NEWS ARCHIVE

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.

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