HOBART TAS 7001.
Phone:	03 6226 2621
Fax:	03 6226 2642
Email:	Peter.Lane@utas.edu.au
Objectives	·6 To evaluate a range of genotypes of three Dorycnium species for use as new forage plants for the low to medium rainfall areas of temperate Australia.
Background	Leguminous browse plants (shrubs) such as those belonging to the genus Dorycnium, are an important component of the grazing communities of much of the temperate world, with the exceptions of Australia and New Zealand. Preliminary trials demonstrated that these novel plants, which originate from the Mediterranean region, establish and perform well under Tasmanian conditions and should have similar application in other parts of southern Australia. They are relatively drought tolerant and have the potential to be integrated into grazing systems as a source of forage for livestock during summer and autumn when existing pasture feed is limited and of low quality.
Research	Laboratory and field studies were undertaken to investigate: seed germination characteristics of Dorycnium spp., in particular D. hirsutum; seasonal feed quality parameters and condensed tannin content of D. rectum, D. hirsutum and D. pentaphyllum; suitable strains of root nodule bacteria for inoculation of Dorycnium spp.; and the performance of these plants in a range of target environments in both Tasmania and Western Australia.
Outcomes	Seed from Dorycnium spp. was found to have satisfactory germination performance provided adequate time was allowed for seeds to germinate. Mechanical and acid scarification were suitable treatments for improving the rate of germination. The feed quality of these species was maintained at adequate levels for maintenance of livestock throughout their normal growth period from spring through to autumn, under dryland conditions. All species contained significant levels of condensed tannins, which may have implications for time of grazing and animal production. Several new or alternative strains of rhizobia were identified as being effective on Dorycnium spp. These plants were shown to be adapted to a wide range of environments with D. hirsutum having the most desirable agronomic characteristics of the three species.  Interest in the potential of these plants has seen a continuation of research in Tasmania and Western Australia, which aims to determine response to defoliation and selection within D. hirsutum of a commercial cultivar.
Implications	This project has shown that browse plants belonging to the genus Dorycnium have significant potential for inclusion into grazing systems in southern Australia. Further research is required to evaluate and select the best accessions of D. hirsutum, in particular, for development as a commercial forage species.


 
 

Publications

Davies, SR, and Lane, PA, (2003). ‘Seasonal changes in feed quality of Dorycnium spp', Proceedings of the 11th Australian Agronomy Conference, Geelong, Victoria. (Paper). Davies, SR, Yates, RJ, Howieson, JG, and Lane, PA, (2002). 'Field Evaluation of Root Nodule Bacteria for Dorycnium spp', Proceedings of the 13th Australian Nitrogen Fixation Conference, Adelaide, South Australia. (Poster and Abstract). Davies, SR and Lane, PA, ‘(2001). The Germination Behaviour of Dorycnium spp. in Response to Temperature’, Proceedings of the Xth Australian Agronomy Conference, Hobart, Tasmania. (Poster and Abstract).


 





Last updated: September 2004
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