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SPRING ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2014 / VOLUME SEVENTEEN Mang Matters Check out our social media campaign—it’s the hottest thing this summer!

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Page 1: Mang Matters - Squarespace · PDF fileSPRING SUE SEPTEMBER 2014 / VOLUME SEVENTEEN Mang Matters Check out our social media campaign—it’s the hottest thing this summer!

SPRING

ISSUE

SEPTEMBER 2014 / VOLUME SEVENTEEN

Mang Matters

Check out our social media campaign—it’s the hottest thing this summer!

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MANGO MATTERS SEPTEMBER 2014 SPRING 2014 PAGE 3

AMIA Contact Details

Office Address: Unit 2, The Fresh Centre, Brisbane Markets Postal Address: PO Box 376, Brisbane Markets QLD 4106Phone: 07 3278 3755 Fax: 07 3278 4761 Email: [email protected] Australian Mangoes: www.mangoes.net.au AMIA: www.industry.mangoes.net.au

Mango Matters is published using mango grower levies which are matched by the Australian Government through Horticulture Australia.

PAGE 9

CEO & CHAIRMAN REPORTS

REGION UPDATES

INDUSTRY SNAPSHOT

‘Dry Matter’ matters— focus on mango quality

Crop forecast

Collaboration is crucial for industry exports

MANGO MARKETING

What do consumers want?

“First Tray” Mango Auctions

Social media campaign

Mango recipes

IN FOCUS

Boyd Arthur

MANGOES AROUND THE WORLD

El Niño may trigger higher Brazilian mango volume in 2014-15

RESEARCH & POLICY

The minimum wage has increased

Superannuation news

Resin canal discolouration—what the research is telling us

MANGO PEOPLE & EVENTS

AMIA roadshow

Dates to Remember

4

6

9

16

24

26

28

32

Disclaimer: This publication is produced upon the understanding that no responsibility is accepted by AMIA, it’s Directors and Officers and the Editor for any opinions, claims, statements made and views expressed in any edition of Mango Matters and associated material (for example Conference Proceedings, Industry Reports). Readers should rely on their own inquiries when making decisions concerning their interests. All material in the magazine is copyright. Reproduction in whole or part is not permitted without the written permission of the editor.

HAVE YOU SEEN OUR NEW WEBSITE?

Keep up-to-date with the latest mango news, events and research on AMIA’s new mobile-friendly website!

ARE YOU A MEMBER OF AMIA?

Become a member and support the Australian mango industry. Without the support of its members, AMIA is limited in the important work it does

for you and the mango industry.

Please contact the AMIA office for a membership application form, or download a copy from our website:

industry.mangoes.net.au

CONTENTSA FREE Australian Government funded service that can �nd you suitable workers, manage enquiries & provide information on your rights and responsibilities as an employer

Publication design by Fresh Republic www.freshrepublic.com.au

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MANGO MATTERS SEPTEMBER 2014 SPRING 2014 PAGE 5

In recent weeks, the AMIA team have held mango grower workshops in all major production areas. It has been really pleasing to see the number of growers turning up to these workshops and to listen to the positive feedback. I believe the changes the Board have put in place within AMIA are already having positive results and I encourage growers to continue to attend our workshops and events to stay up-to-date with what is happening in the industry.

CEO’S REPORT CHAIRMAN’S REPORT

Gavin ScurrChairman, AMIA

Email: Mob: 0407 714 549

The AMIA team have spent the last few months making sure our plans for this season are ready to be put into action, and already their hard work is starting to pay off. We have been focused on a number of things, these include:

GROWER WORKSHOPS

AMIA’s pre-season workshops have been well received and people who attended have said they are feeling a sense of optimism going into this season. People attending the workshops got to meet the new-look AMIA team, hear about what we think is important to the industry and our priorities this season.

Thank you to those people who came out to meet with us and discuss the many opportunities for the industry to move forward.

DELIVERING QUALITY IN-LINE WITH CONSUMER’S EXPECTATIONS

This season, AMIA will be taking a stand on poor-quality fruit. As the season progresses, AMIA will develop quality specifications that will apply to the entire industry. We will also be conducting brix tests on random mango consignments. The results of these tests will be made available to the industry. This is a big step for the industry, but one that I, and the Board, feel is in the right direction.

LEVY DISALLOWANCE

AMIA has been standing shoulder-to-shoulder with a number of horticulture industries to protect the Australian agricultural levy system. We believe that this system provides immeasurable benefit to our levy payers, and a move in the Senate

to disallow an increase to the mango levy is a serious threat to this system. This issue will be decided by the Senate on the 24th September 2014, and we will communicate further information as it becomes available.

EXPORTS

AMIA is in the process of developing an export plan which will guide our strategies to improve export opportunities and access to export markets. I would like to thank the many people from across the industry who came to the workshops and gave input into the development of these strategies. We look forward to working with the entire industry to achieve the objectives of this plan.

MARKETING

I would like to acknowledge the hard work of the Australian Mangoes marketing team for making sure your marketing levies will make the most impact on demand. This season, there will be a particular focus on social media, and I encourage people to support this and make sure you’re following our Instagram and you have ‘liked’ our Facebook page.

CROP FORECASTS

I would like to welcome Boyd Arthur to the AMIA team, as our Supply Development Manager. Boyd is a seasoned mango farmer, and will be our man-on-the-ground

Robert GrayCEO, AMIA

Email: Mob: 0418 737 861

This season, AMIA will be measuring the brix levels of random samples of mangoes in the market. The results of this sampling regime will be used to provide feedback to both the grower involved and the industry. Read more about this in this edition of Mango Matters.

I would like to commend our CEO Robert Gray for taking a lead role in working towards a resolution of the levy disallowance issue, brought to the Senate by newly elected Senator David Leyonhjelm. Robert’s efforts with the ‘Across Agriculture Group’ and the ‘Across Horticulture Group’ has involved speaking with politicians and their advisors to build support for the current Australian agricultural levy system. This system is the envy of many countries throughout the

working with mango producers to develop our crop forecast and assist with any quality issues that may arise.

The August and September crop forecasts have been distributed. If you have not received them please contact AMIA. The crop forecast will also be available on the website throughout the season.

HAL REVIEW

Horticulture Australia is continuing to work through the recommendations of the independent review that was completed in early May. The most important outcome, from my point of view, is that growers/levy payers continue to get real benefits from their levy investment. To ensure this we need to have strong input into where those levies are invested.

NEW WEBSITE

The Mango industry website has been redeveloped and is much simpler and easier to use. Make sure you check it out.

10TH MANGO CONFERENCE

The date has been set for the 10th Mango Conference. Make sure you’re in Darwin from the 26th May to the 28th of May 2015 for what is shaping up to be an unforgettable conference.

world and we see the disallowance motion as a threat to the entire levy system for Australian agriculture. I have discussed the issue with Senator Leyonhjelm to clarify some of the comments appearing in the media. The motion, which was put to the Senate on Tuesday 26th August, was postponed and is now scheduled to be put to the Senate on the 24th September 2014.

AMIA relies on the support of its members to undertake many of the activities that make a difference to our industry. For AMIA to continue to grow and represent your interests, we need your support. You should have recently received an AMIA membership form. I encourage you to show your support for your industry organisation by being a member. This will help us build a strong and profitable industry.

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Pre-season workshops have been well received. Pictured: Walter Zungo, with AMIA Communications Officer Claire Gilmartin and Ken Pedersen

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MANGO MATTERS SEPTEMBER 2014 SPRING 2014 PAGE 7

Geoff WarnockM: 0438 884 842E: [email protected]

KUNUNURRA: Flowering in the region has been much more prolific than the past couple of seasons, consisting of several stages which, if the fruit stays on, could see the season running over a 6-8 week period. The area is still experiencing cool nights and moderate days which is encouraging for the chances of set fruit hanging on. There are indications that there will be small amounts of fruit coming out of the area by the beginning of October. Most trees are in good shape after a good wet season.

The WA Department of Agriculture and Foods response to a submission made by the Ord Mango Growers Association regarding changes to the ‘Mango Seed Weevil’ protocol has been received with the Department’s assurance that the WA Industry is well protected. The growers, however, are not convinced so the matter will remain as an on-going concern.

CARNARVON: Indications are that there is a lot more flower in the area than originally anticipated. Growers are already expressing concerns about water quality and availability and this could have a major influence on the returns growers can expect to get from their crops.

SOUTHERN REGION: Flowering in this region is showing about 50% at present and the outcomes are looking good. The area has been receiving regular rainfall and, at this stage, there are no signs of disease in the orchards.

Han Shiong SiahM: 0423 444 598E: [email protected]

Mangoes in the Darwin region have set well and we’re now well on the way towards harvesting our main crop in mid-October. There are a lot of growers out making noise with their spray units, prettying up the mangoes ready for the upcoming season. The cold snap Darwin had in the 3rd week of August might delay the harvest date, but it’s still is too early to know.

I would like to warmly welcome Boyd Arthur to the AMIA team in the role of Supply Development Manager. He will be visiting farms in all main production regions and is here to help you with any issues you might have, so please feel free to contact him. On the 30th of July, there was a meeting for Darwin growers about the increasing issue with Magpie Geese in the region. We had a strong turn out from growers as well as the representative from NT Ranger, Police and Shooters groups. Advice on short term control of this issues was given to growers

NORTHERN WESTERN AUSTRALIA & NORTHERN TERRITORY

Brett JacksonM: 0438 089 952E: [email protected]

Another mango season is fast approaching and, from all reports, supply looks to be significantly better out of the NT this year than last. If the volumes and timing are as some reports suggest there may be some pricing pressure at various stages throughout the season.

Years like this should really make the industry take stock. We all want to maximise our profits and in order to do this everyone

SOUTHERN WESTERN AUSTRALIA, SOUTH AUSTRALIA & VICTORIA

Ian PershouseM: 0417 791 131E: [email protected]

In south Queensland the flowering is generally very good. Although it is too early to predict accurately, it appears to be shaping up to be a large crop. With the unseasonal wet weather in August, growers will need to keep up the fungicide sprays. Hopefully the rain doesn’t affect pollination or fruit set.

With good crops expected in all regions, this is a season that growers should not glut the market with early, immature or poor quality fruit. This will make it difficult to sell large volumes and achieve a fair return for growers.

SOUTHERN QUEENSLAND & NEW SOUTH WALES

REGION UPDATES AND BOARD MEMBER REPORTS

with a wildlife pest migration permit. We are still looking for a long-term solution to our problem.

AMIA held a grower pre-harvest meeting Wednesday the 13th of August to talk about the Mango Strategic Investment Plan and the marketing projects that are planned for the future. There was a good turnout for the meeting and the message was well received.

NT DPI&F is interested in improving mango quality and have developed a survey to see what farming practices are being used in the industry. This survey will help pave the way for better mangoes and increasing our profits in-line with the Strategic Investment Plan. All the surveys will be anonymous and confidential. Please contact Khamla Mott on 08 8999 2013 if you would like to complete the survey, or for more information.

I wish all growers all the best for the season ahead—see you on the other side.

With good crops expected in all regions, this is a season that growers should not glut the market with early, immature or poor quality fruit.- Ian Pershouse, AMIA Director, Southern QLD and NSW

must focus on growing the best quality mangoes possible. In an oversupplied market poor quality fruit will only put further pressure on pricing, with consumer research suggesting a disappointed customer will not repurchase for a number of weeks. A focussed and well managed marketing campaign will only do so much and will certainly not make unmarketable fruit sell at a profit.

Big crops also highlight the need for the mango industry to have feasible export market protocols. Export can be much more than just a release valve during over supply. We are fortunate enough to have the majority of the world’s population on our doorstep and so we need to continue working on improving our market access protocols to give us access to these markets. Unfortunately these improvements take time but we continue to work on them.

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MANGO MATTERS SEPTEMBER 2014 SPRING 2014 PAGE 9

INDUSTRY SNAPSHOT

Ben MartinM: 0400 125 928E: [email protected]

There appears to be a very good flowering throughout the district. The rain that we had in August is a timely reminder that everyone needs to be on top of their spray program.

AMIA held an export workshop in Brisbane in August. I would like to thank all of those who took part. We now have a big job ahead of us to meet our goal of increasing the exports to 20% of the Australian crop in the next three years. If we all work together as an industry I believe it is achievable.

Boyd Arthur came through the district around the middle of August to meet with some growers to talk about the critical role that he will be playing this season. As he only had limited time he could only see a couple of growers, but I am sure that most of you will see or hear from him this year.

Kieren BrownM: 0409 593 390E: [email protected]

In the last month I have attended AMIA workshops in Mareeba and Darwin. They have been well attended and the message delivered by the team has been well received. It’s important that we continue to communicate with growers as the Strategic Investment Plan is implemented, as grower feedback is an important part of this process.

The season is starting to shape up with pre-season planning starting in most areas and retailers looking to our forecast by region to develop their plans. Flowering has been strong across most varieties, if a little late, and while we are still waiting for fruit set and drop, the opportunity is there for a good season if we can deliver the required quality to the consumer.

REGION UPDATES AND BOARD MEMBER REPORTS [CONT’D]

The industry website is now easier to navigate and can be viewed on mobile and tablets

Have you seen our new website?

John NuciforaM: 0418 193 885E: [email protected]

Over the last few months, I’ve seen big changes in the structure of the AMIA. I must admit, they are changes that have surprised me for the better. I’m hoping that this will bring our industry on track for stronger profitability. My gut feeling, after seeing the presentations at the last few meetings, is very excited and I look forward to moving ahead in the future.

It seems to be a huge flowering throughout all regions. Mareeba and Dimbulah are steadily flowering and everyone is talking about the heavy production. Weather conditions have been favourable and I feel that yields will be high if all goes to plan.

AMIA attended a Mareeba District Fruit and Vegetable meeting in Mutchilba to discuss a possible promotion levy increase of 10c per 7 kg tray. So far the feedback I’m getting is positive. I think this is a step in the right direction if we can get it up and going.

I’d like to wish growers a strong profitable season.

FAR NORTH QUEENSLAND & NORTH QUEENSLAND

This season, there will be a number of things happening that we want to tell you about, so make sure you jump online, set it as a ‘favourite’, and keep up-to-date on the latest industry information. Please help us make the website work for you. If there is something that you would like to see on the website please tell us so we can make it happen.

What information can be found on the website?

Resources

There is a range of resources available for you to review and download, including research reports, presentations and publications, such as Mango Matters. Filters are set up by category and articles are ‘tagged’ with key words to help you find items that are relevant to your business.

The Crop forecast

This information will be updated weekly throughout the season and, in addition to being sent out via email, will be available on the website. Why not make a habit of checking this information every week to make sure you know what is happening.

Wholesale pricing

Daily and weekly wholesale prices will be updated automatically, so if you want to know how much mangoes are selling for on any given day, jump online and have a look.

Visit www.industry.mangoes.net.au

We have given the mango industry website a facelift. The updated website went live in August. All the information that is important to you is available, and easy to find, when you need it.

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AUTUMN 2014 PAGE 11

‘Dry Matter’ matters— focus on mango quality Consumer research has repeatedly shown that quality is one of the key drivers of mango sales. The two critical factors of quality that affect purchase, and repeat purchase, are appearance and flavour. This season, AMIA is focussed on improving mango quality across the board. Activities we are undertaking include:

QUALITY SPECIFICATIONS

Currently there appears to be a broad interpretation of quality specifications with regard to various classes of fruit. This season, we will be reviewing and updating the current quality specifications that are in place. As an industry, we need standardised quality specifications that we can ensure are recognised and understood by all industry participants. Individual retailers and suppliers will still use their own quality specifications to meet their consumer requirements.

DRY MATTER TESTING

‘Dry Matter’ matters, so please ensure you have tested mangoes from each block before you begin harvesting. AMIA will be working with growers in all production regions to conduct dry matter testing, although the scope of what we will be able to undertake will vary within each region due to the resources we have available. We are exploring the availability of NIR technology to assist with this activity. Please contact Boyd Arthur, AMIA Supply Development Manager, for more information (phone: 0458 803 220 or email: ).

IN-MARKET ASSESSMENT FOR FLAVOUR — OBJECTIVE REPORTING

Growers have been asking AMIA to do more to ensure mangoes that reach our consumers don’t disappoint them. We have listened to their feedback and this season we have established an independent reporting system that will assess fruit and measure brix levels once the fruit has ripened. The results of these assessments, will be made available to industry.

We are confident that mango growers, and industry stakeholders, will be encouraged by AMIA’s positive position on maturity assessments and will support this objective reporting system.

CONSUMER RESEARCH

This season we are undertaking consumer research to determine the minimum, and optimum, dry matter and brix levels across several key varieties and, potentially, regions. We will be testing to see whether a minimum dry matter content of 14%, which is currently stated in a number of quality specifications that are available, is in-line with what our consumers want. The results of the consumer research will influence the quality specifications that are being reviewed and updated this season.

QUALITY ISSUES THROUGH THE SEASON

Each season, growers, wholesalers and retailers can face a range of quality issues. Some are relatively minor and can be fixed quickly, whereas other issues are harder to manage and need a lot more work. E.g. Resin Canal Discolouration has become a significant issue over the past two seasons and a major research project has been initiated with the aim of determining the cause and solution.

This season we have contracted Terry Campbell, an experienced mango quality specialist from the Queensland Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. Terry will be available upon request to work with growers, wholesalers and retailers with the aim of addressing quality issues as they arise during the season.

If you have issues during the season that you would like addressed, please contact AMIA.

BEST PRACTICE GUIDES

During the season, we will be collating a range of information on mango handling. This information will be developed into easy-to-use guides in a range of formats that all sectors of the supply chain can use to improve mango handling.

For more information, visit www.sumitomo-chem.com.auor scan the QR code here:

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When a mango is ripened, its brix level correlates with the dry matter level at harvest.

MANGO MATTERS SEPTEMBER 2014

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MANGO MATTERS SEPTEMBER 2014

DARWIN

Kensington Pride, Calypso and R2E2s are well into early fruit set. Growers have begun fruit counts to estimate harvest volumes. Where there has been an early flower and fruit set early picking has commenced, although this is only in a few orchards. While there will be an expectation of light volumes through September, we continue to forecast that the main period for harvest will be from mid-to-late October.

KATHERINE / MATARANKA

Kensington Pride, Calypso, R2E2 and Honey Gold are progressing through full blossom early fruit set.

Crop forecastThroughout the 2014 / 2015 mango season AMIA will be communicating weekly crop forecast updates with you via email. This information will also be available on the home page of our website. Please let us know if you are not receiving our crop forecasts, and make sure you have a look at the website to keep informed.

KP 5% 5% 5% 5%10% 10% 10% 10% 10%30%

Calypso 10% 10%20%30% 30%

R2E2 20%10% 30% 30% 10%

WEEK BEG 17-Nov10-Nov3-Nov27-Oct20-Oct13-Oct6-Oct29-Sep22-Sep15-Sep8-Sep 8-Dec 15-Dec 22-Dec 29-Dec 5-Jan 12-Jan 19-Jan 26-Jan1-Dec24-NovWEEK BEG

WEEK BEG 17-Nov10-Nov3-Nov27-Oct20-Oct13-Oct6-Oct29-Sep22-Sep15-Sep8-Sep 8-Dec 15-Dec 22-Dec 29-Dec 5-Jan 12-Jan 19-Jan 26-Jan1-Dec24-NovWEEK BEG

WEEK BEG 17-Nov10-Nov3-Nov27-Oct20-Oct13-Oct6-Oct29-Sep22-Sep15-Sep8-Sep 8-Dec 15-Dec 22-Dec 29-Dec 5-Jan 12-Jan 19-Jan 26-Jan1-Dec24-NovWEEK BEG

WEEK BEG 17-Nov10-Nov3-Nov27-Oct20-Oct13-Oct6-Oct29-Sep22-Sep15-Sep8-Sep 8-Dec 15-Dec 22-Dec 29-Dec 5-Jan 12-Jan 19-Jan 26-Jan1-Dec24-NovWEEK BEG

WEEK BEG 17-Nov10-Nov3-Nov27-Oct20-Oct13-Oct6-Oct29-Sep22-Sep15-Sep8-Sep 8-Dec 15-Dec 22-Dec 29-Dec 5-Jan 12-Jan 19-Jan 26-Jan1-Dec24-NovWEEK BEG

R2E2 5% 15% 25% 40% 15%

Calypso 20% 10%20% 20%30%

Honey Gold 20% 20%20% 20%20%

KP 10% 10% 10%20% 20%30%

KATHERINE/MATARANKA

DARWIN

R2E2 10% 20% 25% 25% 20%

Honey Gold 20% 25%20% 10%25%

KP 10% 20% 30% 10%30%

Keitt LATE JAN THROUGH FEB

Calypso 10% 35% 25% 10%20%

Honey Gold 25% 25%25% 25%

MAREEBA/DIMBULAH

BURDEKIN/BOWEN

KUNUNURRA

R2E2 5% 25% 25% 25% 15% 5%

R2E2 10% 20% 20% 20% 20% 10%

KP 5% 10% 30% 20% 15% 10% 10%

Honey Gold 20% 20% 20% 20%20%

KP 10% 20% 35% 15%20%

2014 SEPTEMBER FORECAST — DISPATCH TO THE MARKETS

KUNUNURRA

There has been a strong and even flowering in the region, and Kensington Pride, R2E2, Calypso and Honey Gold varieties are all in full flower. Harvesting is set for early-to-late November.

BURDEKIN / BOWEN

Across the region, Kensington Pride, R2E2 and Honey Gold are now in flower, with some farms reporting an even flower at full bloom, and others with a mixture of full bloom and bud swell. Harvest in the region is set to begin in late November, and will continue through to mid-December.

MAREEBA / DIMBULAH

Kensington Pride, R2E2, Calypso and Honey Gold are well into the flowering process. The region is set for a mid-to-late December harvest, flowing into early January, with the later varieties starting in late January / early February.

September crop forecast

Our industry has to be more organised & professional; the industry acting together as a combined unit is a step in the right direction. Crop forecasting is an example of how we can achieve this - letting the associated retail, marketing, transport, carton and labour providers know when, and how much, fruit will be available at various stages throughout the season.

- Leo Skliros, Skliros Produce

AMIA’s Supply Development Manager Boyd Arthur said that the information contained in the crop forecast is valuable to everyone across the industry.

“This forecast gives people an idea of what is moving through the supply chain. It gives the industry the ability to work closer with mango retailers around the country to make sure marketing campaigns are increasing demand at the right time. In turn, this will stabilise tray prices and get better returns back to growers for their fruit,” Mr Arthur said.

Early estimates indicate that 8.2 million trays will be sold on domestic and international markets this season.

Leo Skliros, of Skliros Produce Pty Ltd, provides regular forecast information to AMIA’s Boyd Arthur. He is pictured here with his son Nicholas Skiros (left) and nephew Andoni Tsaknis (right)

SPRING 2014 PAGE 13

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Collaboration is crucial for industry exportsIndustry collaboration can make the most impact on international markets. This was the consensus from a series or export workshops, facilitated by AMIA during June and August and attended by representatives of mango growers, exporters and state and federal government departments.

While there has been the traditional emphasis on market access and developing commercially focussed export protocols, the workshops identified that the industry needs to focus on building strategies that will bring the most benefit to the industry.

Over the next three years, the industry will develop strategies that build on the unique Australian brand position and status to grow each target market to maximise our performance. These include:

1. Differentiate Australian mangoes from mangoes from other countries by focussing on variety, quality, appearance and flavour.

2. Focus on the four key unique Australian varieties: R2E2, Kensington Pride, Calypso and Honey Gold.

3. Provide high quality mangoes for consumers that value a premium product.

4. Focus on large population centres and specific channels in each target country and market, such as grocery stores and retailers

PHA and EPPR levies in dangerOn the 24th September 2014, the Australian Senate will vote on a motion to disallow an increase to the mango, mushroom and onion levies, put forward by newly elected Senator David Leyonhjelm. The levy increase was passed by a majority of mango growers in 2011 and the Federal Department of Agriculture, and took effect from 1st July this year.

AMIA Chief Executive Officer Robert Gray has been working closely with the ‘Across Agriculture’ and the ‘Across Horticulture Groups’ to ensure these levies are not removed against the will of the growers who pay and voted for them.

“Mango levies are essential to the future of the industry. If the Senate vote to disallow the levy is successful, it could put the whole levy system in disarray. Mango levies allow our industry to invest in issues that could cause significant damage to our growers if not addressed,” Mr Gray said.

The levies in question are the Plant Health Australia (PHA) levy of 0.2c and Emergency Plant Pest Response (EPPR) levy of 0.8c that will be taken at the point of sale for each 7kg tray of mangoes. The PHA levy will fund AMIA’s membership with Plant Health Australia, which gives the industry a ‘seat at the table’ when managing and eradicating exotic pests and diseases. The Emergency Plant Pest Response levy provides resources to AMIA to prepare and protect the Australian mango industry from exotic pest and disease incursions before they occur.

Movie to train mango pickers—now availableTraining your staff how to pick and handle mangoes has just become easier. The mango extension team from the Queensland Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry in Mareeba have developed a training movie, entitled ‘Mango picking—how to do it right’, that employers can use to train their staff.

www.hydralada.com, [email protected] FREEPHONE 1800 124 352

The movie was made over the last two years with significant input from growers in the Katherine, Burdekin, Mareeba and Dimbulah regions. It is a part of the Delivering Mango Technology (stage 2) project.

The movie can be viewed through the ‘Resources’ section of the AMIA website or on YouTube—just search ‘Mango picking—how to do it right’. Growers with limited access to the internet should contact AMIA to receive a copy.

Matt Weinert, Senior Development Horticulturist from QDAFF, said that the movie will make life easier for mango growers, packers and labour hire companies.

“The movie is available online and goes for 10 minutes. Because it is free to access, it can be used as many times as people need,” he said.

“The movie gives people an overview of all aspects of mango picking, including a range of picking methods, introduces people to damage that can occur during picking, and covers workplace health and safety concerns such as mango rash,” Mr Weinert said.

5. Leverage the unique Australian supply window from October to December, and using January and February to focus on Asian tradition of gifting and Chinese New Year.

There were for four key areas of focus that were identified at the workshops:

• Supply Chain Collaboration: support the development of export markets by facilitating collaboration between exporters and other stakeholders.

• Develop a Protocol Strategy: collate information concerning protocols for all countries into a single definitive document

• Supply Quantity Strategy: engage growers to ensure there is an adequate supply of mangoes available for export markets throughout the season.

• Assessment and Review of Market Attractiveness by Country: using cost-benefit analysis, measure the attractiveness by country to provide clarity for potential opportunities.

One of our export strategies will be to focus on large population centres and specific channels in each target country and market, such as grocery stores and retailers

MANGO MATTERS SEPTEMBER 2014 SPRING 2014 PAGE 15

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MANGO MATTERS SEPTEMBER 2014 AUTUMN 2014 PAGE 17

MANGO MARKETING

What do consumers want?AMIA will be shining the spotlight on mango quality this season. Consumer research that has been undertaken by the industry clearly shows that quality is the main influence on people’s decisions to buy mangoes, and that questionable quality will effect demand and pricing. To increase profits for all growers across Australia, we need to consistently produce mangoes that people want to buy and love to eat.

SO, WHAT IS IT THAT CONSUMERS WANT WHEN IT COMES TO MANGOES?

Consumers want their mangoes to be juicy and sweet. They LOVE their mangoes and expect them to have a deep orange flesh colour, an aromatic taste and that unique, distinctive mango flavour.

First impressions count. Choosing a mango is a sensory experience. People buy with their eyes, nose, and hands. They look for fruit with a graduated colour that is yellow/orange with some blush; a distinctive mango aroma, and a mango that feels firm, without being hard or soft. Most people enjoy eating their mangoes as a whole piece of fruit. They consider the eating experience to be a special and indulgent moment, and how the mango looks is a significant part of that experience.

Consumers will buy almost any mango at the right price. They will tolerate most blemishes that effect the skin, as they know they don’t effect the eating experience. BUT, the more blemish, the less they will spend. Consumers won’t buy fruit that has disease or rot, not at any price.

OK, SO NOW WE KNOW WHAT CONSUMERS WANT, WHAT HAPPENS WHEN THEY DON’T GET WHAT THEY WANT?

Most people have anticipated the moment when they’ll bite into their mango. There is a sense of excitement and a clear expectation. The single biggest disappointment is when they bite into a mango and it doesn’t have the intense, distinctive mango flavour that they were looking for.

Then two things will happen; firstly, their disappointment stops them buying mangoes for a period of time, often up to six weeks; and that’s a long time in a short mango season. Second, they will almost certainly share their experience with a friend and, with the help of social media, a whole network of friends who may potentially stop buying mangoes themselves.

With early indications pointing to a large crop this season, producing and delivering to consumers expectations will be essential to maintaining strong demand throughout the season.

Consumers want their mangoes to be juicy and sweet. The single biggest disappointment is when they bite into a mango and it doesn’t have the intense, distinctive mango flavour that they were looking for.

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MANGO MATTERS SEPTEMBER 2014 SPRING 2014 PAGE 19

‘First-Tray’ Mango Auctions—mangoes sold to the highest bidderThe first-tray mango auctions are back. The Sydney Auction kicked off the season, on Wednesday 3rd September, letting people know that the mango season is almost here.

The atmosphere was abuzz with children, celebrities, politicians, wholesalers and retailers all getting in on the action, and the Today Show did live crosses throughout the morning.

The highest bid for the ‘first-tray’ of mangoes was $26,000 from a syndicate of Sydney Markets wholesalers including Vegie World, Aussie Roma, Harvest Fresh Australia, Rustom Fresh, J and J Fruit and Zaidan Fresh Produce. All proceeds from the auction were donated to the Prostate Cancer Foundation and Save our Sons.

Thank you to WePack and Red Ridge for donating the mangoes that were auctioned.

The Brisbane auction will be held at the Brisbane Markets on Thursday 9th October and will really kick off the season. Proceeds will be donated to Diabetes Queensland and Life Education Queensland.

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The marketing team: Treena Welch, AMIA Marketing Manager, and Elisa King, HAL Marketing Manager

Auction organiser Nick Martelli all smiles with the $26,000 mango tray

Steve Jacobs from Channel 9’s Today Show, did live crosses throughout the morning

A mango eating competition was held as part of the morning’s festivities

The auction winners were a syndicate of Sydney Markets wholesalers including Aussie Roma, Harvest Fresh Australia, Rustom Fresh, J and J Fruit and Zaidan Fresh Produce

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MANGO MATTERS SEPTEMBER 2014 SPRING 2014 PAGE 21

The Aussie Mangoes Facebook page (above right) has over 43,000 ‘likes’, during the mango season we will engage with this community through exciting and memorable promotions and posts. Make sure you’ve ‘liked’ the Aussie Mangoes Facebook page so you don’t miss a thing.

In addition to Facebook, Aussie Mangoes are now on Instagram (right). Get involved by snapping pictures of your memorable mango moments and hashtag #LovinSummer#LovinMangoes.

The Mango Marketing team have planned the hottest social media campaign #LovinSummer #LovinMangoes. The objective is to stay at the top of consumers’ minds and create demand from the beginning until the end of the mango season.

WHERE DID THE MANGO?

We will be helping families create new mango memories this summer by holding a weekly treasure hunt throughout October and November in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth. Clues will be posted on the Aussie Mangoes Facebook and Instagram and the lucky winner will receive a box of fresh Australian mangoes and a family prize pack.

This season there will be 3 big promotions

MESS-TIVAL

The 3rd annual Mess-tival will be held on Sunday 7th December at Australia’s iconic Bondi Beach.

The social media team will be capturing people’s experiences by taking a Polaroid picture which will be given to them as a memento. People who then post their Polaroid picture to Facebook and Instagram using our hashtag #LovinSummer#LovinMangoes will win a free mango.

Please come down and experience Mess-tival for yourself. If you can’t get to Bondi, you can still get involved. Keep your eye on Facebook and Instagram throughout the day to see the Mango Marketing team amplifying Mess-tival nationally.

LOVIN’ SUMMER 30 DAY PHOTO CHALLENGE

Starting in the New Year people will be encouraged to take part in a 30 day photo challenge. We’ll provide inspiration or themes through our Facebook and Instagram and people can capture and share their interpretation of each word.

A photo of the week will be selected and shared on the Aussie Mangoes Facebook and Instagram and the winner will receive a prize.

Make sure you’re #tagging and creating mango memories this summer

Aussie Mangoes social media will be ‘always on’ from the beginning to the end of the season. Each week look out for:

#MangoMondays

#ThrowBackThursday

#TBT#LovinSummer#LovinMangoes

#LovinSummer#LovinMusic

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INGREDIENTS

2 mangoes (peeled and diced)

600ml full cream milk

2 scoops vanilla ice cream

METHOD

Blend all ingredients together and serve cold.

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INGREDIENTS

2 tbs sesame seeds

4 mangoes

2 large carrots, peeled, grated

6 green onions, thinly sliced

1/4 small green cabbage, finely shredded

Orange Tahini Dressing

1/2 cup olive oil

1/4 cup fresh orange juice

2 teaspoons caster sugar

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon tahini

METHOD

1. Cook sesame seeds in a frying pan over high heat, stirring, for 4 minutes or until golden. Cool.

2. To make the dressing, combine all ingredients, and salt and pepper in a screw-top jar. Shake well.

3. Prepare mangoes by slicing off each cheek and cutting a lattice pattern in the flesh of each cheek, without cutting through the skin. Turn cheeks inside out, remove mango cubes and place in a bowl.

4. Add carrots, onions, cabbage, sesame seeds and dressing to mangoes. Toss gently. Serve.

Makes: 1 Litre

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 0 minutes

MANGO THICKSHAKE

Makes: 8 serves

Prep time: 10 - 15 minutes

Cooking time: 4 mins

MANGO AND SESAME COLESLAW

Mango Recipes

Recipe created by Carl Mitaros of Reserve Restaurant

Get your family and friends excited by the mango season and try these delicious recipes. If you have any of your own that you would like to share email us at

or go to our facebook page: .

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MANGO MATTERS SEPTEMBER 2014 SPRING 2014 PAGE 25

E: [email protected] M: 0458 803 220

BOYD ARTHURAMIA Supply Development Manager

Labelling mangoes just got easier Labelling commercial quantities of mangoes has traditionally held many challenges - the heat, humidity, variety of fruit shapes, sizes and tray configuration are only some of the issues growers need to contend with.

As a result, mango labelling has often been handled using manual hand labellers. With the combination of increased labour costs and unreliable hand labellers, packhouses are looking for viable labelling alternatives.

Sinclair International has built reliability into automatic labelling using the robust ‘made to measure’ labelling solutions. Their unparalleled range of equipment includes options of high-speed in-line and tray labelling systems, all featuring Sinclair’s patented high-performance bellow method of label transfer, a rotary head and quick-change cassettes.

Every Sinclair automated system installed by J-Tech Systems is custom designed to maximise customer production output and is supplied with scheduled preventative

maintenance and annual machine rebuilds to ensure peak performance and output at all times. Marie Piccone, Managing Director of Manbulloo Orchards, uses the high-speed in-line system from Sinclair and said “labelling our mangoes using the in-line system means we get our brand to the market quickly and the barcode allows accurate pricing in store”.

Delivering a consistently high quality presentation for tray labelled mangoes is achieved using the Sinclair Barcode Interface System. This system automatically reads the barcodes printed on the tray outer and reconfigures the heads to match the count pattern, a system used by Harvest Fresh Fruits in the Northern Territory. Chief Operating Officer Kieren

Brown, said “We are really pleased with the service and back up support from J-Tech Systems, and the effort put into the set up has been excellent. The amount of labour and cost saving for us as a result of the equipment has been very worthwhile,” he said.

This system allows greater packhouse flexibility without adding labour.

Machine reliability, output and customer service are the standards J-Tech Systems are aiming for with mango labelling, and the results speak for themselves.

Boyd Arthur joined the AMIA team in July 2014 and has been working on the ground with growers on the quality and crop forecasting projects.

“I feel very fortunate to have joined the AMIA team at a time when things are really starting to happen. I have spent most of my life on the other side of the fence, as a grower, and now I am working for AMIA I can see the importance of protecting not only individual’s bottom line, but the industry as well.

I have been a part of the mango industry since I was a kid. My mango journey started when my family purchased some land just south of Darwin. What started as a hobby farm with ten Kensington Pride trees has grown to become a commercial mango farm with 50,000 trees. I was involved in all aspects of operating the business, from canopy management to machinery maintenance.

I loved living on a mango farm and having unlimited access to tree ripened fruit. On those hot Darwin days I would scoff as many as I could and the memories are still with me. This has shaped what qualities I look for when I buy mangoes. I like them ripe with good flavour and great texture.

The AMIA team is focussed on returning higher profits to growers, in line with the Strategic Investment Plan. Consumer research has shown that quality in appearance and flavour is very important for supporting sales and stabilising prices. People can do a lot on their farm to make

sure consumers get the best mango possible, and this will lead to better returns for growers. Picking mature fruit and making sure it is graded correctly can make a huge impact on returns.

My role as Supply Development Manager will be to work with growers and be the link between them and wholesalers and retailers. I want to make sure their voice is heard and that AMIA is doing everything they can to support growers and the industry.

The knowledge of harvest times and tray volumes is a tool that can make the difference between a successful year or a difficult year for growers. A large part of my

IN FOCUS

role will focus on developing a forecast to communicate to key stakeholders along the supply chain. This information will be used to support marketing campaigns and assist in moving fruit from the farm into people’s shopping baskets. To do this, I will rely heavily on communication with growers, carton manufacturers, transport companies, wholesalers, retailers and green grocers.

During my farm visits, I will be discussing crop forecasting, industry or farm issues, and how AMIA can further support them. Please contact me if there is anything you want to discuss. I look forward to meeting you all very soon.”

I have spent most of my life on the other side of the fence, as a grower, and now I am working for AMIA I can see the importance of protecting not only individual’s bottom line, but the industry as well.

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Labelling our mangoes using the in-line system means we get our brand to the market quickly and the barcode allows accurate pricing in store.- Marie Piccone, Manbulloo Orchards

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MANGO MATTERS SEPTEMBER 2014 SPRING 2014 PAGE 27

MANGOES AROUND THE WORLDEl Niño may trigger higher Brazilian mango volume in 2014-15

Mango growers from the Brazilian areas of Monte Alto and Taquaritinga in the state of Sao Paulo are upbeat for the 2014-15 season, with expectations the crop will be higher year-on-year.

A recent report from São Paulo University’s Center for Advanced Studies in Applied Economics (CEPEA) says an El Niño phenomenon will likely work in mango growers’ favour with a delay in rains for the country’s southeast during the second half.

CEPEA says there were already some crops flowering in June thanks to the lower temperatures, with the first Tommy Atkins variety harvests to start in late October, followed by the Palmer variety in November.

The report says these are the two main varieties exported during the second half to the markets of the U.S. and Europe.

However, CEPEA highlights the El Niño phenomenon has also been registered in Peru where it has caused negative impacts on local flowering; the reverse of Brazil’s situation.

For this reason, the authors expect a lower volume from Peru year-on-year, which could favor the Brazilian mango sector.

source: www.freshfruitportal.com/2014/07/28/el-nino-may-trigger-higher-brazilian-mango-volume-in-2014-15/?country=australia

July 28th, 2014

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For more information, contact your local Nufarm distributor.

Sporekill is a registered trademark of ICA and is used under licence by Nufarm Australia Limited.

PUTTING A STOP TO SPORES

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MANGO MATTERS SEPTEMBER 2014

RESEARCH & POLICY

The minimum wage has increased – make sure you’re paying your workers the right amountFrom the 1st July 2014, the Fair Work Commission increased the minimum wage by 3% to $16.87 per hour. The increase is consistent across Australia and has affected the Horticulture Award. Casual loading was also increased from 23% to 25%.

AMIA CEO Robert Gray said businesses need to take it upon themselves to ensure they are in compliance of the law.

“The law is there to protect workers and businesses. Employers can be fined if they are found to be paying their workers incorrectly, whether intentionally or not. They can also be liable if they hire staff through a recruitment company who do not pay their staff in accordance with the award,” he said.

“Unfortunately, there have been a number of cases over the last few years of farms underpaying their workers. Thankfully, this issue has not affected the mango industry and we are determined to make sure all workers on mango farms across the country are not exploited,” Mr Gray said.

Employers who operate under a certified workplace agreement can continue with the agreement as long as entitlements for a provision in the agreement, such as sick leave, are not less than the rate

contained in the Horticulture Award. The only exception for this is for workplace agreements that provide a 23% causal loading.

AMIA is currently involved in a committee that is reviewing the Horticulture Award, along with a number of other awards for various industries. The review started in early 2014 and may extend through early

The industry super fund forrural and regional Australia

Your local Regional Managers

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Every year many workers are injured, become ill or sometimes die as a result of inadequate, misunderstood, or ignored safety issues in the workplace.

The MANGO CARD is the only online mango farm safety induction course which has been developed by a qualified WH&S consultant.

The course is online, comprising multiple choice answers, and will take approximately 30 minutes. The mango card is valid for one year and is transferrable between mango orchards.

Translations into Japanese, Korean and Traditional Chinese are available.

MANGO WORKERSWH&S ONLINE INDUCTION

Cost: $45 per card, valid for one yearVisit www.aginduct.com.au to complete the training

Superannuation newsThe Superannuation Guarantee has increased to 9.5% from 1st July 2014. The Superannuation Guarantee Act requires employers to contribute to a superannuation fund for full time, part time and casual employees if they are aged between aged 16 and 69 (inclusive) and you pay them $450.00 or more (before tax) in a calendar month. If an employee is under age 18, they also have to work at least 30 hours per week to qualify for super.

Superannuation must also be paid to contractors, if the contract is wholly or principally for their labour, and for employees who are temporary residents of Australia.

The Federal Government’s initiative “Super Stream” will soon require all employers to pay their employees’ superannuation contributions through an electronic clearing house. From 1st July 2015, all employers with 20 or more employees must pay their superannuation contributions through these means, and employers with less than 20 employees have until 1st July 2016 to comply.

If you have less than 20 employees, you can use a clearing house administered by the Department of Human Services, or you can contact your default superannuation fund to gain access to their clearing house facility.

“Although these requirements will not come into place until July 2015 at the earliest, we recommend employers start to move towards using an electronic system to

lodge superannuation contributions for their employees. This system is much simpler, accurate and reliable. You can pay all of your staff’s superannuation in one transaction, even if you need to lodge contributions with multiple super funds,” Mr Gray said.

There is a lot of services available to help employers understand what is required of them:

The Fair Work office

The Fair Work office has information available for businesses and workers in a range of languages. Employers and employees seeking information can contact the Fair Work ombudsman on 13 13 94 or, if a translator is required, on 13 14 50. For more information, please visit the Fair Work website: www.fairwork.gov.au.

Growcom

Growcom has extensive information available on the Horticulture Award and the review on their workplace relations

pages, please visit: www.growcom.com.au/industry-services-2/workplace-relations/awards-and-wages.

AustSafe Super

AustSafe Super is an industry super fund for rural and regional Australia and supports the horticulture industry. They will be happy to answer any questions you have about superannuation. Please contact AustSafe Super, 1300 131 293 between 7am – 7pm EST Monday to Friday or visit their website www.austsafe.com.au.

AgInduct

Businesses who would like advice on whether they are compliant with workplace health and safety laws can contact AgInduct, a workplace health and safety consultancy that provides induction and training for workers in rural agriculture and harvest industries. For more information, please call 07 4068 2208, email [email protected], or visit the website: www.aginduct.com.au.

Level Weekly Hourly Casual (inc. 25% loading)

Casual (if on Workplace agreement

containing a 23% casual loading)

1 $640.90 $16.87 $21.09 $20.75

3 $659.40 $17.35 $21.69 $21.34

3 $678.30 $17.85 $22.31 $21.96

4 $704.00 $18.53 $23.16 $22.79

5 $746.20 $19.64 $24.55 $24.16

2015. The results will be communicated when they become available.

“By being involved in the process, we have more say in the outcome. We are part of this committee to be the voice of the growers and to ensure they get the best deal. This may be a long and complex process as there are a lot of people involved,” Mr Gray said.

THE NEW MINIMUM WAGE AND CASUAL LOADING RATES

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MANGO MATTERS SEPTEMBER 2014 SPRING 2014 PAGE 31

PRELIMINARY RESEARCH SHOWS THAT:

• RCD can be found in green fruit on the tree or at grading, but only when the fruit or stems have severe physical injury or pathogen infection.

• RCD can vary considerably between different orchards and for different harvest dates.

• RCD is often fully expressed once the fruit is ripe and may not show obvious symptoms on the skin.

• RCD incidence was found to be higher in early-season fruit that was exposed to commercial handling and distribution, compared to fruit ripened directly off the tree.

• RCD incidence can be higher in fruit harvested within 12 hours of a rain event, compared to fruit picked 60 hours after rainfall.

• The development of RCD can be associated with the presence of bacteria.

WHAT WILL RESEARCHERS BE LOOKING AT THIS SEASON?

• Grower surveyTo guide research, growers and packers from the Darwin area are currently being surveyed about their experiences with RCD. The survey will help researchers understand whether there is a key production or postharvest practice that may contribute to RCD.

Resin Canal Discolouration— what the research is telling usResin Canal Discolouration has become a major issue for the mango industry over the past two seasons. Fruit from the Darwin region is particularly affected, although some incidence has been found in other varieties and regions throughout Australia. This issue negatively impacts the whole industry by damaging market confidence, thereby reducing sales.

Symptoms of RCD become more evident as mangoes ripen. Often, symptoms will not be evident in the orchard or packing shed, but show up in wholesale markets or on the retail shelf. During last season, surveys of wholesalers and retailers showed that 10-15% of mango consignments from the start of the season until early December were affected by RCD. These consignments were sold at heavily discounted prices, and when RCD became evident in retail, fruit was dumped or returned to the wholesaler.

After the 2012 / 2013 mango season, the industry initiated a one-year scoping project to define the basic features and potential causes of the disorder. The levy funded project was undertaken during the 2013 / 2014 mango season by the Queensland Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (QDAFF) in association with NT Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (NT DPI&F) and the University of Queensland. Following on from this project, the industry initiated a 3-year project, starting this season, to take a deeper look at the issue. The aim of the 3-year project is to identify causes of RCD and develop management options to eradicate or minimise the impact.

WHAT IS RESIN CANAL DISCOLOURATION?

Mangoes have an extensive network of canals that form a complex network just under the skin and in the flesh. These canals store resin, or sap, and are normally flesh-coloured in appearance. When the canals become brown-black in colour, it becomes the fruit quality defect known as Resin Canal Discolouration, or RCD.

WHAT MIGHT BE CAUSING RCD?

RCD is likely to occur when sensitive mangoes are produced as a result of field conditions. These fruit express the defect when they are exposed to specific harvest and postharvest stresses.

• Standard assessment protocolA standard assessment procedure is being developed to accurately diagnose RCD and rate the severity.

• Identifying practices that exacerbate RCDFruit will be sampled from six orchards in the Darwin area, three with a history of low RCD incidence, and three with previously high incidence of RCD. Each orchard will use different production characteristics suspected of contributing to the defect. Fruit will be sampled at different stages of the supply chain and evaluated for symptoms.

The incidence and severity of RCD in the flesh of ripe mangoes that were harvested during the early, mid and late-season.

3 October 2013

Incidence

Severity 20

40

60

80

100

17 October 2013

RC

D In

cide

nce

and

seve

rity

(%)

31 October 2013

• The role of bacteriaResearchers will confirm the identity and possible involvement in RCD of bacteria that was isolated from discoloured resin canals in the previous project. Lab tests of the bacteria will examination its effect on mangoes, and copper-based fungicide sprays will be used in orchards to monitor any incidence of RCD.

WHAT ABOUT THE 2ND AND 3RD YEARS?

In the second year of the project, researchers plan to confirm certain production practices, which will be

identified this season, that are suspected of contributing to RCD.

In the third year, researchers develop a list of improved production practices to limit the expression of the defect.

Project MG14004, Reducing mango industry losses from Resin Canal Discolouration, is funded by HAL using the mango industry levy, voluntary contributions from WePack Pty Ltd, and matched funds from the Australian Government.

Injured Kensington Pride mango fruit on the tree can occasionally show RCD through the skin.

Extensive RCD in the flesh can develop in ripe to over-ripe Kensington Pride mango fruit.

A tray of ripe ‘Kensington Pride’ mango fruit illustrating that RCD can sometimes be present in the flesh (left) and absent on the skin (right)

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MANGO PEOPLE AND EVENTS

AMIA RoadshowsThe AMIA team has been visiting all major mango production regions in Australia to keep you up-to-date with what is happening in the industry.

The next stop on the roadshow will be Bundaberg on Wednesday, 17th September, 2014.

Previous roadshow destinations include Mareeba, Darwin, Katherine, Ayr and Bowen.

The Roadshows introduced you to the new-look AMIA team, including Robert Gray, Trevor Dunmall, Claire Gilmartin, Treena Welch and Boyd Arthur, told you about our vision for the future of the industry and our priorities going into this season.

At the roadshows, the AMIA team presented to you the new Mango Strategic Investment Plan 2014/15 – 2018/19, and told you that the overarching aim of the Plan is to increase profits by 20% across the industry. We told you what we are doing to make this happen and how you can contribute.

AMIA CEO Robert Gray said that he received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the workshops. “People in the industry seem to have a positive outlook going into this season, and so do we. We are putting the plans in place to make sure that this season is a real winner for everyone, from growers to wholesalers and retailers,” he said.

“Our roadshows, workshops, meetings and field days are about bringing people together to build and grow relationships. They are an opportunity to discuss opportunities for the Australian mango industry to grow, hear about what the industry is doing to create outcomes that foster the industry and the businesses within it, and what measures people can take in their own backyards to help us,” Mr Gray said.

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AMIA Chairman Gavin Scurr with Willem Bezuidenhout AMIA Chief Executive Officer Robert Gray

AMIA Marketing Manager Treena Welch

HAL Mango Marketing Manager Elisa King Wayne Parr with AMIA Supply Development Manager Boyd Arthur and Ken Rayner

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SPRING 2014 PAGE 35

9 October, 2014Brisbane first-tray mango auction, Brisbane Markets

14-16 November, 2014China World Fruit & Vegetable Trade Fair, Beijing

7 December, 2014 Mess-tival, Bondi Beach

26-28 May, 201510th Australian Mango Conference, Darwin

28 September to 2 October, 2015XI International Mango Symposium, Darwin

DATES TO REMEMBER

The 10th Australian Mango Conference, hosted by AMIA, will be held in Darwin from the 26 to 28 May 2015. It is an

opportunity for the entire mango industry to come together to Celebrate, Collaborate and Create.

THE 10TH AUSTRALIAN MANGO CONFERENCE

HOSTED BY THE AUSTRALIAN MANGO INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION

DARWIN 26-28 MAY 2015

10TH AUSTRALIAN MANGO CONFERENCE

Clear your calendar because the 10th Australian Mango Conference will be one you won’t want to miss. AMIA will be bringing the mango industry together to Celebrate, Collaborate and Create and we want you to be a part of it!

The Conference will be held from Tuesday 26th May 2015 - Thursday 28th May 2015 in Darwin, NT.

MANGO MATTERS SEPTEMBER 2014

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MANGO MATTERS SEPTEMBER 2014

Advanced post-harvest disease protection.

Scholar is the post-harvest fungicide with out of the box thinking.

Featuring a new active ingredient, anti-sporulation technology

and broad-spectrum activity, Scholar covers more post-harvest

diseases to protect your fruit and your reputation.

For further information please call the Syngenta Technical Product Advice Line on 1800 067 108 or visit our website at www.syngenta.com.au. The information contained in this document is believed to be accurate. No responsibility is accepted in respect of this information, save those non-excludable conditions implied by any Federal or State legislation or law of a Territory. ® Registered trademark of a Syngenta Group Company. AD13/425

Talk to your local distributor today about Syngenta’s solutions.

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