Katherine team helps grow minister’s understanding of research work
The work of the Katherine Research Station (KRS) team was in the spotlight last week as part of a ministerial visit to the farm.
The Minister for Agribusiness and Aquaculture, Nicole Manison, toured the facility and received briefings from staff on a number of projects.
Acting Plant Industries Director, Dr Muhammad Sohail Mazhar, said work on the sustainable development of plant-based industries in the region was high on the agenda.
“At the Katherine Research Station, the minister was provided with an update on 16 projects the team is currently implementing in partnership with industry stakeholders.”
“The projects are focused on improving productivity, profitability, and diversification of cropping systems,” he said.
“The minister visited the research facilities, met with the staff members, viewed the Kakadu plum and mango plants in the shade house and very much appreciated the work the team is doing.”
Upcoming work on new projects was also highlighted, along with the Katherine Research Station’s work on biosecurity and livestock research, development and engagement activities.
Acting Livestock Director and Principal Livestock Research Scientist, Tim Schatz, said the minister was briefed on livestock research projects in the Katherine region.
“The Livestock Industry group has numerous projects in the region aiming to sustainably improve the productivity and profitability of cattle stations,” he said.
“There are several projects currently underway using new technology - such as GPS tracking collars, accelerometers and birth sensors - to investigate the causes of calf loss and the minister was able to view the cattle and technology involved in the uSuckle project at KRS.”
Minister Manison also visited other farms that are collaborating with the Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade on research, development and engagement projects.
