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Its time to start getting ready for the export season ahead.  We have a range of activities coming up for exporters and growers alike.

• Export 101 – for growers and packers new to exporting (in person or online) – 16 June
• Export Workshop – for growers, packers and crop monitors prior to registration (in person or online) – 17 June
• Dinner after the workshop – 17 June
• Field day in Launceston, Tasmania – 18 June
• 2 half day production webinars – 23 and 24 June

The 2021 Cherry Export Workshop will follow the the Fruit Growers Tasmania conference in Launceston, Tasmania on Thursday the 17^th of June.  Attend in person, or attend via webinar. The workshop is compulsory for mainland growers, packers and crop monitors wanting to register for export to protocol markets. There are no fees to attend, but a registration fee for export will as per other years, apply.  For an agenda, details and booking form, go to the CGA website (https://www.cherrygrowers.org.au/2021-workshop) .
 
After the workshop (17 June), we will have an informal dinner at the Brisbane Street Bistro in Launceston. Head to the CGA website for the dinner registration form and sample menu (https://www.cherrygrowers.org.au/2021-workshop).
 
Export 101 is a new initiative geared toward growers and packers unfamiliar with export requirements. Export 101 will also be held Tasmania, on Wednesday the 16^th of June at the Tailrace Centre.  Attend in person on via webinar. There is no cost to attend.  For an agenda, details and booking form, go to the CGA website (https://www.cherrygrowers.org.au/2021-workshop).
 
A Cherry Field Day will be held on Friday the 18^th of June in Launceston.  Join us for a progressive field day dedicated to the cherry. The cost is free, but registration essential. For details and registration, head to the CGA website (https://www.cherrygrowers.org.au/field-days/).
 
The following week (23 & 24 June), CGA will host two half-day production webinars.  Details on the CGA website (https://www.cherrygrowers.org.au/2021-production-webinars).
 
**PLEASE NOTE: YOU MUST BOOK TO ATTEND ANY OF THESE EVENTS

Metropoliton Melbourne Restrictions update- 25.5.2021

• Masks must be worn indoors unless there is an exemption. This applies to everyone 12 years and older and includes workplaces
• Private gatherings in the home are limited to five visitors per day
• Public gatherings are limited to 30 people

Conference 2021: 15-16 June 

Fruit Growers Tasmania will be holding its 30th annual Winter Conference at Launceston's Tailrace Centre on 15-16 June 2021. The conference program will feature an inspiring mix of leading national and international speakers providing information on the latest research findings, production techniques, emerging technologies and the current priorities and challenges relating to fruit production in Tasmania. There truly will be something for everyone.

Visit the FGT website for more information

The Department of Health and Agriculture Victoria are organising Information Sessions for Horticulture Industry in Yarra Ranges to help farmers prepare for COVID Safe Inspections and make sure they are following current guidelines and implementing COVID Safe Plans and strategies.

These inspections will be conducted at random and will be focused on the farm work (trimming, picking and packing), farm accommodation, farm transportation and labour providers.

Before COVID Safe Inspections get underway, this is an informal opportunity to come and seek advice from the Department of Health, AgVic and other government agencies.
 
Information sessions will be held in three locations – Lilydale, Monbulk and Yarra Glen on 25,26 and 27 of May. Choose session time and location which suits you better and register for the session. All the details and links to registration are in the attachment.

Download the brochure for more information

Please download the attached article that appeared in the recent Australian Tree Crop magazine featuring Cobram & District Fruit Growers Association President Tony Siciliano and General Manager, Karen Abberfield.  Tony and Karen discuss how the increased Queensland Fruit Fly (Qfly) pressure is of great concern for growers and the need for continued effective and widespread management of the pest.

Download the Australian Tree Crop article here...

The Federal Budget saw some benefits to Australia’s growers.  Workforce, trade and biosecurity were big winners with major funding announcements for each.
Some of the highlights include –

• The Federal Budget increases direct spending within the agriculture related portfolios by $850 million. This comes after an increase of $1.27 billion in the October 2020 budget.
• $8.4 million to improve collection, analysis and forecasting of agricultural labour force data.
• $3.6 million for Fair Farms program to promote fair employment practices in horticulture.
• $198.2 million to support Australian export businesses by increasing Australia’s presence at the WTO, and advocacy and coalition building on international trade matters with likeminded countries.
• $371 million over four years for Australia’s biosecurity

A more detailed breakdown of the budget and its announcements for Australian agriculture is below -

Workforce

• $10.1 million for a pilot AgUP program to co-fund industry initiatives that build skills and enhance career pathways in farming.
• $8.4 million to improve collection, analysis and forecasting of agricultural labour force data.
• $5.3 million for AgCAREERSTART program to incentivise school leavers to undertake farm placements.
• $3.6 million for Fair Farms program to promote fair employment practices in horticulture.
• $1.3 million in R&D into attraction and retention of agricultural workers.
• $1 million to develop resources for farmers to implement modern workplace practices.

• $285 million for stronger skills for skills reform to establish 15 industry-owned Skills Enterprises (agriculture being one industry).