On The Land
15 April, 2023
Local avos on show
AVOCADOES from the region were showcased at the World Avocado Congress in New Zealand last week.
Staff from the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries attended the Congress to present information about the department’s high quality supply chain research, development and extension work in avocado farming.
Queensland is Australia’s largest avocado producer, producing around half of the nation’s avocados, with the industry worth $213 million to the State’s economy.
The State’s avocado industry has experienced an average growth of 11 per cent over the past five years, despite challenges faced by the Covid pandemic.
The Congress and associated field trips provide opportunities to speak and collaborate with growers to benefit the Queensland avocado industry.
DAF Principal Supply Chain Horticulturalist Noel Ainsworth presented the results of a project he recently led aimed at lifting Australian consumer confidence in avocados, involving the monitoring of 179 supply chains over four years.
A major focus of the delegation was on factfinding to continue to improve fruit quality and boost Queensland’s avocado exports in a market that has grown significantly in recent years.
“This is a great opportunity for Queensland avocados to shine on the world stage thanks to the fantastic work of our Department of Agriculture and Fisheries staff,” Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries Mark Furner said.
“It’s a chance to share knowledge with industry about processes and practices, all while promoting Queensland avos.
“It’s also a unique and valuable opportunity to learn about international research developments that could boost Queensland’s avocado industry.”
