new plant products · for watercress in australia mr john fennell (08) 8389 8840 department of...

RIRDC Completed Projects in 2005-2006 and

Research in Progress as at June 2006

Sub-Program 1.1

NEW PLANT PRODUCTS

September 2006 RIRDC Publication No 06/062

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© 2006 Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation. All rights reserved. ISBN 1 74151 325 1 ISSN 1440-6845 "RIRDC Completed Projects in 2005-06 and Research in Progress as at June 2006 - 1.1 New Plant Products" Publication No. 06/062 Project No. RIP2005/2006 The information contained in this publication is intended for general use to assist public knowledge and discussion and to help improve the development of sustainable industries. The information should not be relied upon for the purpose of a particular matter. Specialist and/or appropriate legal advice should be obtained before any action or decision is taken on the basis of any material in this document. The Commonwealth of Australia, Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation, the authors or contributors do not assume liability of any kind whatsoever resulting from any person's use or reliance upon the content of this document. This publication is copyright. However, RIRDC encourages wide dissemination of its research, providing the Corporation is clearly acknowledged. For any other enquiries concerning reproduction, contact the Publications Manager on phone 02 6272 3186. RIRDC New Plant Products Research Manager John Oakeshott RIRDC Pharmacy Guild House 15 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600 PO Box 4776 KINGSTON ACT 2604 Phone: 02 6272 5472 Fax: 02 6272 5877 Email: [email protected] In submitting this report, the researcher has agreed to RIRDC publishing this material in its edited form. RIRDC Contact Details Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation Pharmacy Guild House 15 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600 PO Box 4776 KINGSTON ACT 2604 Phone: 02 6272 4819 Fax: 02 6272 5877 Email: [email protected]. Web : http://www.rirdc.gov.au

Published in September 2006 Printed on environmentally friendly paper by Canprint

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Foreword This year RIRDC has produced Research in Progress, June '06, which contains short summaries of continuing projects as well as those that were completed during 2005-2006 for all of the Corporation’s program areas. The complete report on all the programs is only available in electronic format on our website at http://www.rirdc.gov.au The following report is a hardcopy extract covering Sub-Program 1.1. It contains all entries from continuing and completed New Plant Products research projects funded by RIRDC. This program aims to facilitate the development of new industries based on plants or plant products that have commercial potential for Australia. This report is the newest addition to our extensive catalogue of over 1500 research reports, videos and CD-Roms of projects supported by RIRDC. Please contact us for the latest publications catalogue or view it on our website: • downloads at www.rirdc.gov.au/reports/Index.htm • purchases at www.rirdc.gov.au/eshop Peter O’Brien Managing Director Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation

http://www.rirdc.gov.au/reports/Index.htm

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Contents

1.1 NEW PLANT PRODUCTS - COMPLETED PROJECTS

PROJECT

NO. PROJECT TITLE RESEARCHER PHONE ORGANISATION PAGE

No

1. Native Foods DAV-211A Food safety standards and labelling for

native plant foods Mr Robert Premier (03) 9210 9225 Department of Primary

Industries (Vic) 1

DAW-108A Commercialisation of boab tubers Mr Peter Johnson (08) 9166 4000 Department of Agriculture (WA) 2 FLG-1A Development of an industry and export

protocol for finger limes Mr Lindsay Boyd (02) 6689 7444 Finger Limeing Good Pty

Limited 4

UCS-29A Functional properties of Australian bushfoods

Dr Jian Zhao (02) 6933 2968 Charles Sturt University 5

2. Culinary, Herbs, Spices and Beverages CAU-2A Improving harvesting, processing and

marketing of Australian capers Mr Jonathon Trewartha (08) 8569 2360 The Australian Caper Company

Pty Ltd 6

US-116A Condiment paprika: breeding, processing and commercialisation (Stage 2)

Prof Peter Sharp (02) 9351 8803 University of Sydney 7

3. Extractive and Fibre Crops DAN-206A Evaluation of jojoba germplasm in

different environments Mr Peter Milthorpe (02) 6895 1016 NSW Department of Primary

Industries 8

DAQ-292A Evaluation of hemp and kenaf breeding lines in tropical and sub-tropical environments

Mr Brett Weeden (07) 4093 8303 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)

9

UCQ-17A Laying the groundwork for a new rural industry - Stevia rebaudiana

Prof David Midmore (07) 4930 9770 Central Queensland University 10

UCS-32A Production of bioactive phenols from olive processing waste streams

Dr. Paul Prenzler (02) 6933 2540 Charles Sturt University 12

UCS-33A Quality enhancement of Australian extra-virgin olive oils

Dr. Paul Prenzler (02) 6933 2540 Charles Sturt University 14

6. Miscellaneous DAS-49A Scoping study to determine the potential

for watercress in Australia Mr John Fennell (08) 8389 8840 Department of Primary

Industries and Resources SA 16

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1.1 NEW PLANT PRODUCTS – RESEARCH IN PROGRESS

PROJECT NO.

PROJECT TITLE RESEARCHER PHONE ORGANISATION PAGE No

1. Native Foods CSL-24A Improving harvest quality of native food

crops Dr Maarten Ryder (08) 8303 8534 CSIRO Land and Water 17

UA-68A Water relations of parasitic quandong and acacia host species

Dr Jennifer Watling (08) 8303 6208 The University of Adelaide 18

UWA-86A Development of new root vegetable crops from Southern Western Australia's diverse tuberous flora

Dr Geoff Woodall (08) 9892 8427 University of Western Australia 19

2. Culinary Herbs, Spices and Beverages AUC-4A Developing best management practices

and resolving minor permit issues for the Australian herb and spice industry

Mrs Jane Parker (07) 5483 2196 Australian Herb & Spice Industry Association Ltd

20

CAU-3A Australian Capers-overseas competitiveness and import/ export issues

Mr Jonathon Trewartha (08) 8569 2360 The Australian Caper Company Pty Ltd

21

DAN-227A Production of high quality export green tea through integrated management

Dr. Vong Nguyen (02) 4348 1927 NSW Department of Primary Industries

22

DAQ-309A Influence of processing on the flavour of Australian coffee

Dr. James Drinnan (07) 4048 4647 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)

23

DAQ-313A Developing better nutritional strategies for mechanical tea production

Dr. James Drinnan (07) 4048 4647 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)

24

DAQ-333A Northern Australia cocoa development (Stage 3)

Mr Craig Lemin (07) 4064 1170 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)

25

SAG-5A Development of a range of pesticides for use in coffee

Mr Keith Lewis (07) 4091 3253 Serve-Ag Pty Ltd 27

US-136A Australian paprika: breeding & industry development

Prof Peter Sharp (02) 9351 8803 The University of Sydney 28

3. Extractive and Fibre Crops DAN-237A Harvest timing, sensory analysis and shelf

life for optimal olive oil quality Dr Rod Mailer (02) 6938 1818 NSW Department of Primary

Industries 29

DAN-239A A survey of Australian olive cultivars to determine compliance to international standards

Dr Rod Mailer (02) 6938 1818 NSW Department of Primary Industries

30

MOD-1A Mechanical olive harvesting: Evaluation of fruit loosening agents

Mr Leandro Ravetti (03)5282 5988 Modern Olives 31

NEL-2A Establishment of environmental management systems for the olive industry

Mr Nelson Quinn (02) 6230 2372 Nelson Quinn and Associates 32

UA-65A Cross-pollination in olive cultivars Prof Margaret Sedgley (08) 8303 7249 The University of Adelaide 33 UWS-20A Recycling solid waste from olive oil

extraction process Dr N G Nair (02) 4570 1332 University of Western Sydney 34

UWS-21A Development of olive pest and disease field guide

Prof Robert Spooner-Hart (02) 4570 1429 University of Western Sydney 35

UCS-37A Management of Fusarium oxysporum in jojoba plantations

Dr Gavin Ash (02) 6933 2765 Charles Sturt University 36

UWA-74A New oilseed options for Australian farmers and industry

Dr Clive Francis (08) 6488 1878 University of Western Australia 37

UWA-87A Marketing of alternative oilseeds Dr Clive Francis (08) 6488 1878 University of Western Australia 38

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4. Fruit, Vegetables and Nuts BID-1A Evaluation of the potential for hydroponic

cranberry production Dr Jason Dennis (03) 5443 6993 BIODEN Pty Ltd 39

DAQ-289A Floral manipulation and canopy management in rambutan and longan

Mr Yan Diczbalis (07) 4064 1128 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)

40

DAQ-331A End product markets for emerging tropical fruit industries-tropical fruit wines

Ms Judy Noller (07) 4044 1617 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)

41

DNT-31A Product description languages and support material for minor tropical crops in northern Australia

Mr Geoff Walduck (08) 8999 2219 Department of Business, Industry and Resource Development (NT)

42

UQ-122A Commercial potential of red bayberry in Australia

Dr Daryl Joyce (07) 5460 1725 The University of Queensland 43

US-125A A field evaluation of the productivity of hazelnut varieties

Mr Basil Baldwin (02) 6360 5562 The University of Sydney 44

5. Grains and Pulses RDS-1A

Agronomic strategies for producing large lupini beans for export

Dr David Fulton (03) 6231 9033 Rural Development Services 45

UWA-73A Investigation into legumes with pharmaceutical and aquaculture potential

Dr Shao Fang Wang (08) 9222 3040 University of Western Australia 46

6. Miscellaneous DAQ-332A Intensive seed-production systems to

commercialise native grasses in northern Australia

Dr Kendrick Cox (07) 4092 9924 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)

47

UWA-94A Grass roots-native perennial grasses for sustainable pasture systems

Dr Kingsley Dixon (08) 9480 3637 University of Western Australia 48

New Plant Products Research Report 2006 1

COMPLETED PROJECTS − Native Foods

Project Title:

Food safety standards and labelling for native plant foods

RIRDC Project No.:

DAV-211A

Researcher: Mr Robert Premier Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Vic)

Private Bag 15 FERNTREE GULLY DELIVERY CENTRE VIC 3156

Phone: (03) 9210 9225 Fax: (03) 9800 3521 Email: [email protected]

Objectives *To assist the industry to meet the requirements of the new food and safety

standards legislation and to benefit as a result. *To provide advice to industry on labelling requirements and on opportunities to use labelling to convey the authenticity and value of their product.

Background Bush foods are becoming marketable commodities and the industry, although fragmented, is in need of training in a number of areas to bring it up to a level where they can market products both nationally and internationally. Labelling and food safety are two areas where they require assistance.

Research Determining industry needs through consultation, writing and preparing literature including guides, delivering workshops and talks liaising with bush food associations for current and future needs

Outcomes • An easy to use report on the requirements of food safety legislation in each State and how different members of the industry (eg. pickers, growers, sellers and processors) can meet those requirements.

• A report on labelling requirements and on opportunities to use labelling to convey authenticity, value and novelty of products.

• Brochures, articles (print and Internet), talks, workshops and verbal and written advice.

• Talks/workshops in at least two locations per year. • Recommendations of future steps to ensure food safety, eg. risk

assessments, model food safety plans and the use of commercial HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) plans and training.

Implications • Increased confidence of producers, wholesalers, retailers and consumers in the safety of native plant food products.

• Decreased risks of food poisoning, legal claims and adverse publicity. • An ability to meet the food safety standards of major purchasers. • Labelling that meets required standards and promotes the authenticity

of the product. • Increased sales, expanded markets and industry growth.

Publications 1. Food safety guidelines and food safety program for native plant foods 2. Templates for recording food safety information 3. Notes for talks in each State, addressing the individual requirements for the State 4. A number of papers and one AgNote

mailto:[email protected]


COMPLETED PROJECTS − Native Foods

Project Title:

Commercialisation of boab tubers

RIRDC Project No.:

DAW-108A

Researcher: Mr Peter Johnson Organisation: Department of Agriculture and Food (WA)

PO Box 19 KUNUNURRA WA 6743


Objectives *Identify potential market placement for boab and promote the boab's roots and

leaves through marketers and restaurants and other media such as television *Identify a range of culinary uses for the product *To liaise with potential industry participants formulating a market strategy to launch the product into the mainstream market *To identify techniques to improve seed germination *To identify the best practise techniques for mechanisation of the boab crop, including optimum planting densities

Background After an initial investigation into growing the native Boab as a commercial root vegetable RIRDC Project No DAW-95A, significant potential was identified. Preliminary investigations have identified that this product is safe to eat, that it can be grown and that mechanisation is possible. It is potentially a low cost high return crop. The product has been promoted (although on a small scale) to a wide section of the community and there was considerable interest from initial end user evaluations.

Research Tests were conducted to find the best seed germination techniques for this particular crop. A technique of scarification has been undertaken that has increased the germination by around 70% after the seed is graded. The Trial Cropping of the plant has identified the best mechanised methods for planting and indicated the opportunities for mechanical harvesting. The marketing phase of the product development has brought together a number of industry players from market agents, to businesses, restaurants and media contacts. A number of packaging and promotional materials were produced, aimed at raising consumer awareness.

Outcomes • Methods for improving germination levels have been identified. • The product received wide publicity throughout various media

networks raising the public awareness and developing new markets. • A number of businesses in the catering industry have begun to use the

product. • A range of product uses-both fresh and processed-have been identified

and published. • Some aspects of best practice for growing the boab have been identified • Optimum storage conditions have been identified.

Implications This project has shown that the product is one that is very unique to Australia

and has generated a great deal of interest to all who are exposed to it. There is an opportunity to fully develop the market and create a small but high valued industry unique to Northern Australia. There are some opportunities to value add the product through processing and combining with other foods to make items such as dips, spreads, breads etc.



Publications Department of Agriculture Western Australia. 2005. Baby Boabs; The Exciting

New Taste Sensation From the Kimberley in Western Australia (Recipe Book) February 2005. Department of Agriculture Western Australia. 2004. Boab; The Exciting new taste sensation from the Kimberley (Brochure) June 2004 Naber, S and Laws, S. 2004. Cooking from Cottesloe to the Kimberley. Boab and Calamari Salad. Pg 6 & 7. SBS. 2004. The food lovers’ guide to Australia. Series 4 Episode 2. Feature: Boabs Boab recipes book. Eatdrink magazine. Mann, J. August 2004 Edition. What’s Hot. New! Try


COMPLETED PROJECTS − Native Foods Project Title:

Development of an industry and export protocol for finger limes

RIRDC Project No.:

FLG-1A

Researcher: Mr Lindsay Boyd Organisation: Finger Limeing Good Pty Limited

9B Noble Rd BLUE KNOB NSW 2480

Phone: (02) 6689 7444 Fax: Email: [email protected]

Objectives To determine the commercial viability of Native Finger Limes as a sustainable

industry.

Background The finger lime industry as it currently presents is fragmented. Individual operations are “cottage based” and invariably under-capitalised with few commercial scale operators. People believe there is potential for a finger lime industry but a true quantitative and qualitative business analysis is required detailing current and potential markets.

Outcomes and Implications

The principal finding of this research is that there exists the potential for a significant emerging finger lime industry based on forecasted customer demand. The success of the industry depends on: • growing the right product • production to match customer demand • production capital investment program • coordination and management of the industry through established standards • internal cooperation • elevation of the fruit as a distinct citrus variant • development of standards relative to quality management and product

characteristics • ongoing investment in R&D as an inherent industry activity • development and reinforcement of a customer perspective There is significant potential in the Japanese market

Publications



COMPLETED PROJECTS − Native Foods Project Title:

Functional properties of Australian bushfoods of Australian bushfoods

RIRDC Project No.:

UCS-29A

Researcher: Dr Jian Zhao Organisation: Charles Sturt University

School of Wine and Food Sciences Locked Bag 588 WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2678


Objectives To promote market growth and enhance profitability of the Australian bushfood

industry by: 1. generating reliable data on the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of bushfoods to expand the existing knowledge and anecdotal information on their functionality; 2. expanding the application of bushfoods using the research outcomes; and 3. developing antimicrobial, antioxidant and emulsifying agents of commercial grade for use as natural substitutes for their synthetic counterparts.

Background Many Australian bushfoods are known to possess functional properties such as antimicrobial, antioxidant and emulsifying properties. These properties are of significant commercial values. Exploitation of these functional properties could open up new venues of application for bushfoods and create opportunities for market growth. However, knowledge in this area is rudimentary and obtained mainly through experience rather than through systematic, scientific investigation. This project is aimed at bridging this knowledge gap and contributing to the development of the industry by enhancing our understanding of the functional properties of bushfoods.

Research Eighteen plant bushfoods were initially screened for antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. Those found to contain relatively high bio-activities were selected for further analysis by a number of means including HPLC-MS to identify the active compounds. Aqueous extracts were prepared from wattle seeds and used to make emulsions with varying proportions of oil and water. The emulsifying properties of the extracts were examined under a range of food processing conditions, including homogenising pressure, pH, ionic strength and temperature. The wattle seed proteins were isolated and fractionated using water, alcohol and dilute acid sequentially, and their properties characterised using a number of techniques including capillary electrophoresis and SDS-PAGE.

Outcomes A number of the bushfood extracts were found to possess antimicrobial properties. Five have shown strong activity against a wide spectrum of bacteria and yeasts. The extracts, however, were generally ineffective against the moulds tested. All of the plant extracts showed antioxidant activity with four extracts exhibiting relatively strong activities. Most of the active compounds were found in the methanol fraction. Wattle seed extracts were found to have strong emulsifying capacities in a number of food systems under typical processing and storage conditions and the emulsions formed have excellent thermal stability.



COMPLETED PROJECTS − Culinary Foods, Spices and Beverages Project Title:

Improving harvesting, processing and marketing of Australian capers

RIRDC Project No.:

CAU-2A

Researcher: Mr Jonathon Trewartha Organisation: The Australian Caper Company Pty Ltd

PO Box 316 MANNUM SA 5238


Objectives • Further understand the current Australian market for capers

• Design, construct and test a caper bud sorting/grading machine • Raise the awareness of capers among consumers and the wider community • Raise awareness of the opportunity to grow capers commercially among

potential growers

Background A successful trial of capers at Mannum has demonstrated that capers are well suited to Mediterranean Australian conditions and earlier research identified the need to define the domestic market so that growers could be encouraged to grow capers to meet that market. Education of both consumers and growers was considered important as well as mechanising capers sorting in order to reduce production costs.

Research Market research surveyed consumers and a number of concerns were listed that included mainly pricing and lack of education. The Australian Capers website has received a large number of queries from potential caper growers who have the opportunity to purchase plants and know-how. A mechanical sorting machine was designed and built from scratch since research indicated there was nothing suitable available in the market.

Outcomes Education of consumers, (particularly regarding the discernible differences in quality of local capers), and pricing will substantially influence the size/loyalty of a domestic market to locally grown capers. Current pricing limits sales to the discerning ‘foodie’, high income end of the market. Point of sale ‘shelf talkers’ designed for consumer education available through retail outlets and at caper tastings along with broad media coverage are educational and stimulate interest among consumers and potential growers. The successful design of a sorter has seen time savings and is producing consistent and quality product. Interest among potential growers is high, with many requests for plants and information.

Implications This project has shown that mechanisation of post harvest grading equipment can lead to substantial time/cost savings that can be shared across the industry. There is much to be done to stimulate markets and a focus on education and public awareness in conjunction with ongoing efforts to produce benchmark quality products is essential. The current market is limited to a small niche of relatively wealthy ‘foodie’ types and ongoing attempts to reduce costs and grow the market eg value adding/export are required.

Publications



COMPLETED PROJECTS - Culinary Foods, Spices and Beverages Project Title:

Condiment paprika: breeding, processing and commercialisation (Stage 2)

RIRDC Project No.:

US-116A

Researcher: Prof Peter Sharp Organisation: The University of Sydney

Plant Breeding Institute PMB 11 CAMDEN NSW 2570


Objectives *Breed cultivars suitable for mechanised commercial production.

*Develop advanced lines incorporating the traits of pedicel and fruit detachability to aid mechanical harvesting.

Background * Report not submitted Research

Outcomes

Implications

Publications



COMPLETED PROJECTS - Culinary Foods, Spices and Beverages Project Title:

Evaluation of jojoba germplasm in different environments

RIRDC Project No.:

DAN-206A

Researcher: Prof Peter Milthorpe Organisation: NSW Department of Primary Industries

PO Box 300 CONDOBOLIN NSW 2877


Objectives To evaluate the response of flowering and seeding of a diverse, but known

range of jojoba germ plasm to changes in climate across Australia.

To provide benchmarks to assist researchers and growers in the selection of new varieties, as well as give confidence in recommending where new selections are best suited.

Background This project is the second stage of the National Improvement Program of jojoba germplasm. Stage 1 established jojoba clones of different chill requirement at five locations across south-eastern Australia with co-operating growers which were allowed to grow out. The original material was identified during the initial evaluation studies of jojoba from 1981 to 1990 which determined suitable varieties for inland areas of NSW. The eight sets of clonal material selected here span the broad genetic spectrum of material that exists in this out-crossing species.

Research The project observes and records the flowering and seeding behaviour over the winter-spring period each year by tagging branches and recording rate of flowering against time and later seed set.

Outcomes Most of south-eastern Australia has a climate suitable to grow the current recommended varieties, however an area centred on southern Queensland appears to be sufficiently different climatically to modify the behaviour of some high-chill varieties.

Implications Current selection criteria for selecting new varieties appears to be adequate for ongoing work, however there is a need to assess the merits of mid-chill lines compared to high-chill lines for the warmer, summer rainfall areas

Publications x



COMPLETED PROJECTS − Extractive and Fibre Crops Project Title:

Evaluation of hemp and kenaf breeding lines in tropical and sub-tropical environments

RIRDC Project No.:

DAN-292A

Researcher: Brett Weeden Organisation: Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries

Southedge Research Station PO Box 174 Mareeba QLD 4880

Phone: 07 40 928301 Fax: 07 40 932237 Email: [email protected]

Objectives To facilitate the establishment of a bast fibre industry in Australia by

identifying suitable high-yielding low THC cultivars of hemp and high-yielding cultivars of kenaf that are adapted to tropical and sub-tropical environments in Queensland.

Background In recent years manufacturers throughout the world, including Australia, have

shown significant interest in new uses of plant bast fibres because these ’eco-fibres’ can be used in manufacturing environmentally sustainable products. Past research in Australia has focussed on using kenaf as a source of paper pulp while research on hemp was impossible due to Government legislation. Recent economic studies identified kenaf and hemp as both having potential uses in higher value industrial non-woven products. Availability of kenaf and hemp cultivars suited to tropical/sub-tropical environments is a major limitation to the development of an Australian bast fibre industry. This project aimed to address this issue.

Research Replicated field trials were conducted over 3 years (2002-05) at a number of sites in north and south-east Qld. Five kenaf cultivars and numerous hemp varieties were assessed for growth and stem yield, the impact of different row spacings was also investigated.

Outcomes This project identified the kenaf cultivars Gregg and Yuexuan 743 as giving significantly higher stem yields than the current cultivar grown commercially (G - 4) in both tropical and sub-tropical environments. Also rows should be about 40 cm apart to maximise yield. Of the hemp varieties evaluated WS – 03 gave very high stem yields under tropical conditions while under sub-tropical conditions both MF – 03 and NO – 03 gave increased yields.

Implications The project has identified higher yielding kenaf and hemp varieties suitable for commercial production in both tropical and sub-tropical areas of Australia should these industries develop.

Publications




Stevia rebaudiana – Laying the groundwork for a new rural industry

RIRDC Project No.:

UCQ-17A

Researcher: Prof. David Midmore Plant Sciences Group Bruce Highway North Rockhampton, Qld 4702

Mr Andrew Rank Plant Sciences Group Bruce Highway North Rockhampton, Qld 4702

Organisation: Central Queensland University Central Queensland University Phone: (07) 4930-9770 (07) 4930-6870 Fax: (07) 4930-9255 (07) 4930-9255 Email: [email protected]

[email protected]

Objectives To lay the basis for a rural industry that will replace imported artificial sweetener with a risk-free natural sweetener. This will achieved by: * accessing information on food safety issues and determine the likely acceptance of steviosides by Food Standards Australia New Zealand (formerly ANZFA) for use in foodstuffs. * accessing germplasm from diverse sources (particularly Japan, Taiwan, China, Korea, India and Paraguay) and test them under a range of environmental conditions, leading to quantifiable production outputs on which to evaluate the viability of the industry.

Background As a natural sweetener (x 250 that of sugar), registered for use in Japan, commercial production of stevia in Australia could lead to a product that substitutes for c $12.0 million imported artificial sweeteners. Health issues raised with the use of artificial sweeteners could be side-stepped through use of this natural product. Currently steviosides are not registered for use in Australia, but we believe that this will change. In parallel with an application to FSANZ to allow the use of steviol glycosides as a food additive, the opportunity for growers with water to diversify and add high-valued cropping to their system would appear to make sense.

Research After assembling and reviewing data (primarily from overseas), the project prepared and submitted a full application to FSANZ for the registration of steviol glycosides as a commercial food ingredient (intense sweetener). This application is now in the process of being assessed and final approval (if successful) is possible by the end of 2006. Small-scale field trials covered potential growing sites in eastern Australia from Cairns to Tasmania and have been done under near commercial growing conditions rather than as laboratory/glasshouse experiments. A number of difficulties, almost all surmountable, were encountered. Yields were of an order that would appear to support the commercial feasibility for growing stevia. Preliminary investigations undertaken by the Sugar Research Institute indicate that the use of Australian sugar extraction and other food processing technology and equipment could be applied to the design of an efficient stevia mill. We have developed an HPLC procedure to quantify steviol glycosides that can underpin quality demands by an industry, and have done baseline research to use NIR to likewise quantify steviol glycosides.

Outcomes If the FSANZ ruling is positive, a great demand for stevia in Australia will commence. We have determined some of the further steps required to ensure Australian production of steviol glycosides.




Implications Further work is required on some key issues, including weed control, variety selection and re-growth performance. Various groups have expressed interest in taking equity in a future mill. In the short term, Australian grown stevia could be exported for processing in China or Japan, where mills have expressed an interest in importing leaves from Australia.

Publications Hawke, J. (2003). The bittersweet story of stevia. Nexus 10 (02). Rank, A. (2004). Stevia – Chapter in The New Crop Industries Handbook, RIRDC Publication No 04/125, September 2004. Maccarone, G. (2005). Natural sugar alternative to be considered by FSANZ. The Independent Monthly, p18.



Production of bioactive phenols from olive processing waste streams

RIRDC Project No.:

UCS-32A

Researcher: Paul Prenzler, Kevin Robards, Dan Bedgood

Regine Stockmann

Organisation: Charles Sturt University School of Science and Technology Locked Bag 588 Wagga Wagga NSW 2650

Food Science Australia, Sneydes Rd Werribee VIC 3030

Phone: (02) 6933 2978; (03) 9252 6481 Fax: (02) 69332737; (03) 9252 6531 Email: [email protected];

[email protected]; [email protected];

[email protected]

Objectives •survey waste streams from olive oil processing to identify bioactive fractions; •isolate, identify and quantify the commercially useful bioactive compounds; • investigate the impact of varietal, regional, seasonal and processing differences on the composition of waste streams; • investigate strategies for the extraction of compounds of commercial interest from olive industry waste streams, thus enabling the re-utilisation of the residue; • train personnel to meet the future demands of the olive industry.

Background With an anticipated oil yield of around 28,000 tonnes in 2006, approximately 140,000 tonnes of waste will be generated costing upwards of $1.5 million to dispose. Olive waste is a burden on the environment; however it contains many bioactive compounds that may be of value. Thus processing the waste to obtain these compounds may lead to an additional income stream, as well as remediating the waste.

Research A comprehensive survey of 200 journal articles revealed more than 80 biophenols reported in olives and olive waste with 10 major biophenols where bioactivity (excluding antioxidant activity) has been reported. These include: cardioprotective, antiatherogenic, chemopreventive, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and molluscicidal activities. Strategies to extract maximum amounts of the biophenolic content were investigated. Antimicrobial, chemopreventive and chemoprotective assays of crude extracts, fractions and individual compounds were undertaken.

Outcomes Biophenols are maximally extracted with 60% (v/v) methanol in water with 2% (w/w) sodium metabisulfite. Six compounds had recoveries of greater than 1 g/kg of freeze-dried waste: hydroxytyrosol glucoside, hydroxytyrosol, tyrosol, verbascoside, and a derivative of oleuropein. Levels of biophenols varied according to maturity stage and cultivar. In antioxidant tests, two fractions of the crude extract had good activities in both lipid and aqueous systems. Chemical screening showed that these fractions contained unreported compounds and these are being further investigated. Antimicrobial testing revealed that crude extracts had some antibacterial activity against a broad spectrum of microorganisms. Some antibacterial activity was evident for hydroxytyrosol, oleuropein and luteolin. Chemopreventive activity was weak to moderate for hydroxytyrosol, caffeic acid, oleuropein and verbascoside. Crude extracts showed promising antiproliferative activity.






Implications Olive waste was found to be a potentially a valuable commodity, based on its wide

range of bioactivities. Three compounds present in good quantities (~ gram amount per kg waste) in olive waste are commercially valuable. Approximate current costs of purchasing these compounds are: $160/g for oleuropein; $2,000/g for hydroxytyrosol; and $26,180/g for verbascoside. There is considerable opportunity to develop products from olive waste streams and protect know-how in their extraction or application. However, more work is required to test commercial feasibility.

Publications • Obied, H.K.; Allen, M.S.; Bedgood Jr., D.R.; Prenzler, P.D.; Robards, K.; Stockmann, R. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2005, 53, 823-837. Bioactivity and Analysis of Biophenols Recovered from Olive Mill Waste.

• Obied, H.K.; Allen, M.S.; Bedgood, D.R.; Prenzler, P.D.; Robards, K. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2005, 53, 9911–9920. Investigation of Australian Olive Mill Waste for Recovery of Biophenols.

• Obied, H.K.; Allen, M.S.; Bedgood Jr., D.R.; Prenzler, P.D.; Robards, K.; Bioscreening of Australian olive mill waste extracts. In preparation for Food and Chemical Toxicology, 2006.

• Bedgood Jr, D.R.; Bishop, A.G.; Kalua, C.M.; Obied, H.K.; Prenzler, P.D.; Robards, K.; Wootton, I. Olive Oil Production from Grove to Grave. Australian Olive Association National Conference 2003.

• Obied, H.K. Production of bioactive compounds from OMW streams. RACI 11th Annual Research and Development Topics, 2003.

• Bedgood Jr, D.R.; Bishop, A.G.; Kalua, C.M.; Obied, H.K.; Prenzler, P.D.; Robards, K.; Wootton, I. Progress on Research from the Olive Research Group at Charles Sturt University. Australian Olive Association National Conference 2004.

• Obied, H.K. Antioxidant Biophenols from Australian Olive Mill Waste (Medicine from Agricultural Waste). Connect 2005.

• Obied, H.K. Antioxidant Olive Biophenols: Australian View. NSW Natural Products group: One day Symposium, 2005.

• Prenzler, P.D. Production of bioactive phenols from olive processing. Australian Olive Expo, 2005.

• Obied, H.K. Olive Biophenolic Antioxidants: When Chemistry meets Biology. RACI 13th Annual Research and Development Topics, 2005.

• Obied H., Allen M., Bedgood D.R., Konczak I., Prenzler P.D., Rehman A., Robards, K. Olive Mill Waste Biophenols: Chemistry & Biology. International conference on Polyphenols, 2006.


COMPLETED PROJECTS − Extractive and Fibre Crops

Project Title:

Quality Enhancement of Australian Extra Virgin Olive Oils

RIRDC Project No.:

UCS-33A

Researcher: Paul Prenzler, Kevin Robards, Dan Bedgood Organisation: Charles Sturt University

School of Science and Technology Locked Bag 588 Wagga Wagga NSW 2650

Phone: (02) 6933 2539 Fax: (02) 69332737 Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]

Objectives • To determine the effect of processing conditions on the levels of volatile

compounds that are the primary contributors to the flavour and aroma of the olive oil.

• To determine the effect of processing conditions on the levels of phenolic antioxidants

Background The quality of olive oil is largely determined by the minor components,

especially volatile (aroma, flavour) and phenolic (flavour, antioxidant) compounds. We have devoted a large part of this study in identifying and monitoring these compounds (among others) in fruit, and during processing and oil storage, while exploring how these stages may affect levels of these compounds and hence consumer satisfaction and acceptance.

Research Volatile and phenolic compounds as well as other oil quality parameters were measured at all stages of the production process including: different cultivars and maturity stages; fruit storage; malaxation time and temperature; and oil storage, both commercial and domestic.

Outcomes New analytical methodologies objectively distinguished oils from different cultivars (Manzanilla, Leccino, Barnea, Mission, Corregiola, and Paragon) at different stages of maturity (green, spotted, red, black), based on different patterns of volatile and phenolic compounds. Post-harvest low temperature fruit storage was found to be potentially viable to preserve fruit quality prior to processing. Investigation of malaxation time and temperature showed that a malaxation temperature of 30°C has benefits in terms of oil yield, while still maintaining sensory quality. Experiments looking at shelf-life issues showed clearly that once oil is exposed to oxygen, i.e. during domestic consumption, sensory quality rapidly deteriorates. In all cases, the objective measurement of volatile and phenolic compounds (those directly linked to sensory quality) led to new insights into oil chemistry during all stages of production.

Implications Analytical methods developed in this study may be applied to more closely align oil production with consumer preferences. Further studies may be required to match instrumental measurements with sensory perception, perhaps utilising taste panels. Fruit storage before processing may be viable, but a more detailed study to optimise storage conditions is required. The rapid deterioration of oil once exposed to oxygen may necessitate a consumer education campaign aimed at encouraging consumers to use their oil before sensory quality deteriorates.





Publications • Kalua, C.M.; Allen, M.S.; Bedgood Jr., D.R.; Bishop, A.G.; Prenzler, P.D.

Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2005, 53, 8054-8062. Discrimination of Olive Oils and Fruits into Cultivars andMaturity Stages Based on Phenolic and Volatile Compounds.

• Kalua, C.M.; Bedgood Jr., D.R.; Prenzler, P.D. Analytica Chimica Acta, 2006, 556, 407–414. Development of a headspace solid phase micro-extraction - gas chromatography method for monitoring volatile compounds in extended time-course experiments of olive oil.

• Kalua, C.M.; Allen, M.S.; Bedgood, Jr., D.R.; Bishop, A.G.; Prenzler, P.D.; Robards, K. Olive oil volatile compounds, flavour development and quality: a critical review. Food Chemistry, 2006. Available online 28 November 2005.

• Kalua, C.M.; Bedgood, Jr., D.R.; Bishop, A.G.; Prenzler, P.D. Changes in Volatile and Phenolic Compounds with Malaxation Time and Temperature during Virgin Olive Oil Production. Under review. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.

• Kalua, C.M.; Bedgood, Jr., D.R.; Bishop, A.G.; Prenzler, P.D. Discrimination of Storage Conditions and Freshness in Virgin Olive Oil. Under review. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.

• Prenzler, P.D.; Bedgood Jr, D.R.; Bishop, A.G.; Robards, K. The Effect of Processing and Phenolics on Volatile Production in Australian Extra-virgin Olive Oils. Australian Olive Association National Conference 2002.

• Bedgood Jr, D.R.; Bishop, A.G.; Kalua, C.M.; Obied, H.K.; Prenzler, P.D.; Robards, K.; Wootton, I. Olive Oil Production from Grove to Grave. Australian Olive Association National Conference 2003.

• Kalua, C.M.; Prenzler, P.D.; Bedgood, Jr., D.R.; Bishop, A.G. Quality enhancement of Australian extra-virgin olive oil. Australian Olive Association National Conference 2003.

• Kalua, C.M. “From grove to bottle in the kitchen: An approach for quality extra-virgin olive oil”. 11th Annual RACI R&D Topics Meeting in Analytical and Environmental Chemistry Conference 2003.

• Bedgood Jr, D.R.; Bishop, A.G.; Kalua, C.M.; Obied, H.K.; Prenzler, P.D.; Robards, K.; Wootton, I. Progress on Research from the Olive Research Group at Charles Sturt University. Australian Olive Association National Conference 2004.

• Kalua, C.M. Monitoring changes in sensory quality of olive oil using SPME-GC. 12th Annual RACI R&D Topics Meeting in Analytical and Environmental Chemistry Conference 2004.

• Kalua, C.M. Phenol profiles of olives from fruit to oil. Proceedings of the AOCS Australasian Section 2004 Biennial Workshop (Adelaide - Australia). Food Australia, 2005, 57(4), p128.

• Kalua, C.M. Quality enhancement of olive oils. A presentation at the Inter-University Program in Food Technology (IUPFOOD) Forum, May 23 – 27, 2005, Leuven, Belgium.

• Kalua, C.M. Developing a robust SPME-GC method for extended time-course measurements of volatile compounds in olive oil. Connect 2005 Conference.

• Prenzler, P.D. Quality enhancement of Australian extra-virgin olive oil. Australian Olive Expo, 2005.


COMPLETED PROJECTS − Miscellaneous

Project Title:

Scoping study to determine the potential for watercress in Australia

RIRDC Project No.:

DAS-49A

Researcher: Mr John Fennell Organisation: Department of Primary Industries and Resources SA

PIRSA Lenswood Centre Swamp Rd LENSWOOD SA 5240


Objectives Assess market potential in Australia for watercress and identify likely consumer

requirements (packaging, presentation, pack size and price point). Also to determine the most practical production methods and costs.

Background Watercress is a popular salad crop in the UK, many European countries and the USA. It is also used in cooking in many Asian countries. In recent times there have been significant health claims attributed to watercress that are now being investigated with proper scientific rigour. The perceived health benefits have led to an increase in usage in the traditional areas. Watercress may offer a new healthy eating option for Australians to consider.

Research The scoping study investigated production methods and crop handling in the UK, USA and NZ. The marketing initiatives used in the UK were also studied. Nutritional benefits and claimed health benefits were explored. Watercress was produced for consumer studies to be done via focus groups to assess acceptance and recommendations for packaging and presentation.

Outcomes Whilst traditional gravel bed production systems offer the lowest cost production methods it may be more practical to use hydroponics in Australia because of water use issues. The studies suggested that there may be possibility for water to be used for multiple crops following use in the watercress production process. Some consumers found watercress to have a stronger than acceptable taste and suggested using it in mixes. This is consistent with the trend in the UK where watercress:rocket:spinach leaf mix is the main product sold. Consumers would be keen to see independent verification of the claimed health benefits and this would encourage them to use the product.

Implications Watercress is currently sold in Australia in small quantities, mainly as living plants in plastic sleeves or bunched. The potential for bagged mixes of watercress:rocket:spinach leaf needs to be explored. Good cool chain systems would be required to maintain shelf life.

Publications



RIRDC RESEARCH IN PROGRESS − Native Foods

Project Title

Improving harvest quality of native food crops

RIRDC Project No.:

CSL-24A

Start Date: 1/7/2004 Finish Date: 31/8/2007 Researcher: Dr Maarten Ryder Organisation: CSIRO Land and Water

Private Mail Bag 2 GLEN OSMOND SA 5064


Objectives This project aims to:

• identify the main quality criteria for produce (fruits, nuts, leaves) of key native food species

• provide information for development of product description language • harvest produce from native food trials established in RIRDC project

CSL-11A and record yield • assess native food produce quality as influenced by climatic and soil

variation (i.e. trial site location) • identify causes and test methods for control of major soil borne

diseases of quandong and other native food plants, and • communicate results and findings to the native food industry

Current Progress (200 words maximum)

Plant growth and development data have been collected from all native foods trials in SE Australia (8 main trials and 2 associated trials). At the main trial sites we are monitoring the performance of 9 native food species. Harvest data were collected (Jan – Mar 2006), especially for muntries and wattleseed. A harvest calendar is being developed to predict which species can be harvested successfully from the various trial sites, and also indicating the timing of harvest. Two field sites were badly affected by bushfires in January 2006 and we are observing the recovery of some species after fire. A successful native foods information day was held at Jamestown, SA (Nov 2005) and a media release was issued. We also had a site co-operators’ meeting at Jamestown. We are developing “fact sheets” for native foods produce quality. One is near completion and several others are well developed. Project staff revised and updated the CSIRO / RIRDC native foods website, which was re-launched in Nov 2005 at http://www.cse.csiro.au/research/nativefoods). Project staff also revised and updated a series of PIRSA native food fact sheets, available at http://www.pir.sa.gov.au/sector313.shtml. We continue to receive frequent enquiries about native foods. Collation and analysis of enquiries is in progress.


http://www.cse.csiro.au/research/nativefoods

http://www.pir.sa.gov.au/sector313.shtml


RIRDC RESEARCH IN PROGRESS − Native Foods Project Title

Water relations of parasitic quandong and acacia host species

RIRDC Project No.:

UA-68A

Start Date: 1/11/2004 Finish Date: 30/08/2006 Researcher: Dr Jennifer Watling Organisation: The University of Adelaide

Earth and Environmental Sciences Benham Building ADELAIDE SA 5005


Objectives Quantification of water and nutrient relations, and gas exchange characteristics

of the quandong: acacia association across seasons and with 8 different acacia host species


Collection of field data for this project was completed in April 2006. We now have a complete set of field data for both the winter and summer seasons. However, we are still waiting for nutrient analyses to be completed on the plant material that was collected in 2006. This delay is due to a work backlog at Waite analytical, who are conducting the analyses for us. Once we have this data we will be able to complete the final report. Waite analytical have advised that they should be able to process our samples by the end of July.



RIRDC RESEARCH IN PROGRESS − Native Foods

Project Title

Development of new root vegetable crops from Southern Western Australia's diverse tuberous flora

RIRDC Project No.:

UWA-86A

Start Date: 1/8/2004 Finish Date: 31/7/2008 Researcher: Dr Geoff Woodall Organisation: University of Western Australia

Albany Regional Office 444 Albany Highway ALBANY WA 6330


Objectives This project aims to systematically asses the horticultural potential of southern

western Australia's diverse tuberous flora and commence commercialisation of promising species as new vegetable crops.


The flora of Western Australia contains an extraordinary number of species that form root tubers. Product, product utilisation and horticultural attributes of tuberous species were assessed leading to the selection of three species for further development as new vegetable crops: Platysace deflexa (Apiaceae), Ipomoea calobra (Convolvulaceae) and Haemodorum spicatum (Haemodoraceae). Prior to this project it was not known what conditions were needed for tuber formation, or how long tuber formation takes and what the yield of tubers would be. Encouraging tuber formation, yield and nutritional data have been obtained for two of the three target species. Cultivated Platysace deflexa (Apiaceae) and Ipomoea calobra (Convolvulaceae) have produced numerous “marketable” tubers in less than 18 months. The first low input, field cultivated (unirrigated) plants of Platysace deflexa yielded approximately 1kg of marketable product per plant suggesting that a planting density of 2,000-4,000 stems per hectare would yield 2-4t of marketable product per hectare. .Pot trials (55 lt) of Ipomoea calobra produced an impressive yield of 3.3kg of saleable product per pot. Unfortunately Haemodorum spicatum growth and bulb formation under field conditions has been very slow. A number of marketing/product appraisal events have been held and potential consumers have generally been excited by the products. Further market testing/product development is ongoing but limited by supply, that is, a lack of cultivated product.



RIRDC RESEARCH IN PROGRESS − Culinary Foods, Spices and Beverages Project Title

Developing best management practices and resolving minor permit issues for the Australian herb and spice industry

RIRDC Project No.:

AUC-4A

Start Date: 1/7/2004 Finish Date: 1/12/2006 Researcher: Mrs Jane Parker Organisation: Australian Herb & Spice Industry Association Ltd

228 Fitzpatrick Road THE DAWN QLD 4570


Objectives To establish and develop a toolbox of minor use permits for herb and spice

crops suitable for both domestic and export markets in line with integrated pest management (IPM) strategies across all production systems


40 minor use permit applications have been submitted to APVMA for assessment All chemical residue trials are now underway with expected finalisation by December 2006. Trial locations are Queensland, Victoria & South Australia in both protected and field cropping The export readiness trial has been finalised and protocols have been drawn up using 2 crop protectants as a basi. The trials have included the submission of chemical analysis data to APVMA for permit approval. The protocols are now being further developed to be sent to the relevant overseas bodies for approval. AHSIA meetings are conducted regularly and a series of workshops have commenced and will continue through July & August. These are being held in Queensland, NSW, Victoria & SA only and are aimed at updating growers with current AHSIA information and keeping updated with new problems growers are experiencing. eg new diseases/pests Annual workshop to be held in Adelaide in September 4/5 will include a marketing, IPM & functional food section. The IPM section will have a session on diseases of field parsley, suitable biological insects for IPM programs, and IPM for protected cropping. A quarterly newsletter is produced and the database updated regularly




Australian Capers-overseas competitiveness and import/ export issues

RIRDC Project No.:

CAU-3A

Start Date: 1/7/2005 Finish Date: 1/7/2006 Researcher: Mr Jonathon Trewartha Organisation: The Australian Caper Company Pty Ltd

PO Box 316 MANNUM SA 5238


Objectives To identify the competitiveness of the Australian Capers in the international

marketplace.


Project terminated




Production of high quality export green tea through integrated management

RIRDC Project No.:

DAN-227A

Start Date: 14/8/2004 Finish Date: 30/11/2007 Researcher: Dr Vong Nguyen Organisation: NSW Department of Primary Industries

Horticultural Research and Advisory Station Locked Bag 26 PO Box 581 GOSFORD NSW 2250


Objectives To determine the feasibility of different propagation, establishment and

cultivation methods on green tea production, weed management and insect and disease management.


Preliminary trials in the propagation of green tea were conducted using different soil media (x3) and propagation pot types (x4). There was no significant effect of the type of media (sand, sand / bark mix and commercial nursery (peat/sand), peat / perlite mix). All cuttings behaved similarly (rooting, growth etc) and each media had their own merits depending on the growing environment. Pot type had a little effect on propagule rooting but had later significant effects on plant management in the nursery. A comprehensive study was undertaken to assess the effects of some nitrogen containing fertilisers on the first harvest of green tea and the effect of shading on the first and second harvest of green tea. To evaluate these effects macronutrient concentrations (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) in tea leaves, and the soil nutrients nitrate, ammonium and phosphorus were measured. Fertiliser amendments were applied 20 days before harvest and included poultry manure, synthetic fertiliser (NPKS 10:4:6:16), foliar nitrate and worm compost products. The nitrogen concentration of harvestable tea growth did not reflect an increase in soil nitrogen nutrition but it significantly increased in response to 80% black shading for two weeks. Phosphorus was generally higher than optimum in leaves, highlighting the need for good management of soil nutrition. Postharvest trials have shown that freshly harvested green tea has a very high heat of respiration which results in high postharvest temperatures in un-vented green tea lots. Forced air cooling appears critical to maintaining postharvest temperatures. The new variety trial, establishment methods, weeds monitoring, organic production trials, pest and disease monitoring and management, industry communication and quality assessments are on-going.




Influence of processing on the flavour of Australian coffee

RIRDC Project No.:

DAQ-309A

Start Date: 7/1/2003 Finish Date: 7/1/2006 Researcher: Dr James Drinnan Organisation: Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)

Agency for Food and Fibre Sciences PO Box 1054 MAREEBA QLD 4880


Objectives *Conduct an audit of the processing equipment and system currently being

employed by the industry. Determine the influence of various processing techniques on the flavour profile of Australian coffee. *Improve the understanding of coffee growers of the importance of the stages of processing in determining quality. This will allow producers to predict what impact their particular processing will have on the final product.


Samples were evaluated by professional tasters using the Australasian specialty coffee association assessment criteria for aroma, acidity, body, flavour and after-taste. Results indicated that the processing style has a large influence on the quality and flavour of coffee. Green bean colour was best where the mucilage was completely removed by fermentation; followed by mechanical removal and the poorest was where mucilage was allowed to dry around the parchment, especially in unpulped fruit. Cupping evaluations indicated that samples pulped, but not fermented, consistently scored well with bold acidity, sweet fruity flavours, good body and aroma. As the level of fermentation increased, quality declined. Red fruit dried in their skins with no pulping, produced the poorest quality coffee, attributed to the extended fermentation during the drying process. Samples were described as over-fermented, astringent, defective, sour, bitter and over-ripe. When fruit was allowed to over-mature on the trees, over-fermentation was avoided and quality was greatly improved. Mechanically removing the mucilage rather than by fermentation generally resulted in very good quality. However, if all the mucilage was not removed and some fermentation occurred or the parchment was damaged, as occurred in the samples processed using a demucilager, quality was reduced. The presence or removal of mucilage around the parchment, and the amount of fermentation that takes place, are the biggest contributors to coffee quality during processing.




Developing better nutritional strategies for mechanical tea production

RIRDC Project No.:

DAQ-313A

Start Date: 1/12/2003 Finish Date: 1/12/2006 Researcher: Dr James Drinnan Organisation: Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)

Agency for Food and Fibre Sciences PO Box 1054 MAREEBA QLD 4880


Objectives 1. Improve the understanding of tea growers of the nutritional requirements of

mechanically harvested tea to maximise yields. 2. Identify micronutrient deficiencies and the best methods to alleviate these. 3. Increase the average yields of tea and thus help meet increasing demand, and reduce the costs of production. 4. Improve the efficiency of fertiliser use thereby minimising the environmental impacts of current and future fertiliser practices.


A newly developed fertilizer program (analysis and timing) is being tested against the current fertiliser practices used on three tea farms. By conducting the trial work across a few farms, a range in levels of management can be superimposed on the fertiliser treatments. The fertiliser program developed uses between 1200 and 2100 kg/ha applied over 6 applications/year , timed with the cycle of growth .The fertiliser contains 24% N, 2% P, 13% K, 2% S, 2% Ca, 0.5% Mg, plus Zn, B, Fe and Cu. Leaf and soil samples have been collected at several times from the trial sites. Data indicates that leaf levels of N, K, S, Zn and B have, on occasions, dropped below optimum levels. Separate samples from yellow, unthrifty plants, suggest N, Fe and Zn as the major causes and the most likely nutrients limiting growth. Yield results are still being collected, however, initial data suggests the level of management and harvesting regime would seem to be playing a major role in the yields obtained.




Northern Australia cocoa development (Stage 3)

RIRDC Project No.:

DAQ-333A

Start Date: 1/7/2005 Finish Date: 30/11/2007 Researcher: Mr Craig Lemin Organisation: Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)

Centre for Wet Tropics Agriculture PO Box 20 SOUTH JOHNSTONE QLD 4859


Objectives Continue to assess Queensland based hybrid cocoa trials to verify mature yields.

Bean quality, pod index, trial management inputs and climate parameters will also be monitored. Mechanical pruning will be implemented and assessed. Information gathered will refine the economic case for or against cocoa production in north Queensland. The pod splitting and bean separation technology developed under the current program will be commercialised.


The project is continuing with support from Cadbury Schweppes. Meanwhile, commercial cocoa plantings are being undertaken at Mossman by Cocoa Australia Pty Ltd. Currently, project work is focused on: i) continuation of monitoring and maintenance at the Mossman Hybrid Yield Evaluation Trial ii) rehabilitation of the Farming Systems Trial and Mini-Hybrid Yield Evaluation Trial at South Johnstone after major damage by severe tropical cyclone Larry on 20 March 2006. iii) commercialisation of the pod splitter technology iv) continuation of commercial scale fermentations in conjunction with the Cadbury-UNSW Fermentation project Hybrid Yield Evaluation Trials Darwin (Coastal Plains) • Even though this trial is no longer funded by the project, strategic harvests have been conducted particularly over the last few months to coincide with peak yields. Recent yields have been very good but pod and bean size are still too small. The Coastal Plains trial (excluding clonal trees) will be removed in June this year. Mossman • There has been almost no harvesting from this trial since late December 2005 due to lack of pods. This is consistent with previous patterns of cropping from trials in north Queensland but this year the ‘trough’ has been for a longer period. Cropping is starting to build up again now with a moderate/good immature pod load on trees. Pods are also quite large. Nonetheless the yield for the 2005-06 crop year is likely to be less than the previous corresponding period. This was indicated in the 2005 annual report and is principally attributed to a heavy pruning conducted in late 2005. Otherwise tree vigor is generally excellent. The remaining gliricidia shade trees were completely removed in early may and a light cocoa pruning conducted. South Johnstone • This trial received major damage from tropical Cyclone Larry on 20 March



with winds exceeding 200 km/h. About 80% of trees were laid over, broken, twisted, split or partially uprooted. The remaining 20% of trees are more-or-less upright but were stripped of leaves and significantly stressed. So far however, there have been no outright tree deaths as a result of the cyclone. The block is being regenerated with damaged trees having been cut back and left to re-shoot. The idea is to select and promote strong shoots to form new trees from the original base. Farming systems trial • Same remarks as for South Johnstone hybrid yield evaluation trial i.e. Severe cyclone damage, rehabilitation etc. The trees at South Johnstone, including those in the mini-hybrid yield evaluation trial, were individually assessed prior to cutting/rehabilitation. These records will show any correlation between level of damage and planting density/layout or variety. Preliminary observations suggest that closely planted trees held up better. Trees are currently re-shooting vigorously but will be challenged during imminent winter weather. Clonal evaluation • The protected field planting at Coastal Plains will remain for the time being. The field planted clones at South Johnstone have received cyclone damage but will hopefully regenerate. Pod processing • A patent application for the pod splitter technology developed in the project has been lodged for protection in Australia and selected overseas countries. • A ‘ground-up’ redesign of the pod splitter has been started so that a new and improved version of the machine can be built and tested before the end of the project. Fermentations • No fermentations have been conducted this calendar year due to very low harvesting. Approximately 2,000 kg of dried and fermented beans from previous harvests are in storage at South Johnstone. Cadbury have agreed that suitable batches of this bean can be forwarded to Haigh’s Chocolates in Adelaide for familiarization with roasting and chocolate making characteristics. Growing Guide A cocoa growing guide is under development. Currently final drafting of the text is in progress.



Development of a range of pesticides for use in coffee

RIRDC Project No.:

SAG-5A

Start Date: 1/7/2003 Finish Date: 30/11/2006 Researcher: Mr Keith Lewis Organisation: Serve-Ag Pty Ltd

Biotechnical Field Services (NQ) Pty Ltd PO Box 1169 ATHERTON QLD 4883


Objectives To generate data to support registration submissions for a range of pesticides in

coffee.


We have now successfully achieved the reissue of all permits enabling the use of a range of pesticides in coffee. Details of these are as follows: Methidathion – Permit 7312 - Expires 31 December 2007 Tebufenozide – Permit 7313 - Expires 31 December 2007 Petroleum Oil – Permit 7314 - Expires 31 December 2010 Glyphosate – Permit 7315 - Expires 6 December 2007 Glufosinate – Permit 7316 - Expires 6 December 2007 Copper – Permit 7322 - Expires 16 December 2010 Chlorpyrifos – Permit 8387 - Expires 30 September 2009 Pendimethalin – Permit 8388 - Expires 28 November 2010 (Full registration for Success – has been granted for use in coffee) Reports for residue trials conducted under GLP protocols have now been completed for new products for which permits for use in coffee are sought, namely Admiral (pyriproxyfen), Applaud (buprofezin) and Prodigy (methoxyfenozide). With regard to efficacy trials with these products, we are currently in the process of conducting the second of a series of two trials with Admiral and Applaud. To date, we have been unable to access a suitable site for a second scheduled trial with Prodigy. Once data from efficacy trials has been processed, we will apply for permit use for these in coffee. We are awaiting some further guidelines from the APVMA as to what residue work might be required for chlorpyrifos. Furthermore, we will be providing other scientific and anecdotal evidence for efficacy and crop safety, where requested by them, to support future permit renewal for the products mentioned above. We have kept the ACGA informed of the progress of this project and members have been informed as to their current status pertaining to the legal use of pesticides in coffee. We anticipate completion of this project on time.




Australian paprika: breeding & industry development

RIRDC Project No.:

US-136A

Start Date: 1/7/2004 Finish Date: 30/11/2007 Researcher: Prof Peter Sharp Organisation: The University of Sydney

Plant Breeding Institute PMB 11 CAMDEN NSW 2570


Objectives To develop commercial cultivars of Paprika for Australia.


During the 2005/06 season the main emphasis was placed on the consolidation of the paprika breeding program. Advanced lines were subjected to detailed examinations regarding yielding ability, dry matter content and pigment production. It was found that the derivatives of “Cerise Sweet” “PapriQueen” combinations and an interspecific hybrid C. chacoense/“Szegedi 20” produced notable lines. The new cultivar “Cerise Sweet” was submitted to Plant Breeder’s Rights registration and now is a PBR protected variety. This cultivar together with other two cultivar candidates were subjected to commercial testing at Forest region Northern Tasmania and at Leppington NSW. Both had difficulties with timing of seedling transplanting. Considering the late plantings their production was at an acceptable level. Our PhD student Natalia Nagy completed her studies and submitted her thesis in connection with “Capsicum Hybrid Seed Production”. Among other useful results she found molecular markers for one of the male sterility genes (ms3). However, to utilise her findings further studies are needed. We found that the following hybrid combinations provided promising results: Espanyola/Szegedi 20, Szegedi 57-13/Coma di Toro, Szegedi 57-13/Conqustador, Cerise Sweet/PapriQueen and Szegedi 80/Del Africai. The production of disease resistant paprika lines were also initiated using interspecific sources e.g. Capsicum chinense.



RIRDC RESEARCH IN PROGRESS − Extractive and Fibre Crops Project Title

Harvest timing, sensory analysis and shelf life for optimal olive oil quality

RIRDC Project No.:

DAN-237A

Start Date: 1/1/2005 Finish Date: 31/10/2009 Researcher: Dr Rod Mailler Organisation: NSW Department of Primary Industries

Wagga Wagga Agricultural Institute PMB WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650


Objectives To study the relationship between harvest timing and oil chemical and sensory

quality at the time of harvest and over time in storage, to determine the optimum harvest periods for the best commercial characteristics.


Project: Olives are currently being harvested from Rich Glen olive grove for the second year of this three year project. The fruit will be harvested at four periods and oil extracted at the Rich Glen plant. Fruit are also being extracted at Wagga to compare the efficiency of extraction. All oil samples are being analysed for chemical composition to determine changes under irrigation and with maturity. Sterols have been included to determine if problems with excess campesterol in some cultivars can be overcome with harvest timing. Developments: Despite achieving milestones to date this project has had some problems. The loss of Damian Conlan in 2005 resulted in orchard management being left to the farm manager. This has resulted in less than optimal management of irrigation. Recently NSWDPI irrigation specialist Robert Hoogers has joined the project and pointed out that all treatments have been stressed over the two years. Outcomes: The project will provide good data on quality changes with maturity.



RIRDC RESEARCH IN PROGRESS − Extractive and Fibre Crops

Project Title

A survey of Australian olive cultivars to determine compliance to international standards

RIRDC Project No.:

DAN-239A

Start Date: 1/1/2005 Finish Date: 30/11/2007 Researcher: Dr Rod Mailler Organisation: NSW Department of Primary Industries

Wagga Wagga Agricultural Institute PMB WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650


Objectives This project aims to survey the chemical profile of the 10 major Australian

cultivars to identify cultivars or conditions which contribute to unacceptable oil quality.


The project: This project initially was designed to analyse the chemical profiles of 10 cultivars of olives grown at 4 environmentally different sites with samples taken from each site at early and late harvest times. The project has been expanded to include the evaluation of a set of methods generated by the German Fat Society claimed to be capable of revealing adulteration in oil without false negatives created through natural variation in olive oil. Developments: The first year’s analysis was completed in 2005 and the data reported in the annual report. The second set of samples has started to be delivered to Wagga Wagga although only Northern sites have been harvested at this time. Data will be reported for both years in the annual report. Since the project application, Paul Miller and Rod Mailer have visited Dr Gertz, Hagan, of the German Fat Society, and discussed the new methodology. This evaluation of methods against Australian oil will commence in July 2006 and will include capillary GC of triacylglycerols, analysis of pyropheophytins and di- and mono-glycerol content in olive oils.




Project Title

Mechanical olive harvesting: Evaluation of fruit loosening agents

RIRDC Project No.:

MOD-1A

Start Date: 15/6/2006 Finish Date: 30/11/2007 Researcher: Mr Leandro Ravetti Organisation: Modern Olives

PO Box 324 LARA VIC 3212


Objectives To evaluate the currently available fruit loosening agents under Australian

conditions in order to determine their cost effectiveness and conditions for their commercial use


Treatments were applied, data has been collected from the 2006 harvest and analysis is underway. Preliminary results appear to be quite interesting and will be presented to the AOA conference in Canberra in October this year. Industry are expressing strong interest in being able to improve crop yields by using these treatments.




Project Title

Establishment of environmental management systems for the olive industry

RIRDC Project No.:

NEL-2A

Start Date: 8/1/2005 Finish Date: 5/14/2007 Researcher: Mr Nelson Quinn Organisation: Nelson Quinn and Associates

109 Holmwood Road WALLAROO VIA HALL NSW 2618


Objectives To simplify and accelerate the take-up of sustainable environmental practices

and systems in the olive industry, and to contribute to the development of more generic environmental management systems.


This project involves preparation of a written guide for the olive industry to accelerate the take-up of sustainable environmental practices and systems in the industry. This work is linked to the Horticulture for Tomorrow project and now to a Commonwealth Government Industries Partnership Program (IPP) with the olive industry to develop and implement, among other things, a Code of Practice supporting quality assurance, including for environmental management. The Guidelines for Environmental Assurance in Australian Horticulture, produced as part of the Horticulture for Tomorrow project, became available only in July 2006. The IPP Code of Practice work is well developed, but not complete.




Project Title

Cross-pollination in olive cultivars

RIRDC Project No.:

UA-65A

Start Date: 1/1/2004 Finish Date: 1/12/2006 Researcher: Prof Margaret Sedgley Organisation: The University of Adelaide

University of New England Faculty of Sciences ARMIDALE NSW 2351


Objectives To identify compatible pollen donors for the major cultivars grown in Australia


Five commercial cultivars, growing in two orchards, were examined to determine which cultivars in the grove were able to fertilise their flowers and cause fruit set. The cultivars studied were; Kalamata, Corregiola, Barnea, Mission and Koroneiki. The sites were a commercial grove in the Adelaide Hills and the NOVA site, where 17 and 58 different types of trees were identified respectively. Flowering times, weather conditions and pollen vitality were recorded over a two-year period when fruit was collected for analysis. DNA was extracted from each of the cultivars in the groves and fingerprinted with eight microsatellite markers. DNA was then extracted from up to 240 seeds of each cultivar over both seasons and analysed using the same DNA markers. Paternity assignment was based on the parental contribution of alleles in the embryo using the ‘most-likely method’. During this study the pollination events were recorded for five cultivars in two groves. Data obtained includes the identification of compatible pollen donors for the five cultivars, distance and position of pollen donors, coincidence of flowering times for all major cultivars, pollen viability for all major cultivars and the variation in pollination events between two seasons. The addition of compatible pollen donors into a grove will improve fruit set, which will have a major affect on yield. The results of this research will assist growers in planning orchard designs and renovations to include cultivars that are cross-compatible.




Project Title

Recycling solid waste from olive oil extraction process

RIRDC Project No.:

UWS-20A

Start Date: 30/7/2004 Finish Date: 30/7/2008 Researcher: Dr N G (Tan) Nair Organisation: University of Western Sydney

Centre for Horticulture & Plant Sciences Locked Bag 1797 SOUTH PENRITH DC NSW 1797


Objectives To develop environmentally sustainable systems to manage solid and

wastewater from olive oil extraction process


Bioremediation processes are being used in an attempt to develop sustainable systems to manage and recycle olive mill wastewater (OMWW) and olive mill solid waste (OMSW). Among the toxic component of OMWW and OMSW are different forms of phenols. The success of our bioremediation process will depend on lowering concentrations of these phenols to acceptable levels in OMWW for irrigation and in OMSW for mulching purposes. Attempts to measure levels of phenol have been severely hampered by the lack of a standard analytical method. Therefore, one of the main tasks during the past six months has been to develop a reproducible quantitative phenol assay. This has been achieved, and samples of compost prepared using the OMSW from 2005 harvest were successfully assayed for their phenol content. Further refinement of the assay is continuing by monitoring OMSW from 2005 and 2006 harvests during their composting. OMWW from both the 2006 harvest and the on-going process from the 2005 harvest will also be monitored. In order to hasten the bioremediation process of OMWW, further additions of microorganisms were made to the one-year old OMWW from 2005 harvest. This resulted in a significant drop in levels of oil in the waste water. The significance of this result is being investigated.




Project Title

Development of olive pest and disease field guide

RIRDC Project No.:

UWS-21A

Start Date: 2/9/2005 Finish Date: 30/3/2007 Researcher: Prof Robert Spooner-Hart Organisation: University of Western Sydney

Centre for Plant and Food Science Locked Bag 1797 SOUTH PENRITH DC NSW 1797


Objectives The key objective of this project is to produce a pocket field guide book which

will include images and information on major pests and diseases of Australian olives for use by growers and industry consultants.


A workshop with the co-authors was conducted in February 2006, which finalised the draft layout of the olive pests and diseases field guide, and selected and scripted wording for the 60+ key pests and diseases to be included. The draft field guide comprises sections on Principles and practices of IPM, Olive grove monitoring, A key to symptoms damage and causal organisms, Major and minor pathogens, Disorders, Major and minor arthropod pests, Important exotic pests and diseases, and Key beneficial species. A library of high quality images of these olive pests and diseases and has been assembled. We are finalising discussions with CSIRO’s LandLinks Press who have expressed interest in publishing the guide, and the draft layout has been sent to referees.




Project Title

Management of Fusarium oxysporum in jojoba plantations

RIRDC Project No.:

UCS-37A

Start Date: 1/7/2004 Finish Date: 30/8/2007 Researcher: Dr Gavin Ash Organisation: Charles Sturt University

School of Agriculture PO Box 588 WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2678


Objectives The principal objective of the research is to provide Australian jojoba growers

with a management plan for collar rot caused by Fusarium oxysporum


Initial difficulties in the extraction, quantification and amplification of DNA from jojoba wood have been overcome. A range of different protocols for the extraction of DNA from the wood of jojoba have been trialled and although the quantity of DNA from the wood was low, amplification using plant specific primers has been successful. Furthermore, several published primers for Fusarium oxysporum have been trialled and the most promising optimised. These have been extended to the amplification of Fusarium DNA mixed with wood. Additional isolates of Fusarium other fungi have been made to check for cross reaction. Isolates of Sphaceloma spp. have also been made and identified for the first time from scab lesions on jojoba. A technique to make the fungus sporulate in culture has been developed and a culture collection is being assembled and single spore isolates are being prepared. Koch’s postulates will be completed on this disease soon. Jojoba with a bunchy top symptom have been collected and checked for the presence of a phytoplasma. None were found and so the cause of this symptom remains a mystery. A disease with new symptoms and etiology has been observed near Forbes in NSW. The cause of this disease is being investigated presently.




Project Title

New oilseed options for Australian farmers and industry

RIRDC Project No.:

UWA-74A

Start Date: 1/1/2003 Finish Date: 1/7/2006 Researcher: Dr Clive Francis Organisation: University of Western Australia

CLIMA 35 Stirling Highway CRAWLEY WA 6009


Objectives To deliver to farmers and industry new oilseed options for export and local

production, namely: 1. Oilseeds for industrial use and the production of biodiesel. 2. Oilseed for the production of quality mustard oils for export. 3. Oilseeds that contain high proportions of essential fatty acids; Omega 3 and Gamma Linolenic acids.


The focus of industrial oil and biodiesel focus has been on low input species; Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) for biodiesel and Crambe (Crambe abyssinica) for high erucic acid industrial oil. A strong market for the high erucic acid Crambe oil is emerging in the European industrial oil market. The biodiesel research is now topical with fuel prices around 140 cents per litre. In collaboration with the Department of Agriculture 50 tonnes of mustard seed (Sel 8) was produced on research stations and extracted at a commercial plant. It is being evaluated in field station vehicles. For the health oil and seed markets, seed increase of Golden Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) and Camelina (Camelina sativa) lines was progressed. Omega 3 content of the oil in selected flaxseed lines ranged from 55-63% and that of Camelina 33-36%. A flaxseed line from the Vavilov Institute (K 7029) is a particularly early, short in statue with high harvest index which would seem ideally suited to cropping in Mid season Mediterranean environments. With RIRDC support a marketing study of the various oilseeds has been initiated. Farm scale crops of Crambe, Camelina and Mustard were successfully established in 2005 for this study (UWA 87A).




Project Title

Marketing of alternative oilseeds

RIRDC Project No.:

UWA-87A

Start Date: 1/10/2004 Finish Date: 1/7/2006 Researcher: Dr Clive Francis Organisation: University of Western Australia

CLIMA 35 Stirling Highway CRAWLEY WA 6009


Objectives Objectives are to establish the current and potential markets and strategies for

production and handling of the range of alternative oilseeds, which can be bought into commercial production over the next 2 years if prices and demand are established.


The commercial partner Grain Pool Pty Ltd - CBH Group has at its expense visited three English specialty oil companies to gauge an initial market indication for the alternative oil seeds. Of these companies Springdale Crop Synergies has proven a most useful contact for UK and European market intelligence and a further visit is planned together with the supply of test samples of the projects specialty oil products - Camelina and high erucic oils. In the food oil and health markets of Europe and the UK the market for golden linseed (60 –70 percent alpha linolenic acid – an omega 3 fatty acid) is particularly strong especially if it can be grown organically. To this end organic crops will be grown at Ballarat, Victoria under license to Stony Creek Oils. This crop is being grown under organic conditions as there is a substantial local demand for such seed as well as the larger international market. Test market quantities of 30 tonnes of the yellow seeded Oriental Mustard (Sel 21) for the Bangladesh market have been shipped. 25 tonnes of Camelina (as oil) has been sold to Raisio, Finland). 10 tonnes of Crambe awaits market evaluation.



RIRDC RESEARCH IN PROGRESS − Fruit, Vegetable and Nuts

Project Title

Evaluation of the potential for hydroponic cranberry production

RIRDC Project No.:

BID-1A

Start Date: 1/7/2005 Finish Date: 31/5/2008 Researcher: Dr Jason Dennis Organisation: BIODEN Pty Ltd

PO Box 425 Golden Square VIC 3555

Phone: (03) 5443 6993 Fax: Email: [email protected]

Objectives The objectives of this project are to evaluate one of the main commercial fruit

and vegetable hydroponic production systems compared to a modified system to produce cranberries and to provide an indicative cost of the optimum system.


The cranberry plants have recently entered their winter dormancy, and results from the first season’s trial conditions have been collated. Obvious differences in the results of the bioassays to determine most appropriate growing conditions for cranberry plants have provided a clear indication of the most suitable conditions and modifications to use in the second season’s growth trials. All live, healthy plants remaining from the first season’s trials will be re-potted into the most appropriate medium and set up in a modified hydroponics system, and carried forward into next season’s trials. As there were marked differences in growth rates between treatments, a note of the original treatment for each plant will be carried through, to determine whether plants grown under suboptimal conditions can recover fully, or if there is a long term effect on growth rate and/or yield. Second season trials will include fine tuning of the most appropriate system, and monitoring growth rates and flowering with varying nutrient modifications. Local (non-imported) manufacturers have been identified for both the modified hydroponics system and the nutrients, and will be utilised in the next season’s trials. It may be possible to have a specialised nutrient mix formulated for cranberry production.




Project Title

Floral manipulation and canopy management in rambutan and longan

RIRDC Project No.:

DAQ-289A

Start Date: 1/11/2001 Finish Date: 1/5/2006 Researcher: Mr Yan Diczbalis Organisation: Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)

Centre for Wet Tropics Agriculture PO Box 20 SOUTH JOHNSTONE QLD 4859


Objectives Floral manipulation and canopy management in rambutan and longan


Results have indicated that the flowering response to Potassium Chlorate (KClO3) is related to the stage of growth of the terminals at the time of application. Dormant mature flush flowers the best. Foliar applications have indicated the sensitivity to KClO3 decreases after the first application and that they can only be used successfully on trees which are in a condition suitable for flowering (mature dormant growth). The leaf nitrogen levels have found to only play a small part in the level of flowering triggered using KClO3. Fruit thinning experiments have indicated it is necessary to thin around 50% of the crop from heavily bearing trees as they can only carry around 3-5 kg of fruit/m2 of the canopy to full maturity with good size. The application date/harvest date data indicates that by using the daily temperatures, a heat sum can be calculated which can be used to successfully predict the harvest date. The impact of Cyclone Larry which hit North Queensland in mid-March has had a significant impact on this project and on the rambutan and longan industry as a whole. An assessment of this impact is underway.




Project Title

End product markets for emerging tropical fruit industries-tropical fruit wines

RIRDC Project No.:

DAQ-331A

Start Date: 30/11/2005 Finish Date: 28/2/2007 Researcher: Ms Judy Noller Organisation: Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)

PO Box 652 CAIRNS QLD 4870


Objectives The overall aim of the project is to assist the emerging Australian tropical exotic

and native fruit wine ("tropical fruit wines") industry to develop new markets to identify, evaluate and prioritise domestic and export markets and trade opportunities for tropical fruit wines. Also, to determine and evaluate the competitive situation and marketing requirements of such markets.


Methodology completed; literature search well advanced; and in market research commenced (while researcher was overseas on other projects). Preliminary research indicates small fruit wine industries in markets in many countries, using a wide range of tropical and non-tropical fruits.




Project Title

Product description languages and support material for minor tropical crops in northern Australia

RIRDC Project No.:

DNT-31A

Start Date: 1/7/2003 Finish Date: 1/7/2007 Researcher: Mr Geoff Walduck Organisation: Department of Primary Industries, Fisheries and Mining (NT)

PO Box 3000, DARWIN NT 0801 Phone: (08) 8999 2219 Fax: (08) 8999 2049 Email: [email protected] Objectives *Production of Product Description Languages for a range of smaller emerging

and developing tropical crops in a range of appropriate flexible and inexpensive formats. *Production of PDLs to be in partnership with all parts of the production/transport/distribution/retail and consumer chain. *Produce PDLs in electronic format so that they can be customised and modified easily to meet constantly changing market and production conditions. This also allows a range of very short run hard copy formats to be produced at little cost to meet specific requirements as required. *Develop a system of developing PDLs for a range of related or geographically compact small crops so that PDLs can be produced quickly, inexpensively and be flexible enough to assist the industry to develop in the market place at an earlier stage than is usual at the moment. *Improve the flow and accuracy of product information flow within and along the market chain. *Promote more efficient operation of the market chain by improving both the accuracy and the speed of information flow in both directions. *Improve quality of produce and lead to commercial quality standards as required. *Enables the possibility of sale by description and e-commerce.


7 PDL’s have been prepared and are available as working drafts to industry for assessment as both electronic and printed format. It is expected that these will be in a final form later this year.

We have been continuing to experiment with different electronic formats as new software becomes currently available . This software was not available commonly when this project was started and so are worth investigating. Some have proved useful but they are often not widely available and we will continue with MS Word as the base at this point. This does not preclude us converting to other formats in the future.

Material is currently being developed for a further 4 Asian Vegetable crops and this has proved a little time consuming than planned but we believe we have streamlined the process and plan to have drafts of these ready before the end of the vegetable season this year. We have one of the 3 planned fruit crops at draft stage and will be getting the material for the others as they become available later this year. Given our experience to date we are developing a small number of standard formats that we will use. Previously we were experimenting with individual formats and this proved too time consuming and will be abandoned. Developing reliable contacts with the wholesale markets was proving time consuming and delaying the work but this now seems to have been overcome.




Project Title

Commercial potential of red bayberry in Australia

RIRDC Project No.:

UQ-122A

Start Date: 1/7/2005 Finish Date: 30/4/2010 Researcher: Dr Daryl Joyce Organisation: The University of Queensland

School of Agronomy and Horticulture GATTON QLD 4343


Objectives Evaluate Australian consumer acceptance of red bayberry, create a business

plan for commercialisation of red bay berry in Australia, import the most popular elite cultivar from china, and, establish trial plantings at locations from north Queensland and Victoria.


The ‘commercial potential of red bayberry in Australia’ project has made great progress in its first year. Around 200 red bayberry (Myrica rubra) plants have been raised at UQ Gatton from seed imported under AQIS permits. Some of these seedlings have been planted-out and have grown rapidly at QDPI&F’s Maroochy Research Station near Nambour. Others are being held for future trial work in plant nurseries at UQ Gatton and QDPI&F Nambour. Plants have also been propagated from vegetative cuttings taken from seedling plants. Vegetative propagation has proven easy. Some of the vegetatively propagated red bayberry plants were used as rootstocks for red bayberry scion material imported from Florida. The aim was to be sure to have a male pollinator plant. However, the male scion material deteriorated due to mishandling during shipment and, although attempted, the grafts did not take. Further importations are planned. Arrangements have recently been made to import fresh red bayberry fruit for taste testing by Australian consumers. Although the import of fresh red bayberry fruit into Australia is not permitted, AQIS have kindly consented to taste-testing within approved Quarantine facilities here. In due course all Australians will be able to share in enjoying this little-known Chinese delight.




Project Title

A field evaluation of the productivity of hazelnut varieties

RIRDC Project No.:

US-125A

Start Date: 1/7/2003 Finish Date: 30/5/2008 Researcher: Mr Basil Baldwin Organisation: The University of Sydney

Faculty of Rural Management PO Box 883 ORANGE NSW 2800


Objectives *To determine the most productive hazelnut varieties that could be used for the

establishment of a hazelnut industry in Australia to meet current requirements of nut importers and processors, principally for hazelnut kernels *To assess the effects of environmental conditions on hazelnut production and varietal performance *To gain data yield development of young trees in order to provide sound advice to industry investors to assist them with investment decisions *To foster the adoption of the research leading to industry expansion


Four field experiments have been established to evaluate a total of 24 varieties. Most of these originate from Europe or the USA, but some Australian seedling types have been included. The field sites are located in NSW, Victoria and Tasmania. Periods of pollen shed and female bloom have been recorded at all sites and have varied between sites and years due to different temperature regimes. Time of pollen shed and female bloom has been found to be closely related to the chill requirements of the varieties; however some warmth seems to be needed for catkin extension. Temperatures above 18-20oC in winter appear to shorten the duration of pollen shed. There have been differences in the growth and production of varieties across the sites. High levels of manganese appear to be having an adverse effect on growth. The highest yielding varieties have been Barcelona, Tokolyi/Brownfield Cosford (TBC), a “Montebello” type and Tonda di Giffoni. These varieties appear to have wide adaptation and are suited to the kernel market. The varieties Ennis and Butler have performed well in some situations; Ennis does not appear to have wide adaptation. Yields from the Myrtleford site have been outstanding, up to 6kg nuts/tree, equivalent to 4tonnes/ha.



RIRDC RESEARCH IN PROGRESS − Grains and Pulses

Project Title

Agronomic strategies for producing large lupini beans for export

RIRDC Project No.:

RDS-1A

Start Date: 1/7/2005 Finish Date: 30/5/2008 Researcher: Dr David Fulton Organisation: Rural Development Services

2/111 Warwick St WEST HOBART TAS 7000


Objectives To develop simple and reliable measures for crop development and to identify

windrowing management practices for achieving highest possible bean quality. To identify the optimum time to harvest for commercial and seed crops and to advance the development of a selection/breeding strategy for the Tasmanian lupini industry. To develop an export marketing strategy for large lupini beans.


Research in the first year of this project focussed on gathering data on plant growth and development from a selection of crops of large seeded albus lupini in northern Tasmania. Data has been collected and analysed for a range of crop, pod and bean development parameters. This analysis also looked at effects of temperature and soil moisture on crop performance. An index of lupini crop maturity has been developed as a tool to assist in determination of optimum time for windrowing. It is planned to further refine this tool for operational practice. A literature review on plant breeding options for the Tasmanian lupini bean industry has been completed.



RIRDC RESEARCH IN PROGRESS − Miscellaneous

Project Title

Investigation into legumes with pharmaceutical and aquaculture potential

RIRDC Project No.:

UWA-73A

Start Date: 1/7/2002 Finish Date: 31/7/2006 Researcher: Dr Shao Fang Wang Organisation: University of Western Australia

35 Stirling Ave, Crawley WA 6009 Phone: (08) 9222 3040 Fax: (08) 9325 7767 Email: [email protected]

Objectives * Develop a capacity for chemical analysis of legumes such that species from

the unique University of Western Australia genebank with valuable pharmaceutical or aquaculture benefit can be developed. * Undertake chemical identification of isoflavonoids and bioactive compounds from legumes and asses their efficacy in mammalian breast/prostate cancer proliferation assays. * Generate a basic knowledge of the chemistry of legume germplasms such that cultivars can be developed to suit specific industries. * Develop cultivars for specific industries.


The project has made very good progress during the past 12 months and we have met all milestones up to May 2006. Thirty-six extracts including alcoholic and aqueous extracts were prepared for screening their efficacy in proliferation assays with mammalian breast and prostate cancer cell lines. Sixteen of them showed anti-breast cancer activities and twenty showed anti-prostate cancer activities. Seven bulk crude extracts, which showed strong anti-proliferation activities for both breast and prostate cancer cell lines, were prepared from plants. The crude extract was separated into five fractions by solvent-solvent partition. The fractions with breast and prostate anticancer activity were identified. Using a bioassay-guided fractionation approach, two bioactive compounds were isolated from a legume plant using various chromatography techniques, including column chromatography and Pre-High Performance Liquid Chromatography. The structures of two compounds were elucidated based on the spectroscopic methods including mass spectrometry, 1D and 2D Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR). These two pure compounds showed strong anticancer activity against four cancer cell lines. In addition, another four pure compounds were also purified from the extracts of two different species. The structures of these compounds are being elucidated based on the spectroscopic methods. The identification of bioactive compounds from other plant extracts is being undertaken. The phytochemical profiles of crude extracts, which showed strong anti-breast cancer activities and anti-prostate cancer activities, are being studied using HPLC and LC-MS. The knowledge of chemical constituents and data of phytochemical profiles will provide information for identification of fingerprinting of bioactive compounds in these pasture legumes and for growing these pasture legumes to meet the needs of material supply.




Project Title

Intensive seed-production systems to commercialise native grasses in northern Australia

RIRDC Project No.:

DAQ-332A

Start Date: 1/7/2005 Finish Date: 30/11/2009 Researcher: Dr Kendrick Cox Organisation: Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)

DPI&F Research Station WALKAMIN QLD 4872

Phone: (07) 4092 9924 Fax: (07) 4093 3903 Email: [email protected] Objectives Collect and assess for market suitability and seed production, a wide range of

ecotypes of six native grasses with identified market potential. Identify and progress to commercial status one or two elite ecotypes of each species through: developing appropriate seed crop management practices; provision of foundation seed for industry; and developing suitable extension resources and providing extension services.


Seed of 94 ecotypes across 5 native grass species (Heteropogon contortus, Themeda triandra, Dichanthium sericeum, Alloteropsis semialata and Brachyacne convergens), each with identified commercial application, were collected in Queensland and northern NSW (latitudinal range of 14-31 S varying with species). Collection of Astrebla (A. lappacea and A. squarrosa) and additional Brachyacne convergens ecotypes is to be undertaken during June 2006 as seeds of wild populations mature. Each seed-lot (one of each ecotype) was assessed for physical purity and number of healthy caryopses. Ecotypes were nominated for replicated seed production assessments at two north-Queensland DPI&F research stations, each representing contrasting commercial seed production areas. Selection criteria included market specifications, collection location and seed-lot characteristics. Ecotypes not selected for assessment in the replicated trial were nominated for appraisal for plant form at one site only. Seedlings of all ecotypes were established in laboratory and shade-house conditions and transplanted into the prepared sites during the 2005-06 summer. Extreme weather during March (Cyclone Larry) slowed plant growth, germinated weeds and caused damage to infrastructure, but all have now been overcome. The project team is to begin plant assessments during June 2006.



Project Title

Grass roots-native perennial grasses for sustainable pasture systems

RIRDC Project No.:

UWA-94A

Start Date: 1/7/2005 Finish Date: 30/11/2008 Researcher: Dr Kingsley Dixon Organisation: University of Western Australia

Fraser Av, WEST PERTH WA 6005 Phone: (08) 9480 3637 Fax: (08) 9480 3641 Email: [email protected] Objectives To develop a national program to deliver seed-based solutions to overcome seed

germination and establishment barriers for a profitable and productive broad-acre native perennial grass pasture and restoration industry. This aim will be met via the following objectives being addressed for fourteen promising species currently in limited commercial production and will be completed in collaboration with the DPI&F (QLD) (RIRDC project DAQ-332A). *Refine new advances in seed production technology to increase commercial availability of native perennial grass species (including the use of the discovery by the applicant of one chemical in smoke that stimulates the germination of native species) for pasture systems and rehabilitation sites. *Define and prioritise the information and implement technology required to overcome barriers to commercial production, focussing on improving seed germination, seedling vigour and seedling stress tolerance. *Increase the efficiency of the seed-to-site establishment, by targeting a series of high potential native pasture species and recent innovations in seed technologies including polymer-based seed coatings for efficient delivery of germination enhancement and growth promoters to seed.


Collections: Seed collections of target grass species including Microlaena stipoides, Themeda triandra, Bothriocloa macra, Austrodanthonia caespitosa, Austrodanthonia richardsonii, Austrodanthonia fulva, Austrodanthonia duttonia and Chloris truncata have been established from VIC/NSW and/or WA. Germination: Preliminary trials on freshly collected seed indicated that Microlaena stipoides, Austrodanthonia richardsonii germinate (>90%) within 2 weeks after harvest and may not exhibit a strong after-ripening phenomena. Under laboratory conditions the application of gibberellic acid, butenolide (the active compound in smoke) or heat (used to break after-ripening) had no significant effect on germination of these species, whereas removing surrounding structures from the seed improved germination rates in most species. Other species are currently being tested. Priming: Effects of seed priming (soaking in various solutions) on germination rates and seedling emergence was investigated. Priming seeds for greater than six hours resulted in seed mortality. Seed priming had no obvious effect on seed germination rates under laboratory conditions however resulted in increased shoot elongation rates and larger plants of M. stipoides and A. richardsonii in soil, with effects remaining prominent after 4 weeks. This is now being quantified in growth experiments.


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