Victoria's $15.9 million horticultural netting program fully allocated

The Horticultural Netting Program in Victoria has successfully allocated its budget of $15 million by awarding 190 grants to 150 producers over three rounds of funding distribution supported by both federal and state governments.The program aimed to aid horticulture producers—excluding wine grape growers—by offering financial support of up to $150k, for acquiring and setting up new netting systems on their farms. The software is designed to protect crops from dangers, like hail and sun damage. It also helps in keeping pest animals and has the potential to save water usage in orchards by about 20%.

The state government mentioned that the use of netting is anticipated to improve the quality of fruits and help deal with the impacts of bad weather and pests which would result in higher earnings for farmers in the end. Julie Collins. The Federal Minister for Agriculture emphasized how this initiative will strengthen the ability of farmers to withstand challenges and keep providing top notch produce. One of those benefiting from this scheme is Temhem Pty Ltd. A company that grows and packs fruits located in Lemnos, near Shepparton. The organization used the funding to protect four hectares of Nashi Pears with nets in order to minimize damage from hail and safeguard against birds and bats intrusion."Thanks to these grants we were able to grow our land area significantly " expressed Shannan Mehmet. The director of Temhem Pty Ltd. emphasizing the positive impact, on fruit quality and the profitability of these specific areas.