vegetables

15
Photography by Chris Kershaw.
greenhouse on-site which is due
to be finalised at the end of this
year. I have been involved in the
construction of the greenhouse
throughout 2015.
What do you enjoy most
about working in the
vegetable industry?
I have been involved in the
industry from a young age, and
have had the opportunity to
learn how a successful farm is
run. Every day is varied, and I
love the fact that every day is
not routine. I also get to use my
problem solving skills, to work
out different site issues. I’m also
excited about the new venture
into the greenhouse.
What are the biggest
challenges you face in
the industry?
benefits of improved energy and
water efficiency.
How do you think more
young people can be
encouraged to take up
jobs in the vegetable
industry?
It’s important for young
people to know that there are
opportunities to reach their
potential within the vegetable
industry. Reflecting on my
own career, I have had the
opportunity to develop skills
in a variety of areas, including
growing, sales and business,
maintenance and mechanics.
The industry is continually
changing in response to new
technologies, so I definitely see
a role for young people within
the industry, who are interested
in leading innovation.
Vegetables Australia November/December 2015
What is your role in the
business?
As Farm Manager, I am mainly
involved in the coordination
of harvesting, packaging and
delivery of products to our
suppliers.
How would you describe
your average day at
work?
Every day is different and
varied. My day usually consists
of liaising with suppliers, and
Photography by Chris Kershaw
ensuring quality and correct
quantities of our products
for delivery. I respond to
maintenance issues on
site, and ensure irrigation,
machinery and equipment are
running efficiently. I adopt a
very hands-on role, including
operation of the potato and
carrot harvesting equipment,
which is shared between
my father and myself. I am
responsible for ensuring soil
preparation prior to planting
and assisting with seeding/
planting.
Baldivis Farms is currently
developing a large-scale
Our biggest challenge is the
changing climate and its impact
on the quality of our vegetables.
In summer, salinity has
become more of an issue, so
this requires heavy monitoring
of crops to ensure the best
possible quality.
Where do you see
opportunities for growth
in the Australian
vegetable industry?
Protected cropping has become
more commonly used in
Australia in recent years. There
are many benefits to protected
cropping for farmers and
consumers, including increased
climate control (ensures
protection against unpredictable
and uncontrollable weather
conditions), fresh, local produce
that is available out of season,
as well as the environmental
If you weren’t working in
the vegetable industry,
what would you be
doing?
I am lucky that I have the
opportunity to use the skills I
have gained from running my
own electrical business, and
applying these to the farming
environment. If I wasn’t involved
in the family business, I would
consider the building industry.
Where do you see
yourself in five years?
I see myself taking on more
responsibilities at the farm, as
we continue to change and
grow.