Alison Barber

Key points 84 per cent reduction in fruit damage in almond trials No ‘habituation’ observed – deterrence rates did not drop over time Knowing scale and value of potential crop loss will be key to assessing ROI Drones designed to mimic the form, flight and flapping wing motion of birds – ‘biomimicry’ – are known as ornithopters. They can be more efficient and agile than their rotor-driven counterparts.

Key points: Get your data in order Access Government AI support services Start using generative AI You’ve got the data, you’re already using machine learning in the orchard and packhouse, the next step to bringing AI into your business is as simple as pulling out your phone and talking to it.

Published on April 22, 2026 Research & Extension Key points First trials to carry fruit in coming year Cultivar/rootstock differences emerge Cordon and vigour management key Labour intensive in set-up Can narrow orchard systems (NOS) deliver the same productivity and labour efficiency benefits in Australia as have been achieved in orchards overseas? Will the anticipated higher returns justify the significant extra labour and costs of establishment?