APAL’s Post-harvest Seminar on Wednesday 20 January 2021 will be delivered entirely online as COVID-19 and border restrictions continue to create uncertainty for apple and pear growers across the nation.

APAL Industry Services Manager Justin Smith said APAL and industry had been hopeful of returning to onsite delivery at Montague’s new state of the art facility at Narre Warren next week, but had moved to online to ensure there were no barriers to the event.

“To put it simply, we are really excited by the content and we don’t want uncertainty about border restrictions or quarantine requirements to get in the way of our members being part of this important event,” said Mr Smith.

The online event is now free to all attendees and will feature a virtual tour of Montague’s new retail space “The Orchard” and production facilities.

While the format has changed, the event content remains and will provide a unique opportunity for Australian producers to tap into the thinking of major packhouse technology providers to understand what’s driving the development of their systems and technology.

What does a smart packhouse look like?

Montague’s new facility will showcase the machines and technology in action, but it’s the data and information the systems can capture and use in real time that is driving efficiency, economies of scale and creating real market advantages for Montague and its suppliers.

“Emerging packing and coolstore technology is making the impossible possible,” said Andrew Mandemaker, APAL Head of Group Quality, Innovation and Commercialisation.

“In one pass the fruit is sorted and graded using external and internal quality measures. It’s a level of efficiency and sophistication that allows producers to consistently and repeatedly match quality grades to consumer and retailer demands.”

“It’s a unique opportunity for Australian producers, as well as packhouse and coolstore operators to compare and contrast the systems while also exploring the underlying drivers that are reshaping quality management and consumer marketing opportunities for apple and pears,” said Mr Mandemaker.

To register for APAL’s online Post-harvest Seminar click on the following link:

https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/2021-post-harvest-seminar-tour-registration-132203824197