The free event for Riverina citrus growers and industry advisors will be held on October 16 at the Griffith Leagues club and October 17 at Mario’s Packhouse.

Secretary for the Griffith Citrus Growers Association Vito Mancini says the event has been specifically catered for citrus farmers in the Griffith-Leeton region.

“The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) has worked with the Griffith Citrus Association to find out what our concerns are, meaning we developed the show from the ground up,” Mr Mancini said.

“Most growers want a better way of doing things, and this event is trying to help them get higher quality produce and more output with less input, taking them to that next level.”

Mr Mancini says the most common problems in the area are typically the Citrus Gall Wasp, Fullers Rose Weevil, and weed management – all of which will be addressed.

NSW DPI Citrus Development Officer Steven Falivene said the event was designed as a one-stop shop for local citrus producers.

There will be taste tests of new late-maturing orange and mandarin varieties, an exploration of the economics of overhead netting, insights into irrigation and solar-powered pumps and rootstock compatibility, as well as re-working techniques.

Tuesday will also see demonstrations on pruning to lift navel orange pack outs, with a first grade pack out demonstration and discussion.

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With over 90 registrations so already, the event is set to be one of the biggest events in the region of it’s kind, and there is still room for more registrations.

“The statistics say there are around 430 citrus farms in Griffith and Leeton, with 260 farmers, so we are on track to almost having half of the farmers coming,” Mr Mancini said.

This is the inaugural event for the Citrus Roadshow in Griffith, and Mr Mancini says it’s success will determine whether it will become an annual event.

“We are hoping it will lay great foundations for upcoming years.”

Registration for the event, workshop and demonstrations is essential for catering and organisational purposes, so contact dareton.office@dpi.nsw.gov.au or call NSW DPI, (03) 5019 8405.

Alternatively, information is available online. 

The citrus roadshow is free thanks to funding and sponsorship from NSW DPI, Griffith and District Citrus Growers, Leeton Citrus Growers, Yenda Producers, The Daily Drinks Co., Murrumbidgee Irrigation, Elders, Mildura Fruit Company, Super Seasons and Riverina Biosecurity Inc.