Citrus roadshow hits Griffith

3 Oct 2017

Riverina citrus growers and industry advisers have been invited to a free event, which will highlight the latest research and management updates on Monday October 16 at the Griffith Leagues Club and Tuesday October 17 at Mario’s Packhouse.

NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) citrus development officer, Steven Falivene, said the event was designed as a one-stop shop for local citrus producers.

“Growers can expect to receive comprehensive information about new Valencia rootstocks and varieties, trial results, pest and disease management, export opportunities and production and market forecasts from specialist presenters,” Mr Falivene said.

“Taste tests of new late-maturing orange and mandarin varieties will appeal to local growers.

“We will explore the economics of overhead netting, with input from a local grower on his experience with netting.

“Irrigation and solar-powered pumps will feature and NSW DPI will provide insights for growers on rootstock compatibility and re-working techniques.”

Pruning to lift navel orange pack outs, with a first grade pack out demonstration and discussion is set to attract growers on Tuesday.

The Monday event runs from 8.30 am until 4.30pm with a special nutrition workshop running from 5.30 to 7.30 pm.

Registration for the event, workshop and demonstrations is essential for catering and organisational purposes by contacting dareton.office@dpi.nsw.gov.au or calling NSW DPI, (03) 5019 8405.

Information is available online, http://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/citrusroadshow

The citrus roadshow is free thanks to funding and sponsorship from NSW DPI, Griffith and District Citrus Growers, Leeton Citrus Growers, Yenda Producers, The Daily Drinks Co., Murrumbidgee Irrigation, Elders, Mildura Fruit Company, Super Seasons and Riverina Biosecurity Inc.

Citrus Australia and Horticulture Innovation Australia are acknowledged for their support and investment in the citrus industry.

caption: NSW Department of Primary Industries entomologist Dr Jianhua Mo's national citrus gall wasp (CWG) management project is helping ensure beneficial  insects are not  affected adversely by chemical treatments for CWG.

Funded by NSW DPI and Horticulture Innovation Australia, the project aims to manage this major pest CWG in Sunraysia, Riverland and Riverina citrus crops where it has impacted on plant vigour, fruit size and citrus yields.

Photographs available from bernadette.york@dpi.nsw.gov.au

Media contact: Bernadette York (02) 6938 1664, 0427 773 785