The cherry season runs from late October until mid - late February, due to the climatic variation of the country and the climate of Tasmania this can vary each season, also relative volumes and size can be varied.
Last year Australia produced 14-15,000 tonnes of cherries, according Boughey this was an exceptional year. Estimates for this season are 10-11,000 tonnes. This is partly because New South Wales and Northern Victoria are light due the big harvest last year and it has also been a relatively warm winter and spring with too few chill hours. The blossom was also affected in some areas by rain. Nevertheless Boughey expects a good harvest with good quality fruit. The Orange area which produces a lot of the fruit for export is expected to be strong.
The Chilean and Argentinian cherry crops are most likely to have been affected by the frosts suffered in those countries which may work in Australia's favour. 20% of cherries are exported, of which 80% go to the Asian market. Hong Kong is the biggest Asian destination. Tasmanian cherries are favourites in China for the New Year celebrations.
The Middle East and Russia are also important markets, Russia being the worlds biggest cherry importer. Negotiations and trial shipments of cherries are continuing with other destinations but the processes can take time.
For more information:
Simon Boughey
Cherry Growers Australia
Tel: +61 3 6231 1229
Email: [email protected]
www.cherrygrowers.org.au