What was it all about?

This project strengthened engagement between VegNET and culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) vegetable growers in Western Australia, particularly Vietnamese-speaking growers. 

The project was delivered across key vegetable-growing regions including Perth, Gingin, Geraldton, Carnarvon and Manjimup. Activities included farm visits, grower meetings, regional roadshows, bilingual training, technology demonstrations and information-sharing campaigns. Demonstrations covered soil moisture monitoring, soil amendments for water retention, drones, laser weeders and precision agriculture technologies. Translation and interpretation services were also provided to growers and industry stakeholders, and resources were translated into Vietnamese to improve accessibility. 

During the project, 230 direct grower support interactions and 60 one-on-one farm visits were delivered, while 16 growers completed accredited bilingual chemical training and more than 70 people attended regional roadshows in Carnarvon and Geraldton. Growers reported increased knowledge and confidence in areas including chemical stewardship, pest and disease management, water-use efficiency and emerging technologies. 

The project addressed a recognised gap in extension delivery for CALD growers. Language and cultural barriers can limit participation in industry programs and reduce access to training, research findings and support services. As a result, some growers may miss opportunities to improve productivity, profitability and resilience. 

The project demonstrated that culturally appropriate communication and trusted relationships can significantly improve grower participation and engagement. The findings will support future development of multilingual resources, inclusive extension programs and practical demonstration activities that help all growers benefit from industry-funded research, development and extension investments.