North Queensland's exotic and tropical fruit growers are invited to attend a growers' information day on Thursday 7 November at DAFF's South Johnstone Research Station to hear the latest research findings on cyclone-proofing techniques for crop protection.

Following Cyclones Yasi and Larry, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) joined with the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation in a $500,000 research effort to identify new production techniques that could reduce the impact of strong winds.

DAFF project officer James Drinnan said both Yasi and Larry caused damage totalling millions of dollars to tree cropping and forestry industries in the north.

"Our project set out to mitigate the impacts of cyclonic winds by exploring new techniques across the production spectrum," he said.

"We looked at nursery techniques to promote healthier plants with deeper root systems, and better pruning and defoliating techniques, as well as the practicality and cost-effectiveness of trellising and other property management such as windbreaks."

The information day will run from 9am - 5pm at DAFF's station at South Johnstone Road and will conclude with paddock visits at DAFF's station as well as Peter and Alison Salleras' tropical fruit orchard at Euramo.

Growers from across the Far North, including Atherton Tablelands, are encouraged to attend. The workshop is part of the Newman Government's Get Ready initiative, which aims to make Queensland Australia's most disaster resilient state.

To register your interest, contact the DAFF Mareeba office on 4048
4600 or email MBAAdmin@daff.qld.gov.au.