The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries has announced a new National Banana Development and Extension program in support of the COVID-19 economic recovery.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries, Mark Furner said the five-year program would help maintain the banana industry’s viability through job retention and growth.
“The new program aims to build on previous achievements, helping to grow capacity in the banana industry and assisting growers to make informed and positive changes to their businesses,” Mr Furner said.
“Our extension officers will also be looking out for opportunities to work closely with growers doing small on-farm innovation trials with a regional focus based on industry priorities.”
Mr Furner said the teams would visit banana farms with a renewed focus on one-on-one grower contact.
“This will give our horticulturists a greater understanding of the current needs and issues of growers as well as identifying any opportunities for assistance specific to their farm,” the Minister said.
“The new program will deliver information on the latest banana research and development through national banana roadshows, field days and workshops, the Better Bananas website, Australian Banana Congress and other special events.”
He said support for NextGen, the industry’s young grower groups in Queensland and NSW, would continue, with a focus on innovation and technology.
“The project team will take a risk-management approach and adapt to COVID-19 restrictions, delivering activities that are flexible, interactive, in small groups, via teleconferencing and other e-extension tools,” Mr Furner said.
