A new program has commenced for the chestnut industry that combines the management of the exotic disease – chestnut blight – with a program to further develop and expand the market opportunities for chestnuts.

Funding of $300,000 was provided to Chestnuts Australia under the Victorian Government ‘Food to Market’ program with the specific aim of improved management of chestnut blight.

Minister for Agriculture Mary-Anne Thomas said the ‘Food to Market program’ is an excellent example of how the Victorian government was providing timely support to agribusinesses impacted by the pandemic, while capitalising on opportunities to expand into new markets over the longer term.

President of Chestnuts Australia, Brian Casey said the chestnut industry was most appreciative of the past and continued support of the Victorian Government and Agriculture Victoria in relation to managing the exotic disease – chestnut blight.

“The funding we have received will assist growers and the Victorian chestnut industry to grow its domestic and export market opportunities,” he said.

Funding has enabled chestnuts Australia to:

• engage an industry biosecurity officer for a two-year period to provide on-farm training and advice to growers on effectively managing pests and disease

• support the chestnut industry to increase production and productivity

• increase chestnut industry export market opportunities with increased confidence through improved biosecurity practices

• increase job retention and growth in the chestnut industry.

Mr Casey said the support will result in the development of a comprehensive surveillance program and liaison with the state, territory and commonwealth government, specifically on promoting market access and removing pest threat trade barriers.

“We are pleased to support our chestnut industry to ensure that their wonderful produce can expand its reach across the globe, helping deliver on our vision for an agriculture sector that is strong, innovative and sustainable,” Minister Thomas said.