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A NEW manual being distributed will give growers and farm managers in Bundaberg’s diverse horticultural industries added protection against exotic plant pests.
Working in partnership, Plant Health Australia and the Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers Co-operative (BFVG) have produced a Biosecurity Induction Manual for Bundaberg Horticultural Farms.
It is a simple training manual for new workers, and will help growers and farm managers implement biosecurity best practice on their property, protecting not just their own livelihood, but that of their industry and their community.
“Bundaberg is a bit of a Mecca for backpackers and itinerant workers. While this is a boon for local growers requiring labour, it does bring with it inherent biosecurity risks,” according to Peter Peterson, BFVG executive officer.
“People and vehicles can unintentionally carry diseases, pests and weeds onto a property without ever realising. A bit of awareness can make a big difference in protecting our local horticulture,” he said.
A supplementary brochure has also been produced to raise awareness of biosecurity in the region, and is being distributed through local caravan parks, tourist information centres and backpacker hostels.
Greg Fraser, Plant Health Australia’s executive director and chief executive officer, was enthusiastic about the partnership approach to the development of the manual.
“This has been an exciting venture for PHA. Over the past few years we have helped numerous member industries as they look to make biosecurity a more important part of everyday farming practices.
"This is the first time though, that we have put a package together for a region that spans multiple industries. We hope that this project will lead the way for other important production regions around Australia,” he said.
“We’ve had terrific support from BFVG. Their involvement was central to getting growers involved and getting the input from local experts needed to help tailor the manual to the specific needs of their industry and community. Peter Peterson and his team at BFVG should be congratulated on their efforts,” he said.
The manual was developed with funding from the Australian Government’s Engaging in Biosecurity initiative and Caring for our Country program.
The Biosecurity Induction Manual for Bundaberg Horticultural Farms was launched at the AUSVEG 2010 National Conference and has been distributed by BFVG.
For more information visit the Plant Health Australia website. or contact Peter Hockings on peter.hockings@bfvg.com.au
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