Tas Growers still smiling despite unseasonal rainfall

Tasmania’s cherry harvest may be affected by the state’s rainiest day in 99 years, but any significant damage was contained to the Huon Valley area, with only ‘negligible’ impact on the Derwent Valley, a completely different climate just 7km away, according to Phil Pyke, of Fruit Growers Tasmania. “Lots of growers had over 80% of their harvest picked and packed. Only growers of later varieties were badly affected, and we grow across the state,” said Mr Pyke. “Most cherry growers are also apple growers too, don’t forget, and the apple growers are delighted with the rain, as are the berry growers.” Most blueberry pickers had actually only started harvesting their crops in the past week, according to him.

As close to 80mm (two months’ worth) of rain fell over the Huon Valley last Tuesday and Wednesday, forcing growers to use helicopters to dry the remains of the late harvest cherries, at a cost of around $2,300 per hour. Tasmania’s state parliament building was also partially flooded. While there is no further unseasonal rain predicted, besides light showers, the cost in dollar terms, from any damaged crops won’t be known until the end of the season.

Harvesting cherries in the Huon Valley, with an average yearly rainfall of 750mm is already a risky business, however growers persist because the fruit can generally be harvested later, is larger and very good quality, worth between $10-15 per kilo.

For more information:
Phil Pike
Fruit Growers Tasmania
Tel: +61 6231 1944
Email: phil@fruitgrowerstas.com.au