Partnership provides hands-on experience

A PARTNERSHIP between Federation University Australia and Bulmer Farms is developing new farm automation technology.

As part of the universities co-operative model, students work directly with employers to prepare them for the workforce.

Student Rizan Mohamed is working with Bulmer Farms to help create technology which will speed up the process of harvesting baby broccoli, a process which is currently time consuming.

“The project involves developing robotic systems that efficiently handle and harvest baby broccoli, leveraging cutting-edge technologies like computer vision and robotics to improve agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability,” said Mr Mohamed.

Bulmer Farms agronomist and co-supervisor, Alexandra Keith, said advances in technology are changing the future of harvesting.

“For Australian growers to continue to remain competitive and supply low cost, nutritious produce to the consumer, we must continue to innovate to improve our efficiencies,” she said.

This hands-on experience has provided Mr Mohamed with an opportunity to see his research in action.

“It has provided a real-world context for my research, allowing me to understand the practical challenges and requirements of the agriculture sector,” he said.

“This partnership has facilitated access to industry expertise, resources, and infrastructure which has, significantly enhanced the scope and applicability of my work.”