Tasmanian Alkaloids annual Grower Award presentation at the Launceston Grand Chancellor was attended by over 300 farmers, industry representatives and guests on Wednesday, April 16th, 2008. Special guests included Hon David Llewellyn, Hon Will Hodgman and Hon Sue Napier.

Top Crop winners (left to right): Tony & Tracey Loane (Top Thebaine crop) and David Button (Top Morphine crop).

Field Operations manager Rick Rockliff spoke about the past season and said "Tasmanian Alkaloids has very close links with our farming community and we are acutely aware of the difficulties farmers are facing at present with increasing costs in all areas. Normally a high Australian dollar should offset rises in fertiliser and fuel but this is not the case because of other paradigm changes in world agriculture, many of which I believe are short term and unsustainable."

"Tasmanian Alkaloids will be contracting an increased area in the coming season and has offered price rises for Morphine crops and Thebaine crops. This would more than offset rises in production costs, given a more reasonable growing season, and see growers return to profitability."

Managing Director Brian Hartnett said "Tasmania's poppy industry is the largest and most successful in the world - created by the collaboration of companies, Government and growers. The application of scientific developments ensures long-term continual improvement. The international market remains difficult at present, but there are signs of change. We expect to see a vibrant and expanding future for the poppy industry."

The substantial investment in agricultural R&D by Tasmanian Alkaloids shows its continuing commitment to the future and its determination to remain the world leader in this type of business. The many growers who co-operated in trials on their properties were recognised. Horticultural R&D Manager, Dr Tony Fist gave an overview of the research programme, outlining a number of exciting projects leading to productivity improvement.

Travel awards of $10,000 each for the top Thebaine grower Tony & Tracey Loane of Wesley Vale and top Morphine grower David & Pam Button of Formosa Estate, Cressy were presented.

TasAlk and the growers look forward to a good season for the poppy crop.

Previous Winners...