eek some banana growers from Southern parts of Australia expressed the opinion that they were not getting the benefit of levy funds that they were paying into the national industry. There was even the mention of a separate, regional industrial representation body being set up.In response to this The Australian Banana Grower's Council convened a meeting in the Coffs Harbour area, to discuss the concerns of the growers. The meeting was well attended, with around 30 growers present as well as ABGC Chairman, Doug Philips and CEO, Jim Pekin.
Subjects discussed at the meeting included the Australian banana marketing campaign, wholesale pricing levels, and the funding of the industry's regional Banana Grower Associations.
Explaining the background to the situation, Mr Philips said, "There has been a lot of discussion over the years by growers in all our growing regions about the most effective use of funds raised through our national levy. We held a meeting in Coffs Harbour to discuss their particular concerns. A new Strategic Investment Plan is now being developed as part of the industry's planning processes so it's an opportune time for growers to be raising these issues."
He explained that the levy funds are administered, not by ABGC, but by Horticulture Australia Limited (HAL). "However, the ABGC is the industry's peak body and we will continue to make representations on the best use of funds. The ABGC Board includes growers from across our growing regions and the directors all support the national levy as well as reviews that will bring further improvements."
With regard to the potential establishment of breakaway, regional industry bodies, Mr Philips expressed the opinion that a centrally based organisation was the best way to ensure industry wide considerations.
"The ABGC strongly believes the best results will be achieved for all growers by a national body, not regionally based ones. The members of our Board, as well as the Industry Advisory Committee that makes recommendations to HAL, come from all our national growing regions and an inclusive, national approach is the best way to make sure everyone's views are considered."
