Leading Dutch businesses, Rijk Zwaan, Codema, Van der Hoeven, Ludvig Svenssen and Hoogerndoorn Growth Management, have recognized the important roles women play within horticulture by participating in AUSVEG’s 2015 study trip for women last month. They shared knowledge on Dutch sustainable production with bright female Australian vegetable and potato growers.
In the horticultural industry women often play essential roles in packing rooms, nursery, administrative, and HR departments. AUSVEG, leading horticulture body representing more than 9000 Australian vegetable and potato growers, showcases women’s influence and encourages them to be more involved to increase success. Together with well-known Dutch businesses AUSVEG has set up a study trip to the Netherlands to inspire Australian female growers. On the 5th November the Dutch companies organized a seminar for a group of women from the Australian horticultural industry at the Hoogendoorn head office in Vlaardingen. Among the participants there were the co-owners of large Australian vegetable businesses. At this event female company representatives shared their knowledge on sustainable and responsible production with the participants. Also, the vital role of women in the traditionally male-dominated sector was emphasized.
The seminar that was closed with a guided tour at a pepper nursery and a pot plant nursery was very well perceived by the Australian female growers. One of the participants: “Horticulture in Australia is still in developing stage. I was impressed by the advanced Dutch technology. I look back at an inspirational day that encouraged me to find new ways to implement new cultivation methods at my own nursery.”