APPLICATIONS for the Sunbeam Future Farmers Fund close on April 30.
The program aims to support Australian farmers by encouraging young people to take up horticulture apprenticeships.
Sunbeam will donate $1000 to each approved farmer and pay a $1000 bonus to each participating trainee on completion of their Certificate II in Production Horticulture.
For more details, phone Rural Skills Australia on 1800 647 798 or visit the Rural Skills Australia or Sunbeam Foods websites.
Cherries for celebrations
TASMANIAN cherry growers began shipping the first consignment of Australian cherries to South Korea last week, just in time for Korean Lunar New Year celebrations.
Tasmanian Minister for Primary Industries David Llewellyn said growers were particularly happy South Korea had decided to allow the cherries to be imported without fumigation, in line with Japanese conditions.
Fungicide approval suspended
APPROVAL for the use of the fungicide carbendazim on fruit crops and turf has been suspended by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority.
The decision follows new scientific information that maximum residues limits set for some food crops and potential public exposures to treated turf may not meet new health standards.
It is part of a review of carbendazim which started in 2007.
Affected crops include grapes, cucurbits (including melons), citrus fruits, custard apples, mangoes, pome fruit, stone fruit and turf.
- Send your horticulture news to Sandra Godwin, The Weekly Times, PO Box 1728, Swan Hill 3585, email godwins@theweeklytimes.com.au or fax to (03) 5032 9352.
