The Australian Fruit Growers Victorian Conference provided an opportunity for Dr Greg Lang from Michigan University to visit NSW and Victorian cherry growing regions while he was in the country. 

Extension and communication for the Australian cherry industry via project CY22002 delivered two workshops with Dr Lang in Orange and the Yarra Valley.  

The workshops focussed on management of cherries under protective covers, what considerations growers should be making in these systems, and how canopy management systems are important to ensure good light penetration under covers. 

Dr Lang then led in orchard discussions in both workshops, where growers could see protective cover systems and different canopy structures, whilst understanding how to improve these practices.

Both workshops were well attended and interest was strong with over 100 cherry growers joining in on discussions. 

CY22002 is a project designed to improve the exchange of information within the cherry industry to increase efficiency and develop resilience by adopting improved practices and technologies. 

The project team will ensure cherry growers and industry stakeholders are better informed through improved communication and information available through the delivery of newsletters, case studies, fact sheets, workshops, orchard walks, videos and podcasts.

These activities are all designed to create a more robust industry that will be able to expand and improve market access for both existing and future international markets while maximising export growth and an increase in global production.

Videos and presentations from the workshops can be found on the Cherry Growers Australia website and socials.