NEWS ARCHIVE

09-07-2010 - International Company Director's Course award to Kiri-ganai Director

Having attended the International Company Directors Course in Singapore in April and May, Kiri-ganai Managing Director, Prof. Richard Price, was this week awarded the associated graduating diploma.

"Kiri-ganai Research has extended its interests internationally on several fronts," stated Prof. Price, "and this brings with it a range of risks that demand the highest levels of good corporate governance.

"The Australian Institute of Company Directors is a leader in providing international Board governance training, and the intensive course in Singapore, and the subsequent examination and assignments, certainly demanded a lot of its participants to instil the level of rigour required to produce sound Board Directors working in international contexts."

Prof. Price will apply his new-found insights to current Kiri-ganai partnerships in China, Middle East, United Kingdom and the United States.

01-07-2010 - Kiri-ganai Research signs up to Climate CRC bid

Kiri-ganai Research has joined an international consortium as a core partner in the proposed Cooperative Research Centre for Climate and Weather Risk Technologies.

The consortium comprises Willis Re (the world's largest re-insurance broker), Suncorp (Australia's largest general insurance group), the University of Southern Queensland, Australian National University, Hadley Research Centre (of the UK Met Bureau) and over 50 local government councils coordinated under the Sydney Coastal Councils Group, Hunter & Central Coast Regional Environmental Management Strategy and the South East Councils Climate Change Alliance. The National Centre for Atmospheric Research (USA) and Australia's Bureau of Meteorology will also partner the CRC on specific projects.

The ten year investment from Kiri-ganai Research will specifically support the CRC's Small to Medium Enterprise (SME) strategy. In particular, it will help support SMEs that service the insurance, aviation, mining, energy, health and risk management sectors.

Kiri-ganai's Managing Director, Prof. Richard Price, chairs the Consortium Steering Committee. The application seeking Australian Government support, under its CRC programme, will be submitted on 2 July 2010. If the CRC is successful in in its bid, it will commence operation from July 2011.

29-06-2010 - Chinese Office of Wetland Management and Conservation and Kiri-ganai Research sign partnership agreement

The Chinese Office of Wetland Management and Conservation (OWMC) and Kiri-ganai Research have this week signed a partnership agreement to jointly implement the China Wetland Policy, Guidelines and Capacity Building project over the course of the next two years.

The project, supported by Australian and Chinese governments under the Australia-China Environment Development Partnership, involves a team of Chinese and overseas wetland technical experts under the supervision of Kiri-ganai Research. The OWMC plays an important partnership role in ensuring that the guidelines developed under the project are incorporated into the chinese wetland policy process.

"After three months of contract negotiations with my OWMC counterpart, Mr Yan Chengao, I am pleased to be in a position to now get on with the task at hand," stated Kiri-ganai Research Managing Director, Prof. Richard Price.

"Indeed, both Yan Chengao and I are optimistic that we can develop a range of guidelines that will go a long way to setting an international benchmark for natural and artificial wetland park management."

The project, also working with Wetlands International - China and Wetlands International - Oceania, is due to be completed by March 2012.

22-05-2010 - Reappointment to International Salinity Forum

Prof. Richard Price was today reappointed to the Advisory Committee of the International Salinity Forum. Meeting with fellow committee members Prof. Faisal Taha and Dr Shoaib Ismail (UAE), Dr Don Suarez (USA) and Mr Piet Nell (South Africa) in Dubai over 20-22 May, the Kiri-ganai Research Managing Director help set the pathway for the next and third conference of the ISF. This will be convened in Dubai around March 2012.

"The first two conferences of the ISF had very different agendas. With the USA hosting the fist conference in 2005 and Australia hosting the second in 2008, it was hardly surprising to see the agenda shift from a biophysical science emphasis towards more comprehensive and disciplinary-based themes," said Prof. Price. "We can expect a further shift at the next forum, where we are likely to gain greater insights into the salinity science and management of developing countries.

"Of course, we still await final deliberations of the United Arab Emirates government about their support for the event." Prof. Price cautioned. "That said, I am fully confident that the UAE government can make the event a huge success, and focus the world's attention on salinity issues in the region."

The ISF3 sees the passing of baton of the Convenor role in the ISF from Prof. Price to Prof. Taha. "It's great to see my good friend Faisal taking over the job as Convenor of the ISF. Don Suarez and I have had our turns and we can both tell you that while it is extremely rewarding, it is also very exhausting. Faisal is a man of great energy and should lead what ought to be a great event."

Information about the ISF3 will be posted as it becomes available.

21-04-2010 - China Wetlands Inception Workshop successfully convened in Beijing

The Inception Workshop of the Australia China Environmental Development Program Wetland Policy, Guidelines and Capacity Building Project was successfully convened today in Beijing, China. The Project is managed by Kiri-ganai Research in association with Wetlands International Oceania, Wetlands International China and China's Office for Wetland Management and Conservation.

More than 40 specialists from Australia and China attended, including program owners AusAID (Australia) and the Ministry of Commerce (China); the four Chinese core partners and key member ministries (State Forestry Administration, Ministry of Water Resources, Ministry of Environmental Protection and the National Development Reform Commission); the Program Coordination Office (PCO); international donors such as the the European Union (EU) and World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF); representatives from four pilot provincial Forestry Departments ( Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Fujian and Hainan) and from 5 wetland pilot sites ( Xixi, Qinhu, Lake Tai, Zhangjiangkou and Dongzhaigang); the media 'Greentimes' and a number of senior experts from Chinese institutions and universities.

In his opening speech, Kiri-ganai Research's Managing Director, Prof. Richard Price, called for a level of collaboration and commitment comensurate with the complexity involved in managing wetlands.

"Wetlands represent not only complex hydrological systems, but their condition reflects complaex human, social, economic and political interactions," stated Prof Price. "To that end, it is pleasing to see the Chinese Government has nominated experts to work alongside my team with a good understanding of all these processes."

The project will run over two years through to March 2012, culminating in the development and adoption of a range of wetland management guidelines for implementation at central, provincial and local wetland park levels.

01-03-2010 - Kiri-ganai supports bid for Climate and Weather Risk CRC

Appointed to chair a bid development committee to establish a Cooperative Research Centre for Climate and Weather Risk Technologies, Prof. Richard Price of Kiri-ganai Research said today that he was honoured to lead an international climate consortium second to none when it comes to turning climate science into climate applications.

The core partners of the proposed CRC include the University of Southern Queensland, the Australian National University, the Hadley Centre of the UK Met Bureau and the National Centre for Atmospheric Research (USA).

"The enormous research effort that has gone into addressing climate change over recent years has been incredibly important," stated Prof. Price. "However, it has also meant that we have taken our eye off the ball in terms of shorter-term risk management applications to deal with the high impact weather events that are likely to become more frequent under climate change."

"The Steering Committee is highly sensitive to the potential risk of moving into crowded territory, and where much of the territory is jealously guarded. But we believe that many important areas of research and application development are not being advanced, particularly in the financial and corporate sectors," Prof. Price stated. "We do not seek to replicate the important work of CSIRO or the Bureau of Meteorology, but rather seek to work alongside their initiatives to reach sectors of the business community and society that are screaming out for the concepts of climate change to be made more immediate and tangible to them.

Prof. Price believes that the international alliance of experts assempled presents a unique approach of dealing with risk management issues common across the globe. "It is not for nothing that the CRC proposal has attracted tremendous financial support from multi-national companies," Dr Price said.

The initial proposal for the CRC is required to be submitted to the Australian Government by 2 July 2010.

17-02-2010 - China wetlands project awarded to Kiri-ganai Research

Kiri-ganai Research, in collaboration with Wetlands International, has been awarded a major contract under the Australia-China Environment Development Partnership (ACEDP). The project, entitled Wetlands Policy Guidelines and Capacity Building, is one of nine major initiatives under the ACEDP, and will be carried out in collaboration with the Chinese Office of Wetland Conservation and Management.

"This project presents an enormous opportunity to contribute to the environmental health of a substantial part of China," state Professor Richard Price, Managing Director of Kiri-ganai Research.

According to the statistics of the first China National Wetland Inventory, carried out from 1996 to 2003, the total wetland area in China was 38.48 million ha and occupied 3.77% of the total territory. Among them, there are 5.94 million ha of coastal wetlands, 8.21 million ha of fluvial wetlands, 8.35 million ha of lakes, 13.70 million ha of marshes and 2.28 million ha of ponds & reservoirs.

The project will be carried out between March 2010 and March 2012, and will utilise both Chinese and international wetland specialists under the guidance of Kiri-ganai Research.

The ACEDP is an initiative of the Australian government, in collaboration with China, and is managed by GHD on behalf of AusAID.

24-12-2009 - It's Christmas - and 2010 needs you to take rest in preparation for the post Copenhagen onslaught

From all of us at Kiri-ganai Research, we wish our clients and everyone else trying to make the world a little more sustainable the most joyous and restful Christmas and New Year period.

And rest is what we will all need to recharge the energy levels for the next twelve months. There is more to sustainability than climate change, and whatever anyone's stance on the climate change debate, we can all agree that our environment and communities need all the attention we can give them. If there is anything we can learn from Copenhagen, it is that environmental action cannot rely solely on government. Individuals, communities and industries must share in the effort. And nothing but an onslaught of effort is what Kiri-ganai Research is commited to contributing.

While we at Kiri-ganai believe in the weight of scientific evidence supporting human-induced climate warming, we acknowledge that the climate debate has powerful social, cultural and institutional dimensions that give rise to scepticism. If nothing else, the process of science is based on debate, and social processes are as integral to scientific learning as are quantitative scientific analysis. Putting aside commitment to environmental action while the climate debate rages on denies the wideranging problems that still confront us.

So as we take rest over the Christmas and New Year Period, Kiri-ganai Research will continue planning for as busy a year as ever in 2010 to ensure that every step we take is a forward one.

02-11-2009 - University of Southern Queensland Appoints Kiri-ganai Research Professor

Dr Richard Price today becomes Professor Richard Price courtesy of an adjunct appointment to the University of Southern Queensland (USQ).

In an honour recognising the relationship Richard has shared with USQ researchers over the past twenty years, particularly in the field of climate and catchment management research, the appointment links Richard to the Australian Centre for Sustainable Catchments.

"This is indeed a big surprise and a great honour," says Professor Price. "In recent years I have worked with University staff, including Professor Roger Stone, to establish a Cooperative Research Centre for climate risk. This honour will spur me to work even harder to ensure that responses to climate risk are underpinned by sound science and sound partnerships.

"I thank the University for their kindness and generosity in making this appointment, and I aim to repay them through earnestness and commitment.

The USQ shares a special relationship with the Australian National University through a 'university hub' arrangement. Professor Price is in the unique position of having adjunct status at both universities, being a Fellow of the Fenner School of Environment and Society at the ANU.

Richard will continue to manage the affairs of Kiri-ganai Research.

16-09-2009 - Blurring business and science

As an example of the worlds of business, research and acedemia blending into new ways in which science is practiced, Kiri-ganai Research's Managing Director, Dr Richard Price, drew attention to the publication of the latest edition of the Journal of Animal Production Science. Six of theinternationally peer-reviewed papers appearing in this edition were authored or co-authored by Dr Price.

"Being in business does not mean that you cannot perform rigorous research capable of passing scientific peer revew," stated Dr Price.

"Indeed, as a quality assurance means of ensuring that the business does not compromise on rigour, stays up-to-date on the latest knowledge base and shares its own knowledge and experience in the name of corporate social responsibility, peer-reviewed publication can provide greater benefit than the cost of releasing potentially valuable intellectual property onto the open market."

The six publications include a range of topics as diverse as research integration, mixed farming systems, biodiversity and the social and cultural dimensions of complex research programs.

Details of the research papers follow:
Price, R.J. (2009) Research management, institutional arrangements and the quest for integration in mixed farming innovation. Animal Production Science 49 (9, 10): 928-940

Price, R.J. and Hacker, R.B. (2009) Grain & Graze: An innovative triple bottom line approach to collaborative and multi-disciplinary mixed-farming systems research, development and extension. Animal Production Science 49 (9, 10): 729-35

Price, R.J., Nicholson, C. and McGuckian, N. (2009). Contesting targets as a measurement of success in agricultural extension: A case study of the Grain & Graze Change-on-Farm strategy. Animal Production Science 49 (9, 10): 941-55

Rickards, L. and Price, R.J. (2009). The cultural dimensions of a large scale mixed-farming program: The competing narratives of stakeholder actors. Animal Production Science 49 (9, 10): 956-65

Bridle, K.L. and Price, R.J. (2009) Undertaking participatory research at a continental scale: the Biodiversity in Grain & Graze approach. Animal Production Science 49 (9, 10): 916-27

Hacker, R.B., Robertson, M.J. Price, R,J and Bowman, A.M. (2009) Evolution of mixed farming systems for the delivery of triple bottom line outcomes - a synthesis of the Grain & Graze program. Animal Production Science 49 (9, 10): 966-74

website: Animal Production Science

18-08-2009 - Australian National University recognition for Kiri-ganai Research head

The Australian National University has today appointed Dr Richard Price as a Fellow of the Fenner School of Environment and Society. This award comes in recognition of the contribution Dr Price has made and will continue to make to the important environmental work of the University, which ranks number 16 in the world for its research output.

"I'm blown over by this," remarked Dr Price. "I've very much enjoyed contributing to the activities of the Fenner School - the students keep me young, fresh and ever-learning and together with the academics, they never cease to astonish me in terms of just how practical cutting edge research can actually turn out.

"It's an honour I plan to pay back with a great deal of interest, in every sense of the word!"

Dr Price currently provides guidance to a number of ANU students and is a member of an innovative CERF project dealing with isolated paddock trees and innovative farming systems.

The appointment will not interfere with Dr Price's ongoing governance and work with Kiri-ganai Research.

17-08-2009 - Administrative coordination of the Managing Climate Variability Program under Kiri-ganai wings

Following the demise of Land & Water Australia, the Grains R&D Corporation (GRDC) has taken over responsibility for managing the national Managing Climate Variability Program (MCVP). In turn, GRDC has invited Kiri-ganai Research to provide the adminstrative support for the program. Kiri-ganai will assist the Program's coordinator, Colin Creighton, and GRDC Manager, Martin Blumenthal, in ensuring that the transition is smooth and that important climate variability research continues unhindered by non-scientific concerns.

This role continues Kiri-ganai Research's long-standing relationship with climate variability research, a relationship that started in 1992 when Managing Director, Dr Richard Price, helped establish Australia's first nationally coordinated agricultural research program on climate variability.

"This role, although adminsitrative in nature, complements our more strategic endeavours which are now focussed on establishing a national Climate Risk Technologies centre," stated Dr Price.

More information about the MCVP can be obtained from the program's website.

website: MCV Program

02-08-2009 - Markets for climate risk technologies: The future prospect for a Cooperative Research Centre

Kiri-ganai Research intends to see through unfinished business by supporting a bid for the establishment of a Cooperative Research Centre for Climate Risk Technologies. The bid is likely to focus on the development of climate risk management technologies for the financial and physical economies. The company envisages it will take on an global flavour with international research partners and development of trade markets for new climate technologies.

With a view to establishing the centre in 2010, Kiri-ganai Research will work with prospective university, national research and private sector partners, with national climate expert, Professor Roger Stone leading the bid.

"We see this as unfinised business," said Dr Price, Managing Director of Kiri-ganai Research, "because our previous effort to establish such a centre came unstuck at the very last possible stage on some spurious political grounds. Simply, the time wasn't right, and any talk of climate change at that time was seen as delving into the business of policy when really we were only dealing with the business of practical technology development."

Further announcements about the bid will be made over coming weeks.

30-07-2009 - Kiri-ganai Research re-invited onto panel of national water experts

Kiri-ganai Research has this week again been selected by the National Water Commission to join a panel of experts chosen to provide the Commission with high level consultancy support across a range of water-based, environmental and natural resource management issues.

The company was originally appointed to the panel in 2006 to provide services specifically relating to program management and indigenous issues. This time the services have been broadened to include environmental and ecological analysis, social research and avice about community consultation and engagement.

For the purposes of the Panel, Kiri-ganai Research has combined the expertise of its Managing Director, Dr Richard Price and associate partyners, Dr Steven Cork, Professor Jann Williams and Mr Mike Williams.

Since the appointment in 2006, Kiri-ganai research has undertaken some major national water research projects, including the revision of the WaterSmart guidelines for the National Water Commission, coordinating the public submission process for the National Water Initiative, and developing an implementation strategy for rivers assessments in the Lake Eyre Basin.

28-07-2009 - Adapative agriculture: A challenge for social and institutional research

As one of its last acts before its demise, Land & Water Australia (LWA) has released a report prepared by Kiri-ganai Research summarising the contribution to adaptive agriculture made by LWA's Social & Institutional Research Program. The following extract outlines the challenge for any successor in filling the gap now left in agriclutural social and institutional research:

"Herein lies a sobering challenge, a challenge that can be personally affronting to the many of us who have strived to make a difference to improve the health of our environment. Across Australia there is no shortage of good news stories to tell of farmers' successful NRM initiatives. Indeed such stories could fill newsletters and magazines for years to come and give the illusion that substantial change is taking place. Across the fabric of the Australian landscape, however, these efforts are fragmented, piecemeal and are having only minor impact on reversing major trends in declining resource condition. As one SIRP project leader stated, "Innovation is mostly on a farm or even paddock level, and is not enough to make any significant impact at a landscape scale." This may explain government predilection towards focusing on iconic assets and extending the national reserve system as a way of gaining traction for investments across huge and variable landscapes.

The challenge for future social and institutional investment, therefore, is twofold: first, not to augment the illusion of grand achievement by highlighting many individual and highly newsworthy projects; and second, to focus critical mass of investment on fewer activities that will facilitate large-scale landscape change."

The report does not suggest that the efforts of the many land-carers and sustainable agriculturalists across Australia are a waste of time. Rather, it highlights that these people are better supported by research institutions doing what their charter (and farmers) demand: supporting relevant research.

Copies of the report can be obtained from the LWA website.
website: Land & Water Australia

30-06-2009 - Thinking of those less fortunate and the next generation

At the end of yet another highly successful year for Kiri-ganai Research, Managing Director Dr Richard Price reflects on the many people who have suffered stress during the global economic crisis.

"It's hard to justify celebrating one of the company's most successful years knowing that a lack of humility across the corporate sector has in part contributed to the hardship of so many," said Dr Price.

"Our success with the banana, macadamia, meat, wool and grain industries this year has come down to the hard work of many growers and their families, contributing beyond any obligation they had to make their industries and communities better.

"Winning an Australian Banksia Environmental Award was also simply due to being a small part in a very large, professional and dedicated network, again comprising hardworking farm families, some of whom are facing extreme financial conditions."

In saying this, Dr Price recognised that the agricultural sector as a whole has been a success anomaly in an economy that has brought pain for many Australian families. And in reflecting on his own company's good fortunes, Dr Price said that the next twelve months will see Kiri-ganai Research increase its pro bono work.

"In addition to pro-bono work", stated Dr Price, "I intend to offer more of my time to the next generation of environmental and agricultural managers.

"I'm not yet 50, and being a grandfather already has helped realign my priorities."

20-04-2009 - Exploring the link between protein production and biodiversity

Kiri-ganai Research has been engaged by Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) to explore how the red meat industry stacks up against alternative protein sources when it comes to its impact on biodiversity.

"This is a study without precedent in Australia," stated Dr Richard Price of Kiri-ganai Research. "While similar studies have been undertaken outside of Australia, these have tended to focus on wider environmental impact and not specifically on biodiversity."

The project, which sees Dr Price link up with Professor Jann Williams again following their successful investigation of institutional responses to biodiversity threats, is due to be completed by late July 2009. It is a sister project to a similar study supported by MLA to compare the red meat industry's contribution to climate change vis-a-vis other protein production industries.

Dr Price argued that "Projects like these are important means of industries coming to grips with their corporate social and environmental responsibilities. It should indicate to organisations such as MLA where they are performing well and should maintain their effort, and where they are underperforming and should respond immediately.

"MLA have shown in the past their willingness to invest directly in biodiversity research and improved grazing management to minimize environmental impact. This study will determine whether it is enough, and whether other industries should be lifting their game as well," said Dr Price.

Further information about the project can be obtained from Kiri-ganai Research.

10-04-2009 - Lake Eyre Basin river assessment and governance study awarded to Kiri-ganai Research

The Australian Government's Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and Arts, together with the State and local community partners associated with the Lake Eyre Basin (LEB), have engaged Kiri-ganai Research to develop a LEB Rivers Assessment Implementation Plan to put in place robust environmental assessment and governance arrangements for the Basin.

To assist in this process, Kiri-ganai Research is working with Canberra University's Professor Martin Thoms and Dr Samantha Capon to review the achievements to-date under the agreed LEB Rivers Assessment process and recommend an approach to future assessments, including the governance arrangements required to ensure effective ongoing assessment and reporting.

Project Leader, Dr Richard Price of Kiri-ganai Research, complemented the project instigators on their willingness to consider the governance arrangements.

"So many times we have seen monitoring and evaluation systems in the environmental arena fall apart due to wont of effective governance systems," argued Dr Price. "Generally there is goodwill to undertake assessments, but without the right resources in place and the accountability mechanisms to ensure that the right actions are undertaken at the right time for the right reason, goodwill generally comes second to those things where individuals and organisations are judged and held accountable for their performance.

"Our aim is to ensure the business and implementation plans we put in place facilitate effective assessment of the health of the Basin," Stated Dr Price. "I am well aware that complex and bureaucratic governance systems can impede the assessment process, and this will be taken into account in the business plan."

The project commenced in March 2009 and is due to report in September 2009.

26-11-2008 - Going Bananas

The Australian Banana Growers Council (ABGC) and Horticulture Australia Limited (HAL) have together engaged Kiri-ganai Research to work with Banana industry to prepare the industry's next five year strategic plan.

The strategic plan will build on a process of comprehensive analysis of the industry conducted by AgEconPlus in its Taking Stocks and Setting Directions Report. It will deal with the entire industry, seeking to add value across the supply chain, while ensuring increased returns to growers in the face of enormous production and market pressures.

"This is time of turbulence for the banana industry. Without a plan that encourages innovation and prepares the industry for the upcoming years, the industry will face a great deal of hardship," said Dr Richard Price, Managing Director of Kiri-ganai Research.

"But his is also a time of opportunity. The industry has the opportunity to transform itself into a stronger, more profitable and sustainable industry that will remain the biggest horticultural industry for years to come" Dr. Price suggested.

The planning process will involve workshops, economic analysis by the Centre for International Economics, a wider industry feedback process, and the development of action plans to help implement the strategies outlined in the central strategic document. The plan should be completed for launch by early March 2009.

31-10-2008 - Macadamia Industry embraces a new strategic plan

Kiri-ganai Research is pleased to announce the completion of the Australian Macadamia Strategic plan. The plan was launch during the industries annual general meeting held on the 31st October.

"With this plan the Australian macadamia industry will be more consumer focussed and as a result more resilient than in the past," said Kiri-ganai Research's Managing Director Dr Richard Price. "It's a great Australian industry - unique, in fact – and Australians should be proud of the product, the people involved in the industry and the contribution it makes to regional economies in northern NSW and Queensland," he said.

Further information and a copy of the Strategic plan and Action plan can be obtained at in the publications section of the Kiri-ganai website or at www.macadamias.org

16-10-2008 - Kiri-ganai boss adds to Ten Commitments

The launch of an important environmental book "Ten Commitments: Reshaping the Lucky Country's Environment" took place at Parliament House in Canberra this week, with Environment Minister, Peter Garrett, performing the honours.

The book, edited by David Lindenmayer, Steve Dovers, Molly Harriss Olson and Steve Morton, contains 30 chapters where various authors outline the ten most critical things actions they consider need to be undertaken in order to improve the environment within the context of their field of interest. The grazing chapter was authored by Kiri-ganai Research Managing Director, Dr Richard Price.

"It was an honour to have been selected as one of the authors for this document," said Dr Price, "although I feel out of sorts with the illustrious company of authors the editors assembled. I was particularly surprised too to have been asked to prepare the grazing chapter.

"Appearing in the same book as the likes of Ian Lowe, David Lindenmayer, Richard Kingsford and the late Peter Cullen among others is enormously humbling."

While Richard's chapter deals specifically with grazing, his sociological background comes through strongly. A key argument raised about recognisiing the spiritual connection to land that graziers have is applicable to most farmers across Australia.

With chapters covering Australia's different ecosystems, different industries and different environmental resources, the book sends strong messages to governments and industries.

"I'm a strong believer in climate change," says Dr Price, "but a truly clever country can deal with more than one issue at a time, and if this book acts as a reminder that other environmental issues have not gone away, then it has done its job."

The book is available through CSIRO publishing, and should be found in most major bookstores across Australia.

17-08-2008 - Kiri-ganai Research Toes the Bottom Line

Kiri-ganai Research is pleased to announce as a part of its 5 year celebration the release of its first triple bottom line report. The company chose the Triple Bottom Line reporting method for its five year review for several reasons:

• to analyse the companies own environmental, economic and social performance over five years;
• to identify areas for future directions and improvements that the company can take;
• to provide a benchmark in which future operations can be compared; and
• to 'practice what we preach':

"As Kiri-ganai Research has undertaken triple bottom line analyses on behalf of several industries and companies, we believe we should impose on ourselves the same degree of discipline," said Dr Richard Price, Managing Director.

Copies of the triple bottom line report can be obtained in the publications section of the Kiri-ganai website.

06-08-2008 - Strategic plan to boost macadamia industry prospects

The Australian Macadamia Society (AMS) and Horticulture Australia Limited (HAL) have together engaged Kiri-ganai Research to work with Macadamia industry members to prepare the industry's next five year strategic plan. As one of the few truly Australian food products exported in quantity around the globe, the plan has significance to both the industry and the Australian food sector.

The strategic plan will build on a process of comprehensive consultation with industry conducted by Dr Paul Gibson in late 2007. It will deal with the entire industry, seeking to add value across the supply chain, while ensuring increased returns to growers in the face of enormous production and market pressures.

"This is not Kiri-ganai's plan," stated Dr Richard Price, chief consultant for the project. "The plan must represent the aspirations and commitment of the industry itself if it is to have any chance of working. A good plan should help change the culture of how the industry does its business, but only in such that the core values of the industry are not lost.

The planning process will involve further industry consultation, and the development of action plans to help implement the strategies outlined in the central strategic document. The new CEO of the AMS, Mr Jolyon Burnett, will lead the planning process, with Kiri-ganai's support. The plan should be completed in time for a launch at the annual conference of the AMS in late October 2008.

21-07-2008 - Banksia Environment Award goes to Kiri-ganai Research and University of Tasmania

At the prestigious Banksia Awards gala ceremony held in Melbourne on the evening of 18 July, the environmental efforts of Kiri-ganai Research and the University of Tasmania were recognised by winning the Land and Biodiversity Award. The Award was presented to Kiri-ganai Research Managing Director, Dr Richard Price, by Thirawit Leetavorn, Senior Vice President of Double A, for the work undertaken in the Biodiversity in Grain & Graze (BiGG) project.

Dr Price accepted the award on behalf of the 47 particing farm families, the team of national researchers headed by Dr Kerry Bridle at the University of Tasmania, and the field ecologists from across Australia who undertook the task of data collection.

In the acceptance speech, Dr Price reminded government and farmers that biodiversity does not start and end at the borders of the national estate or of Australia's parks and reserves. Nor does it start and end with the fencelines around patches of remnant vegetation on farms.

"If anyone should take the credit for the success of BiGG, it should be Kerry Bridle," stated Dr Price. "Her contribition to coordinating the sheer number of project partners, let-alone the enormous data-set, was superb. This was, afterall Australia's largest ever study of biodiversity undertaken on farms .

"From a Kiri-ganai Research perspective, we would like to see such studies continue in Australia and act as the basis for better decision-making on farms. We would also like to see this study replicated in other countries, something which we are well positioned to facilitate," said Dr Price.

Kiri-ganai Research thank the Banksia Foundation and Double A for their support of the Banksia Awards, and also thank project investors including the Australian Government, Meat & Livestock Australia, Land & Water Australia, Grains R&D Corporation and Australian Wool Innovation Ltd.

Further information on BiGG can be obtained from the Grain & Graze website: www.grainandgraze.com.au.

website: Banksia Award Winners

17-07-2008 - Millenium Assessment expert joins the Kiri-ganai Research family

Dr Steve Cork, Principal of EcoInsights, today joined the Kiri-ganai Research team as an Associate Consultant. Steve has a tremendous depth of expertise as a futurist and scenario planner, skills he put to great use as the Scenarios Writing Leader for the Millenium Ecosystem Assessment between 2002 and 2005.

Steven was a research ecologist for 25 years and has been a futurist specialising in relationships between the environment and human health and well-being for the past 10 years. He has extensive experience working in and with government policy agencies in Australian and internationally.

"It's a coup that we have been able to attract Steve to work alongside our Kiri-ganai staff," stated Dr Richard Price, Managing Director. "He will certainly add analytical firepower to much of our work, including activities we envisage in China and Japan over the coming years."

Steve joins Professor Jann Williams, a biodiversity specialist, Dr Jennifer Andrew, a sociologist and specialist in education, and Doug Watkins, a wetlands ecologist, among Kiri-ganai's Associate network.

27-06-2008 - Kiri-Ganai Research turns five and sets sail for China!

Kiri-ganai Research today completed its fifth successful year of operation. As a part of Kiri-ganai's birthday celebrations Dr Richard Price, Managing Director of Kiri-ganai Research, announced the formation of the company's Chinese trading arm: Wu Bianji Innovations.

"Wu Bianji will play an integral part of Kiri-ganai's expansion into the international field. Like Kiri-ganai, the meaning of Wu Bianji is 'without bounds'. We plan to push the boundaries in innovation, research, facilitation and science within the Chinese market under the banner of Wu Bianji," said Dr Price.

"We will concentrate our effort in China on introducing innovations with particular emphasis on environmental and agricultural services."

Breaking into the Chinese market is the first of a number of exciting initiatives Kiri-ganai has planned for the next five years.

05-06-2008 - BiGG HuGGs all round for Banksia Award Finalist Nomination

Kiri-ganai Research and the University of Tasmania were announced today as one of three finalists in the Land & Biodiversity category of the 2008 Prime Minister's Banksia Awards. The nomination was accepted on behalf of the farmers and research tam involved in the Biodiversity in Grain & Graze (BiGG) project, managed jointly between Kiri-ganai and the university.

"This is quite a humbling experience," stated Dr Richard Price, Managing Director of Kiri-ganai Research. All the work has really been done by an enormous team of researchers, field officers and farmers dedicated to the preservation of biodiversity on farms across Australia. "These are the people that deserve the credit, and none less so than Dr Kerry Bridle who has been tireless in creating something very special from the team.

"The project reminds us all that biodiversity does not start and stop within the confines of national parks and reserves. Nor does it start and stop at the fencelines of remnant vegetation on farm. This is the key message that has been embraced by the project's 47 participating farmers," said Dr Price.

The Banksia Awards are Australia's leading environmental awards, and the 2008 winners will be announced at a ceremony at Melbourne Convention Centre on 18 July 2008.

website: Banksia Awards Finalists

10-04-2008 - Kiri-ganai welcomes Daniel Goode to the team

Dr Richard Price, Managing Director of Kiri-ganai Research, today announced the appointment of Mr Daniel Goode as a Research Officer of the company.

"The appointment of Daniel," said Dr Price "will expand our research potential to truly live up to our 'research without bounds' creed. Daniel's background in languages, science and humanities will create many opportunities for us both here in Australia and abroad."

As a Research Officer, Daniel will provide advice and assistance to the Managing Director to accomplish the variety of projects undertaken by the company. An important and distinguishing characteristic of the role is in developing the company's relationship with new and existing overseas clients.

Kiri-ganai Research clients are welcome to introduce themselves to Daniel on daniel.goode@kiri-ganai.com.au .

02-04-2008 - Bradbury, Mitchell and Malcolm. Gold, Gold, Gold to Australia!!

Australia's first Winter Olympic Gold medal winner, Steve Bradbury, joined the Kiri-ganai Research team and over 400 dinner guests at the International Salinity Forum in Adelaide on 1 April 2008 to celebrate what can be achieved when one aims not at fulfilling a goal, but fulfilling one's potential. The dinner was hosted by Kiri-ganai Research and dedicated to the memory of Kim Mitchell, former Communication Manager of the National Dryland Salinity Program, and Clive Malcolm, former scientist with the Western Australian Department of Agriculture.

"Whether your lifespan is 35 years like Kim's, or 73 years like Malcolm's, these two men and Steve Bradbury have each shown us that fulfilling one's potential not only provides great personal satisfaction, but contributes enormously to the wellbeing of those around us," said Dr Richard Price, Managing Director of Kiri-ganai Research and Convenor of the Forum.

"What Steve has done for the average Australian about pursuing their dream, Kim has done for strengthening the way we communicate better between ourselves and Clive has done for seeing potential out of what otherwise may be discarded saltland."

Information about the International Salinity Forum can be obrained from the website: www.internationalSalinityforum.org.

27-03-2008 - Over 500 to debate salinity

The Convener of the 2nd International Salinity Forum, Dr Richard Price of Kiri-ganai Research, today announced that the delegate list for the Forum had broken through the 500 mark and demonstrated that concern about the issue had not faded despite growing attention to climate change.

"The two issues are not unrelated," explained Dr Price. "Management of catchment issues, such as salinity, will be influenced by new climate regimes. In some cases this will be manifested as declining watertables, while in other cases it may see increased salt to water concentrations.

"I do expect a number of our speakers to be more than a little provocative. No doubt some will say salinity is yesterday's issue and we should just get over it!

"This is an international Forum, however, and in some countries salinity is a very real quality of life issue. Even here in Australia, many farmers would be offended to hear they should 'just get over it' when they have upwards of 30 percent of their farm salt-affected," stated Dr Price.

The International Salinity Forum will be held in Adelaide over 30 March to 3 April, with the Australian government and Kiri-ganai Research among the major sponsors.

21-02-2008 - Governor General to open International Salinity Forum

Today the convenor of the 2nd International Salinity Forum, Dr Richard Price of Kiri-ganai Research, announced that the Governor General of Australia, His Excellency Major General Michael Jeffery, had accepted an invitation to open the Forum on the morning of 31 March 2008.

The International Salinity Forum, to be convened in Adelaide over 30 March to 4 April, has already received over 500 registrations, with about 20 percent of those from overseas.

"This is expected to be a pivotal event," said Dr Price. "Australians somehow find it difficult to think about more than one environmental issue at a time, and with the drought keeping water tables down, salinity has dropped off the radar.

"But the reality is, that with more water coming back into the system, we are likely to see more salinity again in future. And even without that consideration, salinity remains an issue of extreme importance to many developing countries. It is important that Australian researchers share their lessons with others, as well as show some humility and accept that they still have much to learn from others."

Further information about the Forum can be obtained from the website: www.internationalsalinityforum.org.

30-01-2008 - New publication to help farmers make a living out of salty land

Often thought to be no more than an eye sore or useless, salt affected land can now be farmed for profit according to a new publication released by Future Farm Industries CRC.

A first for Australia, the Saltland Prospects publication features a nationwide saltland classification system based on land capability that can match farming systems best suited to individual farms and provide profit estimates.
Co-author Dr Richard Price of Kiri-ganai Research said the publication contains a wealth of knowledge about the different kinds of sustainable land-uses that can take place on saltland.

"Saltland Prospects provides in depth information supported by case studies that have successfully used salt-affected land in different ways to add value to their farming system," Dr Price said.

"Dryland salinity in Australia occurs in many ways across the country, so it's very important to work out your farm's landscape characteristics, such as the extent of salinity and waterlogging, and soil types before deciding on a suitable land use.

"These regional case studies clearly demonstrate that having an understanding of how salinity occurs on a farm can pave the way to implementing a sustainable and profitable land use that reduces its impact."

To help farmers work out what land-use solutions are best for their farm, Saltland Prospects has specific sections dedicated to recommending plant-based systems for managing saltland in each of the 15 salinity-affected regions within Australia by using categories that determine 'saltland capacity'.

In each region, the 'saltland capability' is classified based on key site characteristics. These characteristics help determine what plant-based management system are suited to the different capability for that region.
"Revegetating saltland can enhance a farm's productivity and flexibility by providing additional grazing options," Dr Price said.

"Planting saltbush for example, which can be used to fill the summer- autumn feed gap, is high in vitamin E, which can help reduce muscle degradation in sheep and prolong the shelf life of the meat.
"Well managed saltland pastures can also lower water tables, increase biodiversity and reduce soil erosion."

To get your own copy of the FFI CRC Saltland Prospects email greg.madson@futurefarmcrc.com.au

07-12-2007 - Kiri-Ganai Research responds to biodiversity threats

Kiri-ganai Research today teamed up with one of Australia's leading ecologists, Professor Jann Williams, to review examples of Australian responses to biological threats.

The National Land and Water Resources Audit (NLWRA) initiated this project as part of the 2008 NLWRA National Biodiversity Assessment. The overall objective of the project is to assess the biodiversity outcomes of selected institutional responses to the threats to Australia's terrestrial biodiversity.

In this context, the aim isto examine a range of institutional measures that are implemented nationally and in various states, territories and regions to combat key threats. The report of the evaluation will be used by the NLWRA to inform an overall assessment of trends in biodiversity and the effectiveness of various institutional responses to threats. It will complement a set of case studies being conducted by the states and territories to examine biodiversity outcomes of their key mechanisms for biodiversity management.

In conjunction with the project Steering Committee, ten case studies have been selected to represent a range of institutions and responses to threats to biodiversity.

• The Queensland Vegetation Management Act 1999
• The Tasmanian Midlands component of the Biodiversity Hotspots Program
• Land for Wildlife, Victoria
• Bush Heritage Australia
• Living Landscapes, Western Australia
• The Cotton industry
• Breathe Easy, Greening Australia
• The NT NRM region
• The Kuka Kanyini Watarru project, South Australia
• Brisbane City Council

The project is due to report by the end of March 2008.

06-12-2007 - Signposts to better TBL reporting in agriculture

Under its Signposts for Australian Agriculture initiative, the Nataional Land & Water Resources Audit has commissioned Kiri-ganai Research to prepare four triple bottom line reports covering the grains, beef, horticultural and dairy industries.

"The reports will highlight the contributions of each of the industries to ecological sustainable development," said Kiri-ganai Research associate, Ken Moore.

They will include the synthesis of data, analysis of issues and case studies which provide examples of:
• land use and management practices and achievement of ESD outcomes;
• level of adoption of sustainable management practices;
• costs and benefits and capacity of land managers to change practices; and
• the impact of industry, RDC and government initiatives on capacity to change and the adoption of alternative management practices.

Signposts for Australian Agriculture (Signposts) is a partnership initiative between industry, government and research organisations. It provides access to economic, social and environmental data specific to an industry and regions to inform policy development, strategic planning and decision making, research priorities and communication on an industry's 'triple bottom line'.

The reports will be completed by the end of March, with publication after that to be determined by the collaborating industries.

21-08-2007 - Answers from Space: Kiri-ganai Research helps the CRC - Spatial Information

The Cooperative Research Centre - Spatial Information is rapidly approaching the end of its first phase of operation and as a conseqeunce is determining where its future lies. With the intention of submitting a re-bid for second round funding from the Australian Government's CRC programme, the Board of the CRC is contemplating a future investment strategy focusing on fewer but larger thematic areas. Up to eight themes will be considered over the coming months with the view to selecting perhaps only four to embed into the CRC re-bid.

CRC - SI Chief Executive Officer, Dr Peter Woodgate, has appointed Dr Richard Price of Kiri-ganai Research as the leader of the agricultural theme, responsible for developing a compelling case for investing (or not investing) in this theme. The case will involve considerable consultation with agricultural stakeholders to determine the demand for spatial information technologies and the willingness to pay for them. The project should conclude by the end of November 2007 when the CRC Board makes its determination on which themes to pursue in the re-bid.

17-05-2007 - Is research integration degrading?

" Integration in theory is complex, and in practice it can be frustrating, time-consuming, costly and publicly degrading. This may explain why integration is also rewarding and ultimately worthwhile," says Kiri-ganai Research's Managing Director, Dr Richard Price.

This month, Oxford University Press released a book edited by Canadians Kevin Hanna and Scott Slocombe titled "Integrated Resource and Environmental Management" in which Dr Price made this curious statement in a chapter co-authored with Professor Steven Dovers of the Australian National University. In it, the authors argue that there is no room for sensitive egos in successful research integration.

Both Dovers and Price have had many years experience in thinking about research integration, and the chapter, titled "Research and the Integration Imperative", summarises this experience and outlines principles to help make integration in research environments work.

In keeping with Kiri-ganai Research's belief in the value of story-telling, the chapter includes a story about the early history of the National Dryland Salinity Program, managed by Dr Price between 1993 and 2004.

Copies of the book can be purchased from good academic bookshops or through Amazon.com.

27-04-2007 - Turfs Up!

Turf Producers Australia and the Commonwealth Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry have selected Kiri-ganai Research to undertake a triple bottom line study of the turf industry. It is the fifth industry Kiri-ganai has worked with under the Australian Government's Industry Partnership Programme, the other industries being apples and pears, vegetables, rice and wine grapes

"We at Kiri-ganai Research see turf as a natural fibre," said Executive Director, Richard Price. "With synthetic grasses being the industry's major competitor, turf is somewhat like wool is to rayon!"

The study of the turf industry is part of the Industry Partnership Programme's Taking Stock and Setting Directions initiative. Between May and September 2007, Kiri-ganai Research will undertake an audit of the turf industry's health and prospects, and will work closely with industry representative to suggest future directions for the industry so that it continues to grwo and prosper sustainably.

Dr Price stated that the company always enjoyed working with the industries it has, but in particular looks forward to working with the turf industry. "This is one of the few Industry Partnership studies where the project hasn't arisen from some form of industry crisis, so the emotions across the industry should be quite positive."

25-04-2007 - Water submissions analysed

Kiri-ganai Research has completed its summary and analysis of the public submissions provided under the first biennial review of the National Water Initiative. The results have been passed to the National Water Commission for incorporation into its broader review process.

In total, 109 submissions were received from the public, with about 40% from private citizens. The remainder of submissions were from private companies, public interest groups, industry bodies and catchment management authorities. Most of the submissions have been made available for public scrutiny through the website of the National Water Commission. Five respondents asked that their submissions be kept confidential.

Kiri-ganai's Managing Director, Dr Richard Price, stated that the outomes of the review process will be announced by the NWC after it's Commissioners had considered the implications of a range of inputs, including the public submissions. "It's hardly surprising, but a quick scan of the submissions placed on the web will show anyone that water is a highly emotive issue at present for Australians," said Dr Price.

"One thing that did strike me, though, was the weighty number of submissions in favour of increasing water availability through large-scale infrastructure investments. While submissions in favour of water conservation measures were plentiful, there remains a large sector that sees engineering solutions as the only way forward," Dr Price observed.

website: National Water Commission

26-03-2007 - Charles Sturt University tells Richard's Story

Story-telling is the new data sharing. More importantly, it is the mode of more inspiring leadership. From the corporate sector to community organisations and academia, story-telling is proving to be a way of sharing the richness of experience that cannot be conveyed as effectively through other means.

Books such as "Wake me up when the data is Over" by Lori Silverman, are no longer put into the warm and fuzzy management guru category of business literature. These books demonstrate how people simply 'having a yarn' can influence strategy development, cooperation, adoption of new ideas, and pride, morale and commitment to an organisation or cause. Kiri-ganai Research, founded on the methods of social research, heartily endorses the approach of story-telling.

Australia's Charles Sturt University has taken up story-telling in its promotion of professional and personal development by profiling the stories of past graduates. One of these profiles involves Kiri-ganai Research's Managing Director, Dr Richard Price, whose personal story shows how the formation of the company was a natural culmination of fortuitous life events. In it, Richard reveals his advice on how to become successful. It is simply this, he says, "surround yourself with successful people, put the ego aside and listen to their stories.

"Reading the stories of my fellow graduates is incredibly inspiring," says Richard. "From graduates working for Aljazeera to becoming chairmen of international organisations, these stories hold great lessons for anyone." However, Richard strongly reiterates that the value in story-telling is in the listening. "Sadly, many people are competitive and cynical and look to see if others are self-promoting through their stories. Story-telling can only be effective if we look for the story, not for the pitch."

website: Richard's Story

22-12-2006 - Kiri-ganai Research assists in water accountability

This week Kiri-ganai Research was chosen to coordinate the public submission process seeking feedback on the progress of the National Water Initiative.

The NWI is an inter-governmental agreement between the Australian and State and Territory Governments and represents their shared commitment to water reform. Introduced in 2004, the Agreement included a requirement, commencing in 2006–07, to undertake biennial assessments of progress with the NWI and State and Territory implementation plans. The assessments are also intended to seek advice on actions required to better realise the objectives and outcomes of the Agreement.

Submissions will be independently received, collated and summarised by Kiri-ganai Research Pty Ltd to ensure objectivity in the reporting that will be incorporated into an overall assessment for consideration by the Council of Australian Governments. All submissions received will be made publicly available on the National Water Commission website unless marked 'Confidential'.

Kiri-ganai Research's Managing Director, Dr Richard Price, commended the National Water Commission on its stance in ensuring that Australia's most significant water initiative is open to public scrutiny and comment. "I see this as an important contribution to the continuous improvement of water management across Australia as well as a crucial process in public accountability," stated Dr Price.

22-12-2006 - Farming systems research takes a quantum leap forward

Dr Richard Price, Managing Director of Kiri-ganai Research, today welcomed the announcement of the new Cooperative Research Centre, Future Farm Industries, declaring it as an important initiative focusing on sustainable agriculture across Australias vast mixed farming zone.

"This is terrific news," stated Dr Price, "particularly as the role of perennial plants is becoming recognised by more and more farmers as fundamental to their sustainability. This will mean better management of water, soils, nutrients and biodiversity, and should also provide an important tool in managing out incredibly variable climate!"

All the staff of Kiri-ganai Research congratulated CEO Kevin Goss and his team for the effort put into the CRC bid.

18-08-2006 - Kiri-ganai Research celebrates a great year

It's one thing to be profitable, but it's another to be profitable and effective! That's the message from Kiri-ganai Research's Managing Director, Dr Richard Price.

"The 2005-06 proved our most profitable year to date, but that's not why we're celbrating," said Dr Price. "Over the past year we completed industry partnership projects for the apple and pear, rice and vegetable industries, and in all cases our recommendations have made a substantial impact on those industries. Moreover, our review of the National Water Programme selection process has resulted in a new process that is currently being used to prioritise over $1 billion in water-related infrastructure investments."

Since Kiri-ganai Research recommended ways and means for the apple and pear industry to invest in effective intensive orchard extension, the industry has established a program to this end, attracting co-investment from the Australian government worth one million dollars.

Likewise, Kiri-ganai Research recommendations to the vegetable industry resulted in the preparation of an industry-wide strategic plan and a review of industry 's organisational structures. The Australian government has also contributed $3 million towards implementing the recommendations made by Kiri-ganai Research in its Taking Stock and Setting Directions for the Australian Vegetable Industry report.

"Together with a doubling of farmer participation in the Grain & Graze program, it's splendid to see that our work in proving useful and being put into practice," said Dr Price.

"The results over the year are a credit to our staff and associates, and I would like to thank in particular Judy Andrews, Ken Moore and Brian Ramsay for their tireless effort. It's easy to be busy, but hard to be effective, particularly to the extent that we have been!"

02-06-2006 - Kiri-ganai Research joins panel of water experts

Kiri-ganai Research has this week been selected by the National Water Commission to join a panel of experts chosen to provide the Commission with high level consultancy support across a range of water-based, environmental and natural resource management issues.

Dr Price, Managing Director of Kiri-ganai Research, announced the news stating that, "This is a tremendous opportunity for the company to contribute its expertise to one of the most vital natural resource authorities in the country."

He further revealed, " Already we have been asked to review the assessment framework for the Water Smart Australia Programme and are fully confident that a rigorous process can be put in place in time for assessing the second round of the Programme's call for projects."

Kiri-ganai Research was appointed to the panel to provide services specifically relating to program management and indigenous issues.

06-04-2006 - At Last: A strategic plan for the Australian Vegetable Industry

Following submission by Kiri-ganai Research of the report, Taking Stock and Setting Directions for the Future of the Australian Vegetable Industry, the Australian Government established the Australian Vegetable Industry Development Group to implement the report's recommendations.

The first of the recommendations was to establish the Group. The second was to have the Group oversee the development of an industry-wide strategic plan to secure and grow the industry well into the future. Kiri-ganai Research, through a competitive tendering process, has now been invited to prepare the plan.

"This is an exciting opportunity that will pay enormous dividends to the vegetable industry," states Dr Richard Price, Kiri-ganai Research's Managing Director. "In many ways this project is unfinished business for the company, enabling us to see through our recommendations from the Taking Stock report. Nobody likes to see good work left on a shelf!"

The development of the strategic plan will take place over April to June 2006 and will involve extensive consultation with the entire supply chain that makes up the vegetable industry. A preliminary vision and set of strategies will be presented to the Australian Vegetable Industry Conference, to be convened 10-12 May 2006 at the Brisbane Convention centre.

29-01-2006 - Kiri-ganai Research welcomes Wetlands International

Dr Richard Price, Managing Director of Kiri-ganai Research, today opened its doors to welcome the Oceania branch of Wetlands International. From today, the Manager of Wetlands International - Oceania, Doug Watkins and Shorebird Flyway Officer, Warren Lee-Long, will share the Kiri-ganiai Research offices in Kingston, Canberra.

Wetlands International is a leading global non-profit organisation dedicated solely to wetland conservation and sustainable management. It has well-established networks of experts and close partnerships with key organisations internationally, and provides the essential tools for catalysing conservation activities worldwide. Like Kiri-ganai Research, its activities are based on sound science and have been carried out in over 120 countries.

29-11-2005 - Kiri-ganai Research wins saltland grazing R&D investment contract

Kiri-ganai Research has been selected to prepare a business case for national investment in the sustainable grazing on saline lands. The project will also involve the development of a 'prospects' paper summarising the current knowledge base of saltland grazing.

Supported jointly by the Cooperative Research Centre for Plant-based Management of Dryland Salinity and the Land Water & Wool program of Australian Wool Innovation Ltd and Land & Water Australia, the project will utilise the salinity management expertise and network's of Kiri-ganai Research's Dr Richard Price. Peter Chudleigh, an economist from Agtrans Research, and Adrian Webb, a well reknowned salinity expert, will help make up Dr Price's project team.

The project is expected to run until June 2006.

27-11-2005 - Future of the Australian Vegetable Industry in its own hands

The future of the Australian Vegetable Industry is in its own hands, according Kiri-ganai Research's Managing Director, Dr Richard Price.

Having submitted an Industry Partnership Programme report on the state of the Australian Vegetable Industry to the Australian Government and industry leaders, Dr Price felt confident that the industry could look to a bright future if it acted cohesively and decisively. The report, The Australian Vegetable Industry: Taking Stock and Setting Directions, recommended the immediate establishment of a Vegetable Industry Development Group to rally industry leaders across the supply chain to oversee the implementation of seven Foundation Projects. The Foundation Projects address: strategic planning, industry leadership and structures, global industry analysis, production and processing benchmarking, market development, information provision and decision support, and business skills development.

The Chairman of AUSVEG, Mike Badcock, accepted the report on behalf of the Australian Vegetable Industry, which will now work closely with the Australian Government to pursue the report's recommendations in the next phase of the Industry Partnership Programme initiative.

03-11-2005 - Joint venture pays dividends for mixed farmers

The University of Tasmania and Kiri-ganai Research today entered into a joint venture project to explore the benefits of maintaining biodiversity for mixed farming across Australia's medium rainfall zone.

The project, co-sponsored by the Commonwealth Government's Natural Heritage Trust and partners of the Grain & Graze Program (Meat & Livestock Australia, Grains R&D Corporation, Australian Wool Innovation and Land & Water Australia), will involve the study of biodiversity on 40 farms from the northern wheatbelt in Western Australia through to the midlands of Tasmania and up to the Border Rivers region of New South Wales and Queensland.

Dr Richard Price of Kiri-ganai Research announced the appointment of Dr Kerry Bridle of the University of Tasmania as the coordinator of the joint venture project. The project will explore both the benefits of biodiversity to mixed grain and grazing enterprises as well as the impacts of mixed farming practices on biodiversity. With the involvement of farming groups and catchment management authorities in eigth regions across the country, It will be the most comprehensive study of its kind undertaken in Australia.

Further information about the project can be obtained from Dr Kerry Bridle, University of Tasmania: kerry.bridle@utas.edu.au

22-09-2005 - Richard Price appointed as the Convener for the 2nd International Salinity Forum 2008

Following the success of the inaugural International Salinity Forum convened in Riverside, California earlier this year, Dr Richard Price of Kiri-ganai Research has been appointed the Convenor of the 2nd International Salinity Forum. This 2nd Forum will be convened in Australia in April 2008.

The Interim International Organising Committee will comprise representatives of the CRC for Plant Based Management of Dryland Salinity, CRC for Landscape Environments and Mineral Exploration, the Commonwealth Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, CSIRO Land & Water and the Murray-Darling Basin Commission. New members will come on board as the Forum gathers momentum.

Dr Price represented Australia on the International Organising Committee for the First International Salinity Forum, and also coordinated the attendance of a 37-strong delegation of Australian scientists at that Forum.

09-08-2005 - Kiri-ganai welcomes new staff member

Dr Richard Price, Managing Director of Kiri-ganai Research, today announced the appointment of Mrs Judy Andrews as the Executive Coordinator of the company.

"This is an exciting appointment," said Dr Price "particularly given that Kiri-ganai Research places a strong emphasis on personal interactions with its clients. Judy enables the organisation to concentrate on building personal relationships in defiance of trends in the modern electronic world that make it difficult to break beyond virtual relationships."

As Executive Coordinator, Judy will be responsible for client liaison and overseeing office management functions. As a former personal assistant to some of the country's highest profile CEOs, Judy brings to the position tremendous organisational capacity.

Kiri-ganai Research clients are welcome to introduce themselves to Judy on judy.andrews@kiri-ganai.com.au.

27-06-2005 - Vegetable stock-take critical to industries' future

AUSVEG and the Commonwealth government today selected Kiri-ganai Research to undertake a stock-take project to assess and secure the Australian vegetable industries' future sustainability. The project aims to objectively analyse vegetable industry attributes and issues and identify the key factors for industry leadership to strengthen its resilience, profitability, market position and capacity to respond to risks and opportunities.

The approach to be undertaken by Kiri-ganai Research will be to synthesise industry data, information, knowledge and experience to find constructive and effective strategies for industry implementation. The project will emphasise an industry perspective that deals with the full range of businesses involved in meeting consumer demand for quality Australian vegetables and vegetable products. Consultation throughout the vegetable industry chain will be a critical element of the project methodology.

Kiri-ganai Research Managing Director, Dr Richard Price, said that the project would be completed by late October 2005.

24-06-2005 - Business approach to apple and pear extension

Kiri-ganai Research today delivered three reports to Apple and Pear Australia Limited (APAL) as part of an Industry Partnership Program project to assist the industry in its aspirations to intensify apple and pear production systems in the face of potential import competition.

The reports presented to APAL stress the need for apple and pear growers to view themselves first and foremost as managers of orchard businesses, rather than as growers of apples and pears. As part of the package of reports, Kiri-ganai Research outlined a National Intensification Extension Strategy that would see over 50% of the apple and pear industry using high intensity orchard systems by 2010. The strategy involves eight key tactics: Focus orchard businesses, Monitoring blocks, Group facilitation, Communication, Training, Mentoring, Technology development and National coordination.

The reports were accepted as presented by an industry steering committee, and APAL will now work with industry partners and governments to negotiate a cost-sharing arrangement for the implementation of the reports' recommendations, including the implementation of the National Intensification Extension Strategy.

Copies of the reports are not yet available, and their release is subject to APAL Board approval.

23-06-2005 - Indigenous Art finds home at Kiri-ganai Research

Four major artworks by indigenous artists today found their way onto the walls of Kiri-ganai Research's premises in Canberra. Leased from the Breckwoldt Superannuation Fund, the works of art are significant reminders of social and spiritual connection of people and place.

The works include 'Ngaltyod, the Rainbow Serpent,' by Peter Nabarlambarl, 'Sacred Black-headed Pythons' by Djardi Ashley and 'Wagilad Sisters Story' by Dorothy Djuklul. Each tells stories that give meaning to the different peoples and places of Arnhem Land in northern Australia.

The artworks, all paintings on canvas, are available for viewing by clients of Kiri-ganai Research, and sit alongside works by other Australian and Japanese artists. A page enabling these works to be viewed through the Kiri-ganai Research website is currently being constructed.

03-05-2005 - Mixed farming not yet the right mix

Australian mixed farmers are not getting the most out of their farms' potential, according to Dr Richard Price of Kiri-ganai Research. Dr Price, who manages the national Grain & Graze program on behalf of Meat & Livestock Australia, Grains R&D Corporation, Australian Wool Innovation and Land & Water Australia, argues that as long as mixed farmers manage the different commodities of their farms as separate enterprises, they would not enjoy the full benefits that mixed farming can bring to their profit line and to the environmental condition of their land.

"A recent study of 40 best-practice mixed farms across Australia has shown us that even some of the better mixed producers make decisions on the cropping and grazing aspects of their operations as if there was no relationship between the two. This is surprising to say the least," said Dr Price. "Better management of the overall feedbase on farms to get the best out of the animal enterprise requires decisions about crop and stubble management, while better pasture management offers longer-term options greatly benefiting cropping. Issues such as herbicide resistance and drought risk management will no doubt influence farmers towards this thinking in future.

"And the windfall is, if mixed farms were truly managed as the one integrated business, then soil, water and nutrient issues will simply fall into place and further contribute to triple bottom line wins!"

Dr Price said that he was not surprised to the extent that farmers managed their enterprises separately, stating that the history of the Australia's agricultural institutions had reinforced management along commodity lines.

"What we see from the case studies is the very rationale for a program like Grain & Graze. And the farmers see it too. Grain & Graze is working with them across the country to turn things around," Dr Price pointed out. "The next year is going to be big!"

website: Farmers Info Media Release

28-04-2005 - Aussie scientists invade Utah

Seventeen Australian salinity scientists today will commence a tour of Utah following their participation in the first International Salinity Forum held in Riverside California. The tour leaders, Mr Kevin Goss of the CRC for Plant-based Management of Dryland Salinity and Dr Richard Price of Kiri-ganai Research, were keen to engage the scientists in a two-way dialogue with their counterparts in Utah, which despite being the driest state in USA has a significant salinity problem.

Dr Price said at the commencement of the tour that "Utah contributes significant salt-loads into the Colorado River, a basin that is surprisingly not unlike the Murray-Darling system in terms of its size, resource management issues and, to some extent, institutional arrangements. There's much we can learn from one another."

The Australian delegation participating in the tour includes representatives of the CRC for Plant-based Management of Dryland Salinity, the CRC for Landscape Environments and Mineral Exploration and the Murray-Darling Basin Commission. The tour was coordinated by Kiri-ganai Research, with the assistance of Dr Mark Quilter of the Utah Department of Food and Agriculture.

26-04-2005 - Kiri-ganai Research takes ANZAC tradition to USA

ANZAC Day was celebrated in Riverside, California last night as Australia hosted over 350 people from across the world attending an Australia Night function as part of the first International Salinity Forum. The function, coordinated by Dr Richard Price of Kiri-ganai Research, honoured the spirit of collaboration reflecting the ANZAC tradition. The Hon. Mr John Olsen, the Australian Consular General based in Los Angeles, acted as the evening's Master of Ceremonies, and intriduced a line-up of scientists attending the Forum as part of a 38-strong Australian contingent.

Consuming Passions coordinated an Australian inspired menu featuring unique Australian produce. The event was sponsored by the Australian firms: Kiri-ganai Research, Kirihill Wines, Coopers, Meat & Livestock Australia, Fosters, the CRC for Plant-based Management of Dryland Salinity and Consuming Passions.

25-04-2005 - Salinity: It's all a matter of perspective

Dr Richard Price of Kiri-ganai Research today addressed delegates of the International Salinity Forum, stressing that it is important for effective salinity management that people recognise the different ways in which salinity is socially constructed, or perceived. The Forum, convened in Riverside California, has attracted over 350 people from across the world, thirty-eight from Australia. Dr Price was instrumental in coordinating the large Australian contingent.

"Bio-physical researchers have long recognised that salinity is not a one-dimensional problem," said Dr Price, "but it is critical to understand that even where the biophical processes may be simple and uniform, they may still be perceived in very many different ways by different people. Culture, values and beliefs play a significant part in how we perceive salinity, and it is important for those dealing with salinity to attempt to see how others see the issues so that the process of negotiating management outcomes is effective."

Out of around 150 papers presented at the conference, only eight dealt with social or economic dimensions of salinity. Of these, six of the papers were presented by Australians. Dr Price suggested that the level of investment in socio-economic research may reflect the level of maturity a nation has reached in dealing with its environmental problems.

Some countries are still attempting to understand the nature of the problem, while countries like Australia recognise that solutions lie beyond just implementing various technologies," Dr Price said. "Even so, I believe there is an important role to be played by social and economic researchers in coming to understand the very nature of salinity and its impacts."

website: International Salinity Forum

27-03-2005 - Kiri-ganai Research acquires a taste for the arts

Kiri-ganai Research today acquired a copy of a wood-block print by the cross-cultural artist Dr Norio Takamiya. The artwork, titled "Shyaraku", combines the images of an Australian platypus and a traditional Japanese kabuki actor. "It's certainly an unusual image," said Dr Richard Price upon obtaining the work, "but it reflects a certain sense of humour I love. It portrays diametrically opposed images in harmony, and so fits the sensibilities of Kiri-ganai Research."

Dr Takamiya became a resident of Australia after having studied arts at both masters and doctoral levels at the University of Wollongong . Previously he studied fine arts at the Tokyo National University of the Fine Arts and Music as well as Chiba University. People interested in his artwork should check out his website and contact Norio directly.

The work was purchased from the Forest Gallery, operated by Gary and Di Ellis, located on the southern coast of New South Wales.

website: Norio Takamiya

18-03-2005 - She'll be all apples and pears

Apple and Pear Australian Limited (APAL) yesterday selected Kiri-ganai Research to undertake an investigation to develop a strategy and workplan for accelerating the adoption of intensive orchard systems. The Kiri-ganai Research team will involve Kiri-ganai Research's Managing Director, Dr Richard Price, and Kiri-ganai Research associates Mr Ken Moore and Mr Brian Ramsay. The team will work close with management and technical members of APAL, including Paul James and Gary Langford, to develop a strategy that will see Australian producers attain or better the production levels experienced by the world's best producers of apples and pears.

website: Apple and Pear Australia Ltd

17-03-2005 - Kiri-ganai Research joins national industry panel

Kiri-ganai Research was today selected as one of fifteen companies to join a national industry panel supporting the Commonwealth Government's Industry Partnership Program. The Program, administered by the Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry, aims to assist Australian Agricultural industries to build on their strengths and capitalise on opportunities; improve their capability to respond to threats and weaknesses; facilitate communication and relationships between key industry chain representatives; and improve industry and organisational capacity. As a member of the nationally based panel, Kiri-ganai Research is afforded an opportunity to work closely with one or more of a range of industries to be selected by the government over the next eighteen months.

28-12-2004 - Government reinforces CRC focus on short-term commercialisation

The recent announcement by the Australian government of successful Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) bids reinforces its position that the CRC programme will focus on short-term commercial gains to Australia, even if it is at the expense of long-term strategic research that can potentially yield greater commercial gains down the track. That is the analysis of Kiri-ganai Research's Managing Director, Dr Richard Price.

"Feedback on the assessment of the bid by a consortium to establish a CRC for Climate Risk Technologies makes it clear that government expects the commercialisation of intellectual property in the early life of new CRCs," Dr Price said. "This can only imply that the priority is on the conversion of exisiting intellectual property into new products and services, rather than the generation of new knowledge that can readily be translated into commercial sales."

Dr Price encouraged the consortium behind the Climate Risk Technologies bid to maintain its energy and enthusiasm, build upon the commercial partnerships cemented to date and demonstrate in a new bid that climate research can yield incredible private and public returns in both the short and long-term.

website: CRC Program

25-10-2004 - How applicable is Life Cycle Assessment to On-farm NRM?

Does Life Cycle Assessment provide a potential approach to measuring the sustainability of natural resource management practice on farm? That is the question being explored by Kiri-ganai Managing Director, Dr Richard Price, at the International Ecobalance Conference in Tsukuba Japan, 25-27 October 2004.

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a way of measuring the impact of production, construction and service practices throughout their life-chain, from the conception of ideas to post-life disposal.

"What I like about LCA is that it provides a comprehensive view of sustainability. In the sustainability of farming, we often focus on the down-stream implications of resource use practices. It's very easy to forget or discount the sustainbalility of up-stream practices, including the practices associated with the development of environmental tools. Applying LCA to land and water management provides many challenges, but there is certainly plenty of food for thought here."

website: Ecobalance

04-08-2004 - Professor Pannell wins W.E.Wood Award

Last night, Professor David Pannell won the fifth W.E. Wood Award for his significant contribution to salinity research. The Award was sponsored by the National Dryland Salinity Program (NDSP). Dr Price, Managing Director of Kiri-ganai Research and the National Manager of the NDSP, helped present the prestigious award to Professor Pannell. The award recognised Professor Pannell's economic and policy contribution to the national salinity debate.

website: NDSP Media release

12-07-2004 - Kiri-ganai invited to address national Parliaments

Dr Richard Price of Kiri-ganai Research today addressed parliamentarians from across State and Commonwealth jurisdictions at the National Conference of Parliamentary Environment and Public Works Committees. The conference, convened at Parliament House, Victoria, addressed the theme of emerging challenges and future directions for the environment and public works.

02-07-2004 - Business case submitted for a climate CRC

Members of the Kiri-ganai Research team congratulated the Steering Committee and partners of the proposed Cooperative Research Centre for Climate Risk Technologies on the development and submission of the second round business case. Over the past twelve months, Kiri-ganai Research has assisted the partners of the proposed CRC develop the case. Dr Richard Price thanked the interim program leaders in particular for their contribution to the preparation of the bid.

The business case is now with the CRC Secretariat for assessment, with potential interviews of short-listed proposals to be held in October.

website: CRC Climate Risk Technologies