Key Takeaways
- The A$3.57 million Protected Cropping Centre was launched at the Gatton AgTech Showcase in Queensland.
- State investment aims to enhance high-value crop production for both domestic and export markets.
- Innovation in horticulture, including autonomous technology, is crucial for addressing labor costs and boosting productivity.
New Centre to Boost Horticulture Innovation
The 2025 Gatton AgTech Showcase marked the opening of the A$3.57 million Protected Cropping Centre for Mild Winter Climates at the Gatton Smart Farm. Queensland Primary Industries Minister Tony Perrett underscored the importance of protected cropping in advancing agricultural research and development, stating that it will drive the creation of high-value products for both domestic and export markets.
Perrett highlighted Queensland’s commitment to agricultural innovation and government support, aiming to increase the value of primary industries production to A$30 billion by 2030. The Centre is designed to facilitate year-round cultivation of vegetables, fruits, and berries, featuring a retractable roof Cravo structure to optimize growing conditions.
The initiative received backing from the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) and its Horticulture Council, emphasizing technology and innovation as vital for the future of Australian horticulture. Council Chair commented that the Centre is essential for showcasing the benefits of investing in protected cropping facilities amidst rising demands for efficient climate control and resource use.
The showcase was collaboratively organized by the Queensland Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and funded by Hort Innovation, along with contributions from the Australian government and the Queensland DPI. Hort Innovation CEO Brett Fifield noted that enhancing productivity represents a significant financial opportunity for the horticulture sector. Recent reports suggest that innovation adoption could potentially add A$1 billion annually, pushing industry value to A$22 billion by 2040.
The Gatton AgTech Showcase was geared toward delivering productivity solutions and encouraging innovation adoption among growers. Autonomous technology emerged as a key focus, promising to alleviate challenges related to labor costs and shortages.
To celebrate the Centre’s launch, the DPI’s Protected Cropping team showcased 24 exhibitor booths, live demonstrations, and a speaking program featuring industry experts. Notable speakers, including Levi Nupponen of Agrology, addressed investment strategies in protected cropping. Rijk Zwaan presented its ToBRFV-resistant tomato varieties and participated in discussions about emerging agricultural diseases.
James Bertram from Rijk Zwaan shared insights on combating Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV), emphasizing the importance of high-resistance genetics for sustainable production in both protected and open-field environments. The collaborative efforts in research and best practices aim to keep pace with new agricultural challenges, reaffirming the sector’s commitment to innovation and resilience.
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