The New South Wales (NSW) & Victoria Cherry season has begun, and fruit has begun to hit the wholesale and retail markets during the second week of picking, with market prices erratic, according to Caernarvon Cherry Co Director Fiona Hall. “The last few days has seen volume ramping up. The South Western growing districts areas started 2 weeks ago, with Western NSW commencing this week.”
Prices are extremely varied, according to reports from the markets. “Good fruit is holding at good prices,” says Ms Hall. Prices are also influenced by market access, and the industry is working ‘tirelessly’ on the issue, she adds.
NSW will produce around 4,500 tonnes for the season, with a similar amount coming from Victoria, and approximately 3000 tonnes picked in South Australia. “Volume will continue through till mid or late January, when Tasmania will kick in,” says Ms Hall, who’s organisation, Bite Riot, was nominated as a finalist for NSW Farmer of the Year.
Growing conditions have been ‘ideal’ to date, Ms Hall says. “The rain in the growing districts that are harvesting over the last week has seen some early varieties not picked, however it has been great for the main stream varieties adding more size.” Late harvesting areas, which also have apple crops in the ground, including Orange in NSW, are also grateful for the rain at this point, Ms Hall says.
For more information
Fiona Hall, Director
Caernarvon Cherry Co
Phone: +612 6365 3477
E-mail: info@biteriot.com.au
Website: www.biteriot.com.au