Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture: Details of new $26m hub at UTAS Newnham revealed

A $26m agriculture hub development – including a glasshouse, multi-purpose research facility, and retractable-roof growing areas – will begin rising at UTAS’ Newnham campus early next year.

A concept drawing of the new Tasmanian Agricultural Precinct at the Newnham Campus. Picture: UTAS

A $26m agriculture hub development – including a glasshouse, multi-purpose research facility, and retractable-roof growing areas – will begin rising at the University of Tasmania’s Newnham campus early next year.

Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture Director, Professor Michael Rose, said the 1100 sqm glasshouse would offer an advanced level of biosecurity, and be equipped with technology to control carbon dioxide, humidity, and a wide temperature range.

“In a setting where we can create and control environmental conditions, this cutting-edge glasshouse will allow us to conduct research that Tasmanian farmers need from developing new species of crops to testing pest and disease management under future climate scenarios,” Prof Rose said.

“It’s here that we will be working on new methods of increasing tolerance to waterlogging for our crops, and developing new, climate change resistant pasture species.

“These types of projects make a difference in our shops – more resilient crops means fewer price spikes as a result of major weather events.”

A development application will be submitted to the City of Launceston in coming weeks.

It comes as 17 agriculture sector leaders graduate from an innovative TIA career development program aimed at building practical skills and knowledge.

Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture director Professor Michael Rose. Picture: TIA

A joint initiative between TIA and the Rural Business Tasmania, the Enable Program brings together owners and managers of agricultural businesses across the state.

Prof Rose said the program, delivered though workshops and online sessions from April to October this year, had attracted participants from across Tasmania.

“TIA’s mission is to provide the research and industry support to accelerate Tasmania’s agricultural productivity, while maintaining land and water quality for future generations,” Prof Rose said.

“Supporting the training and development of our agricultural leaders and innovators is a critical part of this.”

Participant Cassie Tickner-Smith, from Tasmanian Irrigation, said the course had taught her how to better respond to challenging situations, both within and outside the workplace.

“Being aware of ‘staying above the line’ and being open and positive is already changing my life, and applying communication, project planning, coaching and conflict management techniques covered in the course will enable me to be a better leader working in Tasmania’s agriculture and environment industry,” Ms Tickner-Smith said.

Dairy farmer Shaelyn Rockliff said Enable had given the skills, knowledge and confidence to run the family business.

“The program has given me a greater understanding of things like business finance, succession planning, employee wages, different business structures, superannuation, banking and insurance,” Ms Rockliff said.

“This new knowledge has helped me understand the family farm business in depth and I now have confidence to discuss these topics with others.

“The biggest highlight for me has been the development and improvement of my people management skills.”

Originally published as Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture: Details of new $26m hub at UTAS Newnham revealed