Raspberries and Blackberries Australia represent the biosecurity interests of rubus growers (including raspberries blackberries) and the industry. They are members of Plant Health Australia and signatories to the Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed and are involved in:
- biosecurity planning and implementation at the national and farm levels
- liaising with federal and state governments on trade issues
- funding and supporting biosecurity initiatives
- participating in national committees and response efforts in an emergency.
Industry overview
In 2018–19, the rubus industry was valued at $187 million (LVP), corresponding to production of 9,478 tonnes.
Raspberry, blackberry and hybrid brambles (including silvanberries, boysenberries, loganberries, youngberries and marionberries) are collectively referred to as rubus or cane berries.
Raspberries are the most popular accounting for 85 per cent of fresh production, followed by blackberries at 14 per cent and other hybrid brambles consisting of one per cent fresh production.
While most raspberries, blackberries and brambleberries produced are consumed locally, with approximately one per cent of production exported to Singapore, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia and Pacific Island countries. Fresh exports were valued at less than $100,000.
There is approximately 700 hectares of land under cultivation with rubus varieties: production is largely under protected cropping (white plastic tunnels) to protect from wind and rain. New plantings continue in response to increasing demand from consumers.
Traditionally rubus is a cool temperate crop with peak production in early summer to autumn. However, year-round supply is possible from subtropical New South Wales and south-east Queensland production sites where harvest occurs late autumn to spring. Hydroponic systems, new low-chill rubus varieties and production methods to simulate winter extend the harvest season and productivity.
Value of production and distribution
Annual value of rubus berry production, 2009–19
Distribution of rubus berry production by state and territory, 2018–19 (based on LVP)
Biosecurity plans, manuals and resources
Biosecurity planning provides a mechanism for the rubus industry, government and other relevant stakeholders to assess current biosecurity practices and future biosecurity needs. Planning identifies procedures that can be put in place to reduce the chance of pests reaching our borders or minimise the impact if a pest incursion occurs.
The Biosecurity Plan for the Berry Sector outlines key threats to the industry, risk mitigation plans, identification and categorisation of exotic pests and contingency plans. For a copy, please contact PHA on 02 6215 7700 or email admin@phau.com.au
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