BARKER LEADING THE WAY IN TACKLING WEED SCOURGE

• Australian Government investing in Australian Wine Research Institute Limited’s project to develop an innovative weeds control solution.
• Australian Wine Research Institute Limited will undertake a three-year research project, investing in autonomous machinery to replace herbicide for under-vine weed control.

Australian Wine Research Institute based in Barossa has been awarded $669,850 in Australian Government funding to develop innovative ways of tackling some of the country’s worst weeds.

Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management David Littleproud said Australian Wine Research Institute Limited was one of 19 successful projects of the $13 million Advancing Pest Animal and Weed Control Solutions Competitive Grant Round.

“The aim of this program is to research and advance breakthrough solutions to control of some of our worst established pest animals and weeds, including fall armyworm and prickly acacia,” Minister Littleproud said.

“Technologies could be adapted to control other pest and weed species, providing a broader suite of control options for integrated pest and weed management.

“Grant round projects will also assist in overcoming emerging issues such as herbicide resistance and provide more effective alternatives for controlling pests such as hive beetles.

Member for Barker Tony Pasin said he was delighted Australian Wine Research Institute Limited has been successful in its application for funding.

“Australian Wine Research Institute Limited’s project will automate a vineyard tractor and evaluate its ability to work with mechanical weeding tools under a range of conditions, additionally reducing cost.”

“Herbicides are commonly used to manage under-vine weeds in Australian vineyards, but there is increasing pressure to reduce their use. It’s great to see innovation in our region.”

“I congratulate this local team of innovators whose project will deliver significant benefits for our farmers, the environment and rural and regional communities,” Mr Pasin said.

Further details on the grant round and a list of successful applicants is at https://www.agriculture.gov.au/pests-diseases-weeds/pest-animals-and-weeds/grant-round

ENDS

Media Contact:
Mr David Littleproud Office: Douglas Ferguson 0455 448 985
Mr Tony Pasin MP Office: Anna Hawkins 0439 651 016 anna.hawkins@aph.gov.au