As part of the Hort Innovation Growing horticulture through protected cropping innovation program, Apex Greenhouses is hosting a one-day Priva training event featuring two introductory courses in Priva computerised greenhouse management systems.
Scheduled for 17 April 2026 at the Apex Greenhouses demonstration facility in Virginia, South Australia, the one-day program brings together two introductory courses covering the fundamentals of climate and irrigation control within Priva environments. The initiative forms part of a broader industry effort to improve technical literacy and operational efficiency across commercial greenhouse businesses.
The Apex Greenhouses team emphasised the importance of building foundational knowledge in increasingly data-driven production systems. "As greenhouse operations become more reliant on integrated control platforms, it is critical that staff understand not just how to operate systems, but how to interpret and act on the data they generate."
The focus of the training will be the Priva Office platform, used in conjunction with Priva Compass, Compact and Connext systems. Together, these systems demonstrate automated climate regulation and irrigation strategies, linking environmental inputs with crop performance outcomes. The training is structured to ensure participants gain practical familiarity with these interfaces, rather than purely theoretical understanding.
© Apex Greenhouses
The first module, Introduction to Basic Priva Computerised Climate Control, is designed primarily for new entrants and staff seeking a foundational understanding of greenhouse climate systems. The course focuses on identifying key components of the Priva computer system, including weather stations and sensing equipment, while also developing practical skills in system navigation and interface operation.
Participants will work with internal and external climate data, learning how to interpret environmental conditions and maintain basic strategy settings. Additional tasks such as creating graphs, setting up navigational shortcuts and using notes functions are included to build day-to-day operational confidence.
"The challenge for many growers is not access to technology, but the ability to use it effectively. Training that bridges this gap, particularly at an introductory level, helps ensure that investments in automation deliver their intended value."
The second module, Introduction to Basic Priva Computerised Irrigation Control, shifts focus to irrigation system design and management, with particular relevance for existing greenhouse and soft fruit operators. The course addresses the structure and function of irrigation systems, including the distinction between closed and open configurations and the integration of sterilisation equipment.
A strong emphasis is placed on understanding and operating key Priva interface pages, including Start Strategy, Start Installation and Recipe Settings. Participants will also develop the ability to navigate system overviews and generate basic irrigation graphs, supporting more informed decision-making around water and nutrient delivery.
The team highlighted that irrigation management remains a critical lever for both productivity and sustainability. "Precision irrigation is central to resource efficiency in modern greenhouses. Understanding how to configure and monitor these systems is essential for maintaining crop uniformity while minimising input waste."
© Apex Greenhouses
Both sessions will be delivered by Tony Bundock, Project Manager with Protected Cropping Australia and the only registered Priva trainer in the Oceania region. With more than four decades of experience spanning commercial production, vocational training and system implementation, he brings a depth of practical insight into the application of Priva technologies in diverse production contexts.
The training day is positioned not only as a skills development opportunity, but also as part of a wider industry strategy to support the adoption of advanced technologies. Delivered under the Growing Horticulture through Protected Cropping Innovation program (AS23001), the initiative aligns with key priorities including automation, labour efficiency, sustainability and improved staff capability.
"Developing workforce competence is just as important as investing in infrastructure," the team shares. "Programs like this contribute to a more resilient industry by ensuring that growers and staff can fully utilise the tools available to them."
With participation capped to maintain a practical learning environment, the training is expected to attract a cross-section of industry stakeholders, from greenhouse operators to technical staff. As protected cropping systems continue to evolve, initiatives such as this highlight the ongoing need for targeted education that keeps pace with technological advancement.
To buy tickets, visit the Applied Horticultural Research website.
For more information:
Apex Greenhouses
Falco Faber, General Manager Australia
[email protected]
[email protected]
apexgreenhouses.com
