Banana industry R&D Coordination (BA20002)
This project helped the Australian banana industry respond to major challenges affecting grower profitability, productivity and sustainability, while also supporting new opportunities for innovation.
Completed project
National banana development and extension program (BA19004)
Publication date: June 18, 2020
Delivery Partner: The Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (for the tropical component) and NSW Department of Primary Industries (for the subtropical component)
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This project delivered a national extension program designed to help banana growers access the latest research and development (R&D) and apply research findings in their businesses. Guided by grower consultation, the program focused on industry priorities and delivered research updates, on-farm trials and extension activities that addressed key production challenges facing the Australian banana industry.
A coordinated mix of roadshows, field days, innovation trials, one-on-one support, digital resources and communication activities was used to share research findings and build industry knowledge. The program also responded to emerging challenges, including changes to bunch pest and disease management following the phase-out of chlorpyrifos, by providing timely information, trial results and opportunities for peer-to-peer learning.
The program increased understanding of banana R&D and supported more informed decision-making across the industry. It helped banana businesses implement changes to production practices, particularly in bunch pest and disease management, while strengthening connections between growers, researchers, industry stakeholders and the supply chain. Through on-farm trials, grower engagement and targeted extension activities, the program helped translate research into practice and supported the industry's response to evolving production challenges.
This project was a strategic levy investment in the Hort Innovation Banana Fund
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