Mapping the extension capability of the Goulburn Valley Fresh Pear Sector

Overview

This study set out to map extension capability (information and advice) used by pear growers in the Goulburn Valley to support their decision making about the future of their pear orchards.

Project Summary

The Goulburn Valley is Australia’s leading pear production region however declining opportunities for canning and local fresh pears along with rising costs and diminishing returns leaves growers facing major decisions whether or not to expand production and plant new varieties given current uncertainty over market returns and orchard viability. Growers also need to factor in the potential for emerging opportunities to supply fresh pear exports to Asian markets that could potentially underpin the future profitability and sustainability of this industry in the Goulburn Valley. This study investigated the social networks growers are using to support their decision making about current and future pear growing.

Project Duration

2015 - 2016

Research Group Leader/Key contact

Dr Barbara King

Other Personnel

Megan Hill and Aimee McCutcheon (Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources (DEDJTR)

Contact details

Dr Barbara King
kingbj@unimelb.edu.au

Partnership details

This project was an initiative of the Horticulture Innovation Seed Fund, funded by the Horticulture Centre of Excellence in partnership with the University of Melbourne

Resources/Links

Final Project Report: Mapping the extension capability of the Goulburn Valley fresh pear sector June 2016

Publications

Mapping the extension capability of the Goulburn Valley fresh pear network, King and Hill, Rural Extension and Innovation Systems Journal (in progress)