Vegetable growers in New South Wales are set to benefit from the next generation of a national extension program aimed to boost productivity and deliver the latest research and development on-farm.
The new $14.1M VegNET 3.0 program is being delivered through Hort Innovation using vegetable industry levies and funds from the Australian Government and led by Australia’s peak vegetable industry organisation, AUSVEG.
On-the-ground extension in New South Wales will be undertaken by Greater Sydney Local Land Services, which employs dedicated extension officers with strong grower networks in vegetable producing regions. Sylvia Jelinek from Greater Sydney Local Land Services will be the NSW regional development officer. Sylvia has a Bachelor in Horticulture with a Major in Integrated Pest Management. She has a sound scientific and extension background mostly in vegetables over 15 years.
“Working with growers to help them solve challenging issues in the field, in the shed or in the business will be a key focus for VegNET,” said Sylvia.
“The close ties with our grower network and the experience we have developed in extension will suppor the continuation in delivering good value to growers. We welcome the opportunity to continue working on VegNET with AUSVEG and Hort Innovation to help vegetable businesses in our state improve the productivity, profitability and competitiveness of their businesses.”
According to AUSVEG CEO Michael Coote, a nationally-coordinated model for the new VegNET program will work hand-in-glove with regional organisations to produce the right mix of consistency and regionality to ensure all growers in every region have the opportunity to benefit advice and support to help grow a sustainable crop and profitable business.
“VegNET is an important program for our industry. Vegetable growers in NSW are world-leaders in the production of high-quality, healthy vegetables and are constantly looking for new ways to innovate and grow more sustainably and develop their businesses,” said Mr Coote.
“AUSVEG and Greater Sydney Local Land Services are well-placed to work together to deliver a high-performing, consistent and efficient VegNET program that will meet vegetable growers’ needs.”
Hort Innovation Chief Executive Officer Matt Brand said the VegNET initiative complements Hort Innovation’s dedicated extension arm which was created in 2019. He said it also builds on the foundation and momentum generated through previous VegNET programs.
“This supercharged 5-year extension initiative takes a collaborative, local focus, with New South Wales receiving tailored support that meets local challenges,” he said.
“VegNET arms growers with the latest evidence-based tools and information in vital areas such as biosecurity, pest and disease management, soil and water management, the supply chain and protected cropping.”
