A berry successful event - Berry Expo 2007

A berry-full Berry Expo 2007

Climate change, soil health, moisture monitoring, chemical management and poly tunnel production were just some of the presentation topics at the 2nd Berry Industry Expo and Information Day.This biannual event was held on the 7th June 2007, at Mt Evelyn, Victoria. A total of 300 people attended the 1-day informal conference, including 160 berry growers from 3 states.

This joint initiative of the Victorian Strawberry, Australian Rubus and Australian Blueberry industries has again received very positive feedback from growers and those involved in the day's presentations and displays.   Over 40 service providers and researchers took the opportunity to showcase their businesses.  They were pleased with the level of interest in their products and services.  Many complimented their displays with presentations, in the auditorium, on recent research.  

An innovation, this year, was the Keynote Address on a topical issue for the berry industries, Climate Change and its possible effects on the berry industries.  Dr Jo Luck, Department of Primary Industries pest and disease scientist, stressed that growers can be proactive in anticipating and adapting to the impacts on their production systems of higher temperatures and greater levels of carbon dioxide.  For instance, berry varieties that require lower chill factors to set fruit may suit southern Australian berry growing regions.  Pest pressures may increase but the warmer conditions may reduce some diseases.  "The bottom line is that all will need to adapt in some way", Dr Luck told the audience.

The Berry Expo has become a key event in the calendars for service providers and berry growers, providing them with an opportunity for communication and technology transfer.

Many prospective and/or new growers also attend to gather information and meet members of the industry.  

The service providers see the event as a unique opportunity for them to meet with current clients and discuss their business with prospective customers.   One display holder commented that he felt that he was talking with people who were genuinely interested in purchasing his products.  Another commented on the professionalism of the event.

The prize for the best display, as judged by the presidents of the three industry associations, was won by Seasol International P/L.  Thanks to those who supported the event with additional sponsorship and donations of prizes for the raffle.

The event was organised by the respective Industry Development Officers. 

For more information contact:

Chloe Thomson, Victorian Strawberry IDO, email:   cthomson@vicstrawberry.com.au

Alison Brinson, Raspberry IDO, email:   alison.brinson@dpi.vic.gov.au

Vanessa Hood, Blueberry IDO, email:   vanessa.hood@dpi.vic.gov.au

 

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