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Gippy AGchat January 20, 2014 – Issue 86 Since 1997, non-profit group Agribusiness Gippsland Inc has helped support regional

agribusiness by working in partnership with other organisations. This edition of our newsletter is going to 8693 recipients.

Our partners (and we thank them):

Bass Coast

Baw Baw

Cardinia

East Gippsland

Latrobe City

Mornington Peninsula

South Gippsland

Wellington

West Gippsland

CMA

Casey

Southern Farming System

EXPORT OPPORTUNITY #1: Cracking the China code .......................................................... 2 EXPORT OPPORTUNITY #2: Malaysian masterchefs on tap Error! Bookmark not defined.2 EXPORT OPPORTUNITY #3: Get a piggyback to Japan ......................................................... 2 Online farm crime survey ........................................................................................................... 2 Armyworms on the march in Gippsland..................................................................................... 3 Is your rural property number clearly displayed? ...................................................................... 3 The state of the environment explained .................................................................................... 4 Study to examine how planned burns affect health ................................................................... 4 Have your say on road conditions ............................................................................................. 4 Whose poo are you?.................................................................................................................. 5 It’s not just your average trade mission ..................................................................................... 5 Grain farmers sought in biosecurity study ................................................................................. 5 UN celebrates the Year of the Family Farmer ........................................................................... 5 Landcare number plates driving out the door ............................................................................ 5 Help improve dairy fertility ......................................................................................................... 6 Funding to focus on flood mitigation in Longwarry .................................................................... 6 Looking for new staff in the New Year? ..................................................................................... 6 VFF welcomes next step in combating wild dogs ...................................................................... 6 Graining the latest facts ............................................................................................................. 7 Forthcoming markets ................................................................................................................. 7 RACV studies growing pains in regional Victoria ...................................................................... 8 Product swaps on one well-viewed map ................................................................................... 8 Flying fox management plan goes on public display ................................................................. 8 Conditions align to cause cypress decline ................................................................................ 9 East Gippsland abalone thief lands six months gaol ............................................................... 10 Realise the opportunities ......................................................................................................... 13 Putting waterways in the picture .............................................................................................. 11 Care to count koalas? .............................................................................................................. 11 Building Business Capability Grants are now available .......................................................... 12 A new scholarship is on the horizon ........................................................................................ 12 Can you be a Gippy food and beverage winner? .................................................................... 12 Business Awards open soon ................................................................................................... 12 JOBS: A free feature in GippyAGchat ..................................................................................... 13 Gippy Diary .............................................................................................................................. 14

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Have you visited our website? http://agribusinessgippsland.com.au - Or blog us at www.aginc.wordpress.com - Our postal address is PO Box 1312 Warragul 3280. - Email us at agribusinessgippsland@gmail.com or ph 0402 267 802.

EXPORT OPPORTUNITY #1: Cracking the China code Discover how to crack the China export market from small local businesses that have done it. Agribusiness Gippsland is running a free lunch forum on Friday, February 21 at Morwell. Our chairman Paul Ford and former chair Alex Arbuthnot AM recently returned as guests on the Victorian trade mission to China. Premium-quality Australian food commands astonishing prices from newly prosperous Chinese consumers. Paul reported: “We visited the City Super Food Hall in Shanghai … Australian beef retailed at A$100/kg, 250g Bega cheese A$40/kg and Murray Goulburn UHT milk $7/litre.” The free forum, at the Nambur Wariga Meeting Room, Latrobe City Corporate Headquarters, will go from 11.30 to 2.30. A light lunch will be served. Participants from the trade mission tour are being asked to share their experiences and tips for starting to trade with China. There will also be a representative from the Australia China Business Council. Bookings essential for catering purposes. Book at http://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/export-to-china-free-forum-tickets-10250508547 Or email agribusinessgippsland@gmail.com More? Sue Webster 0402 267 802 EXPORT OPPORTUNITY #2: Malaysian masterchefs on tap Agribusiness Gippsland is hosting a visit by seven of Malaysia’s top chefs on March 8-9. We will be showcasing some of the finest food production/processing of the region. In conjunction with the ANZ, we will stage a degustation lunch at Wild Dog Winery, an all-stops-out epicurean impressarama open to discerning diners. Smoked trout, quail, venison, prime beef and lamb, cheese and Wild Dog Wines on Saturday, March 8. Tickets $90 plus GST. To book, phone Sue on 0402 267 802 or email agribusinessgippsland@gmail.com If you are a food producer/processor and want to catch the attention of these key influencers of Malaysian taste, we have a deal for you! We can offer trade stand space. Phone Sue 0402 267 802 to discuss how we can help you. The tour is a spin-off from the 2013 Victorian Government’s trade mission to the ASEAN countries and is part of a statewide visit co-ordinated by the Victorian Agribusiness Council.

EXPORT OPPORTUNITY #3: Get a piggyback to Japan Premium Gippsland food producers thinking of exporting to Japan have a ‘piggyback’ opportunity - but have to move quickly to take advantage of the offer. Lakes Entrance-born, now Melbourne-based, truffle exporter/importer Simon Friend is seeking food producers to join him at Japan’s massive FoodEx. His Japanese agent will pay to import a small sample shipment and will take orders and service accounts prior to the expo. The State Government will also pay up to $2000 to help cover costs for eligible participants. Read all about it here: http://www.business.vic.gov.au/operating-a-business/export/trade-mission-program/trade-mission-to-foodex-japan-2014. Benefit from Simon’s experience and contacts. His number is 0405 424 860.

Online farm crime survey Monash University Farm Crime and Research Centre is conducting a survey to:

- understand the extent that crime occurs on farms in rural and regional Victoria - identify which types of crime are most prevalent and what are the causes - identify crime prevention measures. The survey is anonymous. Participation is

voluntary. Visit www.surveymonkey.com/s/vicfarmcrime - More? Dr Alistair Harkness 5122 6760 or farmcrime@monash.edu

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$$ for trawler project Lakes Entrance-based South East Trawl Fishing Industry Association Limited has scored Federal funding of $356,840 to trial ways to prevent seabirds getting caught by wires on trawl fishing vessels. It is among more than 30 new projects being funding as part of the $21.2m Innovation Grants project. Also included in the round is funding of up to $341,000 to help optimise fertiliser application on dairy farms through a program delivered by Dairy Australia. Other successful projects include funds up to $770,000 for a Australian Agroforestry Foundation project to farm trees for conservation and profit and up to $935,000 for a national surveillance system for weeds.

SFS Autumn field day Southern Farming Systems (SFS) Gippsland Autumn Field Day and AGM will be held on February 20. More? Janice Dowe jdowe@sfs.org.au

Showtime gets near’em The Neerim District Country Show will be held on Sunday, January 26 at the Neerim Recreation Reserve, Hamono Rd, Neerim. The Show provides live country music, stunt motorbike show, wood chopping events, VASA dog high jump, major steam engine and vintage car and truck displays, horse events, local farm produce exhibits, show personalities, carnival rides, show bags, kids pavilion with face painting, trade stalls and much more. Cost $15 for adults/kids under 15 free. More? Andrea 5628 4384 or kootenaypark@bigpond.com or visit www.neerimdistrictcountryshow.com

Armyworms on the march in Gippsland Dairy farmers in West and South Gippsland are reporting armyworm infestations in pasture crops waiting to be cut for hay. Farmers who have traditionally had trouble from armyworm caterpillars (or larvae) in the distant past should consider inspecting pastures for early signs of armyworm presence. Cereal croppers are not immune as armyworms can also affect grain crops. Wheat, barley and oat growers should also check their crops. There are a number of chemicals registered for control of armyworms. For dairy pastures and standing hay crops, consider chemical treatment if damage is obvious. If spraying is necessary, it is recommended that this be carried out in late afternoon or early evening for maximum effect, as armyworms are nocturnal feeders. Familiarise yourself with the chemicals potency, application and withholding periods. More? www.depi.vic.gov.au

Korumburra show = full-scale fun Scarecrows, unflappable donkeys, dog flyball and a magician, a concert organ and fireworks… and utes, working horses, tractor pulls, cows, sheep, horses and chooks… the Korumburra Show is unlike anything you’ve seen before. On February 8-9 at Korumburra.

Is your rural property number clearly displayed? During fire season, it is very important that property owners or occupiers make sure that the property has a clearly displayed number that is visible from the road and well maintained.

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The state of the environment explained The 2013 State of the Environment report released in mid-December contained some interesting Gippsland-specific findings.

Investigating planned burns between 2001/02 and 2012/13, the report revealed that Gippsland accounted for 37% of the total planned burn area. The Orbost district accounted for 16% of the total area burnt. In the same period, Victorian regions most impacted by bushfires were the North East and Gippsland, accounting for nearly 80% of the area burnt.

The Department of Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI) has recorded change in above-ground carbon on publicly managed land between 1970 and 2010 and found East Gippsland and the Strzelecki Ranges recorded carbon losses of less than 20tC/ha – the state’s lowest.

Susceptibility to water erosion of soil was listed as very high in East Gippsland, especially as an aftermath to fire.

The Strzelecki Ranges are listed as a significant area of vegetated public land not in the reserve system and the report notes that less than one-third of the Gippsland Plain retains native vegetation.

Examining water, the report noted: “Since 2007, long-term declines in deep aquifer levels have continued in Gippsland. This trend is associated with the Latrobe Valley coal mines (dewatering) and offshore oil and gas extraction (Bass Strait).”

East Gippsland rivers were judged among the best in terms of river health and East Gippsland was singled out for praise for the condition of its riverside vegetation.

A 2010 study found that the East Gippsland and Mitchell had flow regimes in best the condition statewide, but added this was a drought-affected year

Water quality in the Gippsland Lakes is “generally good during dry periods but is often degraded after heavy rainfall leading to algal blooms.” Poor water quality clearly reflects the negative influence of catchment inflows on the Gippsland Lakes.

Climatic variation led to major variation in river inflows to the Gippsland Lakes. The total annual inflow was 1012GL for the 2009 year. This doubled in 2010 and more than tripled in 2011.

More? http://www.ces.vic.gov.au/victorias-environment/state-of-environment-victoria-2009-2013

Study to examine how planned burns affect health Monash University will undertake a study on planned burns and the health impacts of smoke pollution in regional communities across Victoria. Participants are now being recruited for the study which will start in February 2014. If you live in Warburton, Traralgon, Maffra or Heyfield and are interested in taking part please contact Project Officer, David O’Keefe. More? David O’Keeffe 1800 200 262 or bushfires@monash.edu or visit http://www.coeh.monash.org/bushfiresmoke.html

Have your say on road conditions South Gippsland Council has developed a survey to gather feedback on the current condition of roads. The information collected will be provided to Council and State Government as a 'snapshot' of the impact on road users and identify where additional funding should be allocated on the road network. Council will apply this information to its own road works program and provide it to State Government to support its advocacy requests. The survey is available at www.surveymonkey.com/s/HBWWBSH

Come along and cheer your local cowboys and cowgirls! The Warragul Rodeo will be held on Saturday, February 1 from 6pm at Logan Park Showgrounds, Howitt St, Warragul and features a beasts vs bikes challenge. The event will support the local hospital, heli-med service and the Riding for the Disabled. Entry is: adults $20, under 18’s/Pensioners $15, families $50, under 5’s free. More? www.warragulrodeo.org.au

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Whose poo are you? Koala scat ID collection workshops are being held in late January at Foster and Rosedale, run in conjunction with Yarram Yarram and Latrobe Catchment Landcare Networks. More? Nicole 5666 5759 or nicolew@wgcma.vic.gov.au

It’s not just your average trade mission The Victorian Government is taking applications for the third Super Trade Mission to the Middle East and Turkey markets in February. A further trade mission is also to be held in India from March 3-7. More? Visit http://www.business.vic.gov.au/operating-a-business/export/home

Grain farmers sought in biosecurity study DEPI is seeking help from grain farmers to measure stored grain insect resistance to phosphine and other chemicals. DEPI Grains Industry Biosecurity Officer Jim Moran will be visiting farms in Victoria to collect insects in and around grain storages. There is a limit of 150 farms to be involved throughout Victoria. Free Biosecurity and grain storage information will be provided to participating farmers. More? Jim Moran 5430 4479, 0418 377 930 or Jim.Moran@depi.vic.gov.au

UN celebrates the Year of the Family Farmer The United Nations (UN) has declared International 2014 the Year of the Family Farmer. Gippslander and Australian Dairy Farmers (ADF) President, Noel Campbell, said farming families are the bedrock upon which the dairy industry is founded and integral to its success and resilience. “In dairy’s case, farming families underpin an industry that directly employs 43,000 Australians, generates almost $3bn in exports every year and puts a range of quality dairy products in nine out of ten of Aussie homes,” he said.

Craft and flowers bloom for the show The 56th Annual Jindivick Flower and Craft Show will be held from 10.30am-3pm on February 23 at Jindivick Hall, 1065 Jacksons Track, Jindivick. Cost $3 or $5/family. More? Nikki 5628 5361

Landcare number plates driving out the door Landcare numbers plates are now available to help raise awareness and generate funds for Landcare projects in Victoria. The number plates have a distinct Landcare look with green lettering and Landcare’s iconic hands. Each Landcare number plate has the slogan “Supporting Landcare” and motorists can choose a number between 001-LC and 100-LC, depending on availability. More? Visit www.sgln.org.au or call 5662 5759

Spacious and tastefully designed, the accommodation at McMillans offers a beach-house feeling. The villas and cottages are self-contained including linen, fully-equipped kitchens, comfortable living areas with TV/DVD, laundry, and private balconies with garden or water views. Perfect in any season. 5156 2283 info@mcmillansofmetung.com.au or www.mcmillansofmetung.com.au

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Prune for production A summer pruning workshop will be held from 1-3pm on February 22 at The Briars, Nepean Highway, Mt Martha. Cost $15. Bookings are essential. More? 5987 3078

Help improve dairy fertility Dairy farmers are being asked to help improve fertility by providing as much mating data as they can for inclusion in the April 2014 Australian Breeding Values (ABVs). The Australian Dairy Herd Improvement Scheme is asking farmers who use herd management software to check they are using the most recent version, and make sure they enter mating data by mid-February so data can be included in the April 2014 ABV calculations. Researchers believe the ongoing fertility work will increase six-week in-calf rate by 10%, returning the fertility of the national dairy herd to levels not seen since the 1990s. More? Australian Dairy Herd Improvement Scheme

International-level horse event comes to peninsula Australia's finest dressage horses and riders will compete for a place at the 2014 World Equestrian Game at the Concours de Dressage International (International Dressage Event) (CDI) at Boneo Park, 312 Boneo Rd, Boneo on January 24-26. Entry fees on Friday and Saturday: adult $10, child $5 and on Sunday: adult $20, child $10 More? Boneo Park 5986 3006 or events@boneopark.com.au

Foster Show wants niche farmers in tents The organisers of Foster Show want to showcase niche farming enterprises: truffles, snails, bees, rabbits, etc, to highlight the opportunities for small land holders. They are seeking existing businesses to join the display – for free – at the show next February 22. More? Robbie Davidson 5185 1341 or karandrea@skymesh.com.au

Funding to focus on flood mitigation in Longwarry Baw Baw Shire Council has received funding to undertake a drainage investigation and detailed design to reduce the risk of flooding in areas of Longwarry. Melbourne Water’s Living Rivers program has provided $40,000 in funding for the project that will begin this year.The investigation will target sections of the town including Holman Street, First Street, McCrae Street, Collett Street and Koo Wee Rup – Longwarry Rd. More? Baw Baw Shire Council 5624 2411

Share knowledge - accelerate adoption The Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) will host a grains research update for advisors on February 5-6 at Ballarat Lodge, 613 Main Rd, Ballarat. Places are limited and registration is required to attend this event. More? http://www.orm.com.au

Looking for new staff in the New Year? The Casey Jobs Portal is a one-stop-portal for employment in the Casey region is aimed at connecting local employers with local jobseekers. More? Visit www.caseyjobsportal.com.au

VFF welcomes next step in combating wild dogs The Victorian Farmers Federation has welcomed the State Coalition’s application to the Federal Government to combat wild dog populations in East Gippsland. Aerial baiting for wild dogs has been undertaken for many years in QLD, NSW and SA. …ALTHOUGH: Laying poison baits for dingos on broadacre beef farms appears to increase, not cut, wild dog attacks on calves, according new research at the Robert Wicks Pest Animal Research Centre in Toowoomba. The data suggest that controlling wild dogs to protect calves on extensive beef cattle enterprises is unnecessary because wild dogs do not routinely prey on calves. Calves tended only to become prey in seasons of below-average rainfall.

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Graining the latest facts In 10 years’ time, paddocks under continuous cropping will require 40% more nitrogen fertiliser. This and other facts are detailed in the latest crop of fact sheets from the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC). More? Visit www.grdc.com.au/GRDC-FS-PlantAvailableNitrogen#sthash.xi3jSFKz.dpuf

Forthcoming markets Market When Where More?

Bairnsdale Boot Market 3rd Saturday Great Alpine Rd, Bairnsdale Bittern Sunday market Every Sunday Bittern Railway Station,

Frankston-Flinders Rd, Bittern 0409 417 463

Bruthen Village Market 4th Saturday Mechanics Hall, Bruthen Churchill Island Farmers Market

4th Saturday Churchill Island Visitor Centre, Phillip Island

5664 0096

Coal Creek Farmers Market 2nd Saturday Coal Creek Community Park and Museum, Korumburra

0459 629 000

Drouin Craft and Produce Market

3rd Saturday Drouin Civic Park 5625 3360

East Gippsland Farmers Market

1st Saturday Bairnsdale Secondary College Oval, Bairnsdale

Emerald Community Craft and Produce Market

3rd Sunday Emerald Community House 0419 345 750

Gembrook Market 4th Sunday Puffing Billy Railway Station 0437 664 121 Gippsland Heritage Park Market

3rd Saturday Gippsland Heritage Park, Moe 5127 3082

Heyfield community market 1st Saturday Dr John Graves Memorial 5148 2780 Inverloch Farmers Market 3rd Sunday The Glade. Inverloch 5664 0096 Jindivick Market 1st Saturday Jindivick Harvest Kitchen, 1070

Jacksons Track, Jindivick 5628 5227

Jumbunna Bush Market 1st Sunday The Main Hall, Jumbunna 5657 3253 Kongwak Market Sundays Kongwak General Store 0417 142 478 Lakes Entrance Surf Club Foreshore Market

1st Sunday The Esplanade, Lakes Entrance 0407 098 805

Lardner Park Market November 20 Lardner Park, Warragul 5976 3266 Loch Market 2nd Sunday

(Oct-April) Loch Village Railway Station, Loch

0418 500 520

Longwarry Fire Brigade Market

1st Sunday Bennett St, Longwarry 0419 158 946

Lucknow Market 4th Sunday Howitt Park, Bairnsdale 5152 4662 Mallacoota Artisans and Produce Market

1st Saturday Mudbrick Building, Develling Drive, Mallacoota

0422 988 890

Metung Farmers Market 2nd Saturday Village Green, Metung Mirboo North Community Market

last Saturday of month

Baromi Park in Ridgway (Strez Highway) Mirboo North

5668 2465

Mornington Racecourse Market

2nd Sunday Mornington Racecourse

Paynesville Market 2nd Sunday Gilsenan Reserve, Paynesville Prom Country Farmers Market 3rd Saturday Main St. Foster 0407 543 371 Red Hill Community Market 1st Saturday Arthurs Seat Rd, Red Hill Rokeby Market 2nd Saturday Rokeby Reserve, Main Rd,

Rokeby 5626 8523

South Gippsland Farmers Market

1st Saturday Koonwarra Memorial Park 0408 619 182

Surf Club Market 1st Sunday Foreshore Rotunda, Lakes Entrance

Toora market 2nd Sunday Jetty Rd, Toora 5688 1237 Traralgon Farmers Market 4th Saturday Kay St Gardens – Kay St,

Traralgon 0409 232 715

Warragul farmer’s Market 3rd Saturday Civic Park, Warragul 0435 757 047 Yarragon community craft and produce market

4th Saturday Yarragon Public Hal 5634 2209

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Grow it at home Forage planning for dairy farmers will focus on producing more home-grown pastures and crops and will be held in late January or early February 2014 in the Foster/Leongatha area, running 10am-2.30pm each day. Please indicate your interest in this program. More? Frank Mickan 5624 2259 or frank.mickan@depi.vic.gov.au

Could your business be run more efficiently? A Better Business Practices Workshop, run by Small Business Victoria, will explore improvements in operations, finances and risk management on March 18 from 6-9.30pm at Suite 7/61 Smith Street (Upstairs), Warragul. Cost $30. More? Shannyn Kiss 5624 2411 or shannyn.kiss@bawbawshire.vic.gov.au

RACV studies growing pains in regional Victoria RACV is investigating the road, public transport, cycling and walking projects needed now and into the future for regional Victoria. The transport blueprint, titled Growing Pains in Regional Victoria, will be released in 2014. RACV is asking members to submit their best photos of transport in regional Victoria to win a $500 RACV voucher and feature in RACV’s Growing Pains in regional Victoria report. More? http://www.racvgrowingpains.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/growing-pains/home

Product swaps on one well-viewed map More than 600 people have viewed the Google-map-based listing of produce swaps across Gippsland prepared for Agribusiness Gippsland by Dr Graham Moore from the University of Melbourne. You can view and edit the map at: http://g.co/maps/eqvpa

Watch the ponies go through their paces The Boolarra Pony Club Gymkhana will be held on February 2 at Boolarra Memorial Park, Park Rd, Boolarra. Cost $5/vehicle. Gates open at 6.30am. The event features three open rings, an official HRCAV ring, a pony club ring, novelties, and fun ring. More? Sandra Mills 5169 6404 or gsmills1@bigpond.com

Lob on up and cause a stir The 30th Annual Kilcunda Lobster Festival raises funds for the Kilcunda community and will be held from 9am on January 26 in Kilcunda. More? Andrea Bolch 0400 065 253 or secretary@kcda.org.au or visit www.kcda.org.au

Flying fox management plan goes on public display East Gippsland Council has completed its Grey-headed Flying-fox Roost Site Strategic Management and Action Plan which is now on public display. More? Visit Grey-headed Flying-fox Roost Site Management and Action Plan

SOILWORX PAKENHAM – SERVICING GIPPSLAND Located at 1150 Koo Wee Rup Rd, our massive SoilWorx has everything to get the job done. With over 80 bulk products, including soils, toppings, crushed rock, mulch, sands, drainage scoria, builders hardware, cement, bagged products,

plants, turf and more, you'll find all need at the right price! With over 30 years experience, SoilWorx has serviced countless gardens, residences, councils and

commercial projects. The team at SoilWorx Pakenham are locals, and understand the unique needs of Gippsland. Open 7 days a week, and offering unbeatable “3 for

1” delivery deals, isn’t it time you got to know the SoilWorx Pakenham team? Give them a call today on 5940 4918, or visit the website at www.soilworx.com.au

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Not sure where to start with energy or materials efficiency? Sustainability Victoria’s Smarter Resources Smarter Business – Energy and Materials Program can help identify cost-saving opportunities and develop an action plan. Eligible businesses can access up to $15,000 to carry out a resource assessment or undertake additional scoping work. Applications can be submitted anytime. More? www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/srsb

Learn to garden organically An Introduction to Organic Gardening workshop for beginners will be held on Saturday, February 1 from 9am-12pm at 40 Dava Drv, Mornington. The workshop covers most aspects of growing fruit, herbs, veggies. The class is limited to eight people. Children under 12 welcome but must be supervised. Cost $55. Seniors’ discounts available. More? Lucy Harvest 0425 748 798 or lucy@harvestorganics.com.au or visit www.harvestorganics.com.au

Conditions align to cause cypress decline Testing by Department of Environment and Primary Industry (DEPI) has shown a range of fungal pathogens were responsible for the death of cypresses, and some trees have also been subject to insect attack. Cypress canker was the most significant of the diseases. There is no proven cure for this disease. More? Visit www.depi.vic.gov.au/agriculture-and-food/pestsdiseases-and-weeds and click on the ‘cypress decline’ quick link or www.depi.vic.gov.au/chemicaluse

Casey-Cardinia Business breakfast series cuts the grass! The next event in the Casey-Cardinia Business Breakfast series, presented by Cardinia Shire Council, City of Casey, Monash University and the Melbourne Football Club, features Jim Penman founder of Jim’s Mowing. The breakfast will be held on March 12 from 7–9am at the Cranbourne Golf Club, South Gippsland Hwy, Cranbourne. Cost $50 or $700/table. More? Raylene Wilson 9705 5200 or rewilson@casey.vic.gov.au

Support available through small business clinics program The Baw Baw Shire Council and the Small Business Mentoring Service are offering free business mentoring sessions to support businesses located within the Baw Baw Shire. The sessions will be held in the Customer Service Centre, Meeting Room, 61 Smith St, Warragul, with four sessions per day (10-10.45am, 11-11.45am, 12.30-1.15pm, 1.30-2.15pm) on the second Wednesday of the month (February 12, March 12, April 9, May 14, June 11, July 9, August 13, September 10, October 8, November 12). More? Baw Baw Shire Council’s Economic Development Unit 5624 2411 or economicdevelopment@bawbawshire.vic.gov.au

Mark the date in Red (Hill) The 2014 Red Hill Show will be held on March 22. More? Dianne Baxter 5989 2357 or redhillshow@hotkey.net.au or visit www.redhillshow.org

Gippsland cheese, handmade on the family farm by Ferial and her son Sam … Enjoy multi-award winning traditional cheeses made in time-honoured ways, using milk from the home farm herd at Tinamba. Available from specialty shops across Australia, at selected Victorian farmers’ markets and online. Phone 5145 1022 or visit www.maffracheese.com.au

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Wetland and agriculture are partners for growth The Tootgarook Swamp on Truemans Road, Rosebud will celebrate World Wetlands Day on Sunday, February 2 with a free event ‘Wetland and Agriculture: Partners for Growth.’ The event features Moonlit Sanctuary, Birdlife Australia, South East Water, LandCare, Rye Lions Club, SPIFFA, Animalia, The Connies and Seeds. More? Save Tootgarook Swamp Inc 0450 675 856 or craig.animalia.shelter@gmail.com

East Gippsland abalone thief lands six months gaol A recidivist fish thief has been gaoled for six months after being caught in East Gippsland with a commercial quantity of abalone. The 43-year-old Sydney man was apprehended with 120 abalone. He was banned from any sort of abalone fishing activity in Victoria for 10 years in the Sale Magistrates Court. Anyone who sees or suspects illegal fishing activity is urged to call the 24 hour reporting line 13 FISH (13 3474).

Need business funding? A free, interactive webinar from 11am-12pm on Wednesday, February 19 will guide participants through the process of identifying funding sources. Topics to be covered include:

What is bootstrapping and why are businesses doing it? Crowd-funding advantages and a step by step how to process Sources of Government assistance and grants What angel investors and venture capitalists look for before investing

More? Jeannie Clark, Cardinia Shire Council 1300 787 624

Say ‘sayonara’ to your vegetables AUSVEG is inviting levy paying vegetable growers to attend a symposium on exporting to Japan with all costs covered. The symposium will be held in Cairns on June 22. More? AUSVEG 03 9882 0277 or info@ausveg.com.au

When art meets agriculture The Gippsland Art Gallery in Sale is staging Abby Storey’s ongoing series, Of the Land, examining the complex relationship between humanity and the natural world. The exhibition will run until January 27. More? Gippsland Art Gallery 5142 3372 or gallery_enquiries@wellington.vic.gov.au

Agritourism dossier available What are the common factors that determine a successful agritourism venture? What do the failures always do wrong? Agribusiness Gippsland has completed a literature review as part of last year’s study of Gippsland’s agritourism sector. We have compiled the findings into a fascinating, easy-to-read dossier. Drawing on local, Australian and overseas studies, it presents the financials of agritourism, the trends in Gippsland, the challenges, and some early data on regional agritourism operations, along with ideas from existing successful operators. The cost is $30 plus GST. Email orders at susanw@ptarmigan.com.au or via www.aginc.wordpress.com

Come and stay in magnificent Tallawarra B&B homestead at Tonimbuk only an hour from Melbourne. Discover true luxury in a colonial homestead of grand proportions set in sweeping landscapes. Relax, recharge and relish the beauty of West Gippsland. Or book into one of the specialist cheesemaking weekends.

Contact Janine or Andrey Ph 0437 197 796 info@tallawarraaccommodation.com.au

or http://tallawarraaccommodation.com.au

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Putting waterways in the picture The Department of Environment and Primary Industries is running an Instagram competition to encourage Victorians to enjoy their unique and diverse waterways and giving them a chance to win a houseboat getaway on the Murray River valued at $1000. Take a picture of yourself enjoying a river, estuary or wetland in Victoria, and upload your picture to Instagram with the tag @depivictoria and #lovewaterways in the caption. Deadline January 31. More? Visit www.depi.vic.gov.au/lovewaterways

Care to count koalas? Be trained as a koala spotter and survey volunteer. Hancock Plantations conduct annual koala counts in both native forest and plantations in March. Training consists of one in-house training day and one day in the field. An extra optional day will be spent at Morwell National Park to practice koala spotting skills. Places are limited. More? Nicole 5666 5759 or nicolew@wgcma.vic.gov.au

Flowering gums mass for Ficifolia Festival The Drouin Ficifolia Festival will be held from February 6-9. More? Visit http://dev.ficifoliafestival.org.au/

Come on up to Beaconsfield The Beaconsfield Upper Village Festival will be held on February 16 from 9am-3pm at the Beaconsfield Upper Community Centre, 10-12 Salisbury Rd, Upper Beaconsfield. More? Janet Cathie 0407 347 742 or ubvillagefest@gmail.com or http://www.ubvillagefest.org.au

Make it Meeniyan … Meeniyan Motel provides comfortable, affordable accommodation close to the Prom. The motel has a reputation for friendliness and modern amenities. Meeniyan Motel is suitable for business and leisure travellers with free wireless internet. Choose from standard, twin, family and spa suites. All rooms feature ensuite and air-conditioning. There’s a saltwater pool, BBQ and ample parking. 119 Whitelaw St. Visit www.meeniyanmotel.com.au or ph 5664 0030. Online booking available.

Country racing is off and … well … racing Meetings in January: 25-Sale; 28-Moe. Meetings in February: 2-Sale; 8-Woolamai; 9-Pakenham; 10-Stony Creek; 14-Sale; 15-Buchan; 18-Moe; 22-Woolamai. More? 1300 139 402 or visit www.countryracing.com.au

Build your online strategy Small Business Victoria will run a ‘Building your online strategy’ workshop on Tuesday, February 11 from 6-9pm at the Cardinia Cultural Centre, Lakeside Boulevard, Pakenham to help participants develop a framework to strategically grow business by setting online marketing goals. The workshop covers strategy development, content, social media, search engine marketing and optimisation and web analytics. The cost of attendance is $30. More? Jeannie Clark 1300 787 624 or ecodev@cardinia.vic.gov.au

Refresh knowledge of farm chemicals A farm chemical refresher course will be delivered by e-ssential Ag Training at Lindenow, February 12 and Leongatha, February 13, both from 8.30am-4.30pm. Cost $200. More? 0428 322 146 or enquiry@e-ssentialagtraining.com.au

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Lardner Park Exhibition Centre – Conferences & Functions In picturesque Gippsland landscape, the $5m Exhibition Centre is ideal for meetings and conferences, as well as community and corporate functions. The team, with in-house caterers Wild Dog Food Services, can tailor functions to meet your need and budget. Other in-house services include audio-visual, staging and decoration. The five meeting rooms have capacity of 950

people. 155 Burnt Store Rd, Lardner (Melways ref: X912 U8) T: 03 5626 1373 F: 03 5626 1418 E: office@lardnerpark.com.au W: www.lardnerpark.com.au

Building Business Capability Grants are now available Grants of $5000-$50,000 are available to industry/business associations or networks that can assist small to medium sized businesses to improve energy and materials efficiency. To be eligible for funding, applicants must be an industry/business association or network or business representative body that has a specific industry sector or geographic focus. Applications close at 4pm on February 7. More? Visit www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/srsb

A new scholarship is on the horizon The Horizon Scholarship, an initiative of the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation, in partnership with industry sponsors, supports undergraduates studying agriculture at university by providing:

A bursary of $5000 per year for the duration of their degree Professional development workshops Annual industry work placements Opportunities to network and gain knowledge at a range of industry events.

Applications close 5pm on January 31. More? Visit http://www.rirdc.gov.au/research-programs/rural-people-issues/horizon-scholarship

Can you be a Gippy food and beverage winner? Nominations are now open for the 10th annual Food Magazine Awards. Categories cover baked goods, beverages and snack foods to food safety, packaging design and ingredient innovation, Nominations close April 1. More? Visit www.foodmag.com.au/awards2014

Business Awards open soon Applications for the SP AusNet Baw Baw Shire Business Excellence Awards 2014 will be open from January 29-April 11. More? Visit www.bawbawshire.vic.gov.au/Business/Baw_Baw_Business_Award

Ride for the animals Ride for the Animals is a charity bike ride from 8.30am on March 16 from Animal Aid's Gippsland shelter, 111 Hopkins Rd, Sale covering 90km to Bairnsdale. Cost $30. More? Megan Pritchard 8756 1335 or mpritchard@animalaid.org.au or visit http://animalaid.org.au

GippsDairy supports dairy employment GippsDairy’s Dairy Workforce project offers employment support to Gippsland dairy farmers. More? Jeanette White 5624 3900 or people@gippsdairy.com.au or www.gippsdairy.com.au

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Farm World looks healthy for 52

In its 52nd year, Farm World is one of the largest field day events in Australia. It attracts visitors from throughout Victoria, southeast of South Australia and Tasmania. It has grown to be Victoria's largest regional agricultural event, attracting more the 650 exhibitors and 50,000 people through the gates over the four days. The 2014 Farm World theme HEALTH & WELLBEING focuses on initiatives farmers and rural people can take to improve their health levels and quality of life. A special "Women In Agriculture' luncheon will be held from 12pm to 2.00pm in the Lardner Park Exhibition Centre. Tickets are $40 including entry to Farm World/luncheon and presentation. Special discount for students. Phone 5626 1373.

Realise the opportunities Join the conversation at ABARES Outlook 2014 conference in Canberra on March 4-5 to examine the opportunities for agriculture, fisheries and forestry industries. The theme for Outlook 2014 is realising the opportunities to reflect the evolution of agricultural communities. More? 02 6272 2303 or visit www.daff.gov.au/abares/conferences-events/outlook

Metung Accommodation offers the largest range of self-catering apartments and townhouses as well as waterfront apartments, motels, cabins, cottages and flats, B&B or houses, on the water with jetty berths, or in surrounding areas. Our office is in Metung Village on the Gippsland Lakes, an easy 3.5hr drive ex-Melbourne. 03 51562861/ 0405265033 info@metungaccommodation.com.au, http://www.metungaccommodation.com.au/contact-us or Shop 3/50 Metung Rd, Metung 3904

JOBS: A free feature in GippyAGchat Times being what they are, we are running free job ads. If you’re seeking work, or workers, please flick an email to susanw@ptarmigan.com.au and we’ll give you a free plug. No large files, no photos, no sales pitches and full contact details, please. WORK SOUGHT: Employers wanted for agricultural graduates: Employers sought for well-trained, job-ready agricultural and horticultural graduates with nationally recognised post-diploma qualifications, Australian work experience, certifications, permits and licenses. Prospective employers can trial graduates for three to six months. www.ruralskills.com.au/about-us/australian-college-of-agriculture-and-horticulture/employers-wanted-for-agricultural-graduates/ Environmental planning and vegetation design: Springbank Ecosystems offers flora and fauna surveys, EMPs for sub-division applications, weed/animal management, revegetation plans for extraction companies, specialised native orchid ID and staff training. More? Libby Lambert 5657 2387 or lamberte@tpg.com.au Market your business more effectively: Award-winning marketer/business consultant with strong agricultural background can offer strategies to place your business in the public eye. More? John 0457 065 425 Need staff? Try 12 or six months of cost-effective undergraduate recruits from accounting, sciences, marketing, HR and PR/comms/media. Candidates available for paid full-time or half-time placements. Annette: lssibl@swin.edu.au or ph: 9214 8753 or Karen: kpomeranz@swin.edu.au or ph: 9215 7136 Fire management planning: Consultant to prepare sustainable fire management plans for your property or small reserve. Helen Bull 0400 310 188 or h.bull@bigpond.com

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Seeking admin/clerical work: For any type of administrative/clerical type work (consulting, part time or job share – even if it is only a few hours per week). I have a current ABN and tertiary qualifications in business studies, taxation and financial planning. Greg Lewis on 0439 523 871 or gregorynlewis@southernphone.com.au CLASSIFIEDS: Silage rolls available for sale at $65 per roll. The silage is currently located at Flinders on the Mornington Peninsula. Loading can be arranged if necessary. More? John 0423 353 377 Ford 550 backhoe with three digging buckets; $11,000 inc. GST ONO 5956 9318. Brewers yeast available: Free brewers spent yeast, suitable for pigs, chooks, fertiliser – 1000 litres/week. Available from Port Melbourne. Neil 0418 371 663

Quote of the week Lou Sanders: "I waited an hour for my starter so I complained: It's not rocket salad."

The most important item in this entire e-newsletter Display advertising in GippyAgchat is easy – only $50 an insertion (plus GST) or five inserts for $200 (plus GST). And only $400 (plus GST) for 10 inserts… all going to more than 8500 ‘yes please’ readers. A Word document of 60-100 words and a small pic will do it! And we are always keen to talk sponsorship. Our postal address is PO Box 1312 Warragul 3280. More? 9456 9791, http://agribusinessgippsland.com.au or www.aginc.wordpress.com

Anyone we’ve forgotten? Gippy Agchat is sworn at and sweated over by Sue Webster (0402 267 802 or 9456 9791) and Madeline Toner for Agribusiness Gippsland Inc and circulated to subscribers and supporters. Please circulate this newsletter by email or printout/fax to your colleagues. GOT NEWS? Ph/email news to agribusinessgippsland@gmail.com. COPYRIGHT-FREE: Resources of Gippy Agchat, either in full or in part, can be copied, quoted, reprinted, given away or circulated. All resources are public property and we would be honoured if they were used to build skills and understanding to help sustain profitable farming, build healthier communities and support vibrant local economies.

Gippy Diary DATE EVENT LOCATION CONTACT Jan 24-26 Concours de Dressage

International Boneo Boneo Park 5986 3006

Jan 25 Country Race Meeting Sale 1300 139 402 Jan 26 Kilcunda Lobster Festival Kilcunda Andrea Bolch 0400 065 253 Jan 26 Neerim District Country Show Neerim Andrea 5628 4384 Jan 28 Country Race Meeting Moe 1300 139 402 Feb 1 Warragul Rodeo Warragul Feb 2 Boolarra Pony Club Gymkhana Boolarra Sandra Mills 5169 6404 Feb 2 Wetland and Agriculture: Partners

for Growth Tootgarook 0450 675 856

Feb 2 Country Race Meeting Sale 1300 139 402 Feb 5-6 GRDC Grains Research Update

for advisers Ballarat 5441 6176

Feb 6-9 Drouin Ficifolia Festival Drouin 5627 6368 Feb 7 GRDC Grains Research Update Lake Bolac 5441 6176

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for Growers Feb 8 Country Race Meeting Woolamai 1300 139 402 Feb 9 Country Race Meeting Pakenham 1300 139 402 Feb 10 Country Race Meeting Stony Creek 1300 139 402 Feb 11 Build Your Online Strategy

Workshop Pakenham Jeannie Clark 1300 787 624

Feb 12 Farm Chemical Refresher Course Lindenow 0428 322 146 Feb 12 Small Business Clinics Program Warragul Baw Baw Shire Council’s

Economic Development Unit 5624 2411

Feb 13 Farm Chemical Refresher Course Leongatha 0428 322 146 Feb 14 Country Race Meeting Sale 1300 139 402 Feb 16 Beaconsfield Upper Village

Festival Beaconsfield Upper l

Janet Cathie 0407 347 742

Feb 18 Country Race Meeting Moe 1300 139 402 Feb 19 Indentifying business funding

sources webinar Jeannie Clark 1300 787 624

Feb 21 China Forum Warragul Feb 22 Foster Show Foster Robbie Davidson 5185 1341 Feb 22 Summer Pruning Workshop Mt Martha 5987 3078 Feb 22 Country Race Meeting Woolamai 1300 139 402 Feb 23 56th Annual Jindivick Flower and

Craft Show Jindivick Nikki 5628 5361

Mar 4-5 ABARES Outlook 2014 Canberra 02 6272 2303 Mar 12 Casey Cardinia Business

Breakfast Series Cranbourne Raylene Wilson 9705 5200

Mar 12 Small Business Clinics Program Warragul Baw Baw Shire Council’s Economic Development Unit 5624 2411

Mar 16 Ride for the Animals Sale Megan Pritchard 8756 1335 Mar 18 Better Business Practices Warragul Shannyn Kiss 5624 2411 Apr 9 Small Business Clinics Program Warragul Baw Baw Shire Council’s

Economic Development Unit 5624 2411

May 14 Small Business Clinics Program Warragul Baw Baw Shire Council’s Economic Development Unit 5624 2411

Jun 11 Small Business Clinics Program Warragul Baw Baw Shire Council’s Economic Development Unit 5624 2411

Jul 9 Small Business Clinics Program Warragul Baw Baw Shire Council’s Economic Development Unit 5624 2411

Aug 13 Small Business Clinics Program Warragul Baw Baw Shire Council’s Economic Development Unit 5624 2411

Sep 10 Small Business Clinics Program Warragul Baw Baw Shire Council’s Economic Development Unit 5624 2411

Oct 8 Small Business Clinics Program Warragul Baw Baw Shire Council’s Economic Development Unit 5624 2411

Nov12 Small Business Clinics Program Warragul Baw Baw Shire Council’s Economic Development Unit 5624 2411

This regular news digest comes from Agribusiness Gippsland Inc which works with farmers, local councils, state and federal government, catchment management authorities, community groups and others to support regional agribusiness and work in partnership with existing

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regional organisations. Visit http://agribusinessgippsland.com.au or www.aginc.wordpress.com