The recent Hort Connections 2024 event provided delegates with a unique opportunity to explore the latest innovations and technology within the horticulture industry, featuring informative farm tours and insightful experiences.
The first destination on the tour was Boomaroo Nurseries, a prominent supplier of vegetable seedlings and Greenlife located in Lara, Australia. Delegates were given the privilege of observing the advanced automation in greenhouse seed production of salad products. This included a detailed examination of the automated handling systems that significantly improve the quality, consistency, traceability, efficiency and reliability of their production process.
Boomaroo Nurseries has the capacity to produce up to two million Greenlife potted plants across more than 100 product lines, establishing themselves as one of Australia’s largest vegetable seedlings and Greenlife suppliers. The company’s National Sales Manager, Jo van Niekerk, provided valuable insights into the operations and highlighted the company’s capability to grow from the customer’s own seed genetics.
The tour then led the delegates to Tripod Farmers in Bacchus Marsh, a family business specialising in fresh, premium-quality salads and vegetables. Joint Managing Director, Angela Candeloro, welcomed the delegates and introduced them to innovative LaserWeeder technology from Carbon Robotics. This revolutionary technology is designed to eliminate weeds through the use of lasers, contributing to regenerative farming approaches and healthier crop yields. Mark Zahnlecker from Carbon Robotics elaborated on the benefits of using automated robots, particularly in reducing labour costs and the use of crop inputs such as herbicides and fertilisers.
The final stop on the tour was Boratto Farms, renowned for their leading salad and vegetable production. The Boratto family, who has been farming since 1966, shared valuable insights regarding the importance of understanding the specific details of their property, as well as the introduction of new technologies and practices in their farming operations. Delegates also had the opportunity to experience a software system designed to streamline health and safety processes, compliance regulations and daily farm operations.
In conclusion, the exclusive farm tours provided delegates with a firsthand look at the cutting-edge technology and strategies being employed by these leading agricultural businesses. From advanced automation in seed production to groundbreaking laser weeding, the tour highlighted the pivotal role of innovation in shaping the future of the horticulture industry.