Victorian potato growers will gather in Ballarat tomorrow (Tuesday, September 16) to hear an update on industry research and development (R&D), discuss ideas for future industry investment, and learn about consumer attitudes to potatoes during a Regional Potato Levy Payers’ Meeting.
AUSVEG spokesperson Andrew MacDonald said such meetings also gave growers the opportunity to give direct feedback to their representative industry bodies.
“This ensures growers play a key role in guiding the future of their industry,” Mr MacDonald said.
“By providing regional growers with this opportunity to give feedback, we will be able to ensure that future R&D continues to address the issues that matter to growers.”
Market research agency Colmar Brunton managing director Jenny Witham will also discuss research findings of consumer attitudes and behaviour about potato purchases.
“The Potato Tracker is a great initiative and has the potential to allow potato growers to better understand what consumers want, and target their offerings accordingly,” said Mr MacDonald.
The Ballarat workshop is the second in a series of Regional Potato Levy Payers’ meetings being held by AUSVEG and Horticulture Australia Limited in Tasmania, Victoria and South Australia this week.
“Grower input is the fundamental catalyst in sparking industry development. Some of horticulture’s most exciting developments, such as on-farm robotics and integrated pest management, have been instigated solely because growers have indicated that there was a need,” Mr MacDonald said.
“The event will be a worthwhile occasion for growers and industry alike.”
The meeting will be held from 4 to 6pm on Tuesday, September 16 at The Red Lion Hotel on Main Rd, Ballarat.
Potato levy payers interested in attending can contact AUSVEG on (03) 9882 0277 or e-mail info@ausveg.com.au
