South Australian Government Launches Cost-Saving Vine Resting Trial for Grape Growers
🍇 South Australian wine grape growers are being offered significant cost-saving opportunities through a newly announced vine resting trial. Initiated by the Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, Clare Scriven, the program could save growers up to $2,000 per hectare in input, water, and management costs. This trial comes at a crucial time as the state’s wine industry continues to face challenges from an oversupply of red wine grapes, even after the recent lifting of tariffs on Australian wines in China.
🌱 The trial leverages research from the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI) and Wine Australia, focusing on the use of Ethephon, a plant growth regulator that reduces crop yield to eliminate the need for harvest. This method allows growers to maintain essential vine health while cutting back on intensive fertigation, water application, and disease management. A $40 rebate per hectare, covering up to 1,000 hectares per ABN, provides further financial relief to participating growers.
💼 This initiative is part of a broader strategy to support the wine sector amid ongoing difficulties. In addition to the vine resting trial, other measures include a $1.85 million effort to re-engage with the Chinese market, a $3.5 million viability support package from the Federal Labor Government, and up to $1,500 in direct aid through the Rural Business Support Relief fund.
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Chief Executive Officer at Australian Premium Dried Fruits
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