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

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To Organic Systems Research in Progress
 

2.5 Organic systems - completed projects
PROJECT No	PROJECT TITLE	RESEARCHER	PHONE	ORGANISATION

                                            System Design and Environmental Sustainability

DAT-37A

Integrated development of intensive organic vegetable production systems

Mr. Andrew Bishop

(03) 6421 7634

Dept of Primary Industries, Water and Environment (Tas)

                                            Pests and Diseases

DAN-208A	Literature review an inventory of alternatives to copper for disease control in the Australian organics industry	Dr. Lukas Van Zwieten	(02) 6626 1126	NSW Dept of Agriculture
SAG-4A	Evaluation of potential for chitosan to enhance plant defence	Dr. Rachel Walker	(03) 6423 2044	Serve-Ag Pty Ltd

                                            Conversion Processes

RFR-1A

Managing high input farming systems to commercially viable organic systems

Mr. Michael Blakeney

(07) 3831 7966

Rimfire Resources Pty Ltd

                                            Communication and Facilitation

UG-8A

Equivalency of imported organic product

Prof David Burch & Dr Kristen Lyons

(07) 3875 7223

Griffith University

System Design and Environmental Sustainability
 

Project Title	Integrated development of intensive organic vegetable production systems
RIRDC Project No.:	DAT-37A
Start Date:	09-Jun-99
Finish Date:	30-May-03
Researcher:	Rebecca Ashley, Andrew Bishop, and Jason Dennis
Organisation:	Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment (Tas) Stoney Rise Gov Centre, PO Box 303 DEVENPORT TAS 7310
Phone:	03 6421 7601
Fax:	03 6424 5142
Email:	Rebecca.Ashley@dpiwe.tas.gov.au; Andrew.Bishop@dpiwe.tas.gov.au
Objectives	·1 To test and evaluate on a pilot commercial scale, organic production protocols for a range of vegetable crops. ·2 To document case studies assessing the production protocols, cost, net yields, market premiums and cost effectiveness of intensive organic vegetable production. ·3 To provide information and training in organic production protocols for both existing and prospective growers.
Background	Commercial production of organic vegetables for export is considered a potential opportunity for both Tasmanian vegetable growers and exporters. The Tasmanian organic vegetable industry is relatively small with few organic growers producing vegetables on a large-scale basis. Knowledge of broad acre organic production techniques is low in both conventional and organic sectors.
Research	A 10 ha conventionally farmed site was converted to organic status. Vegetables (including carrots, onions, shallots, broad beans and snow peas) were grown at the site on commercial sized plots of 1.2 ha each. Successful crops were harvested and marketed nationally and internationally. Crop specifics (yields, pack outs and product data) and management techniques were recorded. Protocols for production were documented for all crops.
Outcomes	The major crops at the site were carrots, onions and shallots. Yields, equivalent to conventional agriculture, were obtained for carrots on a number of occasions. Onions, shallots and broad beans had higher pack-outs than average conventionally produced crops.  Insect pests and disease occurrence at the site were not considered major issues during the trial. Three principal agronomic challenges were identified for converting to intensive organic vegetable production; weed management, soil health and nutrition and farmer skill.
Implications	Further work on improving mechanical weed control, implementing long term monitoring of soil in intensive organic systems, and increasing the opportunities for education and training in organic farming techniques is recommended. Studies in the form of full economic analysis of intensive organic vegetable production would also be beneficial.
Publications	RIRDC publication to be advised.

Pests and Diseases
 

Project Title	Literature review: an inventory of alternatives to copper for disease control in the Australian organics industry
RIRDC Project No.:	DAN-208A
Researcher:	Melissa Van Zwieten, Gordon Stovold, Lukas Van Zwieten
Organisation:	NSW Department of Agriculture, Wollongbar Agricultural Institute Bruxner Highway, WOLLONGBAR NSW 2478
Phone:	02 6626 1126
Fax:	02 6628 3264
Email:	lukas.van.zwieten@agric.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	·1 Review products and technologies suitable for disease control in the Australian organic industry. · Produce an inventory of products and technologies available in Australia.
Background	A worldwide demand for the reduction in chemical use in agriculture exists. Organic certification agencies have recognised this and have begun restricting the use of copper fungicides. In previous studies, orchard soils in Australia were shown to be contaminated by copper arising from fungicide application. The contaminated soil severely impacted on earthworm populations and other soil health indicators such as microbial populations. There is a clear need to find economic, social and environmental alternatives to copper for disease control.
Research	Organic farmers often make use of ‘alternative’ products for pest and disease control. Their decision to use these products is frequently based on anecdotal (as opposed to scientific) evidence, as to their efficacy. These alternative products are usually unregistered, or sold without sound data. The key limitation of alternative products is that their efficacy of disease control, especially when compared to registered chemical fungicides, is often lower. Thus commercialisation and registration of these alternate products in conventional horticulture is not undertaken. In addition, manufacturers of these products may view the organic market as not large or profitable enough to warrant the expenses associated with bringing these products to the industry. This study investigated international and local knowledge on these alternative products. Over 400 scientific publications were obtained that were relevant to the report, with in excess of 300 being referenced. The project involved a "National Call for Expressions of Interest" to provide information on products available in Australia. Twenty seven Companies or individuals responded and were interviewed regarding the use of their products.
Outcomes	A literature review on products and technologies was produced and an inventory of products available in Australia compiled.
Implications	From the interviews it became clear that many products and technologies are not being pursued to commercial availability. Reasons for this included the strict registration requirements in Australia, and the limited market for these products. Recommendations to increase the availability of alternative products in Australia were made.
Publications	RIRDC publication to be advised.

Project Title	Evaluation of potential for chitosan to enhance plant defence
RIRDC Project No.:	SAG-4A
Start Date:	11-Nov-02
Finish Date:	30-Aug-04
Researcher:	Dr Rachel Walker
Organisation:	Serve-Ag Pty Ltd PO Box 690 DEVONPORT TAS 7310
Phone:	03 6423 2044
Fax:	03 6423 4876
Email:	mtrebilco@serve-ag.com.au
Objectives	· Recommendations on whether chitosan should be further developed as an organic plant defence booster product in Australia. · Recommendations on whether chitosan should be used along, or in combination with reduced applications of copper and conventional pesticides. · RIRDC report on the efficacy of chitosan against specific vegetable diseases, and information about compatibility with organic and IPM/conversion practises. · Initiation of product development work for a natural polymer that has potential for use in organic agriculture. This will be valuable if product registration (and organic certification) proceeds.  · A better understanding of plant morphological and physiological responses to chitosan.
Background	The term ‘plant defence booster’ applies to a group of compounds which act by triggering various physiological and morphological responses within the plant that help to stimulate natural defence mechanisms. The practical significance of plant defence boosters is that they can help to reduce the amount of crop protection chemicals applied to crops.  Chitosan is a plant defence booster derived from deactylation of chitin. Chitin is readily available from shellfish waste from food processing. Agricultural applications of chitosan are for stimulation of plant defence. The chitosan molecule triggers a defence response within the plant, leading to the formation of physical and chemical barriers against invading pathogens.
Research	Screening trials were conducted in tomatoes, peas, carrots, beetroot, lettuce, snow peas, cucumber and capsicums. Replicated field and pot trials were conducted, and intensive yield and quality assessments were made. In this project, trial results were most promising in tomatoes. Aminogro® chitosan resulted in yield increases of nearly 20% in two out of three tomato trials. In all tomato trials, chitosan applications resulted in a significant improvement in powdery mildew disease control.  Plant physiological studies were limited because of difficulties with enzyme activity methods. No relationships between chitosan application and stimulation of chitinase enzyme activity was identified. Results from the literature indicate variability in detection of plant defence responses following application of plant defence boosters. It is recommended that the most conclusive results about plant defence activation would be achieved with molecular studies, although this would be very expensive.
Outcomes & Implications	Trial results and recent publications in international literature indicate Solanaceae plants may respond well to plant defence booster products. Screening of plant defence booster products in potatoes is recommended for future trial work. Solanaceae crops are significant vegetable crops in Australia, and there is a potentially large target market. Growers would have considerably more confidence in chitosan as a crop protection input if it was registered with the Australia Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA). A checklist of requirements for registration of chitosan with APVMA is included in the report.
Publications	·1 Agriculture Research and Advisory Committee Forum presentation, August 2003 ·2 Presentation to Greenhouse Growers of Tasmania, August 2003 ·3 Presentation to Organic Research Seminar, Burnie, November 2003 ·4 Article in Soilless – Journal of Australian Hydroponics and Greenhouse Association, July 2003 ·5 Grower reports and regular verbal updates provided to growers and regional agronomists  · Article in Research for organic growers - update from Serve-Ag Research, October 2003. RIRDC publication to be advised.


 
 


Conversion Processes
 

Project Title	Managing high input farming systems to commercially viable organic systems
RIRDC Project No.:	RFR-1A
Researcher:	Mr Michael Blakeney
Organisation:	Rimfire Resources Pty Ltd Ground Floor 50 Leichardt Street BRISBANE QLD 4000
Phone:	(07) 3831 7966
Fax:	(07) 3831 7044
Email:	mblekeney@rimfireresources.com.au
Objectives	The development of a management and decision support system to enable producers to adopt progressive and programmed organic management by identifying and managing impediments to the adoption of organic systems.
Background	It became noticeable to the researcher that while the idea of organic systems was well received by commercial producers, there are perceived impediments and gaps in accessible knowledge and management techniques to implementing viable organic production on a large commercial scale. A support tool to address these gaps may assist producers assessing the potential of converting to a certified organic system.
Research	The researchers worked with producers and certifiers to develop and test management models that may allow the impediments to organic conversion to be overcome. A flow chart highlighting the critical decisions in the conversion process was developed. This framework was then used to develop a pilot self-test diagnostic that may be used by producers to consider the changes involved in a successful conversion to certified organic production. This was tested with producers and with certifiers to ensure it was appropriate.
Outcomes	This project assisted in identifying and managing impediments to the adoption of organic systems. It provides a viable methodology to support producers intending to convert to organic systems and as a result may increase the number and scale of certified organic producers.
Implications	The project shows that producers need decision support tools when considering a change to certified organic production systems. By removing this impediment more producers will consider the option of certified organic production. There is a need to further develop the pilot tool into a fully interactive self-test diagnostic that may assist producers in the conversion process.
Publications	CD containing pilot self-test diagnostic, User-friendly report of conversion process decisions. RIRDC publication to be advised.


Communication and Facilitation
 

Project Title	Equivalency of imported organic product
RIRDC Project No.:	UG-8A
Researcher:	Prof David Burch & Dr Kristen Lyons
Organisation:	Griffith University NATHAN QLD 4111
Phone:	(07) 3875 7223
Fax:	(07) 3875 7656
Email:	kristen.lyons@griffith.edu.au
Objectives	· Development of a dynamic registry of equivalent certification systems · Publication of a report documenting comparison of standards and impacts for industry stakeholders · Development of presentation materials for use at conferences and industry meetings · Publication of findings in relevant industry and academic journals
Background	With the growth in demand for organic products both domestically and from international sources, has come the challenge to ensure that industry players are able to effectively and efficiently navigate the multiple regulatory arrangements that pertain to organic standards and related regulations. There are differing international standards for organic production, as well as differing protocol by which third party certification organisations operate. The (Australian) National Standard for Organic and Biodynamic Produce (National Standard) specifies the need to ensure that imported product complies with the requirements of the National Standard.
Research	This research will pull together all relevant regulations and standards from around the world that have the potential to impact on importers of product into Australia, and in turn those wishing to use such product in multi-ingredient products for export. A comparison stencil will be established which will enable the cross checking of different regulations and standards to enable value adders and marketers to make judgements on potential equivalency of regulatory arrangements, which in turn may dictate the ability to either source or sell such product as complying with the National Standard.
Outcomes	The outcomes are expected in late 2004 and will be made available to whole of industry as well as via presentations and publications. The outcome will be a cross comparison tool which may be used by industry players to check the compliance and/or equivalence of differing regulations from around the world with those of Australia, and vice versa.
Implications	Harmony and simplicity of the application and understanding of regulations and certification by industry operators are a hidden but vital element in ensuring ongoing solid development of the organic industry in Australia. This research will assist in ensuring that such regulations are as transparent as possible while also enabling operators to make judicious product and sourcing choices to bolster their business chances of end product success and their ongoing ability to source organic products in compliance with the National Standard and related international regulations.
Publications	RIRDC publication to be advised.


 
 

2.5 Organic Systems - Research in progress
PROJECT No	PROJECT TITLE	RESEARCHER	PHONE	ORGANISATION

                                            System Design and Environmental Sustainability

DAQ-284A

World class production systems for new Australian apple varieties

Dr. Simon Middleton

(07) 4681 1255

Department of Primary Industries & Fisheries, Queensland

                                            Soils

DAN-195A	Increasing sustainable production and soil fertility on broad-acre organic farms	Dr. Jeffrey Evans	(02) 6938 1999	NSW Dept of Agriculture
UWA-81A	Adding value to organic pasture - microbes and minerals	A/Prof. Lynnette Abbott	(08) 9380 2509	University of Western Australia

                                            Conversion Processes

DAW-112A

Organic conversion demonstration at Kununurra

Mr. Steven McCoy

(08) 9368 3960

Department of Agriculture (WA)

                                            Supply Chain Management and Intelligence

CSW-39A	Agroecosystem technology options for sugar production	Dr. Mark Smith	(07) 4753 8567	CSIRO Sustainable Ecosystems
DAN-217A	Organic Vegetable Seedling Production	Ms Robyn Neeson	02 6951 2735	NSW Department of Agriculture

                                            Communication and Facilitation

DAV-199A	Making the most of naturally Victorian organics – communication, practice, conversion	Ms. Vivianne Burnett	(02) 6030 4500	Dept of Natural Resources & Environment (Vic)
OFA-3A	Second national organic conference	Mr. Sid Cowling	(03) 9571 5483	Organic Federation of Australia
OFA-4A	National organic industry awards for excellence	Mr. Sid Cowling	(03) 9571 5483	Organic Federation of Australia
OFA-5A	Organic information stand - fine food fair Sydney 2003	Mr. Sid Cowling	(03) 9571 5483	Organic Federation of Australia


 

System Design and Environmental Sustainability

Project Title	World class production systems for new Australian apple varieties
RIRDC Project No.:	DAQ-284A
Start Date:	01-Jul-01
Finish Date:	30-May-06
Researcher:	Dr Simon Middleton
Organisation:	Department of Primary Industries & Fisheries, Queensland Queensland Horticultural Institute PO Box 501 STANTHORPE QLD 4380
Phone:	(07) 46 811255
Fax:	(07) 46 811769
Email:	simon.middleton@dpi.qld.gov.au
Objectives	· Comprehensive review of the techniques used in organic apple production around the globe, including a list of approved methods and chemicals, identification of national and international "experts", costings, problems and possible solutions. · Identification of World Class Organic Apple Production Systems with associated "Tree Management Packages" aimed specifically at producing organic apples from new black spot resistant apple varieties derived from the AAPGA/HRDC funded apple breeding program. Most fungicide applications in apple orchards are used to control black spot. The use of black spot resistant varieties will therefore overcome one of the greatest hurdles to successful organic apple production in Australia. · Organic best management techniques which integrate the most effective organic (and where appropriate conventional integrated fruit production {IFP}) techniques for pest control, tree layout, pruning, crop load regulation, weed control and plant nutrition. The aim is to produce fruit that will comply with, and obtain the organic accreditation logo of Australia as well as European Union countries (ie, UK soil association/EEC 2092/21). · Encouragement of conventional growers to adopt organic farming techniques by demonstration of the economic costs, benefits and practical problems (+ solutions) likely to be encountered in Australia. Financial costs to be compared to conventional apple production. · Project to closely interact with organic marketing staff at QHI and other apple growing states. This will ensure that a combination of both "Best Practice Methods" and a cohesive marketing strategy will be made available to growers.
Current Progress	The Biological Farmers of Australia (BFA) completed their annual audit of the commercial organic apple block in January 2004. The site currently consists of 500 trees of a black spot resistant selection from the Queensland DPI&F apple breeding program, and will be certified fully organic from January 2005. Next season the block will produce Australia’s first commercial crop of an organically grown black spot resistant apple. A light crop of apples was harvested in 2003/04 (second growing season), with minimal pest and disease damage (slight Light Brown Apple Moth, Queensland Fruit Fly and Codling Moth). The spray program of lime sulphur, kocide and wettable sulphur was timely and effective. Insect biodiversity in the block is monitored, and high populations of ladybirds and spiders were evident compared with a nearby conventional block. Weed control has been an issue this season due to high rainfall. Weed gunnel was less effective than last year, and significant supplementary hand chipping was required. An organic weed control trial has been established to evaluate options. Other trials in 2003/04 included:  ·1 Organic control of Apple Dimpling Bug and Thrips. ·2 Control of Powdery Mildew (wettable sulphur, potassium soap etc). ·3 Comparison of organic spray schedules for pest and disease control.  ·4 Planting systems (rootstocks, tree densities, crop load) for black spot resistant apples. A farm walk was held at the organic apple trial site in April 2004. Articles have been published in the press and in the national journals "Tree Fruit" and "Good Fruit & Vegetables."


 

Soils
 

Project Title	Increasing sustainable production and soil fertility on broad-acre organic farms
RIRDC Project No.:	DAN-195A
Start Date:	01-Jul-01
Finish Date:	30-Dec-04
Researcher:	Dr Jeffrey Evans
Organisation:	NSW Department of Agriculture Agricultural Institute PMB WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650
Phone:	(02) 6938 1999
Fax:	(02) 6938 1822
Email:	jeffrey.evans@agric.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	· Innovative management to improve pasture production, increase gain in soil fertility and produce higher crop yield and cropping frequency on organic broad-acre farms. Decision support criteria for conversion of pasture to crop. An assessment of the role of organic farming for improving the soil resource.
Current Progress	The two field trials investigating the effects of different soil and pasture treatments on levels of available soil phosphorus (Olsen P), which commenced in 2001, have been maintained to 2004. At Ardlethan, background levels of Olsen P have remained steady at 4-5 ppm. After 3 years of pasture, Olsen P levels in soil treated with 500 kg/ha of ground reactive rock phosphate (RPR) had not improved (5.8 ppm) above these background levels. In plots treated with RPR and elemental sulphur (S), the already higher Olsen P levels have improved slightly (11 ppm) from the year 2002 levels (9 ppm), despite severe drought in 2002. Improvements in Olsen P in the RPR/S treatments have resulted in an additional 0.7-1.0 tDM/ha in pasture growth. Treatment of soil with only S has had little effect on Olsen P (6 ppm) after one year of drought. However, improved pasture growth on these plots suggests increased Olsen P, feasibly from S reaction with soil reserves of RPR from historical applications by the farmer. At Cootamundra, which has higher rainfall than Ardlethan, background Olsen P has remained steady at 7-8 ppm. Ground RPR (500 kg/ha) has improved Olsen P slightly (9.5 ppm) after 3 years compared to background levels, but not to the extent of the RPR/S treatment (15-18 ppm), which has been sustained since 2002. High weed density at Cootamundra has masked the effects of higher Olsen P on dry matter production. Surveys of organic farms continue to show low levels of available soil P, but in addition, highly variable quantities of soil mineral N between farms, at a time when farmers have opted to convert pasture to crop.


 
 
 
 

Project Title	Adding value to organic pasture - microbes and minerals
RIRDC Project No.:	UWA-81A
Start Date:	01-Jan-04
Finish Date:	31-Dec-06
Researcher:	A/Prof Lynnette Abbott
Organisation:	University of Western Australia Faculty of Agriculture NEDLANDS WA 6907
Phone:	(08) 9380 2509
Fax:	(08) 9380 1050
Email:	labbott@cyllene.uwa.edu.au
Objectives	· To monitor and interpret changes in soil biological, physical and chemical characteristics in response to the use of soil amendments for organic pasture production and in adjacent conventional pasture systems.
Current Progress	Jennifer Davis was appointed as the PhD student on this project. A field experiment is being established near Waroona, WA. The land has been used as pasture for beef cattle for several years and organic management commenced in mid 2003. The three treatments are - conventional fertiliser and 2 rates of a certified organic amendment. Each treatment will be replicated 5 times in 15 x 30m plots in an un-replicated, randomised block design. Changes in soil fertility during the conversion phase will be measured. Particular emphasis will be placed on biological aspects of soil fertility and on phosphorus in the soil and pasture. The field experiment will provide the basis for laboratory and glasshouse experiments investigating the role of soil microorganisms in the effectiveness of silicate minerals and reactive rock phosphates. The aim of these experiments will be to identify the mechanisms by which soil microorganisms interact with organic amendments. A field incubation experiment will also be conducted. Samples of the organic amendments will be buried in the field in fine mesh bags that prevent mass loss but enable microorganisms to penetrate. The organic amendments will be examined using microscopy after several months in the field.


 

Conversion Processes
 

Project Title	Organic conversion demonstration at Kununurra
RIRDC Project No.:	DAW-112A
Start Date:	01-Jul-03
Finish Date:	30-Jul-05
Researcher:	Mr Steven McCoy
Organisation:	Department of Agriculture (WA) 3 Baron Hay Court SOUTH PERTH WA 6151
Phone:	08 9368 3960
Fax:	08 9368 3355
Email:	smccoy@agric.wa.gov.au
Objectives	· To establish on farm demonstration sites displaying organic conversion for mangoes and to assist Kununurra growers to develop organic production systems for mangoes and other crops.
Current Progress	The project has facilitated the establishment of an organic mango conversion demonstration site on a commercial mango orchard at Parker Poynt Plantation, Kununurra. The site consists of a 1.2 ha block of 10 year old Kensington Pride mango trees. A detailed examination of changes to existing conventional management was undertaken, followed by the development of a comprehensive organic management plan. A grower group meeting was held and details of the organic management plan, organic certification issues and markets for organic mangoes were discussed. Soil fertility management and potential pest and disease problems were the main issues for further investigation.  A trial has been established on the organic site to examine the use of compost. The trial consists of three treatments; organic, organic + compost, and conventional. A soil and tissue testing program is under way. Results will allow a comparison of soil conditions between the treatments, and will also measure crop yield and quality. A field day was held in late October. Key topics were; organic site layout, organic management treatments, compost trial investigation, soil and tissue test results and market expectations. Application for organic certification was lodged in September 2003. The site now formally has "pre certification" status, with organic "in conversion" status anticipated for the 2004 harvest in October.  To date, tree health and vigour have been good and there have been no management issues of major concern. A poor season for the region last year, combined with a natural disaster in the form of an intense storm that ripped through the organic demonstration site, meant that yield results last season were of little value.  Several other mango growers in the region are now contemplating converting some production over to formal organic certification. Grower interest in organic melon, banana and citrus production are being explored.


 

Supply Chain Management and Intelligence
 

Project Title	Agroecosystem technology options for sugar production
RIRDC Project No.:	CSW-39A
Start Date:	01-Oct-02
Finish Date:	31-Oct-03
Researcher:	Dr Mark Smith
Organisation:	CSIRO Sustainable Ecosystems Private Mail Bag AITKENVALE QLD 4814
Phone:	07 4753 8567
Fax:	07 4653 8600
Email:	mark.smith@csiro.au
Objectives	· The project will position the sugar industry to exploit domestic and international market potential for Australian organic sugar; development of strategies for integration of organic sugar in the industry value chain; better knowledge of technology options from innovative organic systems design; and planning of a long-term research strategy to support growth of the organic sugar sector. Delivery of these outcomes will be achieved through cooperation with the RIRDC project UCQ-18A: Organic sugar: end-user support and grower perception.
Current Progress	The project has been implemented through meetings between the research team and two groups of organic sugarcane growers, one in the Rocky Point district south of Brisbane and the other in Mackay. District-level goals for the organic sector have been identified for the short and long term, and organisation of the organic industry has been described for each district. The groups have reviewed their experience with certification and the transition process, arrangements for ensuring the integrity of certification along the supply chain and agreements between the mill and growers. Discussions have shown that motivations for becoming involved in organic production generally combine the pursuit of a marketing opportunity and a philosophical commitment to managing for better soil and ecosystem health. Each group has worked with the research team to describe current practice and to compare favoured strategies and innovations among group members. Major constraints on productivity using organic management have been identified for each district using an agroecosystems framework which links system diversity to control of productivity. These constraints include not only cost-effective replenishment of soil N, re-balancing of soil biological function and weed control, but also access to reliable and objective information. Case studies have been conducted in each district with growers, enabling more in-depth analysis of technology options and production economics. While dependent on price, higher returns can be achieved with organic sugar production than the conventional alternative, although farmers face higher risks associated with price, production variability and yield loss during conversion. Strategic development needs for the organic sugar sector were documented at a final project workshop held jointly with participants from both grower groups.


 
 
 
 

Project Title	Organic Vegetable Seedling Production
RIRDC Project No.:	DAN-217A
Start Date:	24-Jun-03
Finish Date:	05-Jan-04
Researcher:	Ms Robyn Neeson
Organisation:	NSW Department of Agriculture Organic Farming Liason Officer PMB Yanco Agricultural Institute YANCO NSW 2703
Phone:	02 6951 2735
Fax:	02 6951 2620
Email:	robyn.neeson@agric.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	· Changes to International and Australian National organic standards will require that growers of organic produce source organically raised seed or vegetative propagation material. This project aims to provide a forum for organic vegetable producers and seedling and input suppliers to gain an increased awareness of the requirements for organic vegetable seedling production and to identify opportunities and threats that may arise as a result of this requirement. Provide the necessary technical and regulatory information to producers of vegetable seedling and other propagative material to permit the production of organic certified stock.
Current Progress	The first part of this project involved conducting six half-day information workshops. The aim of the National organic seed/seedling workshops was to increase awareness of the changes to the Organic Standard with respect to supply of organic propagation material, and to outline the requirements of the National Standard for Organic and Bio-Dynamic Produce (AQIS. 1992, 1998, 2002) with respect to organic seed and seedling production. The workshops were held in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Launceston, Adelaide and Perth. The workshop series provided an opportunity to highlight a number of important issues relevant to the entire organic industry and its suppliers in relation to changes to the organic seed/seedling production rule and consequences should the derogation be removed. Technical information regarding regulatory issues and production methods related to organic seed and seedling production was also presented during the workshops. The workshops highlighted the need for consistency in the interpretation and implementation of the derogation allowing for the use of non-certified material in organic production systems. Workshop participants were largely enthusiastic about the adoption of the seed/seedling rule, considering business development opportunities to be a positive spin-off. However, uncertainty regarding supply and demand is currently inhibiting production.  The second part of this project involved a survey of organic vegetable producers and seed/seedling providers in order to get some understanding of the impact of the production rule on producers and to estimate the potential size of the trade in organic seed & seedlings. Results of this survey have been collated and are currently being analysed.

Communication and Facilitation
 

Project Title	Making the most of naturally Victorian organics - communication, practice, conversion
RIRDC Project No.:	DAV-199A
Start Date:	01-Jul-02
Finish Date:	31-Jul-04
Researcher:	Ms Vivianne Burnett
Organisation:	Department of Primary Industries (Vic) RMB 1145 Chiltern Valley Road RUTHERGLEN VIC 3685
Phone:	(02) 6030 4500
Fax:	(02) 6030 4600
Email:	viv.burnett@nre.vic.gov.au
Objectives	· Four producer workshops (two per year) conducted in Victoria at Rutherglen, Mildura, Ballarat and Warragul. · Workshop proceedings published in hard copy and placed on NRE and OFA websites. · Evaluation reports from workshops (within one month and six months on) for assessment of practice change. · Increased adoption of organic farming methods as a result of information provided. · Increased number of certified organic producers in Victoria. · Increased knowledge of best practice organic farming methods by existing organic farmers. · Increased ability of existing organic farmers to use organic market opportunities and extend their production.
Current Progress	This project aims to deliver four producer workshops (two per year) in regional centres throughout Victoria. The aim of these workshops is to assist in the rate of adoption of organic farming practices amongst producers. To date, three workshops have been conducted in north east (Rutherglen), north west (Mildura) and south east Victoria (Warragul). At all workshops there have been comprehensive organic industry overviews, producer speakers, training sessions for participants and visits to certified organic properties. At the most recent workshop conducted in November 2003 at Warragul, 27 producers attended with 50% being conventional producers interested in organic production. The Warragul workshop had an organic livestock focus and visits were made to organic retail and processing meat outlets. A training session on live animal assessment was conducted on farm for both cattle and sheep, and producers had the opportunity to learn about the MSA grading system for meat at the abattoir. The majority of producers cited distance from a certified abattoir as a barrier to organic certification. Producers also cited weed management, animal health, availability of organic animal feed and the relative cost of certification compared with premiums received as additional barriers. Producers (both certified and conventional) indicated through evaluation that practice change on farm would include live animal assessment and weighing of stock prior to sale and more attention to weed and pasture management.


 
 
 
 

Project Title	Second national organic conference
RIRDC Project No.:	OFA-3A
Start Date:	01-Nov-02
Finish Date:	30-Nov-03
Researcher:	Mr Sid Cowling
Organisation:	Organic Federation of Australia PO Box 22 GLENHUNTLEY VIC 3163
Phone:	(03) 9571 5483
Fax:	(03) 9571 5483
Email:	cowlings@netspace.net.au
Objectives	· The conference will bring together members of the organic, scientific, business, government and consumer communities to explore sustainability issues for development. The issues arising are intended to generate a much broader spectrum of consideration as the organic research agenda is driven into the next 5-50 years.
Current Progress	The Organic Federation of Australia (OFA), the peak body of the Australian Organic Industry, conducted the second national conference in Adelaide in October 2003. This followed the success of the inaugural National Organic Conference in Sydney in 2001. ‘Organic Futures for Australia’ was chosen as the overall theme for the conference. The three sub-themes were: The Science, The Practice, and The Business of organic operations.  Plenary and specialist sessions were held, as well as trade displays and workshops. Speakers were drawn from overseas as well as a number of scientists and industry practitioners from around Australia. A number of tours to organic properties took place on 4 October. The key points of the conference were as follows: ·1 Title of conference: Organic Futures for Australia ·2 Date: 2-4 October 2003 ·3 Location: University of Adelaide, South Australia ·4 Conference Coordination: OFA via the Secretariat and nominated committees ·5 Attendees Numbers: Conference – 245; Feast – 104; Tours – 50 ·6 Trade Exhibits: 24 ·7 Sponsors: Total of 6 sponsors contributed $12,900 in cash and others assisted in kind The overall message from those surveyed at the end of the event and from the media subsequently is that the conference was an overwhelming success.


 
 
 
 

Project Title	National organic industry awards for excellence
RIRDC Project No.:	OFA-4A
Start Date:	24-Jun-03
Finish Date:	30-Nov-03
Researcher:	Mr Sid Cowling
Organisation:	Organic Federation of Australia PO Box 22 GLENHUNTLEY VIC 3163
Phone:	(03) 9571 5483
Fax:	(03) 9571 5483
Email:	cowlings@netspace.net.au
Objectives	· To recognise excellence in the organic industry in seven categories: · Best Organic Producer - more than 5 years certified · Best Organic Producer - less than 5 years certified, including in conversion · Best Organic Processor or Manufacturer (products) · Best Organic Independent Retailer/Food Service · Best Organic Marketer · Best Organic Education Project · Best Organic Research Project
Current Progress	The Organic Federation of Australia (OFA), the peak body of the Australian Organic Industry, conducted the second national conference in Adelaide in October 2003.  In conjunction with this conference nominations were invited for the seven categories. An independent judging committee was established and the following awards were presented at the formal dinner at the completion of the conference: Best Organic Producer (more than 5 years) Winner The Food Forest, Permaculture, South Australia Runner-up Ron & Bev Smith, Dairy Farmers, Victoria Best Organic Producer (less than 5 years) Winner Forest Hill Farm, Market Garden, Tasmania Runner-up Cullen Wines, Vineyard, Western Australia Best Processor/Manufacturer Winner B-d Farm Paris Creek, Dairy Products, South Australia Runner-up The Pharmaceutical Plant Company, Herbal Products, Victoria Best Organic Independent Retailer/Food Service Operator Winner Penny's Produce, Organic Retailer, Victoria Best Organic Education Project Winner Organic Agriculture Association, TAFE courses, Victoria Runner-up The Food Forest, Permaculture Workshops, South Australia Best Organic research Project Winner DPI Victoria, Naturally Victorian Project These awards generate much industry and media attention. It is envisaged that these awards will continue to be a feature of the national organic industry scene.


 
 
 
 

Project Title	Organic information stand - fine food fair Sydney 2003
RIRDC Project No.:	OFA-5A
Start Date:	24-Jun-03
Finish Date:	30-Nov-03
Researcher:	Mr Sid Cowling
Organisation:	Organic Federation of Australia PO Box 22 GLENHUNTLEY VIC 3163
Phone:	(03) 9571 5483
Fax:	(03) 9571 5483
Email:	cowlings@netspace.net.au
Objectives	· Improve level of information provided on Organic Industry in Australia at a key food industry event by providing a neutral, unbiased and fair service to the whole industry
Current Progress	The Organic Federation of Australia conducted the Organic Industry Information Stand at the 2003 Fine Food Fair in Sydney in September. Many commented on the open and independent advice and information provided by the personnel on the stand. The stand was very popular. At times 5-6 personnel from OFA and industry bodies were on duty all answering inquiries with other people waiting. It is estimated that the stand handled in excess of 3,000 inquiries. Food industry interest in organics was much greater than at the same event in Melbourne in 2002. For instance, the stand was initially supplied with 120% of the quantities of brochures from OFA, certifiers, and industry that were used in Melbourne in 2002. Additional supplies had to be obtained, and twice as much material was distributed as in 2002. The stand had a computer with access to the OFA website directory. It also displayed the PowerPoint presentation of Steve McCoy’s "Organic Agriculture World Trade Overview", a project funded by RIRDC. This generated many questions, with stand personnel being able to provide follow-up information in most cases. The nature of the enquiries was across a very broad range of interests. They came from importers and exporters, local and overseas food processors, wholesalers and retailers, and primary producers. Many were new to organics and were seeking information on supply and demand, certification and general public interest.


 






Last updated: August 2004
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