With the fruit almost ripe and ready to pick, Burnett citrus growers are getting ready for a big season. Although the fruit is expected to be a mixed bag in terms of physical appearance, there will be plenty of produce for the market.
While specific numbers aren't known, Manager Brent Chambers from Gayndah Packers said the industry was expecting an above average year in terms of volume. Chambers said he was hopeful that this season would be a profitable one for growers, particularly after a tough period over the last few years due to Covid.
"In terms of our shed, we picked up a few new growers which has been fantastic, so that helps us move along a little bit more and will be full swing into our season this week," he said. "I'm hopeful that the price point will remain at a satisfactory level so that growers can meet what they need to meet. It's been difficult for some commodities during Covid, in terms of lemons and limes, just with cafes shutting and businesses opening and closing all the time. So, I hope that obviously people will stay open and we can remain active. That's probably the biggest thing."
Source: queenslandcountrylife.com.au