CITRUS Australia has scheduled 11 meetings around the country to discuss a proposed national restructuring of the industry.
Chairman Tania Chapman said the Australian citrus industry was at a crossroads and far-ranging changes were needed to cut red tape, reduce duplication and costs and make better decisions on how and where to invest levies to provide the best returns.
Meetings will be held at Mildura (February 27), Barham (February 28), Griffith (February 29) and Leeton (March 1).
- For more details, phone (03) 5032 6333.
Growers pick chief
POTATOES South Australia has appointed its inaugural chief executive officer.
Previously the boss of the Australian Banana Growers Council, Jonathan Eccles helped steer the banana industry through last year's devastating Queensland floods and the aftermath of Cyclone Yasi.
Potatoes South Australia has been in operation for only a few months after gaining statewide support from potato growers, packing sheds, wholesalers and corporate entities.
Wine audit
AUSTRALIA is changing its approach to wine export approval, replacing mandatory pre-export testing of all wines with an auditing presence.
The changes follow detailed review and industry consultation by Wine Australia, formerly the Australian Wine and Brandy Corporation, the government statutory authority responsible for wine export compliance and regulation.
Exporters will no longer need to submit each wine and wine label for approval, unless requested to do so.
However, they must be licensed, comply with Australia's stringent health and safety requirements, be subject to audit and provide wine for comprehensive testing as required.
- Send your horticulture news to Sandra Godwin, The Weekly Times, PO Box 1728, Swan Hill 3585, email godwins@theweekly times.com.au or fax to (03) 5032 9352.
