How far into the citrus harvest are we? 

We started harvesting in the last week of April. That’s a little bit later than last year but it was a very cold spring in 2021, so the fruit is a bit behind in maturity.

Are growers confident in the volume and quality of fruit? 

Yes, there are good volumes and the quality is up to the South Australian standard of excellence.

What factors are most important for the health of trees and fruit at this stage? 

The trees are coming out of a mild summer, so we can reduce irrigation around now, and fertiliser applications have stopped also.

Are Riverland growers still experiencing labour shortages?

Labour is still an issue but with the PALM program and other visa holders. (However), I’m confident we will have enough labour in 2022

What impact are ongoing fruit fly outbreaks having for local growers? 

Now that most of the Riverland is affected by fruit fly the cost to growers increases with extra transport and procedure and paperwork to be able to move fruit to markets.

Are shipping difficulties still affecting international exports? 

Shipping remains an issue, with less ships and containers available this tear. Pack sheds have spent extra time ensuring a supply of overseas transport to freight this year’s crop.

Any advice for fellow growers? 

We have a few issues to overcome this year but our product is still in demand overseas, so with that in mind we can be positive and look forward to 2022.