Research and Development : Going Beyond the Strategic Plan. Proceedings of the VIth International Walnut Symposium'

We outline a conceptual framework for structuring and conducting research and development (R & D) that leads to outcomes that assist a whole-of-chain industry response. Technical innovation starts with consumer groups who indicate their preferences through the ‘consumer demand chain’. Once market signals are interpreted, R & D is structured to develop tools, knowledge and capability for growing and supplying nuts to specification. Conditions that lead to rapid technical innovation are defined, including effective linkages between industry practitioners and scientists. We describe how the Australian Walnut Industry Association (AWIA) set R & D priorities as a first step for a coordinated and outcome-driven approach to research. Setting plans for action required identifying project ‘Champions’ (who will take the lead?) and ‘Partners’ (who do we need to work with?). This process also requires definition of the clients of the research, the length of time expected for an outcome, the nature of the research collaboration (e.g., user-pays, student projects) and processes for keeping research projects aligned with industry needs. The mechanisms of collaborative research are discussed, including the leverage that can be obtained from co-investment. It is concluded that competitive advantage from R&D is most likely when the researcher/industry engagement is effective and combined with a long-term commitment by industry to influence government policy for creating a climate of co-investment that underpins industry growth

Analysis and modelling of stiffened slab foundation on expansive soils

Different methods have been used in the literature for analysis of residential footing slabs on expansive soils; some are adopted by local and international standards. This paper presents a comparison between: (1) Mitchell’s method, which is one of the most conventional and common design methods that is currently adopted by the Australian Standard AS2870; and (2) finite element modelling using a coupled flow displacement analysis performed by the commercial software ABAQUS. The comparison is presented for both footing edge and central heave scenarios. The results showed that the finite element method can reliably simulate the foundation behaviour of structures on expansive soils. Consequently, further application of the FE modelling can be used to explore existing limitations of current conventional design methods

Creating, maintaining and assessing walnut quality from grower to market

This paper reviews the factors from growing to retailing that can affect walnut quality and then looks at the walnuts available in three global markets to evaluate how well the above requirements are being fulfilled. The data indicate there are major issues in the distribution of walnuts in some sections of global markets through lack of understanding of what constitutes quality and how to maintain it. There was a strong relationship between age and quality and a weak relationship found between price and quality. It is suggested that if growers wish to achieve high prices there is a need for them to exert greater control over the walnut value chain. To enable growers to achieve the highest value for their walnut products it is necessary for consumers to be presented with walnuts that meet their requirements. It is also necessary that: a) price signals are sent back to growers through the production, distribution, marketing and retail chain to reward delivery of the appropriate quality, and b) all participants are aware of what constitutes quality and how the actions under their control in the chain affect quality