What is it all about?

The dried grape production systems project is designed to enhance the productivity and profitability of dried vine fruit (DVF) enterprises along the Murray Valley by identifying and promoting trellis systems that are better suited to advanced, climate-ready grape varieties.  

Recognising that the industry’s traditional swing arm trellis, developed for the now less-dominant Sultana variety, may not be optimal for newer, highly fruitful varieties, the project will rigorously compare a range of cordon-based trellis systems. Through a long-term, collaborative trial established at SuniTAFE’s Smart Farm near Mildura, the project will collect detailed data on labour, inputs, yield, and fruit quality for different variety-trellis combinations. This evidence will feed into the industry’s GrapeInvest financial modelling framework, providing clear cost-benefit analysis to guide growers and investors in transitioning to more efficient production systems.  

The project also serves as a demonstration and training platform for both current producers and new entrants, with regular field walks, industry communications, and integration into vocational training. Ultimately, the project aims to deliver robust recommendations and updated best-practice guidelines, supporting the industry’s adaptation to climate change and evolving market demands, while ensuring that the knowledge generated is widely disseminated and adopted.