BUSINESS

RDO Update

We have commenced a new Hort Innovation-funded project to strengthen VegNET engagement with culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities, particularly Vietnamese-speaking vegetable growers across Western Australia.

Words Chi Nguyen, Regional Development Officer, vegetablesWA

RUNNING until July 2026, the project will deliver targeted extension, training, farm visits and bilingual communications to ensure growers can access information in their preferred language. The focus is practical and outcomes-driven, improving farm safety, productivity, profitability and business resilience.

By making extension more accessible and culturally relevant, we aim to strengthen connections between growers and industry networks, ensuring everyone can fully participate in research, development and innovation opportunities.

Bilingual chemical training continues to deliver

Due to strong demand, we delivered another accredited bilingual chemical training session in Perth, funded through the VegNET Innovation Fund.

Eighteen growers participated, gaining practical knowledge in the safe and effective use of agricultural chemicals. The bilingual delivery model continues to prove highly effective, breaking down language barriers and improving engagement and understanding.

Interest is growing in further accredited training opportunities, including forklift licensing, Work Health and Safety (WHS), farm worker inductions, food safety and quality assurance.

Carnarvon Melons Roadshow and on-farm support

December saw a visit to Carnarvon for the Melons Australia Roadshow and DPIRD Melons Field Day, where growers viewed more than 120 melon varieties under local conditions.

Farm visits with plant pathologists focused on addressing key disease pressures, including gummy stem blight, Fusarium and nematodes. These on-ground discussions are critical in supporting growers to respond quickly and effectively to emerging challenges.

Trial updates — smarter irrigation and soil health

On-farm trials continue to generate valuable insights for improving water and soil management.

A soil moisture probe trial with a Brussels sprout grower tracked moisture, salinity and temperature throughout summer, helping fine-tune irrigation decisions and improve efficiency. The trial concluded in late December and will continue with a spring onion grower from mid-summer to late autumn.

In parallel, a soil amendment trial in cherry tomatoes is underway in partnership with DPIRD, testing bentonite clay to improve soil moisture retention and soil health.

These initiatives aim to reduce water, fertiliser and energy inputs while maintaining yield and crop quality.

Supporting water efficiency and farm business planning

Growers in the Gnangara region are encouraged to explore the Horticulture Water Use Efficiency Grants Program, offering up to $100,000 per applicant for infrastructure and soil amelioration projects, plus vouchers of up to $5,000 for expert advice. Applications close 30 June 2026, or earlier if funding is fully committed.

The FarmElevate Program is also supporting WA horticulture businesses to strengthen long-term resilience through structured farm business planning, training and tailored consultancy support.

vegetablesWA Roadshow underway

Our regional roadshow has commenced, with Carnarvon and Geraldton as the first stops. Topics include industry updates, pest management, nutrition strategies and crop protection solutions ahead of the growing season.

If there are topics you would like covered in future events, please get in touch.

vegetablesWA remains committed to supporting growers through practical extension, funding guidance, training and on-farm support.