Words Chi Nguyen, Regional Development Officer, vegetablesWA

ALONG the way, I joined field days, set up trials, shared updates on pests and diseases, connected with industry partners, and — most importantly — listened to what matters most to growers right now. Geraldton: Innovation in hydroponics

In July, I teamed up with DPIRD and VegNet for a Farm Field Afternoon in Geraldton. One of the highlights was seeing a grower-led shift to a full-circulation hydroponic system for cucumber production — a big step towards more productive, sustainable, and resilient growing. Close to 50 growers and stakeholders came along to hear from experts on water management, soil-borne disease control, climate-smart technologies, and integrated pest management in greenhouses. Afterwards, Bao Nguyen took us on a guided farm walk before we all gathered for a relaxed networking BBQ. Thank you to Bao, your family, and your team for the warm welcome and for sharing one of the freshest, tastiest cucumbers.

Bao Nguyen’s presentation, Geraldton.

In horticulture, the work never really slows down — and that’s what makes it so rewarding. July and August saw me visiting growers from the Perth metro area up to Geraldton and Carnarvon, then down to Albany.

August took me north again for the DPIRD Vegetable Variety Field Day, where growers explored more than 150 tomato and capsicum varieties thriving in local conditions.

I also shared updates on Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (TBRFV), a serious threat to these crops. It was a great chance to exchange knowledge and hear the region’s feedback on pest and disease challenges. Perth: Helping growers fight disease

Alongside Helen Newman from WA Berries, we ran the Strawberry Grower Workshop on Disease Identification and Fungicide Spray Programs in Wanneroo.

With guest expert Apollo Gomez and researchers from Curtin University, growers and agronomists explored ways to better manage disease and tackle fungicide resistance, particularly for botrytis.