Shaping the Future is
the corporate newsletter of RIRDC. It is distributed quarterly by direct
mail to over 4,000 researchers, industry, government, farmers, libraries
and consultants. Contributions are welcome.
A pdf version of this newsletter with all illustrations is also available for download (1.4meg).
In this issue:  Valuable
guide to new crops - The New Crop Industries Handbook
A
word from the Managing Director
SunRice
wins RIRDC agribusiness prize
Rural
industries are Australia’s third largest employer
Kangaroo
meat on the menu for trainee chefs
Farm
forestry for improved biodiversity and profits
Agricultural
Resources on the web
Business
is booming for rural women
Rabbit
farmers unite!
New
faces at RIRDC
Fuel
for thought: tractors running on vegetable oil
Diesel
engines: designed for plant oil
Rural
youth speak out through Heywire
Commercial
wattle plantations to fight soil degradation
RIRDC
BookshopAustralian landholders interested in diversifying now have access to production details for almost 70 potential new crops with the release of the New Crop Industries Handbook. The handbook has been written by industry experts and contains information about production, marketing, varieties, agronomy, pests & disease control, harvest, postharvest and financial information. "Diversification has always been an important feature of Australian agriculture as landholders manage the difficult task of farming in this country," RIRDC managing director Dr Simon Hearn said. "This book will be a valuable guide to many alternative plant-based farming systems suitable for various parts of Australia." Dr Hearn said it was an exciting time for agriculture with growing demand for innovative new crops being driven by the consumer. "Dramatic
changes have taken place with regard to the range of foods on offer in
restaurant menus, on grocery shelves and with home-cooked meals." "People
are searching for new flavours and new products, and this represents a
tremendous opportunity for diversification in farm production."
The New Crop Industries Handbook is divided into nine major sections: Asian Vegetables; Essential Oils; Fruits & Berries; Grains & Legumes; Herbs & Spices; Native Foods; Nuts; Wildflowers and Miscellaneous crops. It includes an introductory chapter about the nature of new crops and the key factors to consider before making a decision about them. The book offers step-by-step guidance about how to go about planning and researching new crops to determine the chances for success. This assists the reader with advice on how to business planning, market research, production issues (soil types, water needs, pests, etc), economics, personal factors and more. The report is available as a 553 page book, and as a searchable CD-ROM. Sections from the book can also be vieweed on the RIRDC website. The
New Crop Industries Handbook (2004, 553pp, Pub No 04/125: $50 - see
special offer below) The New Crop Industries Handbook: CD version (2004,
Pub No CD04002: $15)
A
word from the Managing Director
There is a level of commitment and enthusiasm that is infectious. High levels of dedication are often a prerequisite when undertaking any pioneering exercise, so it is not surprising to find this among the people operating within RIRDC’s scope of interest. The other impressive trait that I find among this group is the encouragement used to support new entrants into their industry, and the support networks are also incredibly strong. A great example of how that support is The New Crops Handbook, which was written by industry participants, researchers and agricultural consultants. The book (also available on CD and online) contains a wealth of information about 69 new and potential crops for Australian landholders. It includes a wealth of information about the economics of these crops, guidance on how to grow them and words of advice about disease management and other issues. The interest in diversification has always been strong among Australian farmers, and has been driven by a range of factors, including geographic isolation, unpredictable climatic conditions and relatively poor soils. Diversification is also a form of risk management in that it be would unusual for several crops to suffer low prices simultaneously. This Handbook will be a valuable guide to diversification of plant-based farming systems suitable for various parts of Australia. An exciting development related to diversification is the growing demand for innovative new crops being driven by the consumer. Dramatic changes have taken place with regard to the range of foods on offer in restaurant menus, on grocery shelves and with home-cooked meals. People are searching for new flavours and new products, and this represents a tremendous opportunity for diversification in farm production. Finally, it is with regret that I sign off on my last newsletter editorial. The past two and a half years as managing director have been among the most rewarding of my career to date. I would like to express my thanks to everyone I have met and worked with in Australian agriculture during a lifetime of involvement and look forward to further contact in the future. Simon
Hearn
SunRice
wins RIRDC agribusiness prize
SunRice is wholly owned by approximately 2,000 rice growers. It sources, processes and markets rice globally under proprietary brands. Annual consolidated revenue is over $800 million. With a history of marketing table rice, SunRice has more recently launched into value added rice-based foods. Coupled with powerful brands and strong customer relationships, this strategy is delivering enhanced revenue streams. The value-add share of SunRice’s total Australian retail sales has moved from under 7% several years ago, to a forecast of nearly 25% for this year. The success is testament to the initiative, passion and commitment of all employees who are committed to the vision of SunRice: to be the world’s favourite food company. Rural
industries are Australia’s third largest employer
Speaking at the launch of the Social profile of people employed in the Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing industries, former Parliamentary Secreatary for Agricultre, Fisheries and Forestry Senator the Hon Judith Troeth said that AFF industries employed a four per cent share of Australia’s total workforce in 2001, which makes it the eleventh largest national employer. The only sectors to employ more people were retail (15.2%) and manufacturing (10.6%). "This report provides a firm basis for understanding the contribution of agriculture-related industries to the social structure of communities all across Australia", Senator Troeth said. "This sector plays an important role in creating wealth and prosperity for the nation and particularly within rural and regional communities and this important information will enhance the Government’s understanding of rural Australia and its industries." The report was, which uses Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) 1996 and 2001 Censuses data, was produced by the Bureau of Rural Sciences (BRS) and funded by the Rural Industries R&D Corporation. This publication compliments the successful BRS publication Country Matters – Social Atlas of Rural and Regional Australia, providing specific information on employment, demography, labour force, education, income and information technology use. Key findings in the report include: . there was an increase of 2% in the total number of persons employed in the AFF industries across Australia between 1996 (324,068) and 2001 (330,510).
Kangaroo
meat on the menu for trainee chefs
In response to this situation, the Kangaroo Meat Awareness Package was launched in South Australia to improve knowledge among chefs and other staff of the value, versatility and health attributes of kangaroo meat. A collaborative effort between the kangaroo industry, Regency Institute of TAFE (South Australia) and the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC), Kangaroo Meat Awareness Package is designed to provide the catalyst to include kangaroo meat into many of the training programs offered to students and employees in cooking and hospitality,in TAFE Institutes and private training organisations around Australia. The Kangaroo Meat Awareness Package contains a video and DVD divided into two sections. The first takes a Chef and his young cooking staff and waiting staff on a journey to discover more information about kangaroo meat, the industry, the different cuts available and cooking methods. This includes an element of comedy, brought in by an aging waiter, a difficult and naïve customer and the goings-on in a not-tootypical restaurant. The package also contains a CDROM which offers the learner an opportunity to access information regarding the kangaroo industry, kangaroo specifications and selected meat cuts booklet, cooking methods and recipes for selected kangaroo dishes. One of the most interesting and valuable tools included in the CD ROM is its ability to have most of the information on screen translated into either French or Italian at a keystroke. The package also includes the fortyplus recipes from the CD ROM in hard copy. With the Kangaroo Specifications and Selected Meat Cuts booklet included, this represents the most comprehensive teaching and learning package ever produced for game meat. The package is available from Regency Publishing. For further details they can be contacted on 08 8348 4599 or email regency.publishing@regency.tafe.sa.edu.au Farm
forestry for improved biodiversity and profits
The book Trees and Biodiversity: a guide for Australian farm forestry discusses a range of management techniques to implement improved biodiversity without negative impact on economic performance. The book has been compiled by wellknown researchers David Salt, Professor David Lindenmayer (Australian National University) and Professor Richard Hobbs (Murdoch University WA). Prof. Lindenmayer said Trees and Biodiversity is designed to increase knowledge among farm foresters of how natural ecosystems function, how to build natural values into the management of a farm forest, and how to turn a plantation of trees into an asset for biodiversity. "No conclusive studies have yet identified precisely the biodiversity benefits that farm forestry provides and most evidence suggests that plantations, even if they contain a mix of native and introduced tree species, are not a substitute for a native forest or a patch of remnant native vegetation," he said. "Plantations lack the structural complexity, the mix of ages, and the range of resources needed to support a diverse assemblage of native animals and plants. The book Australian farm forestry of management techniques to implement improved biodiversity without negative to build natural values into the management of a farm the resources necessary for some of the wildlife and native plants present in a given region. If planned sympathetically with the retention of existing native vegetation, planted forests can have significant conservation benefits for farms." The book is written for farmers, farm foresters, extension officers, plantation managers, conservationists and investors who want to take into account the conservation of biodiversity. Information is relevant most forms of farm forestry, from small to large-scale plantations. Biodiversity decline Australia’s current problem of declining biodiversity has arisen, in part, from our inability to integrate biodiversity into agricultural practice as landholders cleared the Australian landscape of native vegetation. If farm forestry is to become an accepted agricultural practice, the real challenge is to develop a culture of tree plantation management that acknowledges and incorporates biodiversity. Not all farm forestry is good for biodiversity, and each farm’s situation is unique. In different situations, a single practice can often produce varying results. However, understanding of the basic principles and an ability to identify the basic requirements for wildlife will enable farm foresters to make informed judgements about their options. Trees and Biodiversity: a guide for Australian farm forestry (2004, 210pp, Publication No. 03/047; $34) *see page 6 for special offer Agricultural
Resources on the web
Business
is booming for rural women
Senator Troeth said the report Women in Business in Rural and Remote Australia – growing regional economies, shows rural women are making a big impact on local employment and income, and adding to the diversity of the regional business mix. The report seeks to identify ways to support female business operators in regional areas. Five key factors for success were identified, including: the capacity to manage growth; effective family support; access to women’s business networks; neutralising discrimination; and control of property. "The majority of rural women running successful businesses often need to manage a challenging mix of responsibilities including family life, caring for children, assisting on the farm, providing traditional support to community activities, participating in networks, in addition to running a business." "Around 30 per cent of the total small businesses in regional Australia are operated by rural women, generating around $1.2 billion a year for regional economies," the Senator said. "In many cases income from non-farm businesses is critical in ensuring the survival of the farm family, especially during times of drought, natural disaster and economic downturns." The report found that in less than ten years, the total number of women working in their own small business has more than doubled, reaching almost 527,000 by 2001. With more and more women entering rural business ventures, Senator Troeth said it was important to assist women to develop the skills and knowledge they need to achieve success. "Better business management skills are constantly being sought by rural women in business, focusing on creative, interactive approaches that emphasise inspiration and confidence building," the Senator said. Senator Troeth said that World Rural Women’s Day presented the opportunity to reflect on the significant achievements of rural women worldwide, who make up more than 25 per cent of the world’s population and produce almost half of the world’s food. Women in Business in Rural and Remote Australia (2004, 64gs, Publication No. 04/130, $21) Rabbit
farmers unite!
Manager of the New Animal Products program Dr Peter McInnes said the establishment of the FRIA is an exciting move that should provide benefits to everyone interested in the farmed rabbit industry. "The FRIA will work to support the development rabbit-based food and fibre industries by promoting cohesion and friendly relations between members," Dr McInnes said. "One of the core aims for the new FRIA will be to establish an industry that provides attractive financial returns to its members, and also provides the broader Australian community with wholesome and healthy products." The meat rabbit industry in Australia has grown considerably in recent years, from production of 106 tonnes of meat in 1999 to an estimated 250 tonnes in 2003. The industry is now national with farmers in most states. While
the fibre rabbit industry is smaller, a recent RIRDC report found there
was potential for significant growth of that industry in this country.
Fuel
for thought: tractors running on vegetable oil
Steven Hobbs, winner of the Rural Industries Research & Development 2003 Nuffield Scholarship, believes there are compelling environmental and economic reasons for farmers to consider making their own fuel from vegetable oil crops such as canola. "Not many people realise that enough energy reaches the earth’s surface from the sun every hour to supply the entire energy demands of the world for 12 months! All we have to do is learn how to harness the power of nature," he said. "One of the simplest ways to harness energy is with plants. Plants are unique photosynthesis laboratories, with the capacity to convert sunshine and carbon dioxide into energy. "However, it is oleaginous (oil-producing) plants that have the unique ability to convert sunshine and carbon dioxide into fuel that can be used for many of our energy demands." Mr Hobbs said the use of renewable fuels will become increasingly important as fossil fuel reserves are depleted. "Plant-based fuels can be used in conventional high compression diesel engines with little or no modification and also reduce pollution. "Vegetable oils are low emission fuels and are also safe to humans and the environment - in comparison to fossil diesel, emissions are reduced by as much as 60%." Mr Hobbs said the production of vegetable oils also holds great economic potential for farms and regional communities through increased employment opportunities and the creation of localised industry. The RIRDC Nuffield Scholarship enabled him to study biodiesel developments in Germany, Finland, Wales and England. "In Germany for example, de-centralised oil production has experienced huge growth. There are now more than 200 small to medium scale oil plants producing ‘rapsole’ (rapeseed oil) for fuel, human and stock consumption. Vegetable oil is also being used to produce electricity and heating," Mr Hobbs said. "There are now more than 5000 cars in Germany running on pure vegetable oil, with more than 1500 service stations selling ‘rapsole (biodiesel)’ at the bowser. "A number of large truck fleets have converted to pure vegetable oil, with two trains also recently converted. "The German Government has established a standard for pure vegetable oil and conducted ‘the tractor 100 program’ which saw 100 farmer’s tractors converted to pure vegetable oil." Mr Hobbs said there is a growing awareness among landholders that financial profitability is not the only measure of long-term sustainability, and that sustainability encompasses the environmental, family and social aspects as well. "This is linked to the growing awareness in the farming sector and the broader community of the need to conserve our finite resources." "The same is also true for energy. In the past we have all been guilty of wasting energy but as our fossil fuel reserves draw inevitably closer to depletion, we are only starting to comprehend the impact of our addiction to ‘cheap’ fossil fuels." Mr Hobbs said we have polluted the environment and can only make educated guesses about the nature of long-term impacts. "Current forecasts include more droughts, higher temperatures, rising sea levels and a greater frequency and intensity of storm activity," he said. However, he believes a significant part of the long-term solution is to make much greater use of renewable energy. For more information contact: Steven Hobbs (tel 0419 003 752, email shobbs@wimmera.com.au) Diesel
engines: designed for plant oil
It was only powered by modern diesel fuel years later when a new "fraction" was discovered between kerosene and oil as part of the oil refining process. This "fraction" was found to be suitable as a fuel in a high compression engine, and was named "diesel" after the diesel engine. A cheap and abundant supply of fossil "diesel" saw the diesel engine adapted and modified to utilise this fuel, in preference to vegetable oils. Ironically, Diesel believed that in due time, vegetable oils used to power his engine would become as important as fossil fuels in other engines. Rural
youth speak out through Heywire
Heywire - the ABC Gives Regional Youth a Voice - is a competition open to people aged 16 - 22, which calls for entrants to submit a script for a three minute radio documentary about life as they experience it in regional Australia. The announcement of winners took place at Meeting Place, the Regional Arts Australia national conference in Horsham, where Mr. Mahony congratulated the 38 winners from across regional Australia. Mr. Mahony said he was looking forward to another successful Heywire. "Each year Heywire gives us a powerful insight in to the thoughts, views and aspirations of young people from all over rural Australia. Once gain, this years stories highlight the passion regional youth have for the country." "The stories include - what it’s like to live away from home to study, bridging the gap of understanding between country and city, the disadvantages faced by young people in rural areas, the pride people have in their towns and lifestyle, the impact of isolation, and the trials - both tragic and comical -of life in regional Australia", he said. "The real strength of Heywire is that young people tell their stories in their words and in their voices." Mr Mahony said. Also speaking at the Heywire announcement was this year’s winner from Ballarat VIC, 19-year-old Josephine Harris, representing the impressive rollcall of young people in this year’s Heywire line-up. She read her highly engaging story about the changing face of her hometown and the need for young people in the regions to have access to live music, venues and their own cultural life. Each of the winning stories will be produced by the ABC and broadcast across ABC Local Radio and Triple J over summer and into early 2005. The winners will come to Canberra in February for the Heywire Youth Issues Forum at the Australian Institute of Sport. The Forum provides experience and training in goal setting, communication, leadership, teamwork skills and problem solving. It also explores many of the issues raised in the competition submissions. Heywire operates with the support of the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation, the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, and the Australian Sports Commission. Commercial
wattle plantations to fight soil degradation
AcaciaSearch identifies, evaluates and provides detailed information for Acacia species considered prospective as new woody crop plants in the agricultural region of southern Australia. Launching the book, forestry researcher John Bartle said the study was born out of the need to undertake large-scale commercial plantings with perennial plants as a treatment for salinity control in these regions. "There is currently no large-scale commercial use of Acacia within the southern Australian agricultural zone despite the fact that acacia is the largest plant group in the area," Mr Bartle said. Acacia is a diverse and enormous genus with almost 1000 species in Australia. "This represents a vast resource for economic, environmental and social utilisation, but to date their major usage has been overseas." "Many Australian Acacias produce good quantities of wood biomass and display a range of variation in growth form, growth rate, longevity and coppicing and suckering ability. "They are adapted to a wide range of soil types and climates, including drought- and frost-prone areas." Thirty five species have been identified as having some crop potential for the southern Australian agricultural zone. AcaciaSearch - Evaluation of Acacia as a woody crop option for southern Australia (2003, 280 pp, Publication No 03/017: $60 and get The value of Acacia saligna* as a source of fodder for ruminants for free (To order please quote ACACIA Xmas special) *The value of Acacia saligna as a source of fodder for ruminants By G. Krebs et al. A. saligna (also knows as the Golden Wreath Wattle or Orange Wattle) is an extremely rugged tree which has proved to be widely adaptable to barren slopes, derelict land and arid conditions. This tree is of particular interest as a feed source for ruminants as it is drought tolerant and grows rapidly, and in the arid regions of Israel it is grown using only run-off water. This publication examines three pen trials, together with a laboratory-based trial in order to evaluate the value of A. saligna as a source of feed for ruminants. 2002, 63pp, Pub. No. 02/165 Normal price $16 RIRDC Bookshop
Many full reports are also available free as downloadable pdf, rtf and MSWord6 documents. Many reports have been summarised in free RIRDC "Short Reports". PAST ISSUES OF THIS NEWSLETTER
Last updated: January 2005 Copyright © RIRDC http://www.rirdc.gov.au/pub/issue45-dec04.html |
