Agritech agreement between Israel and NSW

From J-Wire, 7 April 2016:

The Premier of New South Wales, Mike Baird today witnessed the signing of an agreement in Israel between the University of Sydney and the Agricultural Research Organisation of Israel to help agricultural innovation flourish in NSW.

 

Premier Mike Baird witnesses the signing of the agreement

 

 The memorandum of understanding between the two institutions will concentrate on teaching, training and research activities in the areas of dairy, poultry and aquaculture. 

 

“Agriculture is a vital sector for both New South Wales and Israel, and with similar dry and arid climates it makes sense to share knowledge, expertise and innovative research,” Mr Baird said.

“We have a range of measures in place that support farmers to become more resilient and better prepared against drought conditions, to drive growth in the state’s agriculture sector into the future. 

“This agreement allows us learn from our shared experiences, and explore how the latest technological advancements could play a role in new farming methods that would help farmers with water, stock and land management.”

 

“When it comes to agriculture, Australia and Israel share many similarities. We both have a limited supply of water and arable land and both countries have a strong drive for innovation,” said Professor Katherine Belov, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Global Engagement) at the University of Sydney.

 

“If we are to solve the major challenges of our time like food security, University of Sydney researchers need to collaborate with researchers from around the world. Agreements like this help to drive research and teaching collaboration, which will ultimately lead to real world solutions.”

Some of the projects researchers will be working on together include:

• Increasing the meat quality in male calves;
• Examining systems and genetics to minimise heat stress in animals;
• Nutrition in poultry to prevent infectious diseases;
• Exploring alternatives to the use of antibiotics in poultry;
• Improving aquaculture systems for sustainable production of fish and vegetables;
• Biosecurity and disease preparedness for aquaculture systems.