Fruit, vegetable, nut, nursery and turf growers around the country who would like to see a technology demonstrated on-farm are being encouraged to reach out to the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF).
Part of the $9M Gatton Smart Farm project partnership between Hort Innovation and the Queensland DAF, this Expression of Interest (EOI) initiative will bring growers and Ag Tech providers together to explore, and further develop, new technologies.
Hort Innovation Head of Extension Jane Wightman said trialling new technologies can be a risky investment for growers.
“The EOI opportunity through the Gatton Smart Farm will help growers to ‘de-risk’ Ag Tech, by enabling them to select and experience the technologies firsthand and to better understand the costs and benefits of adoption,” she said.
“The technologies showcased will help growers better manage production issues and improve supply chain efficiency and customer satisfaction, while keeping up with projected rapid growth in the industry.
“This is a national project, and we encourage growers from all States and Territories to register an interest if you have an issue you believe technology can help solve.”
Interest is also being sought from Ag Tech providers who are looking to demonstrate their products on a research site, or in a commercial horticulture farm or supply chain business.
Participation in field day events, partnering with local AgTech providers where possible to explore technologies, and technical support through a comprehensive extension program, are also aspects of the project.
All EOIs must be aligned to a current industry issue and Hort Innovation industry investment priorities, which have been developed with the nation’s 37 levy-paying industries.
Find out more and register an EOI on the Smart Farms website here.
The Gatton Smart Farm is being delivered through Hort Innovation’s Hort Frontiers strategic partnership initiative. Supporting partners include Cravo, Priva, Rijk Zwaan, Lefroy Valley Seeds, Powerplants, AIS Greenworks, Hitachi Vantara, and various grower groups.
