At this time of year many farmers naturally reflect on the year that was and assess their options for the future. For some, the thought of diversifying into a new commodity or enterprise can be a tempting idea to raise farm productivity and profits.

The process of making the decision to diversify (broadening and strengthening the farm's economic base) has been given a lot of attention and there is a plethora of websites and fact sheets available, but when diversification means growing a new crop or commodity, most farmers are left to do the start-up research and growing on their own.

This part of diversification can mean a long, laborious process of trial and error and usually repeating common (and sometimes expensive) mistakes of others that have tread the path before them. A lack of knowledge of the product and the industry can however also negatively impact established growers and consumers if new growers undervalue their product or market sub-standard product.

The cut flower and foliage industry is well experienced with this scenario as the industry is characterised by many small semi-commercial enterprises and a high turnover of growers entering and exiting the industry.

The Flower Association of Queensland Inc. (FAQI) is trying to address this problem by offering those thinking of diversifying into cut flowers the opportunity to access the knowledge of experienced growers, wholesalers and exporters at its upcoming conference. The 7th Australian Native Flower Conference being held at Bardon, Brisbane during For May 25-28, 2005 is featuring a number of activities for established growers as well as catering for the needs of new growers.

FAQI President and flower grower Brian Shannon has said, "The issue of misinformed growers entering the industry has been a real problem so we are trying to remedy the situation by offering information for those thinking of getting into flowers before they start. From our perspective, it's a way of improving the industry and also protecting the reputation of all of our products by making sure everyone is producing the best flowers that they can".

The association which already produces the Guide for New Growers, (available from their website www.flowersqueensland.asn.au), is offering new growers two full days of farm tours with the conference as well as a workshop titled 'New Growers'. "The New Growers workshop will involve experienced growers, wholesalers and exporters providing information about the industry, marketing and quality control issues that should help most new industry entrants get started" Mr Shannon added.

For information on the conference including a full list of speakers, workshops and farm tours, visit the website at www.flowersaustralia.asn.au