IPPS members engage at regional event

By Lisa Wightwick

The International Plant Producers Society* (IPPS) recently held a regional event hosted by Jane and Gary Barfoot, founders of Peninsula Growers wholesale propagation nursery at their site on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria. The event coincided with NGIV’s Australian Horticultural Trials Week, in which Peninsula Growers also participated. The IPPS event drew attendees from all over the country, with numbers pleasingly turning out to be higher than first expected.

The event commenced with an enjoyable afternoon of networking, catching up with old friends and getting acquainted with new ones. Jane and Gary Barfoot shared the history of their facility with warm recollections of growing both their family and nursery, and raising the second generation of passionate plant propagators who lead the business today. It was evident through their heartfelt speech that Peninsula Growers is a ‘family’ business in more than the literal sense of the word. They also attested to the wonderful opportunities and enrichment provided by the IPPS, which has opened new doors for several of their employees.

After re-energising from the day’s heat with some socialising and refreshments, the attendees were taken on a tour through the nursery, showcasing the propagation team and facilities, plant tissue culture laboratory and recent innovations, including the EnviroGrow reusable tray. Second generation Nursery Manager Liam Barfoot, and Head Grower Joshua Taylor gave a presentation on the new EnviroGrow tray, complete with demonstrations of its use through automated equipment and a specialised tray washer.

It was wonderful to see attendees enjoying themselves, socialising, asking questions and sharing tips with one another. Events like these are great for bringing people together and provide the opportunity to meet up with fellow members of IPPS between annual conferences. The informal, relaxed nature of these types of events can also be an ideal platform for introducing fresh-faced industry members to societies like the IPPS. Hosting and/or attending industry events can be invaluable to businesses and employees. Benefits that can arise from events such as these include:

• Forging connections with others within the industry (business and friendships)

• Open sharing of knowledge and experience

• Broadening horizons (visiting a wide range of unique industry locations)

• Personal enjoyment and improvement – with additional benefits of increasing social skills, communication and the general enjoyment of interacting with others who share the same passion

Both management and the team enjoyed hosting the regional IPPS event, and the afternoon was a remarkable success. Peninsula Growers would like to thank the IPPS for helping to organise such a wonderful event and extend gratitude to all those who attended.

Here are a few comments from some IPPS members who attended the event.

Dermot Molloy

“The IPPS event turned out to be an enjoyable day with many people from all over Australia touring a best practice nursery with a dedicated passionate team. I highly recommend a visit to Peninsula Growers’ nursery and team.”

Clive Larkman

“IPPS held a fantastic field day at Peninsula Growers. Gary and family run a clean, productive and industry-leading propagation nursery. The visit was beneficial to all as it was a chance to see how things can be done effectively and efficiently. The ability to share knowledge was appreciated by everyone there.”

David Hancock

“My role in IPPS is to drive local on ground meetings in specific locations. The Peninsula Growers event followed previous events in Perth, Adelaide and Southport Queensland. I travelled from Perth to assist the Peninsula Growers management and staff who put a lot or work into setting up the event. I was delighted with the turnout and the sharing that took place. It was great to have key IPPS members, Clive & Di Larkman, Dermot Molloy, Peter Lewis and others in support. The attendees were impressed with the quality of the nursery presentation and appreciative of the PG staff for their openness and the productivity enhancements that have been recently introduced. As is always the case, casual exchanges have led to follow-up sharing of information on propagation, nursery management and TC (tissue culture) opportunities. It was also pleasing that some attendees have since joined IPPS and the various nurseries on the peninsula have welcomed the local reconnection. This event was the latest example of the benefits of bringing growers and staff together to share the programs and opportunities that arise from IPPS involvement.”

*Note the name has changed for IPPS , from the International Plant Propagator’s Society to the International Plant Producers Society