DPI funds new extension model for NSW wine industry

The Department of Primary Industries (DPI) has agreed to provide up to $500,000 each year to the NSW Wine Industry Association (NSW WIA) to establish a joint extension service.

DPI Director Plant Systems Alison Bowman said the funds would be used to call for expressions of interest early next year to supply extension services to producers. These could be met by individual or group applicants.

"As part of this new model, growers will have more say and more control over the services they want from their extension provider," she said.

"Access to Australia’s best viticulture practice via new ways of extension services will be a key driver for the wine industry over the next 10 years."

President of the NSW Wine Industry Association David Lowe said a survey form would be sent to growers next month to determine the specific programs they would like to see delivered by the new service.

"The survey of wine grape growers and NSW WIA members will ask them to specify the issues and topics they think the service should provide in their region, the timing and the preferred modes of delivery.

"We urge industry members to 'have their say' to ensure the service meets their needs."

Dr Bowman said the new service is about ensuring the State’s wine grape growers and wine industry representatives have access to the latest innovations and practical research outcomes - in a model that suits their needs.

"When our farmers are adopting new technologies quickly it benefits the entire economy of the State."

Dr Bowman said the service would start in July 2013 and would be closely linked with the National Wine & Grape Industry Centre at Wagga Wagga.

"The soon-to-be appointed DPI Viticulture Development Officer based at Griffith or Wagga Wagga will be involved in the co-ordination of the extension services activities," she said.

"The extension providers will also offer a biosecurity response capability."

Dr Bowman said the service will complement the new Local Land Services model being developed for landholders over the next year.

"This service has been developed to better meet the needs of growers and the wine industry by ensuring they have access to the latest research outcomes."

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