AUSVEG CEO, Richard Mulcahy, expressed his encouragement for anyone working within a vegetable growing business to apply.

“The tour will take ten growers who’ve shown passion for a prosperous vegetable industry, through horticultural regions in Israel and Spain, where they’ll learn about cutting edge water management technologies and view innovative growing practices in climates similar to those experienced in Australia,” he said.

Supported by Vegetable Levies with matched funds from the Australian Government, the tour will coincide with the Fruit Logistica trade fair in Berlin, Germany, which is one of the largest international events of its kind.

“Growers will be given a fantastic opportunity to connect with multiple sectors of the fresh produce industry at Fruit Logistica,” Mr Mulcahy went on to say.

Fruit Logistica is the leading trade fair for the international fresh produce industry and will feature more than 2,000 companies from across the entire industry and annually attracts 50,000 visitors from 120 countries.

“Fruit Logistica is a great opportunity for growers to network and learn from international industry leaders,” said Mr Mulcahy, who has been asked by the AUSVEG Board to lead the tour.

Participants’ tour costs will be significantly subsidised by the National Vegetable Levy, though growers will be asked to contribute $3,000 towards the cost of the tour. All accommodation and most meals will be included, along with economy airfares and land travel.

A non-subsidised supplement for business class airfares will be offered subject to availability.

The tour is open to all Vegetable Levy payers and AUSVEG encourages anyone working within a vegetable growing business to apply.

Initial expressions of interest for the tour are currently being accepted with application forms to be distributed shortly.

Growers who are interested in registering their interest should contact Communications Officer, Erin Lyall no later than 24 December 2009 on 03 9544 8098.