BerryWorld Australia has begun picking its first Tasmanian-grown raspberries, with the Orielton region now the third to enter production since joint venture partner Piñata Farms established the growing arm in 2016.
BerryWorld-branded premium raspberries are also produced in winter at Wamuran and in summer at Stanthorpe, Queensland, taking advantage of the climatic variations of each region to spread the harvest out.
Managing director Gavin Scurr said Tasmania's initial season would run until May with the next harvest resuming by November this year.
"Going forward, the season will run from November to May," he said.
The farm is expected to reach full production by 2024.
Gavin and Rebecca Scurr of family owned Piñata Farms with BerryWorld raspberries.
Operation redeveloped for horticultural use
"The Tasmanian operation includes some 30 tunnels in production and a high-tech packhouse featuring the only heat-sealing machine we know of in Tasmania," he said.
It has provided jobs for up to 25 people, including seasonal backpackers.
The farm, north-east of Hobart, was previously used for agricultural purposes. Redevelopment included extensive earthworks to achieve the right slope for optimal drainage, construction of polytunnels with customisations such as wind doors, connection to the South-East Irrigation Scheme to ensure a stable and reliable water source and construction and fit-out of a high-tech packhouse.
"Orielton was selected because it is warmer and drier than other Tasmanian raspberry growing regions. It is also a traditionally windy area and wind impacts are mitigated by growing raspberries in polytunnels."
The first small volume of berries has been distributed to selected Woolworths stores in Tasmania. All fruit is picked and packed on site.
"Once the volume increases, fruit will be shipped daily by ferry from Devonport to Melbourne for Woolworths' distribution," Mr Scurr said.
Over time, BerryWorld Australia could supply the East Coast with raspberries, he said.
Expansion follows rebranding
The expansion is the latest milestone for BerryWorld Australia which launched a refreshed brand presence internationally last year.
BerryWorld Australia also produces specialty strawberries in Queensland. All BerryWorld berries are sold in heat-sealed, tamper-evident punnets, resulting in 30 per cent less packaging than traditional punnets.
BerryWorld-branded berries are produced exclusively in Australia by Piñata Farms under a joint venture with UK-based BerryWorld Group. Piñata Farms is the only producer to have access to BerryWorld's exclusive and world-leading berry genetics.
Woolworths is the joint venture's exclusive retail partner.
For more information:
Gavin Scurr
BerryWorld Australia
+61 7 5497 4295