Organic certification in Australia - done it??

[robbo]

Anyone been thru the process, or looked in to doing it?

Got any info on how its done, time, benefits, change to cost, proof, testing etc?

Would love to hear anything about it :)

[Meadlover]

Robbo,

I know of 1 in QLD, I beleive it is out Samford/Mt Nebo way - I know a guy that used to do a little bit of work now and then out there. When I speak to him next I will try to find out a little more about it all.
I beleive that the biggest problem is having the surrounding area all organic as well, which isn't within most people's control.

Will let you know if I find out any more info, although he probably won't know much about the business side of things.

ML

[the-ecohouse.com]

Google the BFA/ OGA Small Producers Program

Producers under this program:
• will receive an onsite audit of their operation premises every alternate year
while every other year will require a thorough third party external desk audit
and review process;
• must have a gross annual income of less than $75,000 from sale of organic produce;
• will be offered ACO certification if further to applying for the program,
income exceeds $75,000 for two successive years;

costs heaps less that the Australian Certified Organic

benefits are higher price for your honey and access to the green dollar...

[Birdswood]

Unfortunately as Meadlover has already stated, a beekeeper can't guarantee that the surrounding areas are organic and as a result your bees may collect nectar from a non organically grown plant.

Leigh