The government of Western Australia has allocated funds towards several new initiatives within the agriculture and food sectors. This includes a $1.2 million investment aimed at enhancing the sustainable production of orchard fruits within the region. The funds have been awarded to the Manjimup Horticulture Research Institute to increase apple yields through the adoption of high-density plantings within a narrow orchard configuration. This innovative 2D orchard layout is designed to optimize light penetration across the canopy, fostering not only earlier fruiting cycles but also improvements in fruit uniformity, color, and size.
As part of a five-year national endeavor coordinated by Hort Innovation, this project stands as a collaborative effort spanning various states, academic institutions, and industry stakeholders such as Pomewest and Tobias Industries. It aims to establish guidelines for narrow orchard systems and develop tools applicable across diverse fruit operations. European studies have shown that such systems can enhance business sustainability by reducing waste, optimizing labor, and increasing profitability. Furthermore, the initiative will investigate the integration of AgTech advancements including mechanization, robotics, and sensor technology to streamline orchard management processes. Among the technologies under consideration are autonomous vehicles for maintenance tasks and precision irrigation systems to enhance water efficiency.
Agriculture and Food Minister, Jackie Jarvis, highlighted the project's potential to revolutionize fruit production through improved quality, productivity, and profitability. Jarvis emphasized the Cook Government's commitment to supporting the fruit industry's move towards economic and environmental sustainability, promising benefits for both producers and consumers through consistent access to high-quality local fruit.
Additionally, the Western Australian government has introduced the Pilbara Extension Network (PEN), a pioneering research project aimed at revitalizing agriculture in the northern rangelands. This initiative, the first under the Pilbara Innovation Partnership, involves collaboration between Rio Tinto, Meat and Livestock Australia, and the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. With a budget of $6.4 million over four years, the project will see seven cattle stations in the Pilbara region implementing innovative grazing and land management practices. These on-ground projects will explore cutting-edge technology and methodologies to regenerate the rangelands and enhance business prospects.
Participating stations will delve into advanced genetic testing, targeted breeding strategies, and sophisticated herd management tools to adapt cattle production to the local environment. Jarvis commended the PEN for fostering industry-government collaboration and empowering local leaders to pioneer solutions for the pastoral sector's challenges. The initiative aims to build resilience within Western Australia's pastoral industry by establishing a foundation for future innovation and R&D projects.
Source: Food&Drink Business