RASF backs research into Macadamia sustainability thanks to Nuffield Scholarship
The RAS Foundation will be investing $35,000 into macadamia researcher Leoni Kojetin as part of the renowned Nuffield Scholarship program to help support vital research that could help advance the Australian Macadamia industry.
Kojetin, a current industry development manager for the Australian Macadamia Society, will be exploring the effects of climate change on macadamias, as well as sustainability practices from around the world that can provide solutions for Australian growers.
Visiting macadamia producing countries such as South Africa, Kenya and Brazil, Kojetin hopes to discover new and viable practices that will allow Australian macadamias to be more competitive on an international market.
RAS Foundation Manager, Cecilia Logan says the Foundation is delighted it is able to help fund such important research.
“The core of what we do as a wider organisation is to support the advancement of agricultural practices, primarily through the Sydney Royal competitions, while the RAS Foundation focuses on investing in people and projects in regional and rural areas. The Nuffield Scholarship program, and in particular Leoni’s research, work towards both of these important missions,” Cecilia Logan said.
“As our world continues to change and exporters are consistently dealing with external pressures, research like Leoni’s is vital to the advancement of the industry.”
In her Nuffield scholarship interview, recipient Leoni Kojetin praised Australian macadamia growers on their dedication to best practice but said there is research required to ensure the longevity of the industry.
Leoni says Australian macadamias are viewed as a premium product around the world, “thanks to the commitment of Australian macadamia growers to clean, green, sustainable production and world’s best practices".
To enhance this reputation, she wants to research innovative solutions for tree crops and agriculture more broadly – “so we remain competitive, and the most sought-after origin for macadamias, while continuing to champion our environment”.
Leoni says she has seen both the highs and lows in Australia's macadamia industry, but one constant challenge remains.
"More than 80 per cent of Australian macadamias are exported all over the world, however one of our main challenges lies in the fact we are competing with developing countries that have very low costs compared to us.
"To remain viable, we need new, cost-effective, agronomically sound and sustainable practices .
“I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to be able to pursue solutions for our industry and would like to thank the RAS Foundation for supporting me in this Nuffield scholarship”.
