On The Land
19 October, 2024
Veggie growers to embark on US study tour
A STUDY tour to be held in California next week will give Aussie vegetable growers insight into global innovations and emerging technology to support more efficient, productive and cost-effective systems.
The International Forum of Agricultural Robotics US Grower Study Tour will expose Australian growers to cutting-edge technological solutions and provide opportunities to connect with global leaders in the agriculture industry.
The tour will provide an opportunity to discuss the automation and mechanisation needs of the Australian vegetable industry and raise its profile as a market for the technologies.
Sixteen Australian growers, the Queensland Government, and Hort Innovation will attend the conference as part of a new $4.1 million initiative to boost the adoption of AgTech in the Australian vegetable industry.
“Australian vegetable growers have a strong interest in learning about the latest advancements in AgTech and identifying technologies applicable to Australian vegetable systems,” Department of Agriculture and Fisheries director vegetables, systems and supply chains, Ian Layden said.
“The tour will offer more than 35 in-field technology demonstrations and solutions for speciality crops. There will be farm visits, networking opportunities with growers from around the world, and insights into the future of agricultural innovation.
“The ability to see a range of technologies working in the field will be a highlight and provide an opportunity for growers to directly engage with technology manufacturers.
“These opportunities will assist in identifying technologies applicable to Australian vegetable systems.”
Hort Innovation’s Brett Fifield said opportunities like this were essential for keeping Aussie growers at the front of global production advancements.
“A prosperous and sustainable horticulture industry built on innovation is absolutely critical. As a result, through Hort Innovation, we provide various opportunities for growers to be exposed to technology, be involved in trials and bring us their ideas, it’s a really exciting time,” he said.
