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‘Spudcasts’: AUSVEG launches new potato R&D initiative


Australia
February 3, 2014

AUSVEG has launched an exciting new initiative that will see key research and development (R&D) information delivered to Australian potato growers via podcasts.

Aptly titled ‘Spudcasts’, AUSVEG will produce a series of R&D-focused audio programs in 2014 for the Australian potato industry, as part of activities undertaken for the Potato Industry Extension Program.

“With more and more potato growers using smartphone apps and other technologies as part of their day-to-day crop management practices, these Spudcasts could prove a valuable tool for industry members to access new potato R&D information,” said AUSVEG Special Projects Coordinator, Luke Raggatt.

AUSVEG is the leading voice in Australian horticulture, representing Australia’s 2,000 potato growers.

“The way people consume information has changed dramatically in recent years. AUSVEG recognises the need to communicate R&D material to Australian potato growers using a variety of effective and convenient mediums,” said Mr Raggatt.

Each Spudcast episode will address a key issue affecting the sector and will be available for potato levy payers to stream online from the AUSVEG website (www.ausveg.com.au), or to download onto a portable audio device, such as a smartphone or MP3 player. Growers with tractors equipped with a USB input in the cab stereo, such as those in the John Deere range, can also listen to the programs while out in the field.

The episodes will feature interviews with a range of industry stakeholders, including researchers, growers, agronomists and supply chain representatives.

“These Spudcasts will ensure that all Australian potato producers with an internet or 3G connection, irrespective of their location, have the chance to hear from leading potato experts and fellow growers about important industry issues,” said Mr Raggatt.

Episode #1 of the Spudcast series, to be released in conjunction with the February/March 2014 issue of Potatoes Australia magazine, will focus on potato export opportunities in Asia. This follows the Australian Government’s recent announcement of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) reached between Australia and South Korea, which will see the immediate elimination of tariffs on potatoes.

“We’re kicking off the series by investigating an issue that has been a hot topic in Australian politics lately - the growth in export opportunities for Australian food producers, and what this means for the Australian potato industry,” said Mr Raggatt.

“These Spudcasts will make it easier, and more enjoyable, for potato growers to learn about new research findings, farming practices and other important developments within the industry, which if adopted, could deliver strong practical benefits to their businesses.”

“Through initiatives such as this, AUSVEG is working to ensure that Australian potato producers can achieve a more sustainable and competitive future,” said Mr Raggatt.

This communication has been funded by HAL using the National Potato Levies and matched funds from the Australian Government.
 



More news from: AUSVEG (Australian Vegetable Growers Federation)


Website: http://www.ausveg.com.au

Published: February 3, 2014

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