THE Australian Melon Association is set to receive $224,800 to to develop leadership skills.
The money comes the Federal Government’s $5 million Leadership in Agricultural Industries Fund.
Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, Senator Anne Ruston, said the funding will help a consortium of horticulture associations come together to establish a leadership program for 40 participants.
“The Leadership Exploration and Development (LEAD) program will include residential workshops, webinars and mentoring programs,” Ms Ruston said.
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“The Melon Association will work with Australian Banana Growers’ Council, Australian Lychee Growers Association, Australian Mango Industry Association, Avocados Australia Ltd, Passionfruit Australia, Persimmons Australia, Queensland Strawberries and GROWCOM as part of a consortium of organisations which will benefit from the LEAD program.
“It is wonderful to see iconic and emerging horticulture industries working together to make sure they have the leaders of today and tomorrow.
“By investing in the leadership skills in the melon and tropical fruit industry, we are ensuring Australia’s producers have the advocacy skills and know-how to champion their industries' priorities.”
The Australian melon industry consists of about 250 growers producing some 225,727 tonnes (2015/16) of melons annually including watermelons, rockmelons and honeydew melons.