Cherry Growers of Australia represent the biosecurity interests of cherry growers and the industry. They are members of Plant Health Australia and signatories to the Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed. Their responsibilities include:
- 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 2017–18 production of cherries was valued at $159 million (LVP), and exports were valued at $62.2 million.
National production in 2018–19 reached approximately 16,000 tonnes, of which 32 per cent was exported.
Production is expected to rise to 20,000 tonnes by 2020, with up to 50 per cent exported.
Cherries are produced in six states, with NSW, Victoria and Tasmania being the three largest producers, followed by SA. These four states have a strong export focus. WA and Queensland are relatively small producers, primarily focusing on the domestic market.Australian cherries are available from mid to late October until late February. The window of supply in each region is determined by the varieties grown and the local climate.
The cherry industry is increasing its production and moving into new areas. Recent market access to key Free Trade Agreement markets such as China and Vietnam have given mainland growers an unprecedented opportunity which until now has been the exclusive domain of Tasmania with its fruit fly free status. As of 1 January 2019, every major market serviced by Australian cherries, except India, will be tariff free.
This improved market access has resulted in an increase in the number of growers registering for export over the past two years, with approximately 90 growers (greater than 2,000 hectares) registered for protocol markets. National expansion is underpinned by ongoing research and strong biosecurity principles.
Value of production and distribution
Annual value of cherry production, 2007–18
Distribution of cherry production by state and territory, 2017–18 (based on LVP)
Biosecurity plans, manuals and resources
Biosecurity Plan for the Cherry Industry
Biosecurity planning provides a mechanism for the cherry 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 Cherry Industry 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 [email protected].
Cherry Growers' Biosecurity Manual
The Cherry Growers' Biosecurity Manual contains information to help producers to implement biosecurity on-farm. Manuals usually contain an overview of biosecurity, fact sheets to identify the high priority pests of a crop, tips on crop management, and how to manage people, vehicles and equipment to minimise biosecurity risks. Manuals also contain a biosecurity self-assessment list, and templates to record pest surveillance records and visitors.
More information about on-farm biosecurity for both plant and livestock producers is available from the Farm Biosecurity website.
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