Tasmanian Seafoods Pty Ltd

This project uses value chain analysis through a series of pilot systems (case studies) as a unifying framework to identify constraints and opportunities for indigenous enterprise development using floriculture.
The project conducts its work through three key objectives and the following project initiatives have been achieved to date.
Objective 1: To identify and analyse floriculture value chain arrangements and opportunities.
Information was collected in the Nadi (Fiji) floriculture sector through in-depth interviews with industry participants and one consumer focus group discussion. Most of the interviews conducted surrounded the South Sea Orchids' (SSO) supply or value chain. Key value chain considerations included: insufficient supply of flowers to meet market demands, 'break-away' growers / marketers from the SSO supply chain and among non-project growers, insufficient knowledge and skills relating to growing flowers (particularly among small out-growers), lack of quality specifications, and a need to introduce new cultivars. [Non-project growers are those who are not in either the Koroipita or HART aid projects. Growers under these two projects must work with SSO, which harvests for them and 'stabilises' that supply chain. Growers not in these projects are free to sell to others.]

Opportunities for the Fijian floricultural sector were identified with recommendations for workshops on floricultural skills, introduction of new cultivars, a strategic alliance with tourism industries, promotion of floricultural products by local and national governments with targeted marketing to new customers (e.g. government departments, hotels, tourists), and a capacity building workshop on supply chain management.

A visit to Sydney's Flemington Flower Market was undertaken by Aboriginal Bush Traders (ABT) in November 2010 as value chain analysis research for cycad fronds. This activity involved preliminary work; including harvesting of fronds, postharvest treatment and packaging, pricing, and development of promotional material. Data collected as a result of this activity suggested that the local Darwin market is more viable in regard to cycads. Expansion to wider markets would require more research on freight options and competitive pricing.
Objective 2: To provide new and improved products and practices to floriculture enterprises.
Consultation with the landscaping industry of Fiji has provided a sound basis for identification of native plants suited to landscaping and nursery based enterprises. During consultation, further interest was shown from reforestation and landscape restoration programmes in Fiji that are seeking large volumes of native trees.
Surveying, collecting, trialling and multiplying selected native plants in Fiji is progressing according to schedule. A nursery facility has been established and is quickly filling with a range of native Fijian plants to constitute Fiji's first commercial native plant nursery. Adjacent to the nursery is the beginning of a demonstration garden set up to trial and showcase landscaping with native plants. A first step towards incorporating native plants in the urban landscape was made through a joint landscaping project at a major apartment complex in the heart of Suva comprising almost entirely native plants.
A catalogue of the ginger and allies (viz., Zingiber, Alpinia, Etlingera, Curcuma) accessions bred and developed by NTDoR is being developed. This catalogue will list the accessions available for exchange with the project partners in Fiji, Solomon Islands, and PNG towards providing new and improved plant species and cultivars.
Preparations for best practice field trials have commenced in Darwin in the context of investigating the following ginger production issues of red ginger decline, soil fertility, and appropriate production technologies.
Objective 3: To strengthen floriculture enterprises by building horticultural and business skills and fostering a positive environment.
Aboriginal Bush Traders has secured a regional Parks & Wildlife permit for the harvesting of cycad fronds, which has seen the harvesting of cycad fronds on a more regular basis. This has facilitated the promotion of floriculture as a potential activity for Indigenous people in the region. Flower arrangements using cycads and other native and tropical plants were crafted by a local Indigenous florist for display at three separate functions at Lyons Cottage in the Darwin CBD and foreshore. These demonstrations were accompanied by a leaflet on the ACIAR project. The activities resulted in a number of enquiries from prospective flower arrangement buyers.

Aboriginal Bush Traders also conducted a 2 day 'Introduction to Floral Arrangements' workshop which was attended by local Indigenous women. The workshop was well received in that feedback indicated that most of the participants would be interested in further floriculture activities. Some floral arrangements from the workshop were gifted to several local businesses in order to promote the project. Responses were good with requests for more information and commercial orders being received for arrangements Work is being underway on development of business and pricing models to scope the capacity to cater to these types of requests.

Although this project had a delayed start due to a delayed sign-off on the project by one partner orgnaization and consequent delays with dissemination of funds, significant impacts have now been achieved. Prior to this project, the only systematic survey of forest and agroforestry products sold in local marketplaces that we are aware of was done in Kalimantan in 1996 Arman, S. 1996. Diversity and trade of market fruits in West Kalimantan. Pp. 308-317 in: Padoch, C and N Peluso. Eds. Borneo in transition: people, forests, conservation, and development. Oxford University Press, Kuala Lumpur.. This study, aimed at identifying NTFP species whose economic and production (growth, silvicultural) characteristics make them suitable for incorporation into agroforestry systems, is the most detailed ethnobotanical survey of local marketplaces and trade. It has generated a huge data set based on surveys in West Timor (Kupang, Soe, Kefamenanu, Atambua, Camplong, Kapan), Flores (Maumere, Ende, Bajawa and small weekly markets located near Maumere), Sumba (Waingapu, Waikabubak, Kabunduk and Melolo) and on Savu.

Training and capacity building have been essential to success for without the support of Indonesian partners familiar with ethnobotanical survey methods, this phase of the project would not have been possible. Literature reviews have been completed and peer reviewed research papers and resource manuals shared with Indonesian partners. The quantitative surveys of local marketplaces will enables market characterisation (from an economic geography perspective) into four main categories:

1. Local marketplaces and markets (comprising permanent and periodic marketplaces and decentralized marketing (specialist products (honey, textiles, seasonal higher value fruits)) and low value products (fuelwood);

2. Inter-island regional trade: Complex inter-island supply chains are identifiable from marketplace surveys (eg: Areca catechu and Canarium seed trade from Flores to markets in West Timor, Arenga pinnata stem fibre trade for ritually important thatch, with Bali as the major market in eastern Indonesia and even sago palm starch from Ambon to West Timor. Seasonal trade in ritually important products is a notable part of this trade. There also is potential for FairTrade marketing to "high-end" tourist hotels and lodges in Bali, as a market for plant products that give a "sense of place" (cosmetic oils, soaps;

3. Exports from NTT for national markets (comprising visible" market chains (Aleurites (kemiri), Canarium) and "hidden" market chains for high value products (Aquilaria (gaharu), sandalwood, bird's nests);

4. Exports for international markets: The most promising export products, currently sold at low value in NTT as food supplements, are (i) cosmetic oils; (ii) flavours and fragrances; (iii) functional foods and (iv) culturally-valued products in the art and hand-woven textile sector. The size of these market sectors and likely species through which project impacts are likely to be reached is discussed in Section 3.3.1 below (Economic impacts).

Nusa Tenggara Timur, Indonesia's driest and poorest province, has a long history of interdependence between local livelihoods and the international, regional and local trade in non-timber forest products (NTFP's). This study, aimed at identifying NTFP species whose economic and production (growth, silvicultural) characteristics make them suitable for incorporation into agroforestry systems has generated a huge data set based on surveys in West Timor, Flores, Sumba and on Savu. These are currently being analysed, with very interesting results, practical recommendations and research priorities. Due to a 6-month delay by one of the Indonesian partners in the initial sign-off of this study, a 6-month extension has been requested (and granted) by ACIAR. This gives us time to complete the Final Report by November 2009.

Activity 1 - Training of MAFF and UNTL staff and students in biological control theory and practice.
Four East Timorese staff from the project attended the short course Biological Control of Tropical Weeds held at the University of Qld from 4-15 April 2005. The course was jointly offered by CSIRO Entomology, Queensland Department of Natural Resources & Mines, and the University of Queensland. Participation was funded through this project, and attendance of Mr Americo Brito was funded by ACIAR through DNR& M Qld.

The participants were:
Mr Americo Brito - MAFF, Chief of Plant Protection
Mr Alao Alvarez - MAFF Technician
Mrs Donata De Araujo - UNTL Lecturer Agronomy dept
Ms Anna Corte e Real - Project Technician

Activity 2 - Community socialisation/awareness raising of biological control program
UNTL team member Acacio da Costa and MAFF team member Lourenco Borges Fontes held a meeting with the local people from the Tibar area to gauge willingness to be involved in the project during November 2004. The outcome of the meeting was positive with an acceptance from the community to host a site for the project. During the trip to identify potential sites, informal meetings and discussions were held with landholders about the project and their involvement. Further socialisation and awareness raising is planned for later in this dry season.

Activity 3 - Introduction of Stem Gall Fly, C. connexa.
During February 2005, the project team identified sites for monitoring and releases of the stem gall fly. There were two types of sites selected. The first is a monitoring site where insects will be released over several seasons. These sites will be monitored for the life of the project by project team members and UNTL agriculture students, in order to determine the establishment of the insects and to document the impact. These sites were selected based on the abundance and density of chomoleana present, and the willingness of the landholder/s to be involved and protect the site from burning. Sites were selected that were less than one day's travel from Dili as sites further distant would mean greater expense and difficulty for team members and students to access the sites.

The second type of site was a release-only site. Once the stem gall flies have established at the four original sites, galls will be collected from the original sites and released at these more remote sites in order to accelerate the establishment, spread and impact of the gall fly over as wide an area as possible. Sites were selected at both ends of East Timor, and on the south coast. These sites were identified on the basis of density and abundance of chromolaena present and reports from farmers experiencing problems with the weed.

Release and monitoring sites identified:

Tibar - Rai Meta
Maubara - along the roadside near the convent
Cribas River - an unused piece of land beside the bridge over the Cribas river, directly south from Manatuto.
Baucau airport opposite barracks.

Release only sites identified:

Maliana
Batugade
Lautem
Fuiloro
Tutuala
Same/Betano - depending on road conditions

During this trip, team members checked the border areas with West Timor for stem gall flies in the hope that the stem gall flies released in the Atambua area in West Timor had reached the border, and galls could be collected within Timor Leste. No galls were located, even at the closest point to previous releases in West Timor which indicates that the stem gall fly did not establish from releases conducted near Atambua area in 1998.

During March 2005, three members of the project team travelled to Lae, Papua New Guinea where, with the assistance of the ACIAR chromolaena project in PNG over 2000 galls containing stem gall flies were collected for transport to Timor Leste. The PNG team also demonstrated collection and release methods, and rearing techniques.

These galls were then released at the four sites in Timor Leste, with the release methods being demonstrated to other members of the project team. The team has reported sightings of adult insects on the chromolaena plants at the sites. Due to the extended dry season, no galls are expected to form at the release and monitoring sites until the next wet season, Nov-Dec this year.

Activity 4 - Introduction of Sap Sucking Psyllid, H.spinulosa
It is planned to introduce this biocontrol agent during 2006 in collaboration with Michael Day from DNR& M Qld. Preparations for the establishment of a nursery site at the Hera university farm will commence towards the end of the dry season, Oct-Nov 2005.

Activity 5 - Introduction of other biological control agents as required
The project will also investigate the potential and possibility of introducing the Calligrapha pantherina beetle for the control of Sida acuta as it is a fairly simple and self-sustaining agent once established.

The leaf miner fly has been introduced to Lae, PNG with the chromolaena project staff there developing rearing, release and collection methods. Once these have been established and the results of trials are clearly successful, this project will commence preparations to import this biocontrol agent.

Activity 1 - Training of MAFF and UNTL staff and students in biological control theory and practice.
- UNTL students and staff and MAFF staff were involved in surveying and monitoring to gather the first data on the gall fly releases. Monitoring methods used were transects and quadrats at the Baucau airport release site, Tibar / Rai Mate and other sites. Participants were trained in monitoring & surveying techniques during March 2006.

- MAFF staff were trained in procedures for rearing and maintaining colonies of H. spinulosa at Triloka (Baucau) by Michael Day. Colin Wilson and Michael Day also trained MAFF staff in selecting suitable sites for the release of biocontrol agents. As East Timor has a long dry season and variable conditions throughout the country, suitable site selection is critical to the survival and establishment of released agents.

- Planned on the job training with the Weeds Branch of NT Government has been postponed until October 2006.

- Compact discs containing photos of weeds in Timor and information and photos on chromolaena, the gall fly and damage, were given to MAFF and UNTL staff for their own information and for preparing teaching materials, extension activities and the production of brochures and leaflets.

Activity 2 - Community socialisation/awareness raising of biological control program
Community socialisation/awareness activities were carried out throughout the reporting period up to March 2006 at several locations using adult learning technique and visual aids. Locations included Maubara, Rai Mate (Liquia), Cribas Village (Manatuto), Triloca Village (Baucau).

After each session, the participants were engaged in discussion about the program, some agreeing to the implementation of the program and others expressing doubt. Most farmers believe that Chromolaena has reduced the production of corn, potatoes, and other consumable vegetables as well as grass used for feeding animals, while others believed that Chromolaena was of benefit as a traditional medicine for humans and animals as well as organic pesticide and fertilizer. However, most participants expressed a commitment to control Chromolaena.
Some people were concerned that the flies might attack humans and animals or damage their crops. The project team explained how biological control worked and highlighted the success of the biocontrol agents in other countries and the evidence that they do not cause damage to any other plants or animals in order to allay any concerns.

The sessions also highlighted the importance of protecting release sites from burning, explaining that it can kill gallflies recently released. Farmers were asked to inform a district crops officer in their area if they needed to burn a certain area to cultivate. MAFF will place announcement boards in four main places that the gallflies have been released to advise the general public of the project, and are preparing a poster and a brochure to distribute around the districts.

Activity 3 - Introduction of Stem Gall Fly, C. connexa.
During the beginning of the wet season, (Nov - Dec) areas around the border region were surveyed for the presence of the gall fly. As releases were made near Atambua over five or more years ago, there was the possibility that the gall fly had established along the south coast of Timor. There were also reports from MAFF staff and AQIS/ NAQS staff of the presence of gall fly-like insects at Viqueque and Same and Tutuala. Surveys of the border area and south coast found that the gall fly was not present in any of these areas and no galls were sighted in any of the infestations checked along the south coast. A specimen of the insect was sent to an Australian taxonomist who determined that it was not Cecidochares connexa.

In February the team travelled to Kupang to collect galls of Cecidochares connexa. Dr Wayan Mudita from Nusa Cendana University in Kupang met the team on arrival in Kupang and provided logistical assistance for the collection of the gall flies. The team collected over 2000 galls and transported these back to East Timor. These galls were released at Betano, Soibara, Mehara, and Hatu-Udu.

An attempt was made to import gall flies from PNG with no success due to the failure of the agent to connect through Denpasar to Dili. It is likely that the gall fly will be in reasonable numbers at Tibar/Rai Mate and Baucau in early 2007, so that the insect will be collected from these sites and released elsewhere.

During April 2006 the team also surveyed the enclave of Oekussi and found gall flies present around the border areas and at Lifau village subdistrict. Future collections will be made from Oekussi or West Timor, depending upon logistics.

Surveys of the Baucau airport site had one or two galls present on about half the plants, although some plants had about 5 galls. While the gallfly typically spreads quite quickly, it is expected to spread slower at this site due to the enormity of the infestation at this site. The gall fly has been successfully established at Tibar/Rai Mate site, while the Cribas river site has not shown establishment as it was extensively burnt in the late dry season (August 05), though there may still be a residual population present. The site at Maubara has not been successful possibly due to its exposed aspect near the sea. Two of the four original sites have had establishment. The team has selected four new sites for future releases and will conduct socialisation sessions with farmers at these locations (listed above). Some sessions have been held in these locations but further activities have been delayed due to the security situation.

Activity 4 - Introduction of Sap Sucking Psyllid, H.spinulosa
During January 2006 the team prepared ministerial papers and a cabinet submission on the psyllid in order to gain approval for the importation and release of the insects. Unfortunately the permits were not ready in time for the consignment to be transported by Michael Day in March, and a later shipment for May was further delayed by the security situation. When possible, a shipment will be sent from Queensland via Darwin.

The project team had prepared a Mimosa nursery at the Comoro compound in preparation to receive the psyllids, however this has been destroyed along with other equipment in the compound. Mimosa infestations at Hera University farm and Triloka and at Tibar were also chosen as release sites, however travel outside of Dili is not safe at present.

Activity 5 - Introduction of other biological control agents as required
Pending the success of the leaf miner fly introduced into Lae PNG, the East Timor project team will commence preparations to introduce the insect.
When the Timorese team travel to Darwin in late 2006 it is hoped that they will be able to transport the biological control agent for Sida weed species, Calligrapha pantherina, back to East Timor. However, this will depend on the issue of import permits.

Members of the team plan to attend the next international workshop on the biological control of chromolaena, where they will be able to meet with South African researchers and determine the progress of research on biocontrol agents being carried out and the suitability of any of these agents for East Timor.

1. Training of MAFF and UNTL staff and students in biological control theory and practice.
Project staff from MAFF and UNTL spent two weeks at the biological control section of the Weeds Branch of the Northern Territory Department of Natural Resources, Environment and the Arts. Activities included rearing, maintaining and field releasing biological control agents, surveying and monitoring biocontrol agents in the field, particularly large pastoral properties outside of Darwin.

The UNTL Faculty of Agriculture has a unit on Weed Science. A theory component on biological control specifically using the chromolaena project as an example has been integrated into the unit. Students are also required to undertake a field activity which is surveying and monitoring for the gall fly. Through this process we plan to establish an ongoing monitoring and surveillance program through the faculty of agriculture, providing a long term picture through long term data collection, beyond the life of the project.

2. Community socialisation/awareness raising of biological control program
The project team developed and distributed brochures on the gall fly and its life cycle. Full colour posters on biological control were translated into Tetum and have been made available on CD. MAFF and UNTL have copies of these posters and these are to be widely available to other agencies and the community.

Evaluation questionnaires have been developed for participants in socialisation and training activities and for people who have agreed to allow releases to be conducted on their land.

Introduction of Stem Gall Fly, Cecidochares connexa.
Gall flies have been released in over 50 locations in East Timor so far.

Gall fly establishment has been confirmed at 2 sites so far;

Intensive monitoring has been carried out at both of these sites, with the project team monitoring these sites when possible. The spread of gall flies has been measured from these two sites at a distance of 5km in all directions in June 2007. Flies were released here in 2004.

3. Introduction of Sap Sucking Psyllid, Heteropsylla spinulosa
Introductions of the psyllid were planned during 2006 with the collection and preparation of a Mimosa diplotricha nursery at the Comoro compound and MAFF staff obtained import permits to allow the transport of the psyllid into East Timor. There were problems, however, in obtaining the psyllid in North Queensland, and then unfortunately the mimosa plants and nursery were destroyed. As the security situation deteriorated and did not improve until 2007, project team members were unable to travel to collect more seeds to establish further plants. This will be progressed in the second half of 2007 as applications have been made for export and import approvals from the relevant authorities in East Timor and Australia. Plans are in place to collect more mimosa seed and establish a new nursery.

4. Introduction of other biological control agents as required
The leaf miner fly has been introduced to Lae, PNG with the chromolaena project staff there developing rearing, release and collection methods, and trials have been carried out in South Africa. The leaf miner has been determined as unsuitable for areas with an extensive dry season, which includes East Timor. It is non-diapausing and has very low impact where it has been established in PNG & Sth Africa.

During the reporting period, the project collaborators in East Timor have been actively progressing the project. The detailed monitoring by university students of two Cecidochares connexa (gall fly) release sites continued; numerous new release sites were established throughout the country; a nursery at Hera for the rearing of the Mimosa diplotricha psyllid was established; and there was a wide-scale release of the psyllid into mimosa infestations.
During the past year, gall flies have been released in Railaco (Ermera district), Maubara (Liquica district) and Atabae (Maliana district), bringing the total number of release sites to 28. Further releases at additional sites are being conducted during May and June 2008. It is anticipated that analyses from the database of field monitoring of gall fly abundance, and Chromolaena odorata densities and health, will become available in the coming months.
In April 2008, galls of C. connexa were observed 21 km along the road from the Baucau Airport site where gall flies were released in March 2005. Field surveys in the enclave district of Oecusse in July 2007 revealed that galls had become established in all four subdistricts of Oecusse by natural spread from West Timor, Indonesia where gall flies were released approximately ten years ago. Galls were also observed in Batugade (Bobonaro district), close to the border with Indonesia. Individual plants typically had only a single gall suggesting that the flies have only become established during the most recent wet season. The rapid spread of the gall fly is encouraging in terms of its potential to have nation-wide impacts on Chromolaena infestations throughout East Timor.
We have not yet been able to access other biological control agents as hoped due to delays in host testing and availability from the research teams in South Africa. It is hoped that one of the agents which South African researchers believe to be very promising for the long dry season of East Timor will be available before the end of the year.
Whilst it is still too early to see significant social or economic impacts resulting from Chromolaena control measures, local communities have reported stunting and a reduction in the health of local stands of Chromolaena where C. connexa has become established. This has lead to solid community support for biological control of C. odorata and requests for further training and extension work to provide farmers with the necessary skills to teach neighbours and friends about using gall flies for Chromolaena control. Students undertaking weed science studies have carried out surveys at the main release and collection and nursery sites as part of their programme of study. The continuing involvement of students in this unit has helped to build the database.
There are other major weeds causing great harm to agricultural production in East Timor for which biocontrol agents are available in Australia. These include Sida acuta, Jatropha gossypifolia and Prosopis spp. Biocontrol agents that have already been approved for release in Australia could be released in East Timor with minimal risk to production or the environment, and the project team will investigate the possibilities of obtaining cultures of these agents and the potential for releasing them in future years. Three more weeds on the Australian quarantine alert list have been seen growing in East Timor. They are: Clidemia hirta, Cleome rutidosperma and Boerhavia erecta.
The current project has created a great deal of enthusiasm, commitment and expertise in biological control in East Timor. As the process of establishing biocontrol agents and the timeline to see visible impacts are long term, the project has been remarkably successful in generating support and enthusiasm in local communities and amongst agricultural and natural resource management agencies. Biological control projects always take a long time to achieve success. This is especially true in a country such as East Timor where basic facilities are lacking and local collaborators have required extensive training. There have been several setbacks to the project due to security issues and loss of physical assets in civil unrest, which the team have overcome using innovation and teamwork. In short the team are committed to seeing the project succeed, hope to continue their biological control effort against Chromolaena odorata and Mimosa diplotricha into the future, and also plan to include other weed species be included to take advantage of biocontrol agents currently available from Australia.
We are also very pleased to announce that Acacio da Costa Gutterres has completed and submitted his thesis on control methods suitable for East Timor of the serious weed Jatropha gossypifolia, or Bellyache Bush. Acacio submitted his final thesis mid May 2008 for assessment. Acacio was the recipient of a John Allwright Fellowship supported by this project to undertake study at Master's level through Curtin University of Technology WA and Charles Darwin University, Northern Territory.

The project started in September 2008 with a project planning workshop In Indonesia. It is primarily a scientific research project rather than a training/development orientation. For the 2008 mango/rambutan season in Indonesia (November - February) the project has:
Identified the major quality constraints in both crops.
Developed for testing, a range of appropriate management interventions to deal with observed quality constraints in both crops.
Commenced trials on post-harvest fungicides.
Surveyed mango growers in Lombok for a range of socio-economic factors.
Completed an economic analysis of Lombok supply chains for mango and for rambutan.
In Australia the project has started trial work on management interventions to control insect pests in mango and has assessed alternative post harvest fungicides. Further work is planned for this season on mango quality to accurately assess defect levels at different times in the season and at different locations and the effect of different harvesting technologies on mango quality.
For mango in Indonesia it is clear the following issues are relevant in relation to mango quality for export:
Dry areas of north Lombok produce the best quality for export. Wetter areas have very poor quality.
The main quality defects for Harumanis variety were harvest latex (approx 30 %), and insect problems including sooty mould from plant hoppers (approx 30%), and red banded caterpillar damage (0-30%). Suspected mango scab (subject to proper identification) was more common in wetter areas (40-50%).
The mango variety Gedong gincu was superior in export quality to Harumanis with up to 40% meeting export grade, but small size is a constraint for export. Only 15-20% of fruit met the minimum size for export of 250grams.
Post harvest diseases were assessed and the effectiveness of a number of candidate post harvest chemicals tested in Australia and Indonesia. In Indonesia Harumanis and Gedong gincu showed relatively low levels of post harvest diseases, despite poor storage conditions. The fungicide dip, fludioxonil, was the best treatment, reducing incidence of anthracnose to below 5% after 9 days storage at ambient compared to 50% in untreated controls. In Indonesian varieties it may be possible to rely on post harvest treatments to control post harvest rots.
In Australia, the post harvest fungicides failed to give adequate disease protection in the variety Kensington Pride in 2 separate trials. The disease pressure on the fruit prior to harvest was so great that the post harvest treatments were ineffective. This trial emphasised the importance of pre harvest treatments for controlling post harvest diseases in Kensington Pride in Australia.
Rambutan quality was good with 30-40% of fruit meeting export grades. Fruit size was an issue, particularly later in the season. Early in the season (Nov), suspected powdery mildew was very common (49% of fruit affected) but none late in the season (Feb). Later in the season, white scale (28-42%) and mealy bug (6-20%) were more common defects as well as black rots (19-34%).
Defect analysis has led to the establishment of a series of field trials in Indonesia to assess effectiveness of management interventions to improve fruit quality including:
Use of paclobutrazol and cincturing to force earlier flowering in mango and rambutan avoiding major causes of quality problems.
Fertilising with potassium and irrigation to increase fruit size of Gedong gincu and rambutan.
Applying boron to reduce misshapen fruit in Gedong gincu.
Using soil applied systemic insecticides to reduce insect losses and quality impacts.
Crop loss assessment trials to quantify the effect of insects and diseases in reducing yield and quality of mango.
Fruit bagging in mango to reduce insect damage
Assessment of red-banded mango caterpillar lures, in conjunction with the ACIAR mango project in west Java (Hort/2006/146).
Post-harvest fungicide and cool storage trials will also be conducted in Indonesia.
This season the project will trial small export shipments of rambutan and mango varieties Harumanis and Gedong gincu, to gauge market reaction to better quality from the pre and post harvest interventions under trial.
A socio economic analysis of mango growers in Lombok was conducted using 100 growers in 3 sites (North, East and South Lombok in areas of Bayan, Pringabaya and Sekotong respectively). The main parameters measured were land area, mango tree numbers, mango income, other farm income and total income. Most farms were very small with less than 100 mango trees. Farms in north Lombok (Bayan) were larger with more farmers with more than 100 trees, whereas in south and east Lombok no farmers had more than 100 trees. Mangoes contributed 12%-30% to total family income in an area where family incomes per year averaged from Rp10 million to less than Rp1 million. Income per tree was low from an average of only 3000 Rp/tree to 30,000 Rp/tree.
The results indicate mango production in Lombok should be making a far greater income to farm income. Most farmers were receiving 500-1000 Rp/kg, but reported yields were very low at less than 10kg/tree. Low yields may be due to insect attack at flowering (plant/leaf hoppers), early fruit drop cause by red-banded mango caterpillar, and fruit fly and red-banded caterpillar at harvest. Reported yields are less than trees harvested as part of the quality sampling where around 80-120kg was the average yield. It may also reflect that many mangoes are not being picked because of low market prices and an oversupplied market.
The economic analysis of supply chains looked at prices and costs along the supply chain for mango and rambutan in a number of different marketing scenarios in Lombok. The analysis looked at trading in local markets, in the main markets in Lombok and exporting to Java. The data clearly indicate that the options for farmers are limited because markets are generally oversupplied and prices depressed, not because middle traders are taking unfair advantage of farmers.
The analysis confirmed results found in the farmer survey that farmers were generally receiving around 1000 Rp/kg and mark ups along the supply chain were of the order of 100% with traders incurring costs in harvesting, transportation and handling and taking risks with losses. It has been difficult to quantify the actual losses incurred in the supply chain.
The findings of the supply chain analysis and the farmer socio-economic survey support the original hypothesis of this project that farmer incomes from mangoes were low due to low local market prices, not because of unreasonable mark ups in the supply chain. It supports the conclusion that attempting to grow mangoes for export may be financially and technically possible in attempting to lift farmer incomes, especially for farmers in the drier areas of north Lombok.
However the finding that fruit of the Gedong gincu variety are too small for export is a significant risk to the future of the project. Attempts are being made to increase size with better management and assess the market implications in export markets.

The project started in 2008 and this is the second year of operations. It is primarily a research rather than training and development project.
Results in Indonesia:
Paclobutrazol on Haromanis mango variety works very well bringing harvest three months earlier. It is very simple to use at low cost. Paclobutrazol increases profit by up to 300% due to higher prices for earlier harvest. This has big benefits on the local market spreading the season from the current flooded supply over two months from November - December to five months from August - December. Paclobutrazol has significant application in improving quality in wet areas by moving production into drier periods.
Mango export is profitable but the market for Haromanis in Singapore is small. The project will look at alternative markets this season with export trials planned to Malaysia and the Arab states. Paclobutrazol has significant benefits in export in both extending supply, improving quality and expanding possible supply to include wet areas.
The variety Gedong gincu is too small for export. Fertiliser and irrigation failed to increase fruit size. Whilst fruit quality is excellent, the proportion of fruit less than 250g is too high to make export profitable.
Rambutan exports into wet markets of Singapore and Malaysia may not be profitable as the local price is good (5000 -7000Rp/kg) and is similar to the price into these export markets. Supermarket prices in Singapore are higher for rambutans in pre-packs are over 30,000Rp/kg. This is an opportunity to be tested this season. Indonesian rambutan can supply out of season to other producers.
Paclobutrazol increases rambutan yield but not early harvest. A new set of trials has been established this season at higher rates to see if earlier harvest can be achieved. The yield response is one of the first reported responses of rambutan to paclobutrazol.
Rambutan post-harvest life can be extended significantly to 7-10 days using cool temperatures (15C) and measures to reduce spintern drying including plastic punnet pre-packs, plastic wraps, and plastic bags. The best result is combined use of cool temperatures and plastic punnet pre-packs. This work is relevant to the development of export markets, particularly higher value supermarkets overseas and as well as some selected domestic markets.
Rambutan quality is best early in the season (Nov - Jan). Late season quality is too poor for export. The main defects are very poor spintern development, small fruit size, and fruit rots.
Mango insects are a major problem. Bagging and soil applied insecticides are the main two strategies being tested against the major pests of leaf hoppers, the mango fruit borer, red-banded mango caterpillar (mango borers) and fruit fly. The soil insecticide trials with thiomethoxam (Actara) and imidacloprid (Confidor) against leaf hoppers are effective provided rainfall occurs at application. Bagging significantly reduces losses to fruit borers and fruit fly but see-through paper bags are required not plastic. Initial work on developing a pheromone for Citropestis fruit borer has started and pheromones for red-banded mango caterpillar are being tested.
Fludioxonil (Scholar) dipping post-harvest provides good disease control during storage of Haromanis mango, relevant to export markets, allowing to longer shipping times.
Results in Australia:
Systemic soil applied insecticides (Actara, Confidor) have proven very effective for control of leaf hopper, scales and, indirectly, green ants. Control of thrips and mango flattids may also be possible. Treated trees had significantly higher yields because of the reduced insect losses. Further work is required on soil and fruit residues.
Pre-harvest disease control strategies successfully tested timing and frequency of azoxystrobin (Amistar) and mancozeb (Manzate) applications. Fortnightly Manzate and two applications of Amistar plus the standard prochloraz (Sportak) post-harvest treatment achieved less than 10 % disease after 18 days storage at 20C.
Post-harvest disease control was assessed using the new post-harvest chemicals Scholar and Graduate A+ (fludioxonil + azoxystrobin). These proved very effective, compared to the standard Sportak, even in the absence of a pre-harvest disease control program. Further work will continue this season looking at the best combination of pre- and post-harvest control strategies.
A large defect analysis for mangoes in the NT was conducted, sampling at different times in the season, at different locations, from different growers, and the varieties Kensington Pride and Calypso. Lenticel spots and cleavage damage were the major causes of loss of quality. The causes of these defects are poorly understood.
Defect analysis of rambutan quality has shown that key issues are fruit rots (Botryodiplodia and Pestalotia) and mites are the major causes of quality losses.
Further work has started in Australia on early flowering in rambutan, the effect of soil applied insecticides on flattids, refining pre- and post-harvest disease control, and the control strategies for insects at flowering in mango and their impact on pollination.

The project started in September 2008 and this is the third year of operations. It is primarily a research rather than a training and development project. The main focus is developing and testing technologies towards better market outcomes.
Key new findings and activities for this year included:
In Indonesia:
1. Four mango export shipments to Hong Kong, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur confirmed the viability of Indonesian mango export, with good market response to the Arumanis variety. The project will test technologies in cheaper sea freight shipments planned for the 2011 season. This will include road freight to Surabaya from Lombok using refrigerated container space that returns to Java empty, on cheaper back loading freight rates.
2. Paclobutrazol continues to have a large beneficial impact even in a poor season. This has led the project to increase emphasis on large domestic trade opportunities. In an unusually wet year, paclobutrazol treated trees still produced a crop while untreated trees failed to crop completely. The market price for mangoes in a very low production year was high (4000-5000Rp/kg). Treated trees had the capacity to re-flower three times, after rain at flowering caused flower drop. In wetter areas, paclobutrazol failed to produce a crop as did untreated trees. Earlier flowering was severely impacted by higher than normal rainfall. The varieties Arumanis and Gedong gincu continue to show very strong response to low doses of paclobutrazol.
3. Good post-harvest disease control was achieved using cold dips post-harvest of fludioxonil (Scholar), and azoxystrobin (Amistar). Time of dipping was a significant factor. This is relevant to their use in Australia. Hot water dipping at over 55C (no chemicals) controlled diseases with no significant heat damage on either Arumanis or Gedong gincu. Treatments were assessed at ambient storage (domestic supply chains) and at 15C (export supply chains by sea). At ambient we achieved a life of at least seven days and at 15C, over 14 days.
4. The variety Gedong gincu showed its unique quality attributes in an unusually wet year with excellent skin quality and high disease resistance. However it is highly susceptible to fruit fly. The variety Arumanis had greater quality problems due to wet weather due to poor skin quality and greater disease susceptibility, especially stem end rot fungi (yet to be identified). Arumanis has much greater resistance to fruit fly.
5. Jelly seed disorder was investigated in relation to fruit maturity. Data was also generated on the relationship between ripe brix and dry matter, essential to developing a minimum fruit maturity standard.
6. Successfully tested a latex control system using a local picking pole from mango growers in Cirebon and tested local soaps that reduce latex marks.
7. The first data on the effect of fruit bagging on fruit quality showed a large economic benefit, improving quality and significantly reducing losses due to fruit borers. Trials resolved issues with the right material for fruit bags.
8. Thiamethoxam (Actara) and imidacloprid (Confidor) trials for leafhopper control failed to produce results due to the unusual weather conditions producing poor crops. Similarly the crop loss trial failed to produce results due to poor flowering.
9. A group of farmers visited mango production areas in east Java and Cirebon, Central Java to look at production systems. Project staff also participated in a study tour of research, mango production and mango export in East Java and Cirebon Central Java.
10. An initial assessment was carried out on the losses in the domestic supply chain, tracking a shipment from Lombok to Java. Compression damage (greater than 50%) was a major cause of loss of quality. Mangoes transported in cartons were protected compared to traditional baskets.
11. The unusual weather conditions resulted in total failure of the rambutan crop in Lombok for 2010/2011. Expanded trials using paclobutrazol failed to produce a result. Planned rambutan export trials were not conducted. No rambutan quality assessments were possible. After meeting with Dr Sobir at Institute Pertanian Bogor, rambutans were cinctured which resulted in a significant improvement in flowering off-season. This has applications in Indonesian and Australia.
A major trial combining all pre harvest mango technologies has started for the 2011 season at a number of sites in north Lombok. Logistics planning for a major mango sea freight shipping trial to Singapore and Hong Kong are in progress.
In Australia:
1. Systemic soil applied insecticides (Actara, Confidor) again proved very effective for control of leafhopper, scales and other sucking pests. Control of flatids (planthoppers) was achieved, a significant result. Treated trees had significantly higher yields because of the reduced insect losses. During the 2009 mango season, no residues were found on fruit treated with 6 and 12 g Actara per tree. Further work is in progress on soil and fruit residues. Currently, the cost of Actara has been identified as a significant issue in adoption but there are indications that Syngenta may significantly reduce the price. (25-50%) of Actara.
2. Work on pheromones for mango fruit borer (MFB) and red-banded mango caterpillar (RBMC) has advanced considerably. Candidate pheromone blends have been developed for the first time for mango fruit borer and these will tested in Indonesia this season. It is clear that pheromones for red-banded mango caterpillar are area specific as the pheromone developed for this pest in Australia does not attract the insect in Lombok.
3. Based on previous seasons work, a robust disease control system was demonstrated based on a combination of pre harvest treatments (azoxystrobin - Amistar and mancozeb - Manzate) and post-harvest treatment (prochloraz - Sportak or fludioxonil - Scholar), achieving less than 10 % disease after 18 days storage at 20C. This result was significant given the unusually wet weather at harvest contributing to higher disease pressure.
4. Post-harvest disease control was assessed using fruit from Queensland to test efficacy against stem end rot, which is low prevalence in the NT. It is clear that the current post-harvest chemicals (prochloraz - Sportak or fludioxonil - Scholar) do not control stem end rots prevalent in Queensland. Hot water treatment is essential for control. Interestingly stem end rots in Indonesia (different species) are controlled with these post-harvest chemicals as a cold dip, especially with longer treatment times (e.g. 2-5 mins).
5. A large defect analysis for mangoes in the NT was repeated, sampling at different times in the season, at different locations, from different growers, and the varieties Kensington Pride, R2E2, Honey Gold and Calypso. Lenticel spots, insect damage, sap-burn and wind rub were again the major causes of loss of quality. The causes of some of these defects are poorly understood.
6. Initial work looked at use of potassium nitrate to move flowering earlier. Past work has shown no effect of potassium nitrate on the variety Kensington Pride. These trials confirmed grower experience that two sprays at 2% potassium nitrate over a seven day period, advanced flowering and harvest by four weeks. Urea sprays failed to change flowering date. Earlier flowering has significant quality and market benefits in the NT.
7. A small rambutan trial using three rates of paclobutrazol, + or - potassium nitrate sprays, on two varieties showed a yield response to paclobutrazol. Flowering and harvest were not earlier, and there was no effect of potassium nitrate sprays.
8. In response to industry requests a small trial looked at the effect of elevated CO2 and condensation during storage, at a range of storage temperatures, on the expression of skin browning. There was no effect of elevated CO2 and condensation on skin browning, at any storage temperature.

This project addresses common issues that influence passionfruit production in both South Sulawesi and Australia, with only the market destination for product being different. For South Sulawesi, the primary market driver is consistent monthly supply for processing fruit and for northern Australia, a high priced market niche for fresh fruit. For Australia, a short vine life issue is a prominent concern within industry and root pathogens and virus appear to be key issues impacting on vine longevity.
The project aims to resolve these issues through three key objectives and to date the following project initiatives have been achieved.
Objective 1: To improve passionfruit vine longevity through appropriate disease management in highland production areas of South Sulawesi and Australia.
Comprehensive disease surveys have been completed in south Sulawesi and continue in north-west Australia. In Sulawesi the project team has identified the economic disease Fusarium wilt - Fusarium oxysporum var. passiflora and confirms this pathogen as a key disease impacting on production there. Several other pathogens and nematode have been identified and suspected viruses have also been collected. An insect borer was also detected from the Tana Toraja growing area and is of economic concern.
For North West Australia, some limited surveying of young vines has occurred and a number of pathogens have been identified notably base rot - Fusarium solani. Surveying will continue as plantings mature. To date Fusarium wilt and Woodiness virus have not been isolated. A new bacterial pathogen has been isolated from the Darwin region and may prove to be an economic issue in some areas of north Australia.
Following the quantification of economic pathogens, disease management strategies for passionfruit have been developed. Several workshops on use of disease tolerant rootstocks and grafting techniques have been held and further workshops are planned. In addition several learning aids are being developed and the team has already produced a DVD on grafting for disease management in passionfruit. The project team acknowledges the assistance of Mark Christie, Communication specialist, NTDRDPIFR for DVD development.
Objective 2: To improve continuity of quality pulp supply through the introduction of new germ-plasm in both lowlands and highlands of Sulawesi and re-invigorate the Australian "fresh" fruit production.
The project team has identified and secured potential new scion varieties and rootstock lines. This material is available from within the "public domain" and thus presents no intellectual property issues. Due to quarantine difficulties in germplasm movement from Australia to Indonesia, project partners in south Sulawesi have been active in sourcing local Indonesian germplasm of interest. They have now established disease tolerant rootstock lines, potential processing types of 'flavicarpa" selections and at least one "Panama Red" selection which has all been derived from Bali, Sumatra, Java and Sulawesi. This material is currently being established in low-land and up-land production regions.
Germplasm has been sourced and introduced to North West Australia and includes several seed lines of the commercially important "Panama Red" types along with disease tolerant rootstocks. This germplasm has been established in the Darwin, Katherine (NT) and Ord valley (WA) regions and evaluation continues with collaborating growers. A key finding of the early evaluation is that not all "Panama Red" seed lines appear suited to the region and hence local adaptability has become a major selection criteria for the many Panama Red seed lines being evaluated in the project.
Best practise blocks have been established in Sulawesi and northern Australia. The critical elements of the "Best practice" concept for passionfruit have been identified and are currently being integrated into to the project.
Virus elimination from commercially important Australian cultivars utilising heat therapy has been a valuable addition to the project. This work will commence shortly under the direction of pathologists from QDPI and through the endorsement of APIA. If successful this will allow the establishment of virus-free "mother-stock" plants secured in virus vector-free greenhouses which can then supply the Australian passionfruit industry with quality, virus free planting stock.
Objective 3: Develop supply chain models to meet long term market demand.
With several options for a "Passionfruit Processor Lead" model, the project team in association with APSARI have evolved a model which will ensure continuous uptake of improved germplasm and agronomic techniques and so guarantee supply over a time continuum. This same model has implications for northern Australia as the project has generated interest from national marketers seeking annual supply of fresh passionfruit over several months of the year.
The project continues to progress well and has already made significant impacts in passionfruit development in both South Sulawesi and Australia.

This project addresses common issues that influence passionfruit production in both South Sulawesi (SulSel) and North West Australia (NW), with only the market destination and product end use being different. For South Sulawesi, the primary market driver is consistent monthly supply for processing fruit and for North West Australia, a high priced market niche for fresh fruit. Pathologically in North West Australia, a short vine life issue is a prominent concern within industry and for South Sulawesi, root pathogens and virus appear to be factors impacting on vine longevity.
The project aims to resolve these issues through three key objectives and to date the following project initiatives have been achieved.
Objective 1: To improve passionfruit vine longevity through appropriate disease management in highland production areas of South Sulawesi and Australia.
Comprehensive disease surveys have been completed in south Sulawesi and north-west Australia. In Sulawesi the project team has identified the economic disease Fusarium wilt - Fusarium oxysporum var. passiflora and confirms this pathogen as a key disease impacting on production there. Several other pathogens and nematode have been identified and suspected viruses have also been collected. An insect borer was also detected from the Tana Toraja growing area and is of economic concern. Ironically, a stem borer has recently been found causing significant damage to old vines in the Darwin region. Secondary infection from Botryodiplodia theobromae also is exacerbating this insect damage. In both cases borer are from the "Longicorn beetle" group.
For North West Australia, surveying of young vines has occurred and a number of pathogens have been identified notably base rot - Fusarium solani. Surveying will continue as plantings mature. To date Fusarium wilt and Woodiness virus have not been isolated. A bacterium of initial concern has subsequently been verified as non-pathogenic Klebsiella and secondary to the initial collapse of vines and is ubiquitous within the Darwin, NT environment. In the Ord Valley, WA, Pythium and Rhizoctonia have been isolated from wilting vines. As for the Darwin region, no Fusarium or Woodiness virus have been detected to date. The team acknowledge Craig Palmer from WA Department of Agriculture, Kununurra for his valuable contribution to the project.
Following the quantification of economic pathogens, disease management strategies for passionfruit have been developed. In Sulawesi, initial workshops on use of disease tolerant rootstocks and grafting techniques have been complimented with follow up events in Malino and Bonto Bonto, run by the project regional co-ordinator. Flavicarpa seedlines with Fusarium tolerance, and a Panama Red seedline, all sourced from Sumatra, have been distributed to farmer groups in Kanreapia and Tombolo Pao sub district. Once this germplasm has been established, grafting workshops with this material are to be held. In South Sulawesi, a local flavicarpa, "Bogor Gold" is currently being used commercially with good success in the highlands around the Malakaji area.
All plantings in North West Australia established on DPI flavicarpa seedline (Australian industry standard stock) have succumbed to "short vine life" syndrome. Fusarium oxysporum has not been isolated and to date no specific pathogen has been identified. It appears that soil type is predisposing seedling Panamas reds and grafted vines on DPI flavicarpa rootstock to decline within 6 months and that soil aeration and poor structure are critical issues. The "Birdwood Brazil" flavicarpa seedline, as a stock for Panama Red scions, is exhibiting good longevity and all vines grafted to this stock are growing well in Darwin, Katherine and Ord valley while all vines on DPI flavicarpa stock have died.
Objective 2: To improve continuity of quality pulp supply through the introduction of new germ-plasm in both lowlands and highlands of Sulawesi and re-invigorate the Australian "fresh" fruit production.
The project team has identified and secured potential new scion varieties and rootstock lines. This material is available from within the "public domain" and thus presents no intellectual property issues. Project partners in south Sulawesi have been active in sourcing local Indonesian germplasm of interest and much of this has been field established by the processing sector on commercial farms near Makassar and in traditional highland areas. Evaluation of this material continues.
Germplasm has been sourced and introduced to North West Australia and includes several seed lines of the commercially important "Panama Red" types along with disease tolerant rootstocks. This germplasm has been established in the Darwin, Katherine (NT) and Ord valley (WA) regions and evaluation continues with collaborating growers.
Best practise blocks have been established in Sulawesi and northern Australia. The critical elements of the "Best practice" concept for passionfruit have been identified and are currently being integrated into to the project.
Several local vines of P. edulis form edulis have been selected by the project team in Sulawesi as potential "mother' vines for graft tip production. These are currently being indexed by the pathology team at Hasanuddin University to ensure freedom from virus prior to use for grafted plant production.
Methods for heat therapy and micro-grafting of passionfruit have been developed. Cuttings of a range of Australian varieties were established in growth cabinets and subjected to high day time temperatures (36-38). Tips of heat treated plants were micro-grafted to virus free 'DPI' rootstocks. Of the 42 grafts there were 16 successful takes. Of these two, a 'Sweetheart' and a 'Black Gem', have been shown to be free of virus using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing. These plants are now being kept in insect proof cages to keep them free of virus. The team acknowledge the assistance of Dave Spence, Principal Technical Officer, QDEEDI for development of micro-grafting.
Objective 3: Develop supply chain models to meet long term market demand.
With several options for a "Passionfruit Processor Lead" model, the project team in association with APSARI have evolved a model which will ensure continuous uptake of improved germplasm and agronomic techniques and so guarantee supply over a time continuum. This same model has implications for northern Australia as the project has generated interest from national marketers seeking annual supply of fresh passionfruit over several months of the year.
The project continues to progress well and has already made significant impacts in passionfruit development in both South Sulawesi and Australia.

This project addresses common issues that influence passionfruit production in both South Sulawesi (SS) and North West Australia (NW), with only the market destination and product end use being different. For South Sulawesi, the primary market driver is consistent monthly supply for processing fruit and for North West Australia, a high priced market niche for fresh fruit. Pathologically in North West Australia, a short vine life issue is a prominent concern within industry and for South Sulawesi, root pathogens are factors impacting on vine longevity. The project aims to resolve these issues through three key objectives and to date the following project initiatives have been achieved.
Objective 1: To improve passionfruit vine longevity through appropriate disease management in highland production areas of South Sulawesi and Australia.
Comprehensive disease surveys have been completed in South Sulawesi and North-West Australia. In Sulawesi the project team has identified the economic disease Fusarium wilt - Fusarium oxysporu var. passiflora and confirms this pathogen as a key disease impacting on production there. Several other pathogens and nematode have been identified and suspected viruses have also been collected. This work provides the basis for the management strategy of economic pathogens for both regions. Key survey findings have been presented at APPS conference 2011.
For North West Australia, surveying of young vines has occurred and a number of pathogens have been identified notably base rot - Fusarium solani. To date Fusarium wilt and Woodiness virus have not been isolated. In the Ord Valley, WA, Pythium and Rhizoctonia have been isolated from wilting vines. As for the Darwin region, no Fusarium or Woodiness virus have been detected to date. The team acknowledge Craig Palmer from WA Department of Agriculture, Kununurra for his valuable contribution to the project.
Following the quantification of economic pathogens, the disease management strategies for passionfruit now utilises Passiflora edulis form flavicarpa "Bogor Gold" seedlings as tolerant rootstocks in combination with selected scion wood from proven local seedlings of "edulis" types. In Sulawesi, initial workshops on use of disease tolerant rootstocks and grafting techniques have been complimented with follow up events in Malino,Bonto Bonto and Malakaji. "Flavicarpa" seedlines with Fusarium tolerance, and a Panama Red seedline, all sourced from Sumatra, have been distributed to farmer groups in Kanreapia and Tombolo Pao sub district.
All plantings in North West Australia established on DPI flavicarpa seedline (Australian industry standard stock) have succumbed to "short vine life" syndrome. The current suggested "flavicarpa" rootstock seedline is "Birdwood Brazilian" and a number of seed lots of this accession have been distributed in the NT and to the Ord Valley, WA. This accession, as a rootstock for Panama Red scions, is exhibiting good longevity and all vines grafted to this stock are growing well in the NT. While its early performance in the Ord Valley was encouraging many vines on "Birdwood Brazilian" have since died and collaborators there continue to screen other potential Passiflora rootstock accessions.
Objective 2: To improve continuity of quality pulp supply through the introduction of new germ-plasm in both lowlands and highlands of South Sulawesi and re-invigorate North West Australian "fresh" fruit production.
Early evaluation of new germplasm near Makassar indicates that there are germplasm that will flower and set fruit in the hot lowlands. These have been principally some "Flavicarpa" and Panama Red seed lines. Preliminary indications are that key phenology events are strongly linked with the monsoonal season and that harvest periods mirror upland "edulis" periods. Without additional irrigation into the Dry season alternative supply periods maybe difficult to achieve. However much of these plantings are less than 18 months old and as they mature a more clearer indication of key phenology events particularly flowering and harvest will emerge.
A method for micro-grafting of passionfruit has been developed. Cuttings of a range of Australian varieties were established in growth cabinets and subjected to high day time temperatures (36-38). Tips of heat treated plants were micro-grafted to virus free 'DPI' rootstocks. Of the 42 grafts there were 14 successful takes as identified by leaf shape a number of months after grafting, unfortunately polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing showed that these tips were infected with virus. There were two additional plants which were shown to be free of virus after PCR testing. However, when the plants had grown and leaves became fully expanded it was clear that the rootstock had grown away and that the micro-grafting had not been successful. The team acknowledge the assistance of Dave Spence, Principal Technical Officer, QDEEDI for development of micro-grafting.
Methods have been developed to study the distribution of viruses in tips of passionfruit. The method involves dissecting tips under a stereo-dissecting microscope into portions 1mm long, each portion is tested with PCR to establish if passionfruit viruses are present.
Objective 3: Develop supply chain models to meet long term market demand.
A key component of the supply chain model is stabilising "upland" edulis production via disease tolerant rootstocks. This component has been implemented and early plantings are only young, however it is encouraging that two selected "flavicarpa" rootstocks, that is "Medan" and "Bogor Gold", have consistently performed in Java and Sumatra under Fusarium wilt pressure. An older planting of "Bogor Gold" grafted to "edulis" purple is performing well in the highland region of Malakaji, South Sulawesi. These wilt resistant accessions should enhance vine longevity and hence production thus ensuring a more stable supply chain from traditional production areas.
A key supply chain initiative of the project has been the introduction of selected germplasm into lowland regions around Makassar, South Sulawesi. The rational being the potential for production periods counter to the traditional highland supply periods, thus ensuring processors have longer and consistent supply throughout large parts of a year. Again plantings of new germplasm are only young however early indications are that production periods will be strongly linked with the monsoonal season with harvest commencing in late November and peaking from December through to March/April. This will allow some extension of the current supply period but appears not as dramatic as would be hoped. The underlying environmental driver of this is clearly the monsoonal period and moisture availability.
The project is near completion and many former achievements are reported in project annual reports for 2008-9 and 2009-10. The final report is due in December 2011 and will contain detailed technical and scientific information.

The project commenced in August 2009. The first 4 months of the project involved identification of village sites, appointment of junior scientists and preparation of resources and facilities. A project development meeting was held in East Java in November 2009 and was attended by Indonesian and Australian collaborators from the Indonesian Centre for Animal Research and Development (ICARD), BPTP Sultra, the University of Haluoleo (UNHALU), the University of Tadulako (UNTAD), BPTP NTB, the University of Mataram (UNRAM), the Beef Cattle Research Institute (BCRI), BPTP East Java, the University of Queensland (UQ) and Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation (DEEDI). Participants discussed the project objectives and milestones, and worked through issues relating to village work, on-station experiments and the socio-economic (SOSEC) analysis.
Following the project development meeting, work began in Sultra, Lombok and East Java establishing the village sites, preparing for the on-station experiments at the Beef Cattle Research institute (BCRI), and drafting the first SOSEC farmer survey. In January, village and junior scientists travelled to Lombok to attend a data management workshop. Participants received training in the measurements to be conducted in the village sites and how to record, collate and manage data.
The village sites are now operational. Approximately 120 cows have been enrolled into the project at each of the four village sites, and junior scientists have started to record regular data of cow live weight, body condition score, reproductive status and breeding events, and feed intake. Additional infrastructure, including rice straw storage, mating pens, weaning pens and cattle crushes, have also been established in the village sites. The first rice crop of the year has been harvested and cows are now being fed rice straw supplemented with a small amount of green feed.
The first on-station experiment has commenced at BCRI. This experiment will determine the minimum amount of green feed required to maintain body condition score of Ongole (Bos indicus) cows fed rice straw. Preliminary results indicate that dry cows and cows in early stages of pregnancy are able to maintain body condition score and live weight on a rice straw based diet. This is important information for the scientists and farmers involved in the village work. Around 100 collaborator farmers from the two village sites in East Java have visited BCRI recently to view the experiment, and were surprised, but happy to see that the cows can do well on these diets.
The SOSEC team have completed a baseline survey of collaborator and non-collaborator farmers who have cow-calf systems in East Java. Preliminary results from this survey are currently being submitted as abstracts to the 5th International Seminar on Tropical Animal Production at Yogyakarta in October 2010. The SOSEC team are now preparing for a survey into fattening systems in East Java.
Australian component activities have commenced. Reproductive status, body condition score and live weight were measured and blood samples were collected from a commercial herd of Bos indicus cows in the Northern Territory. Metabolic and reproductive hormonal profiles along with reproductive status and animal measurements of this herd will be monitored at the start and end of the dry season over 2 years.

The primary focus of project activities from June 2010 to June 2011 has been the continued monitoring of the village sites in Indonesia, the on-station experiments at BCRI, UNRAM and UNHALU, and surveys of farmers and beef marketing chains by the socioeconomics group at ICARD.
Four village sites are operational in Lombok (Papak), South East Sulawesi (Lapangisi) and East Java (Probolinggo and Malang). Approximately 120 cows are enrolled at each site. The sites in Lombok and Sulawesi have Bali cattle, and the east Java sites have Ongole cattle. The cattle are monitored by staff from BPTP NTB, BPTP Sultra and BCRI. A junior scientist lives at each site and is responsible for collection of regular data, including cow weight, girth, body condition score and dates of mating, calving and weaning. The rice straw based diet appears to be sufficient to maintain the weight of a non-pregnant, non-lactating cow, however, many cows in the village were already in poor body condition. This will limit their reproduction, and on-station experiments have been designed to address this issue.
There are currently experiments running at three sites in Indonesia. The first experiment at BCRI was designed to measure the maintenance requirements of Ongole cattle on a rice straw based diet. This experiment finished in July 2010, and results indicate that non-pregnant, non-lactating Ongole cows can maintain weight on rice straw with a small amount of tree legumes (5 g DM/kg W.d-1). A second experiment is in progress at BCRI, and we are comparing the maintenance requirements of Ongole and Bali cows, as well as different types of diets to increase their body condition score in the villages. The experiment will finish in July 2011, but at this stage it appears that the Bali cattle have lower energy requirements for maintenance than the Ongole cattle. For both breeds, it appears that it will take 2-3 months for cows to increase one body condition score (approximately 13% mature body weight). Experiments are also in progress at UNHALU and UNRAM. The experiment at UNHALU is investigating strategies for weight gain for Bali cows in villages. The experiment will finish in July 2011, and the best diet so far appears to be native grass ad lib + rice bran at 10 g DM/kg W.d-1. The experiment at UNRAM will compare the growth and development (onset of puberty etc) of Bali heifers fed a low quality or good quality diet. This experiment started in February 2011 and will run for 2.5 years.
The socioeconomic work continues to be a strength of the project. The team have completed surveys of feed resources, farming systems, fattening operations and marketing chains. Surveys revealed that rice straw is an important feed resource in East Java, along with maize straw, cassava, mungbean straw, peanut straw, sugar cane tops, grasses, rice bran and tofu waste. The main reason for farmers selling animals was to meet the household needs for cash. Farmers in lowland areas of East Java (Probolinggo) tended to sell their calves at weaning, while farmers in upland areas (Malang) often kept the calves for longer.
In Australia, monitoring of cattle at Manbulloo Station is in progress with measurements of reproductive status, weight, body condition score and blood samples taken at the start and end of the 2010 dry season and start of the 2011 dry season. One final sampling will take place at the end of the 2011 dry season. Cows at the Katherine research station have been allocated to treatments and sampling will commence in June 2011.
In May 2011 the project was expanded to include work with Brahman cattle in villages in East Java and Lampung. This variation will involve three new village sites, two on-station experiments at BCRI, and additional socioeconomic surveys and analysis.

The project started in September 2008 with a project planning workshop In Indonesia. It is primarily a scientific research project rather than a training/development orientation. For the 2008 mango/rambutan season in Indonesia (November - February) the project has:
Identified the major quality constraints in both crops.
Developed for testing, a range of appropriate management interventions to deal with observed quality constraints in both crops.
Commenced trials on post-harvest fungicides.
Surveyed mango growers in Lombok for a range of socio-economic factors.
Completed an economic analysis of Lombok supply chains for mango and for rambutan.
In Australia the project has started trial work on management interventions to control insect pests in mango and has assessed alternative post harvest fungicides. Further work is planned for this season on mango quality to accurately assess defect levels at different times in the season and at different locations and the effect of different harvesting technologies on mango quality.
For mango in Indonesia it is clear the following issues are relevant in relation to mango quality for export:
Dry areas of north Lombok produce the best quality for export. Wetter areas have very poor quality.
The main quality defects for Harumanis variety were harvest latex (approx 30 %), and insect problems including sooty mould from plant hoppers (approx 30%), and red banded caterpillar damage (0-30%). Suspected mango scab (subject to proper identification) was more common in wetter areas (40-50%).
The mango variety Gedong gincu was superior in export quality to Harumanis with up to 40% meeting export grade, but small size is a constraint for export. Only 15-20% of fruit met the minimum size for export of 250grams.
Post harvest diseases were assessed and the effectiveness of a number of candidate post harvest chemicals tested in Australia and Indonesia. In Indonesia Harumanis and Gedong gincu showed relatively low levels of post harvest diseases, despite poor storage conditions. The fungicide dip, fludioxonil, was the best treatment, reducing incidence of anthracnose to below 5% after 9 days storage at ambient compared to 50% in untreated controls. In Indonesian varieties it may be possible to rely on post harvest treatments to control post harvest rots.
In Australia, the post harvest fungicides failed to give adequate disease protection in the variety Kensington Pride in 2 separate trials. The disease pressure on the fruit prior to harvest was so great that the post harvest treatments were ineffective. This trial emphasised the importance of pre harvest treatments for controlling post harvest diseases in Kensington Pride in Australia.
Rambutan quality was good with 30-40% of fruit meeting export grades. Fruit size was an issue, particularly later in the season. Early in the season (Nov), suspected powdery mildew was very common (49% of fruit affected) but none late in the season (Feb). Later in the season, white scale (28-42%) and mealy bug (6-20%) were more common defects as well as black rots (19-34%).
Defect analysis has led to the establishment of a series of field trials in Indonesia to assess effectiveness of management interventions to improve fruit quality including:
Use of paclobutrazol and cincturing to force earlier flowering in mango and rambutan avoiding major causes of quality problems.
Fertilising with potassium and irrigation to increase fruit size of Gedong gincu and rambutan.
Applying boron to reduce misshapen fruit in Gedong gincu.
Using soil applied systemic insecticides to reduce insect losses and quality impacts.
Crop loss assessment trials to quantify the effect of insects and diseases in reducing yield and quality of mango.
Fruit bagging in mango to reduce insect damage
Assessment of red-banded mango caterpillar lures, in conjunction with the ACIAR mango project in west Java (Hort/2006/146).
Post-harvest fungicide and cool storage trials will also be conducted in Indonesia.
This season the project will trial small export shipments of rambutan and mango varieties Harumanis and Gedong gincu, to gauge market reaction to better quality from the pre and post harvest interventions under trial.
A socio economic analysis of mango growers in Lombok was conducted using 100 growers in 3 sites (North, East and South Lombok in areas of Bayan, Pringabaya and Sekotong respectively). The main parameters measured were land area, mango tree numbers, mango income, other farm income and total income. Most farms were very small with less than 100 mango trees. Farms in north Lombok (Bayan) were larger with more farmers with more than 100 trees, whereas in south and east Lombok no farmers had more than 100 trees. Mangoes contributed 12%-30% to total family income in an area where family incomes per year averaged from Rp10 million to less than Rp1 million. Income per tree was low from an average of only 3000 Rp/tree to 30,000 Rp/tree.
The results indicate mango production in Lombok should be making a far greater income to farm income. Most farmers were receiving 500-1000 Rp/kg, but reported yields were very low at less than 10kg/tree. Low yields may be due to insect attack at flowering (plant/leaf hoppers), early fruit drop cause by red-banded mango caterpillar, and fruit fly and red-banded caterpillar at harvest. Reported yields are less than trees harvested as part of the quality sampling where around 80-120kg was the average yield. It may also reflect that many mangoes are not being picked because of low market prices and an oversupplied market.
The economic analysis of supply chains looked at prices and costs along the supply chain for mango and rambutan in a number of different marketing scenarios in Lombok. The analysis looked at trading in local markets, in the main markets in Lombok and exporting to Java. The data clearly indicate that the options for farmers are limited because markets are generally oversupplied and prices depressed, not because middle traders are taking unfair advantage of farmers.
The analysis confirmed results found in the farmer survey that farmers were generally receiving around 1000 Rp/kg and mark ups along the supply chain were of the order of 100% with traders incurring costs in harvesting, transportation and handling and taking risks with losses. It has been difficult to quantify the actual losses incurred in the supply chain.
The findings of the supply chain analysis and the farmer socio-economic survey support the original hypothesis of this project that farmer incomes from mangoes were low due to low local market prices, not because of unreasonable mark ups in the supply chain. It supports the conclusion that attempting to grow mangoes for export may be financially and technically possible in attempting to lift farmer incomes, especially for farmers in the drier areas of north Lombok.
However the finding that fruit of the Gedong gincu variety are too small for export is a significant risk to the future of the project. Attempts are being made to increase size with better management and assess the market implications in export markets.

The project started in 2008 and this is the second year of operations. It is primarily a research rather than training and development project.
Results in Indonesia:
Paclobutrazol on Haromanis mango variety works very well bringing harvest three months earlier. It is very simple to use at low cost. Paclobutrazol increases profit by up to 300% due to higher prices for earlier harvest. This has big benefits on the local market spreading the season from the current flooded supply over two months from November - December to five months from August - December. Paclobutrazol has significant application in improving quality in wet areas by moving production into drier periods.
Mango export is profitable but the market for Haromanis in Singapore is small. The project will look at alternative markets this season with export trials planned to Malaysia and the Arab states. Paclobutrazol has significant benefits in export in both extending supply, improving quality and expanding possible supply to include wet areas.
The variety Gedong gincu is too small for export. Fertiliser and irrigation failed to increase fruit size. Whilst fruit quality is excellent, the proportion of fruit less than 250g is too high to make export profitable.
Rambutan exports into wet markets of Singapore and Malaysia may not be profitable as the local price is good (5000 -7000Rp/kg) and is similar to the price into these export markets. Supermarket prices in Singapore are higher for rambutans in pre-packs are over 30,000Rp/kg. This is an opportunity to be tested this season. Indonesian rambutan can supply out of season to other producers.
Paclobutrazol increases rambutan yield but not early harvest. A new set of trials has been established this season at higher rates to see if earlier harvest can be achieved. The yield response is one of the first reported responses of rambutan to paclobutrazol.
Rambutan post-harvest life can be extended significantly to 7-10 days using cool temperatures (15C) and measures to reduce spintern drying including plastic punnet pre-packs, plastic wraps, and plastic bags. The best result is combined use of cool temperatures and plastic punnet pre-packs. This work is relevant to the development of export markets, particularly higher value supermarkets overseas and as well as some selected domestic markets.
Rambutan quality is best early in the season (Nov - Jan). Late season quality is too poor for export. The main defects are very poor spintern development, small fruit size, and fruit rots.
Mango insects are a major problem. Bagging and soil applied insecticides are the main two strategies being tested against the major pests of leaf hoppers, the mango fruit borer, red-banded mango caterpillar (mango borers) and fruit fly. The soil insecticide trials with thiomethoxam (Actara) and imidacloprid (Confidor) against leaf hoppers are effective provided rainfall occurs at application. Bagging significantly reduces losses to fruit borers and fruit fly but see-through paper bags are required not plastic. Initial work on developing a pheromone for Citropestis fruit borer has started and pheromones for red-banded mango caterpillar are being tested.
Fludioxonil (Scholar) dipping post-harvest provides good disease control during storage of Haromanis mango, relevant to export markets, allowing to longer shipping times.
Results in Australia:
Systemic soil applied insecticides (Actara, Confidor) have proven very effective for control of leaf hopper, scales and, indirectly, green ants. Control of thrips and mango flattids may also be possible. Treated trees had significantly higher yields because of the reduced insect losses. Further work is required on soil and fruit residues.
Pre-harvest disease control strategies successfully tested timing and frequency of azoxystrobin (Amistar) and mancozeb (Manzate) applications. Fortnightly Manzate and two applications of Amistar plus the standard prochloraz (Sportak) post-harvest treatment achieved less than 10 % disease after 18 days storage at 20C.
Post-harvest disease control was assessed using the new post-harvest chemicals Scholar and Graduate A+ (fludioxonil + azoxystrobin). These proved very effective, compared to the standard Sportak, even in the absence of a pre-harvest disease control program. Further work will continue this season looking at the best combination of pre- and post-harvest control strategies.
A large defect analysis for mangoes in the NT was conducted, sampling at different times in the season, at different locations, from different growers, and the varieties Kensington Pride and Calypso. Lenticel spots and cleavage damage were the major causes of loss of quality. The causes of these defects are poorly understood.
Defect analysis of rambutan quality has shown that key issues are fruit rots (Botryodiplodia and Pestalotia) and mites are the major causes of quality losses.
Further work has started in Australia on early flowering in rambutan, the effect of soil applied insecticides on flattids, refining pre- and post-harvest disease control, and the control strategies for insects at flowering in mango and their impact on pollination.

The project started in September 2008 and this is the third year of operations. It is primarily a research rather than a training and development project. The main focus is developing and testing technologies towards better market outcomes.
Key new findings and activities for this year included:
In Indonesia:
1. Four mango export shipments to Hong Kong, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur confirmed the viability of Indonesian mango export, with good market response to the Arumanis variety. The project will test technologies in cheaper sea freight shipments planned for the 2011 season. This will include road freight to Surabaya from Lombok using refrigerated container space that returns to Java empty, on cheaper back loading freight rates.
2. Paclobutrazol continues to have a large beneficial impact even in a poor season. This has led the project to increase emphasis on large domestic trade opportunities. In an unusually wet year, paclobutrazol treated trees still produced a crop while untreated trees failed to crop completely. The market price for mangoes in a very low production year was high (4000-5000Rp/kg). Treated trees had the capacity to re-flower three times, after rain at flowering caused flower drop. In wetter areas, paclobutrazol failed to produce a crop as did untreated trees. Earlier flowering was severely impacted by higher than normal rainfall. The varieties Arumanis and Gedong gincu continue to show very strong response to low doses of paclobutrazol.
3. Good post-harvest disease control was achieved using cold dips post-harvest of fludioxonil (Scholar), and azoxystrobin (Amistar). Time of dipping was a significant factor. This is relevant to their use in Australia. Hot water dipping at over 55C (no chemicals) controlled diseases with no significant heat damage on either Arumanis or Gedong gincu. Treatments were assessed at ambient storage (domestic supply chains) and at 15C (export supply chains by sea). At ambient we achieved a life of at least seven days and at 15C, over 14 days.
4. The variety Gedong gincu showed its unique quality attributes in an unusually wet year with excellent skin quality and high disease resistance. However it is highly susceptible to fruit fly. The variety Arumanis had greater quality problems due to wet weather due to poor skin quality and greater disease susceptibility, especially stem end rot fungi (yet to be identified). Arumanis has much greater resistance to fruit fly.
5. Jelly seed disorder was investigated in relation to fruit maturity. Data was also generated on the relationship between ripe brix and dry matter, essential to developing a minimum fruit maturity standard.
6. Successfully tested a latex control system using a local picking pole from mango growers in Cirebon and tested local soaps that reduce latex marks.
7. The first data on the effect of fruit bagging on fruit quality showed a large economic benefit, improving quality and significantly reducing losses due to fruit borers. Trials resolved issues with the right material for fruit bags.
8. Thiamethoxam (Actara) and imidacloprid (Confidor) trials for leafhopper control failed to produce results due to the unusual weather conditions producing poor crops. Similarly the crop loss trial failed to produce results due to poor flowering.
9. A group of farmers visited mango production areas in east Java and Cirebon, Central Java to look at production systems. Project staff also participated in a study tour of research, mango production and mango export in East Java and Cirebon Central Java.
10. An initial assessment was carried out on the losses in the domestic supply chain, tracking a shipment from Lombok to Java. Compression damage (greater than 50%) was a major cause of loss of quality. Mangoes transported in cartons were protected compared to traditional baskets.
11. The unusual weather conditions resulted in total failure of the rambutan crop in Lombok for 2010/2011. Expanded trials using paclobutrazol failed to produce a result. Planned rambutan export trials were not conducted. No rambutan quality assessments were possible. After meeting with Dr Sobir at Institute Pertanian Bogor, rambutans were cinctured which resulted in a significant improvement in flowering off-season. This has applications in Indonesian and Australia.
A major trial combining all pre harvest mango technologies has started for the 2011 season at a number of sites in north Lombok. Logistics planning for a major mango sea freight shipping trial to Singapore and Hong Kong are in progress.
In Australia:
1. Systemic soil applied insecticides (Actara, Confidor) again proved very effective for control of leafhopper, scales and other sucking pests. Control of flatids (planthoppers) was achieved, a significant result. Treated trees had significantly higher yields because of the reduced insect losses. During the 2009 mango season, no residues were found on fruit treated with 6 and 12 g Actara per tree. Further work is in progress on soil and fruit residues. Currently, the cost of Actara has been identified as a significant issue in adoption but there are indications that Syngenta may significantly reduce the price. (25-50%) of Actara.
2. Work on pheromones for mango fruit borer (MFB) and red-banded mango caterpillar (RBMC) has advanced considerably. Candidate pheromone blends have been developed for the first time for mango fruit borer and these will tested in Indonesia this season. It is clear that pheromones for red-banded mango caterpillar are area specific as the pheromone developed for this pest in Australia does not attract the insect in Lombok.
3. Based on previous seasons work, a robust disease control system was demonstrated based on a combination of pre harvest treatments (azoxystrobin - Amistar and mancozeb - Manzate) and post-harvest treatment (prochloraz - Sportak or fludioxonil - Scholar), achieving less than 10 % disease after 18 days storage at 20C. This result was significant given the unusually wet weather at harvest contributing to higher disease pressure.
4. Post-harvest disease control was assessed using fruit from Queensland to test efficacy against stem end rot, which is low prevalence in the NT. It is clear that the current post-harvest chemicals (prochloraz - Sportak or fludioxonil - Scholar) do not control stem end rots prevalent in Queensland. Hot water treatment is essential for control. Interestingly stem end rots in Indonesia (different species) are controlled with these post-harvest chemicals as a cold dip, especially with longer treatment times (e.g. 2-5 mins).
5. A large defect analysis for mangoes in the NT was repeated, sampling at different times in the season, at different locations, from different growers, and the varieties Kensington Pride, R2E2, Honey Gold and Calypso. Lenticel spots, insect damage, sap-burn and wind rub were again the major causes of loss of quality. The causes of some of these defects are poorly understood.
6. Initial work looked at use of potassium nitrate to move flowering earlier. Past work has shown no effect of potassium nitrate on the variety Kensington Pride. These trials confirmed grower experience that two sprays at 2% potassium nitrate over a seven day period, advanced flowering and harvest by four weeks. Urea sprays failed to change flowering date. Earlier flowering has significant quality and market benefits in the NT.
7. A small rambutan trial using three rates of paclobutrazol, + or - potassium nitrate sprays, on two varieties showed a yield response to paclobutrazol. Flowering and harvest were not earlier, and there was no effect of potassium nitrate sprays.
8. In response to industry requests a small trial looked at the effect of elevated CO2 and condensation during storage, at a range of storage temperatures, on the expression of skin browning. There was no effect of elevated CO2 and condensation on skin browning, at any storage temperature.

Since Project start-up on 1st June 2007 and the conduct of Project Inception meeting on 30 July - 3 August 2007 at the UP-MSI Bolinao Marine Laboratory, Philippines, the following has been accomplished and they are elaborated in the Annex sections of this report:

Completed upgrading of the hatchery and initiated production of sandfish juveniles at the UP-MSI Bolinao Marine Laboratory as well as sea ranching activities in two villages (i.e., Victory and Silaki) in Bolinao, Philippines;

Initiated production of sandfish juveniles for Davao node, preparation of High ponds for larval/juvenile rearing, and initial consultations with communities in Barangay Bato, Davao, Philippines);

Initiated construction of hatchery at NIFTDC in Dagupan, Philippines and aided NFRDI to produce sandfish juveniles;

Site assessments for potential restocking experiment were conducted in Northern Luzon, Philippines;

NT node coordinator continued contact with project key personnel in Australia (i.e., Warruwi Community, DAFF and Tasmanian Seafoods) while awaiting project funding from the Aboriginal Business Account;

Organization and conduct of the "Hatchery Operations Training" from 24 March to 15 April 2008 at NIFTDC and UP-MSI Bolinao Marine Laboratory. The training was participated by key project staff from the Philippines, i.e., NFRDI, UP-MSI and UP-Min including BFAR Regional staff;

Organization and conduct of the "Release Strategy Workshop" on 14-18 April 2008 at NIFTDC in Dagupan and UP-MSI Bolinao Marine Laboratory. The workshop was participated by key research partners in the Philippines and Australia including scientist from Indonesia, Malaysia and Vietnam; and

Participation of key project staff in various national meetings/reviews and planning sessions in support of the National Extension and Advisory Group.

Annex 7 indicates the Projects' Financial semi-annual report covering the period 1 December to 31 May 2008.

Hatchery production of sandfish
Significant progress has been made with the production of juvenile sandfish for sea ranching trials. In year 2 of the project, this has involved initiating new production nodes, as well as improving methods and removing 'bottlenecks' in existing systems. The Bolinao node produced ca. 26,300 juveniles (>3g) between May 2007 to September 2008. Typhoon damage to the newly constructed hatchery at Dagupan (National Fisheries Research and Development Institute) delayed commissioning until temporary repairs could be affected in May 2008. About 6,300 juveniles were produced from July - December 2008, of which about 4,000 were used for sea ranching trials in the northern Luzon area.
Due to difficulties with transporting broodstock and juveniles from Bolinao to Mindanao, a production facility was established in Mindanao. Spawning trials also conducted with Alsons Corporation (a private hatchery). From an approved objective of producing 10,000 juveniles per year, this node has produced 2,000 sandfish to-date, however it is clear here also that significant progress in shifting production bottlenecks has been made. All production nodes reported significant dividends in hatchery survival following a visit to the RIA 3 hatchery facility in Nha Trang, Vietnam. The largest constraints (bottlenecks) for production are now post-hatchery, and relate to appropriate technology and facilities for juvenile on-growing.
Establishing sea ranching trials
Good progress was made in engaging communities and local government units in the project. Five sea ranching sites have been established in collaboration with People's Organisations (POs) or other local actors, and are in varying stages of development. Partners in four sites have permits from the local government to manage and exclusively harvest sea cucumbers in the 5 hectare sea ranching area. Socio-economic and biophysical assessments, and monitoring of growth and survival of released juveniles were conducted at the four more advanced sites.
The first site (Victory, Bolinao Pangasinan) was formally established in September 2007. It is managed by a local fisher organization. Following on from the first year releases of 5,011 hatchery-reared juveniles (> 3g), a further 11,106 juveniles were released in year 2 (target 10,000). Monitoring of growth and survival is progressing well, although the staining techniques adopted to identify released individuals are not proving to be satisfactory. Alternatives will be investigated. Releases of between 5,500 and 2000 juveniles have occurred at 3 other sites. The least advanced site (Barangay Libuak, Mindinao) is currently being surveyed, and the process of obtaining permits has commenced.
The initial plan to conduct sea ranching trials with Aboriginal communities in Australia has not come to fruition at this stage. This component was initially contingent on substantial additional funding from sources within Australia, and this funding has not eventuated. Alternative approaches to working with these communities are currently being investigated.
Restocking trials
Following significant effort on site assessment and selection, it was clear that conducting valid, controlled trials to assess the success of stock enhancement would not be feasible. It was therefore proposed that the restocking experiment not be pursued as part of this project. This decision was endorsed recently by the mid-project review panel.
Project Review
On 4 - 5 June 2009, a mid-project review was conducted in Manila to assess progress against milestones, and provide an adaptive implementation process to re-focus the research on issues identified to be limiting progress. A mid-term review panel comprising representatives from the Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) and Philippine national institutions involved in resource management and development recommended a number of revisions to the planned program and for ACIAR to continue to invest in the project for a further 2 years. Among the most significant changes was the inclusion of a new partner (SEAFDEC Aquaculture Department) in the Philippines, implementing new research on pond production of sandfish, and including a Vietnam node in the project with a focus on pond-based production.

Hatchery production and nursery systems:
Capacity to regularly and repeatedly produce sandfish juveniles continues to improve at varying rates across the 6 production nodes (4 in Philippines, 1 in Vietnam, 1 in Australia). The new partnership with RIA 3 (Vietnam) has contributed significantly to the capacity of the group in this area, with several exchanges taking place between Vietnam and Philippines. The recent completion of a purpose-built hatchery facility at SEAFDEC Aquaculture Department, Iloilo, Philippines, will add significantly to the capacity of the project for hatchery production, training of partners and scaling out to industry. At the Vietnam node, pond-based nursery production of both 5g and 30-50g juveniles for provision to industry participants has been very successful, with farmers keen on larger juveniles due to shorter grow-out periods. A continued and important focus is possible alternative systems for nursery production where ponds are not available.
Sea-ranching trials:
Some 65,000 hatchery produced sandfish have now been released in cooperation with local community groups across 4 sites in Philippines (3 in northern Luzon, 1 in Mindanao). Monitoring has continued showing variable growth and survival rates, and shedding new light on the viability of different models of sea ranching. Negative growth was seen following storm action from 2 typhoons at the Victory site in Northern Luzon, and it appears that the loss of organic components in sediments following the storm may be the driver of this decrease. Significantly, sampling of chemically tagged individuals at one site has shown substantial movement beyond the gazetted ranching site, raising some concerns about the size of ranching areas, and the 'uncaged' model of sea ranching. Small numbers of sandfish have been harvested from sea ranching areas although low wet:dry weight ratios (about 3%) have been observed. Security issues at 3 sites (loss due to poaching) have largely been overcome though combinations of improved guarding and community dialogue. Following complications that rendered a chosen site inappropriate, a final site for the Mindanao node (Barangay Tambo) has recently been selected, and discussions with the People's Organisation have been positive and productive.
Spawning of hatchery-produced stock:
Successful spawning of hatchery-produced sandfish (male and female) was observed at ranching sites in northern Luzon, with synchronised spawning at 2 spatially isolated sites. This confirms that hatchery-produced sandfish can generate viable spawning stocks, and lends support to the possibility of effective stock enhancement.
Australian trial - Goulburn Island:
A redesigned Australian pilot trial has commenced, with successful community consultations and site selection visits with aboriginal groups on Goulburn Island and Groote Eylandt. Sampling protocols have been designed, and pilot trials will soon commence. Permits are currently being sort to allow local communities to harvest and process sea cucumbers. The industry partner (Tasmanian Seafoods Pty Ltd) has agreed to supply processing equipment and train community members in processing methods. Delays with hatchery production have seen the schedule for large-scale releases moved back to early 2011, with smaller pilot releases to be conducted from 3rd quarter 2010.
Pond and co-culture trials:
Preliminary tank-based co-culture trials with five species of finfish (at SEAFDEC AQD) and vannamei shrimp (at RIA3, Vietnam) have been completed. Four species of finfish proved to be viable for early stages of co-culture, while some issues were encountered with shrimp trials; shrimp at semi-intensive farming densities were deleterious to sandfish growth and survival, and further trials are being undertaken. Rotational culture is being trialled by several cooperating farmers in Vietnam, with good results to date. A co-ordinated harvest of 5 t of cultured sandfish from a number of ponds resulted in keen interest from buyers, and a good price for product.
Value-chain analysis and bio-economic modelling:
A value chain analysis in Philippines is mostly complete. This includes a detailed analysis of the 'value added' at each node of the chain, and leads to a comprehensive characterisation of the industry at all levels. Options for value-chain upgrading are highlighted. This analysis will be repeated in Vietnam later this year, with distant market surveys (Singapore, Hong Kong and China) completing the analysis.
Preliminary bio-economic models as developed in FIS-2007-117 were presented to a group of researchers, government agencies and industry participants for input and comment. Suggestions have been incorporated, and a second draft of these models is now available to be circulated to project nodes for testing. Incorporation of empirical growth, survival and cost data will be incorporated in the next iteration of models.

This project uses value chain analysis through a series of pilot systems (case studies) as a unifying framework to identify constraints and opportunities for indigenous enterprise development using floriculture.
The project conducts its work through three key objectives and the following project initiatives have been achieved to date.
Objective 1: To identify and analyse floriculture value chain arrangements and opportunities.
Information was collected in the Nadi (Fiji) floriculture sector through in-depth interviews with industry participants and one consumer focus group discussion. Most of the interviews conducted surrounded the South Sea Orchids' (SSO) supply or value chain. Key value chain considerations included: insufficient supply of flowers to meet market demands, 'break-away' growers / marketers from the SSO supply chain and among non-project growers, insufficient knowledge and skills relating to growing flowers (particularly among small out-growers), lack of quality specifications, and a need to introduce new cultivars. [Non-project growers are those who are not in either the Koroipita or HART aid projects. Growers under these two projects must work with SSO, which harvests for them and 'stabilises' that supply chain. Growers not in these projects are free to sell to others.]

Opportunities for the Fijian floricultural sector were identified with recommendations for workshops on floricultural skills, introduction of new cultivars, a strategic alliance with tourism industries, promotion of floricultural products by local and national governments with targeted marketing to new customers (e.g. government departments, hotels, tourists), and a capacity building workshop on supply chain management.

A visit to Sydney's Flemington Flower Market was undertaken by Aboriginal Bush Traders (ABT) in November 2010 as value chain analysis research for cycad fronds. This activity involved preliminary work; including harvesting of fronds, postharvest treatment and packaging, pricing, and development of promotional material. Data collected as a result of this activity suggested that the local Darwin market is more viable in regard to cycads. Expansion to wider markets would require more research on freight options and competitive pricing.
Objective 2: To provide new and improved products and practices to floriculture enterprises.
Consultation with the landscaping industry of Fiji has provided a sound basis for identification of native plants suited to landscaping and nursery based enterprises. During consultation, further interest was shown from reforestation and landscape restoration programmes in Fiji that are seeking large volumes of native trees.
Surveying, collecting, trialling and multiplying selected native plants in Fiji is progressing according to schedule. A nursery facility has been established and is quickly filling with a range of native Fijian plants to constitute Fiji's first commercial native plant nursery. Adjacent to the nursery is the beginning of a demonstration garden set up to trial and showcase landscaping with native plants. A first step towards incorporating native plants in the urban landscape was made through a joint landscaping project at a major apartment complex in the heart of Suva comprising almost entirely native plants.
A catalogue of the ginger and allies (viz., Zingiber, Alpinia, Etlingera, Curcuma) accessions bred and developed by NTDoR is being developed. This catalogue will list the accessions available for exchange with the project partners in Fiji, Solomon Islands, and PNG towards providing new and improved plant species and cultivars.
Preparations for best practice field trials have commenced in Darwin in the context of investigating the following ginger production issues of red ginger decline, soil fertility, and appropriate production technologies.
Objective 3: To strengthen floriculture enterprises by building horticultural and business skills and fostering a positive environment.
Aboriginal Bush Traders has secured a regional Parks & Wildlife permit for the harvesting of cycad fronds, which has seen the harvesting of cycad fronds on a more regular basis. This has facilitated the promotion of floriculture as a potential activity for Indigenous people in the region. Flower arrangements using cycads and other native and tropical plants were crafted by a local Indigenous florist for display at three separate functions at Lyons Cottage in the Darwin CBD and foreshore. These demonstrations were accompanied by a leaflet on the ACIAR project. The activities resulted in a number of enquiries from prospective flower arrangement buyers.

Aboriginal Bush Traders also conducted a 2 day 'Introduction to Floral Arrangements' workshop which was attended by local Indigenous women. The workshop was well received in that feedback indicated that most of the participants would be interested in further floriculture activities. Some floral arrangements from the workshop were gifted to several local businesses in order to promote the project. Responses were good with requests for more information and commercial orders being received for arrangements Work is being underway on development of business and pricing models to scope the capacity to cater to these types of requests.

Since Project start-up on 1st June 2007 and the conduct of Project Inception meeting on 30 July - 3 August 2007 at the UP-MSI Bolinao Marine Laboratory, Philippines, the following has been accomplished and they are elaborated in the Annex sections of this report:

Completed upgrading of the hatchery and initiated production of sandfish juveniles at the UP-MSI Bolinao Marine Laboratory as well as sea ranching activities in two villages (i.e., Victory and Silaki) in Bolinao, Philippines;

Initiated production of sandfish juveniles for Davao node, preparation of High ponds for larval/juvenile rearing, and initial consultations with communities in Barangay Bato, Davao, Philippines);

Initiated construction of hatchery at NIFTDC in Dagupan, Philippines and aided NFRDI to produce sandfish juveniles;

Site assessments for potential restocking experiment were conducted in Northern Luzon, Philippines;

NT node coordinator continued contact with project key personnel in Australia (i.e., Warruwi Community, DAFF and Tasmanian Seafoods) while awaiting project funding from the Aboriginal Business Account;

Organization and conduct of the "Hatchery Operations Training" from 24 March to 15 April 2008 at NIFTDC and UP-MSI Bolinao Marine Laboratory. The training was participated by key project staff from the Philippines, i.e., NFRDI, UP-MSI and UP-Min including BFAR Regional staff;

Organization and conduct of the "Release Strategy Workshop" on 14-18 April 2008 at NIFTDC in Dagupan and UP-MSI Bolinao Marine Laboratory. The workshop was participated by key research partners in the Philippines and Australia including scientist from Indonesia, Malaysia and Vietnam; and

Participation of key project staff in various national meetings/reviews and planning sessions in support of the National Extension and Advisory Group.

Annex 7 indicates the Projects' Financial semi-annual report covering the period 1 December to 31 May 2008.

Hatchery production of sandfish
Significant progress has been made with the production of juvenile sandfish for sea ranching trials. In year 2 of the project, this has involved initiating new production nodes, as well as improving methods and removing 'bottlenecks' in existing systems. The Bolinao node produced ca. 26,300 juveniles (>3g) between May 2007 to September 2008. Typhoon damage to the newly constructed hatchery at Dagupan (National Fisheries Research and Development Institute) delayed commissioning until temporary repairs could be affected in May 2008. About 6,300 juveniles were produced from July - December 2008, of which about 4,000 were used for sea ranching trials in the northern Luzon area.
Due to difficulties with transporting broodstock and juveniles from Bolinao to Mindanao, a production facility was established in Mindanao. Spawning trials also conducted with Alsons Corporation (a private hatchery). From an approved objective of producing 10,000 juveniles per year, this node has produced 2,000 sandfish to-date, however it is clear here also that significant progress in shifting production bottlenecks has been made. All production nodes reported significant dividends in hatchery survival following a visit to the RIA 3 hatchery facility in Nha Trang, Vietnam. The largest constraints (bottlenecks) for production are now post-hatchery, and relate to appropriate technology and facilities for juvenile on-growing.
Establishing sea ranching trials
Good progress was made in engaging communities and local government units in the project. Five sea ranching sites have been established in collaboration with People's Organisations (POs) or other local actors, and are in varying stages of development. Partners in four sites have permits from the local government to manage and exclusively harvest sea cucumbers in the 5 hectare sea ranching area. Socio-economic and biophysical assessments, and monitoring of growth and survival of released juveniles were conducted at the four more advanced sites.
The first site (Victory, Bolinao Pangasinan) was formally established in September 2007. It is managed by a local fisher organization. Following on from the first year releases of 5,011 hatchery-reared juveniles (> 3g), a further 11,106 juveniles were released in year 2 (target 10,000). Monitoring of growth and survival is progressing well, although the staining techniques adopted to identify released individuals are not proving to be satisfactory. Alternatives will be investigated. Releases of between 5,500 and 2000 juveniles have occurred at 3 other sites. The least advanced site (Barangay Libuak, Mindinao) is currently being surveyed, and the process of obtaining permits has commenced.
The initial plan to conduct sea ranching trials with Aboriginal communities in Australia has not come to fruition at this stage. This component was initially contingent on substantial additional funding from sources within Australia, and this funding has not eventuated. Alternative approaches to working with these communities are currently being investigated.
Restocking trials
Following significant effort on site assessment and selection, it was clear that conducting valid, controlled trials to assess the success of stock enhancement would not be feasible. It was therefore proposed that the restocking experiment not be pursued as part of this project. This decision was endorsed recently by the mid-project review panel.
Project Review
On 4 - 5 June 2009, a mid-project review was conducted in Manila to assess progress against milestones, and provide an adaptive implementation process to re-focus the research on issues identified to be limiting progress. A mid-term review panel comprising representatives from the Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) and Philippine national institutions involved in resource management and development recommended a number of revisions to the planned program and for ACIAR to continue to invest in the project for a further 2 years. Among the most significant changes was the inclusion of a new partner (SEAFDEC Aquaculture Department) in the Philippines, implementing new research on pond production of sandfish, and including a Vietnam node in the project with a focus on pond-based production.

Hatchery production and nursery systems:
Capacity to regularly and repeatedly produce sandfish juveniles continues to improve at varying rates across the 6 production nodes (4 in Philippines, 1 in Vietnam, 1 in Australia). The new partnership with RIA 3 (Vietnam) has contributed significantly to the capacity of the group in this area, with several exchanges taking place between Vietnam and Philippines. The recent completion of a purpose-built hatchery facility at SEAFDEC Aquaculture Department, Iloilo, Philippines, will add significantly to the capacity of the project for hatchery production, training of partners and scaling out to industry. At the Vietnam node, pond-based nursery production of both 5g and 30-50g juveniles for provision to industry participants has been very successful, with farmers keen on larger juveniles due to shorter grow-out periods. A continued and important focus is possible alternative systems for nursery production where ponds are not available.
Sea-ranching trials:
Some 65,000 hatchery produced sandfish have now been released in cooperation with local community groups across 4 sites in Philippines (3 in northern Luzon, 1 in Mindanao). Monitoring has continued showing variable growth and survival rates, and shedding new light on the viability of different models of sea ranching. Negative growth was seen following storm action from 2 typhoons at the Victory site in Northern Luzon, and it appears that the loss of organic components in sediments following the storm may be the driver of this decrease. Significantly, sampling of chemically tagged individuals at one site has shown substantial movement beyond the gazetted ranching site, raising some concerns about the size of ranching areas, and the 'uncaged' model of sea ranching. Small numbers of sandfish have been harvested from sea ranching areas although low wet:dry weight ratios (about 3%) have been observed. Security issues at 3 sites (loss due to poaching) have largely been overcome though combinations of improved guarding and community dialogue. Following complications that rendered a chosen site inappropriate, a final site for the Mindanao node (Barangay Tambo) has recently been selected, and discussions with the People's Organisation have been positive and productive.
Spawning of hatchery-produced stock:
Successful spawning of hatchery-produced sandfish (male and female) was observed at ranching sites in northern Luzon, with synchronised spawning at 2 spatially isolated sites. This confirms that hatchery-produced sandfish can generate viable spawning stocks, and lends support to the possibility of effective stock enhancement.
Australian trial - Goulburn Island:
A redesigned Australian pilot trial has commenced, with successful community consultations and site selection visits with aboriginal groups on Goulburn Island and Groote Eylandt. Sampling protocols have been designed, and pilot trials will soon commence. Permits are currently being sort to allow local communities to harvest and process sea cucumbers. The industry partner (Tasmanian Seafoods Pty Ltd) has agreed to supply processing equipment and train community members in processing methods. Delays with hatchery production have seen the schedule for large-scale releases moved back to early 2011, with smaller pilot releases to be conducted from 3rd quarter 2010.
Pond and co-culture trials:
Preliminary tank-based co-culture trials with five species of finfish (at SEAFDEC AQD) and vannamei shrimp (at RIA3, Vietnam) have been completed. Four species of finfish proved to be viable for early stages of co-culture, while some issues were encountered with shrimp trials; shrimp at semi-intensive farming densities were deleterious to sandfish growth and survival, and further trials are being undertaken. Rotational culture is being trialled by several cooperating farmers in Vietnam, with good results to date. A co-ordinated harvest of 5 t of cultured sandfish from a number of ponds resulted in keen interest from buyers, and a good price for product.
Value-chain analysis and bio-economic modelling:
A value chain analysis in Philippines is mostly complete. This includes a detailed analysis of the 'value added' at each node of the chain, and leads to a comprehensive characterisation of the industry at all levels. Options for value-chain upgrading are highlighted. This analysis will be repeated in Vietnam later this year, with distant market surveys (Singapore, Hong Kong and China) completing the analysis.
Preliminary bio-economic models as developed in FIS-2007-117 were presented to a group of researchers, government agencies and industry participants for input and comment. Suggestions have been incorporated, and a second draft of these models is now available to be circulated to project nodes for testing. Incorporation of empirical growth, survival and cost data will be incorporated in the next iteration of models.