Establish nurseries and training to effectively propagate high quality trees and trial plantation models of Macadamia in 3 provinces of North Vietnam - Milestone 7 " pdf

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Ministry of Agriculture & Rural Development

Project Progress Report



037VIE05
Establish nurseries and training to effectively propagate high
quality trees and trial plantation models of Macadamia in 3
provinces of North Vietnam

Milestone 7. THIRD SIX-MONTHLY REPORT




January-July 2007


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1. Institute Information
Project Name
Establish nurseries and training to effectively
propagate high quality trees and trial
plantation models of Macadamia in 3
provinces of North Vietnam
Vietnamese Institution
Center for Environment, Tourism and

Development (CETD),
Vietnamese Project Team Leader
Prof Hoang Hoe
Australian Organisation
Subtropical Farm Forestry Association
Australian Personnel
Martin Novak, Kim Wilson
Date commenced
10 January 2006
Completion date (original)
10 January 2009
Completion date (revised)

Reporting period
January – June 2007

Contact Officer(s)
In Australia: Team Leader
Name:
Martin Novak
Telephone:
61 2 66895027
Position:
President
Fax:
61 2 66895227
Organisation
Subtropical Farm Forestry
Association
Email:

In Australia: Administrative contact
Name:
Valda Mitchell
Telephone:
61 2 66284372
Position:
Administrative Officer
Fax:
61 2 66284386
Organisation
Subtropical Farm Forestry
Association
Email:


In Vietnam
Name:
Hoang Hoe
Telephone:
04 8642670, 04
7560233
Position:
Director
Fax:
04 7560233
Organisation
CETD
Email:

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2. Project Abstract



















3. Executive Summary
The project continued over the first 6 months of 2007 and included meetings in Australia and
Vietnam between participants communicating progress and key information relating to the
participating organisations.
The Australian team visit took place in March during which over a 1000 pieces of Australian

Scion wood was delivered to the 3 existing nurseries. This included all of the 10 Australian
246, 344, 741, 814, 816, 842, 849, A4, A16, A38 varieties selected for the trial. Kim Wilson
visited the FSI and Ba vi nurseries and trial sites and Martin Novak visited Lang son and Yen
Thuy although he was not able to visit the new nursery and trial site due to poor road
conditions as a result of previous heavy rain. Both Australians provided hands on training
and information relating to key aspects of macadamia propagation.
The main issues which arose during this Australian team visit at the nurseries, were once
again, the use of too small a bags, poor potting mixes and inefficient methods of mixing.
Also the need for slow release fertilizers was identified. With regard to the trials the need for
additional NPK in the plots was noted. (Annex 1 & 2 Australian team visit reports) There is
some concern that the Ba vi trial plot was not planted according to the original design. Also
there was concern that the Yen Thuy trial planting had not yet commenced because of delays
in the finalising of the leasing arrangements.
During this period the proceedings of the Lang son Training Workshop were finalised and
distributed to participants on CD. (Annex 3) Also work was started on the Nursery Manual
and the first issue of the Newsletter. Planning of the October 2007 Workshop to be held at Ba
vi were completed. This included delivering invitations to 5 key Chinese delegates and an
effort to involve more farmers this time around.
This project continues during the first half of 2007 to support the propagation in the new Macadamia
nursery and in the three existing nurseries. Also 3 principal variety trials of Macadamias are being
established, of about 1 ha each involving 14 suitable Macadamias varieties, in 3 provinces of north Vietnam.
In addition the project is involved with 3 organizations undertaking 16 other trials. Training continues to be
conducted in aspects of propagation, grafting, site design and preparation, planting, maintenance and
plantation management at the nurseries and trial sites. This has included the distribution of CD, DVD and
powerpoint presentations as well as hands on training at 2 formal training workshops, as well as training in
the field. 540 kg of seed nut from Australia and China have been provided to the nurseries along with 3000
sticks of Scion wood of the selected varieties and samples of grafting equipment during 2006 and 2007.
A study tour to China was undertaken covering all the major nurseries and some key plantations in southern
China. Reports of this tour including photos and a DVD video have been presented to the key stakeholders
in Vietnam and Australia.

A select group of small holder farmers have been chosen to be involved with project activities in the
provinces of Lang Son, B vi, Hoa Binh provinces. In addition the project continues to involve all known
key government agencies involved with Macadamias in Vietnam including MARD, FSI, RCFTI, RIFA and
RIFV. A number of private sector companies are also involved as is the Macca Club of Vietnam.
Significant progress has been made with regard to the capacity building of extension and technical staff
since the commencement of the project in January 2006.


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In addition to the above, work was started on the Nursery Tree Movement and Sales Model
XL Spread sheets and the Macadamia Capital Development & Financial Projections Model
XL Spread sheets. This a key part of the Milestone 3 report utilising the relevant baseline
data collected to date.
The Macca Club continued its coordinating role in association with the activities of the
project. Comprehensive discussions were undertaken and reports exchanged during the
Australian team visit in March (Annex 1 Australian Team leaders meeting notes)
Communication and exchange of information was increased during this period with a number
of organizations and individuals, including, Central and Western Highlands Agro-Forestry
Science and Technical Institutes, Thai Binh Foods and a number of interested farmers.
Invitations were given to these and other participants, to attend the planned Ba vi Workshop.
(Annex 4)
The Australian team leader made a stop over in Bangkok to meet with Prof Choob, Prof.
Bunvong and Prof. Monton of Kasetsart University, who are helping to arrange a tour of
Macadamia plantations in October 2007. The tour will include visits to a number of research
plantings and nurseries as well as some private commercial nurseries and plantations in
October 2007.

4. Introduction & Background
The following are the project objectives with comments on progress towards achieving these
during this 6 month period:

Objective 1 - Bring all the stakeholders together to work toward a sustainable high
value Macadamia industry for Vietnam.

A number of meetings and communiqués were undertaken during this period in Vietnam and
Australia with Collaborators, past and potential workshop participants including new farmers
to the project.

The relationship with Chinese and Thai colleges was strengthened by way of one visit each
by project leaders to the respective countries. In addition to this an ongoing dialogue has
been maintained via phone and email. Invitations to the Ba vi Training Workshop have been
given to these and other Chinese Macadamia Industry stakeholders.


Objective 2 - Strengthen the capacity of 3 existing nurseries.

Once again additional Australian scion wood was delivered to all 3 existing nurseries
including the following varieties. 246, 344, 741, 814, 816, 842, 849, A4, A16, A38. (Annex
1&2) Training sessions were delivered at all 4 nurseries along with additional samples of
nursery equipment and demonstration DVD’s and CD’s. (Annex 3)

Objective 3 - Establish a new model nursery to demonstrate Australian nursery
practice. To provide opportunity for investment and to ensure adequate supply of stock.


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The new nursery was visited by Kim Wilson and considered to be ready to scale up
production. It has already propagated over 6000 macadamia nut seedlings which have now
been potted up and housed in the new shaded area.

The sand bed propagation of nut seed from China has been very successful at Yen Thuy with
only 300 losses out of 6400 from 100 kg of nut as compared with Lang son which has 4200
seedling trees from 100 kg and Ba vi 2400 seedling trees from 100 kg.

Potted tree growth also appears to be better that the other nurseries as a result of a better
potting mix with less soil and larger pots, based on the Australian experince. (Annex 2)

Road access to the nursery is still a problem with the local government delaying promised
road works. Further promises have been made to complete the work within the next 3
months.

Objective 4 - Trial at least 10 varieties of Macadamia in 3 difference provinces Ba vi,
Hoa binh and Lang son of Vietnam.

The Van Dinh trial in Lang son has been mostly planted . Site 1 has close to 400 grafted trees
of all the selected varieties planted. Site 2 the smaller site is fully prepared with 178 planter
holes ready for planting shortly.

Most of the planted trees look good with the odd one off color and small. There is evidence
of canker in some older trees at the Station so advice was given that a few may need to be
replaced and older trees need to be treated for canker. (Annex 1)

At the Ba vi Trial site 2 hectares have been planted including A4, 344, 900, 246, A16, 695,
814, OC, 800, 849, A38, 741, 816, 842. However it does not appear that the original trial
design for this site has been followed. There is some confusions as to whether this is the trial
since MARD has contributed to the cost of planting 3 ha. A site plan has been promised but
as yet has not been received. The quality of the trees appear to be good, although more
fertiliser and weeding was recommended by Kim Wilson. (Annex 2)

The Yen Thuy trial site has been set aside but not yet planted. It will require fencing because

of cattle in the area. The main reason for the delay is because of the prolonged procedure to
gain government approval for the land lease terms. The Australian Team leader met with the
local government official and part of the explanation given was that the village farmers do
not have certification to use this land but have been dependent on it for some time and will
need compensation. So half of the lease money is to go to them making the process
complicated. Assurance was given that all would be finalised within the year at the latest.


Objective 5 - Undertake a fact finding study tour of South China. 10-12 key project
participants, including trainers and researchers.

The final reports, one from the Vietnamese team leader and an English version from the
Australian Team leader, on the successful Macadamia Study Tour Of China, which took
place in March/ April of 2006 was delivered to all participants of the Lang son Training
workshop. A copies were provided with the previous report. (Annex 3) A Video DVD and
Photo CD was also provided and further copies are available from CETD.

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Objective 6 - Assess Macadamia developments in Thailand. Project leaders to
undertake the assessment.

Following political instability due to the coup last year and also because of an extended
Horticultural Show in Chiang mai visits were postponed until this year.

In March during the Vietnam visit, the Australian team leader made a stop over in Bangkok
to meet with Prof Choob, Prof. Bunvong and Prof. Monton of Kasetsart University, who are
helping to arrange a tour of Macadamia plantations in October 2007. The tour will include
visits to a number of research plantings and nurseries as well as some private commercial
nurseries and plantations.

The Thais have been involved with the growing of Macadamia for over 20 years and have
supplied seed to WASI last year. They have undertaken research in propagating and growing
macadamia in tropical high elevation areas which will have relevance to highland areas in
central and south Vietnam.

Objective 7 - Undertake participatory training for technicians, extension officers,
nursery staff and workers, farmers and farm workers.

Training was delivered during the Australian teams visit in February and March of this
period in all the nurseries and trial sites, similar to previous visits.

Ongoing informal training also continues in all of the participating nurseries especially since
staff and technicians are gaining knowledge and confidence as the project progresses.

Objective 8 - Support the formalisation of a Macadamia industry network. Based on the
successful Australian model (AMS) and other models in Vietnam and elsewhere.

A Macca Club of Vietnam meeting was held during the Australian team leaders visit on the
10 March.

Presentations and speeches were given by Mr Tan, Mr Loc, Hoang Hoe and Martin Novak.
(Annex 1)
Mr Tan in his speech emphasised the importance of a strategic approach involving research
in the development of Vietnams Macadamia industry.

Mr Loc gave an introduction and overview of plantings in Vietnam.

Prof. Hoe presented figures on the world production of Macadamia and possible financial
returns.

Martin Novak gave a PPT presentation on the development of the project including
challenges, especially in terms of quality of nursery production. The importance of better
potting mixes and the need to select out poor trees. Grafting still needs to improve. Nurseries
are being pressured to privatise and hence they try and sell everything including the poor
stock. Nurseries want new graft material but have not yet perfected their techniques.


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The meeting concluded with agreement that the Club would try and involve more interested
parties work with the project towards the next Training Workshop at Ba vi in October this
year.

Objective 9 - Assist and share information, experience and data with existing
Macadamia researchers in Vietnam in particular with FSI.

The proceedings of the Lang son Workshop contain information for all the key project
participants including an informative presentation by FSI and this has been distributed all the
Training Workshop participants and others. (Annex 3)

The FSI Nursery was visited by the Australian Team and Vietnam Team Leader. (Annex 1 &
2) Further meetings were held with Dr Kha , Dr Thinh and Dr Hai. The Role of FSI in
sharing data, receiving scion wood, seed and samples of equipment and taking part in
training continued. FSI has requested scion-wood of varieties which they do not have and
other than that identified for the trials.

Both Kim Wilson and Martin Novak advised FSI that the trial at the Nursery site needed
more fertiliser and some watering. They also pointed out that nursery macadamia tree
production would benefit from better potting mixes and larger bags. This is especially
important in the light of FSI status as principal research body for Macadamias and also since
they were now selling large qualities of grafted trees to commercial farmers.

In addition WASI, CASI, RIFV, ThaiBinh Foods and others including smaller farmers,
continue to exchanging information and experience with the project team and each other.

Objective 10 - Collect data from existing and new trial plots and nurseries and
undertake evaluation and analysis.

Now that a significant amount of data has been collected by the project team and other
participants, work has been able to start on the Nursery Tree Movement and Sales Model XL
Spread sheets and the Macadamia Capital Development & Financial Projections Model XL
Spread sheets. This a key part of the Milestone 3 report utilising the relevant baseline data
collected to date.
There have been some delays with regard to the delivery of data from the nurseries, partly
because of the incompatibility of data formats and partly because of funding limitations. This
is being addressed both by the project team and by the nurseries.
Project participants have been requested to present relevant data in their presentations at the
coming Ba vi Training Workshop in October.

Objective 11 - Inform stakeholders and others and promote the objectives of the project
specifically and the benefits of a Macadamia industry generally.

The network of stakeholders and others has grown significantly since the start of the project
at the beginning of 2006.

All relevant government agencies and all known participants in macadamia initiatives have
been informed of the project role and activities and invited to Training Workshops.


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The publicity generated by the Workshops, particularly, the Lang son Workshop, has helped

to promote macadamia generally in Vietnam. This has raised the interest of farmers and
investors resulting in the planning and start up of a number of new macadamia plantations.

Objective 12 - Strengthen extension capacity by linking it to research and the
practitioners.

Communication has been maintained with extension and technical staff from all participating
agencies and companies involved with the macadamia industry including all those that
attended the Lang son Training Workshop that included researchers and practitioners from
China, Vietnam and Australia.

The project work continues to strengthen the capacity of the technicians and extension
personnel of the principal nurseries and trial plot participants.

5. Progress to Date
5.1 Implementation Highlights
It was encouraging to see the data collected to date produced positive returns when run
through the Macadamia Capital Development & Financial Projections Model.

Vietnams new macadamia industry now has a comprehensive body of information with the
final version of the Lang son Workshop Proceedings, and the soon to be released,
Macadamia Nursery Manual and the first Issue of the Macadamia Newsletter, for all
plantation industry stakeholders.
5.2 Smallholder Benefits
There has been a significant interest shown by smallholder farmers since the Lang son
workshop. Enquiries and orders for trees at Lang son and FSI Ba vi nurseries has
significantly increased to the point where FSI has reported not being able to meet the demand
for grafted trees.

Interest in the October Ba vi workshop by farmers is a further indication of farmer

involvement.
5.3 Capacity Building
Significant capacity building continues to be achieved via the project training and
information delivery mechanisms particularly during the Australian team visit in March.

The activities at the nurseries and the trial sites, demonstrates participants skills and
increasing knowledge levels.

5.4 Publicity
No specific publicity was undertaken during this period. However plans for promoting the
October Ba vi workshop including media coverage have been developed.

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The nurseries undertake their own promotion.
5.5 Project Management
Management activities in Vietnam and Australia have continued along the lines of the first 12
months, this has included oversight of implementation at nurseries and trial sites, extension
work, translation of documents, arrangement of ongoing meetings, responses to design
issues, purchasing of equipment, editing of information documents and video. Also further
ongoing communication relating to the trial sites and nursery activities between participants
and collaborators continues.

6. Report on Cross-Cutting Issues
6.1 Environment
So far there continue to be no evident negative environmental impacts. Participants have
been monitoring and reporting on any environmental impacts.

FSI has the longest history of research into macadamia in Vietnam. So far they have not
found any significant problems relating to the impact on the environment.

A more comprehensive study into environment issues is being undertaken and will be report
on at the October workshop.
6.2 Gender and Social Issues
As stated in earlier reports approximately half of technicians and workers in the nurseries are
women. They play an equal role to that of the men both in terms of work and capacity
building.

A female staff of CETD will the principal organizer of the Ba vi Training Workshop and she
was given high commendation from the participants and project leaders for her successful
work at the Long son Training Workshop.

A female translator, Dieu Thuy Dang, continues to undertake English translations of research
and progress reports including that of FSI.

The project leaders continue to encourage participating organizations to utilize the role of
woman, on their staff in the project.


7. Implementation & Sustainability Issues
7.1 Issues and Constraints
With regard to the project the main issues and constraints relate to the apparent inability of
some of the key participants to communicate data and information regarding their activities

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and to fully implement, on time, their side of the project milestones. The principal reason for
this appears to be the lack of funds available to them to undertake the role.

Lack of funding is also hampering the projects team to assist additional farmers and
government agencies, particularly those outside of the 3 provinces directly targeted by the

project

A proposal to CARD via an EOI (Annex 5) to support an expansion of the project to assist
with this situation has been submitted. The minister Mr Bong has also been approach
regarding support from MARD to utilise the project to assist in developing stronger links
with commercial interest and provide materials and extension to WASI and Central
Highlands interested stakeholders.

With regard to the bigger picture and the fledgling Macadamia industry in Vietnam there still
remains an issue of quality stock from the nurseries and adequate data to make accurate
projections on the financial viability of the industry as a whole. Although the project is
attempting to come up with financial modelling in this regard the limited data available limits
the accuracy of projections and delays the delivery of such projections. Additional input from
agencies and/or funding is required to address the limited scope of the data. Again the EOI if
successful, will assist in this regard as will the ongoing duration of the project.
7.2 Options
Additional support will continue to be sort from the participating agencies and private
companies.

The role of the Macca Club will be vital in taking on the responsibilities to help overcome
some of these developmental issues. The project continues to encourage the Club to broaden
and formalise its role and take on the leadership in the development of the industry.
7.3 Sustainability
The basic information as well as good quality suitable varieties are now available to the
industry to provide a solid foundation for a viable and sustainable industry. Progressively
over the next 18 months it will depend on stakeholders within Vietnam to take up the
challenge of developing the industry. Lessons from Australia need to be taken on board
particularly with regard to a communicative and open approach to industry development.

To date there do not appear to be any serious environmental or social obstacles to the

development of the industry.
8. Next Critical Steps
The Ba vi Training Workshop is planned to be the next major project event to held in
October.

Prior to this event the Nursery manual and the first macadamia newsletter for Vietnam will
be produced and distributed to all known stakeholders and workshop participants.


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If the EOI is approved the project team will provide extension to the additional provinces as
mention earlier. Also plans for training in Australia will be finalised and implemented within
the next six months.

In addition the first financial projects for the macadamia plantation industry in Vietnam will
be completed.

The existing nurseries now have the 14 varieties that they can provide to complete the trial
plantings.


9. Conclusion
The 18 months of the project have been completed successfully with virtually all planned
activities implemented.



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Project Progress Against Proposed Objectives, Outputs, Activities And Inputs
1
st
6 month period of 2007
Project Title: Establish nurseries and training to effectively propagate high quality trees and trial plantation models of Macadamia in 3
provinces of North Vietnam.

Vietnamese Implementing Institution:
Centre for Environment, Tourism and Development (CETD), Vietnam Forestry Science & Technology Association
(VIFA)


PROPOSAL Progress Report
Narrative Information Required Performance Measures Assumptions Information Required
OBJECTIV
E 1
Bring all the stakeholders together to work
toward a sustainable high value Macadamia
industry for Vietnam.
Beneficiaries include farmers, nursery and
farm workers, technicians, extension staff,
state and private companies, government
agencies, other businesses and house holds.
Majority of stakeholders are now
involved in the project.

That all stakeholders will
become meaningfully
involved in the project
and take part in the
capacity building
endeavour.
All known stakeholders are being invited
to the Ba vi Training Workshop. This
includes the participants of the Lang son
Training Workshop totalling 44. In
addition training was conducted at Yen
Thuy involving village farmers and
workers. Also a visit to the Ba vi and FSI
nurseries involving an exchange of
information.
OUTPUT
1.1
6 month report on activities and outcomes
Activity 1.1.1
Prepare the agenda for the design process. Input from all stakeholders. Chains
of responsibility collaboratively
designated.
It is too early to judge if
there is a balance of
competing interests.
The key stakeholders continue to
exchange data and progressively
implement aspects of information,
equipment and skills gained in training.
Activity 1.1.2

Hold workshop sessions in Vietnam 2 workshops each year in Vietnam
bring stakeholders together.
That stakeholders will
implement skills and
information delivered.
Training session were held at Lang son,
and Yen Thuy. Feed back continues to
indicate there is a high level of
implementation with a reasonable degree
of success. Planning of the Ba vi
Workshop were undertaken with all key
participants.

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Activity 1.1.3
Hold several workshop sessions in Australia
with collaborators.
2 workshops each year for design,
capacity gap strategies and
scientific review.
That the outcome of these
sessions will be effective
in Vietnam.
Two planning meetings were held during
this period to review project
development. Noted problems were
assessed and recommendations have been
passed on
Activity 1.1.4
Regular and ongoing communication with

stakeholders
Phone, Newsletter and Email
Bulletin reporting project activities
and progress.
That communication
results in improved
activity.
Regular and ongoing communication
continues to take place between all
involved in Vietnam Regular email
communication is ongoing with the
Australian team. The Macadamia
Newsletter final draft is completed. It
should be published July 2007.
OBJECTIV
E 2

Strengthen the capacity of 3 existing
nurseries.
Production of good stock of
suitable varieties of Macadamia.
Nurseries are capable of
improved performance
based on Australian
experience
Over 1000 pieces of graft wood have
been distributed to the 3 nurseries of 10
varieties including 246, 344, 741, 814,
816, 842, 849, A4, A16, A38
OUTPUT

2.1

6 monthly report.

Seedling germination, stock quality
and survival.


That good data be provide
by the nurseries
Data has been provided, regarding
germination and graft success rates by the
nurseries progressively,
Activity
2.1.1
Collaborative preparation of information and
training material.
Information on nursery design for
existing nurseries. On potting
mixes, grafting materials,
propagation and management
techniques.
That there is suitable
compatibility between
Australian and
Vietnamese existing
systems and that of
nursery needs.
Training and information delivery has
been undertaken involving Australian

trainers and Vietnamese technicians at all
the principal nurseries. This information
was delivered as verbal and hands on
presentations, powerpoint, photos and
DVD Video , similar to previous training
sessions.
Activity
2.1.2
Deliver information, and training. 2 workshops each year 2
Australian trainers 2 Vietnamese.
and on-going training for
Technicians and staff supported by
IT communiqués and 3 Vn
expertise visits each year.
That delivery has been
structured to allow for
skills and knowledge
variations between
workers and technicians
in Australia and Vietnam.
In addition to the training sessions above
preparation for the Ba vi Training
Workshop scheduled for October has
commenced during this period.

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Activity
2.1.3
Deliver seed and graft stock of at least 10 best
bet Varieties.

Each nursery to receive 100 kg
seed nut, 1000 sticks of graft and
bud wood from the 10 varieties
each year plus replacement stock.
That Australian varieties
will result in significantly
better performance in
Vietnam.
Ba vi, Lang son, FSI and Yen Thuy
nurseries received over 300 sticks of graft
wood from the 10 Australian varieties.
Plans are under way to obtain seed from
Long Zhou China
Activity
2.1.4
Deliver samples of nursery equipment,
including grafting planes, tape, wounds
dressing, propagation and potting mix, and
potting bags.
Each nursery is to receive 2 of
each for trials and if successful
then more can then be sourced
from Vn. or China .
That Au equipment and
materials will result in
better performance.
Each nursery received additional samples
of grafting tape. Formulae for the potting
mix that has been presented previously is
being trialed now at all nurseries.

Nurseries were once again encouraged to
omit soil from the mixes.
OBJECTIV
E 3
Establish a new model nursery to demonstrate
Australian nursery practice. To provide
opportunity for investment and to ensure
adequate supply of stock.
Production of good stock of
suitable varieties of Macadamia.
Producing at least 3000 grafted
seedlings of a minimum of 10
Varieties.
Nursery based on
Australian design is
capable of improved
performance.
Of the 6000 seedlings which were potted
up. 5600 have survived and look very
good quality. The potting mix trials
indicate low soil levels and high organic
mixes are proving the best.
OUTPUT
3.1

6 monthly report.

Refurbishment progress. Seedling
germination, stock quality and
survival.

That good data be provide
by the nursery staff.
The germination area has been expanded
with improved shading ( recommended
20%) and drainage.
Activity
3.1.1
Collaborative preparation of information
relating to refurbishment and training
materials. Prepare Nursery business plans
records and accounts.
Information on nursery design for
the new nursery. On potting
mixes, grafting materials,
propagation and management
techniques. Business plans.
That there will be suitable
compatibility between
existing material and
systems and that need for
this project and that this
can be addressed.
Data on nursery costs has been provided
to the project. This is been incorporated
into early drafts of the Nursery financial
models and will be reported on in
Milestone 6 and the Ba vi Training
Workshop.
Activity
3.1.2

Refurbish and restore nursery in Hoa binh
Yen Thuy. ( It has been decided to build a
totally new facility.)
Clean up site. Repair and rebuild
structures. Prepare seed beds,
shaded areas. Introduce
propagation mixes and seed.
That standard and speed
of local workers is good.
The site now includes a building which
acts as a training centre and small
accommodation facility. The nursery is
completed.
Activity
3.1.3
Deliver information, and training. 2 workshops each year 2
Australian trainers 2 Vietnamese.
and on-going training for
Technicians and staff supported by
IT communiqués and 3 Vn
That delivery can be
structured to allow for
skills and knowledge
variations between
workers and technicians.
Onsite training has taken place at the new
nursery including one session with Kim
Wilson during this period.

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expertise visits each year.
Activity
3.1.4
Deliver seed and graft stock of at least 10 best
bet Varieties.
The nursery to receive 400 kg seed
nut, 2000 sticks of graft and bud
wood from the 10 + varieties year
06 & again in 07 + replacement
stock.
That Australian
specifications will result
in significantly better
performance in Vn.
The new nursery received100 kg of seed
nut in September 06 (from China) in this
period. Graft wood will be delivered in
October 07.
Activity
3.1.5
Deliver samples of nursery equipment,
including grafting planes, tape, wounds
dressing, propagation and potting mix, and
potting bags.
The nursery to receive 4 of each
for trials and if successful the
remainder can then be sourced
from Vn. or China .
That Au equipment and
materials will result in

better performance.
The nursery received 1 of each sample
grafting planes, tape, 10 potting bags for
trials in 06. Additional tape and potting
bags were delivered in March 07.
Activity
3.1.6
Operate nursery for production, demonstration
and training purposes
Follow business plans, propagation
& training schedules
That 3 years is sufficient
for business to become
sustainable.
The nursery continues to be used for
demonstration and training with
increasing effectiveness. This involves
the local farmers and villages as well as
visitors from other regions.
OBJECTIV
E 4
Trial at least 10 varieties of macadamia in 3
difference provinces Ba vi, Hoa binh and
Lang son of Vietnam.
Provide data on the performance of
the different varieties in the
different sites
That 10 + varieties chosen
capture the best for
Vietnam’s conditions.

14 varieties have been made available, to
all 3, including 10 from Australia 246,
344, 741, 814, 816, 842, 849, A4, A16,
A38 and 4 from China OC, 695, 788 and
QN 1.
For the status of planting see Annex 1 &
2
OUTPUT
4.1

6 monthly reports

16
Activity 4.1.1
Design and plant 12 trial plots.
A collaborative decision will be made as to
the final design at the start of the project
incorporating that of Dr Kha’s work and that
of the CSIRO so that benefits flow to all the
research bodies and the industry as a whole.

Compare the growth habit, growth
rate, (beyond the project, yield of
first grade kernel, kernel quality)
of macadamia varieties grown at
different densities at various sites
in Vietnam.
Assumption is that all
critical variables are
constant throughout the

trials.
3 sites of approximately 1 ha each have
been designed and selected as the
principal trial sites at Ba vi, Lang son,
Van Linh, Hoa Binh Yen Thuy. 14
varieties are being trailed at each site. In
addition NESFE, FSI, WASI have 16
plots later ThaiBinh Foods (+Waring) and
others will have more.
Activity 4.1.2
Develop formats for comparative data sets
collaboratively as above.
Data must be of value to all
stakeholders be they research or
production oriented.
Assumption is that
existing data sets are
some what comparative.
Data is being collected from the nurseries
and entered in 2 models, a Nursery Tree
Flow Model and a Nursery Financial
Model. (MS 3 and M6)
Activity 4.1.3
Results will be made available to all
stakeholders and published where appropriate.
A range of publications is to result
aimed at the farmers, technicians,
the agricultural scientists &
investors with some also having a
science focus.

Assumption is that
publishers and consumers
will be interested.
The Lang son Workshop Proceedings are
being prepared and have been distributed
to all known stakeholders. Additional
information to be distributed, has been
drafted for the Nursery Manual, Ba vi
Training Workshop and newsletter.

17
OBJECTIV
E 5
Undertake a fact finding study tour of South
China. 10-12 key project participants,
including trainers and researchers.
Assess performance of varieties,
availability of good seed and graft
wood and grafted trees.
Assume that materials are
select and true to
designated varieties and
free from disease.
Completed. (See the report in the Lang
son Training Workshop Proceedings and
MS 2 Report.)
OUTPUT 5.1
Tour Report prepared and delivered to
stakeholders with the first 6 monthly report.
Report will be based on input from

all the participants.
Assumption that
information provided is
consistent with accepted
international standards.
The study tour report is completed and is
being distributed to all on CD MS 2
Annex 3)
A DVD Video and Photo CD have been
distributed and are available from CETD
or SFFA
Activity 5.1.1
Finalise agenda for tour with Chinese counter
parts and plan participants roles. Develop data
formats that relate to required nursery and trial
information.
Each participant will be
responsible to gather information
in relation to their area of expertise
and experience using the formats.
Assume that the
information is relevant
and of value to the
project.
Completed. (Reported in MS2 Report)
Activity 5.1.2
Undertake tour based on plans and
preparation. Exchange information in a
collaborative fashion. Aim at strengthening
relations for the future

Gather and record information both
written and visual. Arrange the
purchase of required material.
Assume that Chinese will
also value the
relationship.
As a result of the tour and the
relationships developed a Chinese
delegation of 3 took part in the Lang son
Workshop and 4 have been invited to the
Ba vi Training Workshop.
Activity 5.1.3
Assess the tour based on the report and follow
up with Chinese counterparts and put final
arrangements in place maintain relationships
and source materials.
Implement findings and
recommendations of tour team
Collect and distribute sourced
materials.
Assume that the
relationship will be
sustainable.
An ongoing relationship continues with
Chinese counter parts. 300 kg of seed
purchased have proved successful. More
seed is on order for 2007 & 8
OBJECTIV
E 6
Assess Macadamia developments in Thailand.

Project leaders to undertake the assessment.
Review the mistakes of the past
development at Ankang and
compare it to new initiatives in
central Thailand.
Assume that there are
lessons to be learnt and
that there will be mutual
benefits for both Vietnam
and Thailand
Martin Novak met with Prof Bunvong ,
Dr Samart, Prof Choob and Prof. Monton
Macadamia. They made plans for a tour
of Macadamia in Thailand in October
2007
OUTPUT 6.1
Report on the assessment as a part of the first
6 month project report.


18
Activity 6.1.1

Short visit to Thailand to assess the new
development of the Macadamia industry and
seek lessons opportunities for Vietnam
Assess nursery and varietal
performance. Note any innovative
technologies and creative
development aspects.

Regional variations may
be very different to make
accurate comparisons.
The visit is now scheduled for around
October 2007.
Activity 6.1.2
Establish points of contact for the sourcing of
seed and graft material and any potentially
mutually beneficial activities for the future.
Assess availability and quality of
seed and graft material.
Prepare report on the above.
Assumption that Thai
counterparts will be
willing to work towards
mutual benefits.
This is planned for during the visit.
OBJECTIV
E 7
Undertake participatory training for
technicians, extension officers, nursery staff
and workers, farmers and farm workers.
Outcomes would include training
materials, capacity building
amongst trainees and their
organisations
Assumption that
participatory training
techniques are suited to
previous history and

culture of trainees
Training was conducted at Ba vi, Van
Linh, Lang son and Yen Thuy involving
nursery staff, farmers and workers. Also a
visit to the FSI nursery involved an
exchange of information.
OUTPUT 7.1
Report on the training as a part of the 6 month
project reports.

Activity
7.1.1
Deliver information, and training in site
assessment, plantation design, establishment,
management, and maintenance for small and
larger farms. Include trial sites and their staff.
Incorporate information on varietal trials.
2 workshops each year 2
Australian trainers 2 Vietnamese.
and on-going training for
Technicians, farmers workers and
others supported by IT
communiqués and 3 Vn expertise
visits each year.
Assume that delivery can
be structured to allow for
skills and knowledge
variations between
workers and technicians.
Training was participatory and involved

hands on demonstrations of site
assessment, trial requirements, grafting
techniques and equipment as well as
supporting formal presentations
incorporating video, PPT and
participatory discussions. Copies of Lang
son presentations are being distributed.
OBJECTIV
E 8
Support the formalisation of a Macadamia
industry network. Based on the successful Au
model (AMS) and other models in Vn and
elsewhere.
Review a range of peak body
models. Report to project
stakeholders.
Risk that this model is not
appropriate to current
Vietnam governance
situation.
The Australian Macadamia Society
(AMS) continues to be favoured at this
stage as the most appropriate model for
Vietnam.
OUTPUT 8.1
Report on the progress as a part of the 6
month project reports.

Activity
8.1.1

Arrange a meeting of the existing Macadamia
Club of Vietnam ( Mr Tan and associates and
other stakeholders)
Present models, options and
recommendations to all
stakeholders for discussion and
prioritisation
Risk that stakeholders
will consider own interest
against that of the
industry as a whole.
At the Lang son workshop it was agreed
that the future Vietnam Peak body would
have to be more representative than the
Macca Club and other stakeholders would

19
need to be involved as is the case with the
AMS. Additional meetings continue to
work towards this outcome. (Annex 1)
OBJECTIV
E 9
Assist and share information, experience and
data with existing Macadamia researchers in
Vietnam in particular with FSI and Dr Kha.
Detail existing collaborative
agreements with these
organizations, identifying shared
benefits.
Assumption that any

differing interests can find
common ground
Further meetings and communication
have been undertaken between project
leaders, Dr Thinh and Dr Hai FSI. as well
as other participants such as WASI,
ThaiBinh Foods and Long Phuong Co
OUTPUT 9.1
6 month reports on progress
Activity
9.1.1
Hold meetings with FSI, CSIRO and others to
implement design of the trial models and Data
Collection formats and Data Bases so that
they are compatible with those used by these
organizations and provide the required
information
Data will include the growth habit,
growth rate, (beyond the project,
yield of first grade kernel, kernel
quality) of macadamia varieties
grown at different densities at
various sites in Vietnam.
Assumption is that trial
models and data
collection can conform to
what already exists.
All key participants are providing reports
and relevant data is being entered into the
first versions of the spread sheet models.

These will be made available to
participants for comment and use. Final
validation will occur in the final six
month project period.
Activity
9.1.2
Provide seed and graft wood to the principal
3 research nurseries and FSI ensuring at least
10 Varieties. Provide nursery equipment as
detailed in the Annexs.
Nursery to receive 100 kg seed
nut, 1000 sticks of graft and bud
wood from the 10 varieties each
year plus replacement stock.
Nursery equipment, including
grafting planes, tape, wounds
dressing, propagation and potting
mix, and potting bags.
That Australian
specifications will result
in significantly better
performance in Vn.
Seed scion wood and equipment have
been delivered as mentioned above.
In the future once principal trial needs
are met scion of additional varieties will
be delivered to satisfy requests.
If the expansion of the project is approved
this will be expanded in quantity and to
the any new participants

OBJECTIV
E 10
Collect data for existing and new trial plots
and nurseries and undertake evaluation and
analysis.
Data will include the growth habit,
growth rate, (beyond the project,
yield of first grade kernel, kernel
quality) of macadamia varieties
grown at different densities at
various sites in Vietnam.
Assumption is that trial
models and data
collection can conform to
what already exists.
Data with regard to propagation of seed
and graft success is being collected.
Further data with regard to trials is to be
collected once trials are fully established.
Most baseline data is complete and a
preliminary analysis is underway.

20
OUTPUT
10.1
6 month reports on progress
Activity
10.1.1
Implement compatible data bases for existing
and new trial plots and nurseries.

Data bases to be collaboratively
finalised within the first 3 months
of the project and based on the
above.
Data is being collected in an ongoing
fashion and recently it is being entered
into the models mentioned earlier
Activity
10.1.2
Undertake measurements every 3 months
collection of data every 6 months
All other activities are to be recorded as they
occur.
Data to be enter as soon as
measurements are taken and copies
sent to the science team
Assumption that
technicians will be
diligent in their role.
However checks will be
made every 3 months.
Most available data to date has undergone
some analysis and reported at the Lang
son Workshop. More recent analysis will
be reported at the Ba vi workshop.
OBJECTIV
E 11
Inform stakeholders and others and promote
the objectives of the project specifically and
the benefits of a Macadamia industry

generally.
Promotion to target specific
audiences with related interest
primarily.
All known stakeholders have been or are
being provide with all the reports referred
to above and in the Annex’s
OUTPUT
11.1
Report on progress every 6 months
Activity
11.1.1
Develop newsletter and website both to
provide information and promote the project.
Range of articles to be balance in content
based on project objectives.
Distribution is principally to stakeholders.
I newsletter every 6 months to
include project activities of note
and other relevant Macadamia
news 1 website to promote the
project.
The first Newsletter is in its final form
ready to be issued to participants prior to
and at the Ba vi Training Workshop in
October. The website has been deferred
until viability of the industry is absolutely
certain.
Activity
11.1.2

Publish training documentation.
Modules to cover aspect of the project as they
arise.
Training modules to be published
progressively coinciding with
workshops and aimed at trainees


The first Introductory Training modules
have been translated and distributed to
technicians and other stakeholders at
previous Training sessions and
workshops. The final draft of the Manual
is now complete.
The Lang son Workshop Proceedings
have been finalised and are being
distributed to participants.

21
Activity
11.1.3
Prepare articles and media releases. Focus to target specific media and
publications presenting notable
events and information relating to
the project.
The project was promoted via the Lang
son Workshop was given coverage via
newsletter magazine article and TV.
OBJECTIV
E 12

Strengthen extension capacity by linking it to
research and the practitioners.
Project leader will need to ensure
that there are good communication
flows between the scientists and
the farmers via the extension staff.
Extension staff need to
feel free in this role.
The project continues to build on
established strong links in regard to
research, extension and delivery to key
practitioners. This was best demonstrated
at the Lang son Workshop, including the
ongoing relationship with the key Chinese
researchers.

OUTPUT
12.1
6 month reports on progress
Activity
12.1.1
A protocol is to be developed and put in place
to ensure responsibility in capacity building is
shared between extension staff, researchers,
trainers and practitioners. This will include IT
as much as possible closely associated with
practical field work.
A document is to be presented
setting out means and frequency of
communication, preparation for

training sessions and ongoing
training tasks
Persons to be involved
already have related
interest
The delivery of presentations and written
reports at the workshops and ongoing
reports of participants progress in the
field, ensures a continuity of capacity
building throughout the project


12. Annexure list for the Milestone 7 report:

Annex 1. Australian Team Leaders (Martin Novak) Report.
Annex 2. Australian Extension (Kim Wilson) Report.
Annex 3. Lang son Workshop Proceedings. (The full proceedings has been delivered to CARD office on CD)
Annex 4. Ba vi Workshop Invitation list.
Annex 5. EOI (The full EOI proposal has been delivered to CARD office.)