Fresh Source Summer 2023

Summer 2023 Issue

78

BML releases

ANNUAL RESULTS

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Veggie prices

plummet Markets GO GLOBAL

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MD comment As 2023 draws to an end and we are in the throes of the busy festive season, we pause to reflect on the year that has been.

Shifting seasons

Also in October, BML and Brismark hosted Safety Month, holding a swathe of events focused on promoting safety on site, including the ever-popular Forklift Operator of the Year grand final (see page 14).

Would it be Queensland if we didn’t comment on weather causing chaos?

Bountiful benefits

Perfect growing conditions over winter played havoc with the Queensland vegetable season, with oversupply in the markets reducing returns for growers.

When prices fail to reflect the true cost of production, everyone suffers (see page 20). Growers don’t get returns, wholesalers can’t sell for a decent price, and customers don’t understand the true value, and cost, of Australia’s fresh produce.

Likewise, the north Australian mango season has also been disrupted by the warm winter with supplies likely to be low in the lead up to Christmas this year (see page 22).

Then, just when we thought it would be the warm dry that made a dent in spring production, a freak hailstorm in the Lockyer Valley in November caused $50 million in damages and is likely to herald the end of the season for many growers in the region (see page 21).

Creative collaboration Each year, Brisbane Markets Limited (BML, the owner of the Brisbane Markets site) and Brismark (the Brisbane Markets wholesaler member organisation), work together on initiatives to promote the Brisbane Markets and its position as a critical link in the fresh produce supply chain.

In 2023, the creative collaboration between Brismark and BML also included running a series of ads on Channels 7, 9 and 10, promoting the role of the Brisbane Markets in supplying independent fruit and vegetable retailers with fresh, Queensland-grown produce (see page 27).

These ads answer the question: What is the benefit of selling fresh produce through Australia’s central markets?

The answer? By transporting fresh produce to one central location, growers can access hundreds of different buyers, all with different product specifications and audiences.

Brisbane Markets buyers are the experts in their audience.

A better choice! retailers know what their customers want and can afford. Restaurant owners know what their diners want to eat. Providores know exactly what each of their clients are looking for.

The central market system remains a critical part of the supply chain for fresh produce. That’s why sending to the central markets makes sense for growers.

From the Boards and staff members at BML and Brismark, we wish you a very safe festive season.

Merry Christmas!

The generosity of the markets community was in the limelight this year, with a fantastic response to both the Mango Auction and the Golf Day. In September, the Brisbane Markets Charity Golf Day raised over $30,000 with the addition of a raffle on top of entry fees adding to the huge contribution made to Diabetes Australia and Springfield Mo-Men (see page 16).

Andrew Young, Managing Director and CEO - BML Chief Executive Officer - Brismark

Then, in October, the Brisbane Markets Mango Auction raised over $64,000, for Redkite and The Lady Musgrave Trust, with the symbolic first tray secured by A better choice! retailer, Domenico Casagrande, for $40,000 (see page 6).

Summer 2023 FRESH SOURCE

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Contents 6 Feature: Mango Auction 6

Sweet $40k secures season’s first mangoes

8 Fresh Markets 8 Financial results reflect tough year 8 Markets website gets a face-lift 9 Fire systems upgraded 9 Building H to hasten recovery 9 Services rise 10 Community pays tribute to Mike Ahern 10 Brismark confirms commitment to wholesaler sector 12 Foodbank farewells Bob McMillan 12 Guests treated to a look into market 13 Ag minister opens H1 13 New roads offer a smoother ride 13 Clean and fresh

BRISBANE MARKETS LIMITED | ABN 39 064 983 017 PO Box 80, Brisbane Market, Rocklea, Queensland 4106 E communications@brisbanemarkets.com.au W www.brisbanemarkets.com.au ADVERTISING AND EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES Editor: Seren Trump, Brisbane Markets Limited P 07 3915 4200 E communications@brisbanemarkets.com.au

14 Fresh Events 14 16 16 18 18

Rizzolo takes the title Charities benefit from markets outing 75 years of serving the community Central markets sponsor industry highlight Woods recognised for industry service

20 Fresh Perspectives 20 Ideal winter leads to price drop 21 Never rains but it hails 22 Mangoes may miss Christmas 23 Markets workers wanted 24 From Brisbane Markets to the world 25 Grants grow demand from Queensland 26 A fair share for growers 27 Direct relationship puts Dorman Farms in control 28 Sky’s the limit for Australian lychees 30 Promising signs for citrus

Fresh Source is the magazine of Brisbane Markets Limited. New editions of the magazine are printed twice a year. Advertising and editorial inquiries are welcome and media outlets are invited to use material without acknowledgement. Fresh Source is printed on Australian made recycled stock.

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Summer 2023

Donate Your Surplus Food To Feed Families In Need Foodbank Queensland works with Brisbane Markets to rescue food, reduce waste and fight hunger. Working together, more than 516,000 kilograms of fresh food is collected by Foodbank at Brisbane Markets each year and distributed to Queenslanders in need. That’s the equivalent of 930,000 meals provided to children and adults experiencing hunger. Donating surplus or imperfect food enables Brisbane Markets stallholders to directly provide benefits to people who are living in disadvantaged circumstances, while also having a positive impact on the environment.

Benefits to Stallholders: Save on your waste disposal costs Reduce the volume of food going into landfill Provide food directly to people in need Simple one call pick up process Positively impact staff morale Ease of equipment transfer

foodbank.org.au @foodbankqld

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1 Call 0447 153 481

2 Set aside surplus food 3 Food is collected Food is distributed to people in need

Feature 2023

Sweet $40k secures season’s first mangoes Queensland has crowned a new Mango Monarch at the 2023 Brisbane Markets Mango Auction, with Domenico Casagrande taking the title of Mango King with his $40,000 bid.

Owner of Megafresh stores in Carina and Chandler, Casagrande won the day after a fierce bidding war with rival would-be-kings to secure his third Mango King title, after previously being crowned in 2018 and 2021.

“Everyone loves mangoes, and the whole Brisbane Markets comes alive for the start of mango season,” said Casagrande.

“But really, it’s all about supporting the community. We all need to put our hands up to help when we can and there are a lot of Queenslanders doing it tough right now, so it’s good to give back,” he said.

Proceeds from the 2023 Brisbane Markets Mango Auction benefit Redkite, who provide practical, financial, and mental health support to families who have a child with cancer, and The Lady Musgrave Trust, who provide practical solutions that save lives and transition young women who are homeless or at risk of homelessness to a life of opportunity and prosperity.

As to whether this is Casagrande’s last stint at Mango King, he didn’t rule out another future challenge for the title.

“It’s a great event to be a part of and our customers really get a kick out of it, so never say never,” Casagrande said.

Domenico Casagrande is the Brisb ane Markets Mango King for 2023.

The coveted first symbolic tray of mangoes for the season entered the event space in style, chauffeured in a yellow Maserati Ghibli Trofeo MC Editon by Brisbane Broncos legend, Matt Gillett.

A slate of other auction items and activities drove 2023’s Mango Auction fundraising total to more than $64,000, a result welcomed by Brisbane Markets Limited Chair, Anthony Kelly.

Gillett then took to the stage to compete in a mango-andspoon race against Federal Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management, Murray Watt, and Queensland Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries, Mark Furner.

“The Mango Auction is an iconic event for the markets and for Queensland,” said Mr Kelly. “I am humbled by the generosity of the Brisbane Markets community in support of two very worthy charities who do a lot of good to help Queenslanders in need.”

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Summer 2023

sland rk Furner (Queen Deputy Chair), Ma and Fisheries), nt me Peter Tighe (BML lop ve De lian ultural Industry rray Watt (Austra Minister for Agric o Casagrande, Mu ment), nic ge me na Do Ma g cy Kin o en Mang ght and Emerg ou Dr e, ur . ult sh ric Cu Ag Minister for ctioneer Haesley ML Chair), and au Anthony Kelly (B

t the Gillett faced off agains Broncos legend, Matt rs, Murray Watt iste min e ltur icu agr l state and federa e. mango and spoon rac and Mark Furner, in a

Sarah Honey (Red kite), Thea Sitch eff (Redkite), Ma King Domenico ngo Casagrande, Victo ria Parker (The La Musgrave Trust) dy , Brett Eldridge (M egaFresh).

The symbolic tray of ma ngoes was delivered to the event in a Maserati Ghibli Trofeo MC Editon.

Auctioneer Haesley Cush in action.

Thanks to our sponsors:

Summer 2023 FRESH SOURCE

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Financial results reflect tough year Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) announced its results for the year ended 30 June 2023 at its Annual General Meeting on Wednesday, 15 November.

BML reported an underlying net operating profit before tax of $16.95 million, a reduction when compared to the prior year.

The valuation of the Brisbane Markets property at 30 June 2023 was $422.0 million, and the carrying value of investment property was written down by $30.67 million. This valuation movement has significantly contributed to a reported net loss before income tax of $14.22 million.

BML Chair, Anthony Kelly, said the result reflected a challenging year impacted by the valuation decrease along with interest rate and operating cost increases.

“BML has been able to limit our losses in a year where we faced a very difficult economic environment on the back of a flood event, and our results this year show the prudence of BML’s long-term investment strategies,” Mr Kelly said.

BML’s balance sheet remains strong with reported total assets at 30 June 2023 of $502.83 million and net assets of $249.43 million. This has also resulted in the net asset per share figure easing back to $4.58.

BML has continued to invest in the development of the Brisbane Markets site, with planning for future warehouse projects and work on flood mitigation projects underway (see page 9).

Official results: BML’s 2023 Annual Report was presented to the Annual General Meeting on 15 November.

The company declared a final dividend of 8.25 cents per ordinary share, fully franked, bringing the total dividend paid in respect of the 2023 financial year to 16.25 cents per share fully franked.

Markets website gets a face-lift Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) has unveiled a fresh new look for their website, brisbanemarkets.com.au, designed to streamline the user experience for Brisbane Markets tenants and stakeholders, while remaining accessible for the wider community.

The new website has an expanded Site Service Centre Online, which is now the go-to resource for Brisbane Markets users, working hand-in-hand with the BML Portal app.

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Summer 2023

Featuring information for tenants, buyers, transporters, growers, and service providers, along with access information, details of the Brisbane Markets Site Safety Program and links to other useful resources.

With ease of navigation through the extensive menus, easy access to BML contacts and a Brisbane Markets business directory, the new website is packed full of user-friendly features and resources.

Fire systems upgraded Work is now underway on the new, site-wide fire detection system at Brisbane Markets.

Services rise Works to elevate critical electrical infrastructure, including main building distribution boards and key sewer pump station control panels, is well underway.

Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) has engaged Advance Fire to construct and commission the new dry fire system for all buildings at the Brisbane Markets.

In the 2023 financial year, seven elevated structures for electrical control panels and distribution boards were installed at Buildings I, M, Q, P, R, T, X and Z, elevating each building’s main distribution boards above flood level. Tenancy distribution boards were also raised at Building R.

The new system equipment being installed is supplied

by Pertronic Industries Pty Ltd and will replace the flood-affected Notifier system.

The next stage of these works will see main distribution boards raised and new roof access stairs, walkways and platforms installed at Buildings J, U and W.

This extensive and complex project comprises the staged removal, on a building-by-building basis, of all existing fire indicator panels (FIPs) and field devices (thermal and smoke detectors) prior to the installation of new building FIPs and mimic panels, together with new field devices throughout all buildings and tenancy areas.

Detailed designs for the raising of pump station control panels and generators at Buildings R, Z and the Covered Unloading Area (CUA) were completed in March, with works completed on the CUA pump station in July 2023.

Importantly, the new dry fire system has been designed for flood mitigation, with all building FIPs installed above peak flood levels.

The new pump station structures elevate critical components, providing flood immunity up to 9.5 m AHD to infrastructure that supports the sewerage network, reducing the time it takes to prepare for and recovery from a flood event due to their easy-to-remove, plug-and-play components.

The FIPs will be monitored and controlled via mimic panels installed at monitoring level. These panels are designed to be removed ahead of any future flood event, but critically, the FIPs will remain unaffected by flood waters, which will ensure the dry fire system maintains full functionality in the event of a future natural disaster.

Prior to the construction stage of the dry fire system, BML removed the flood-damaged copper cable connection and communications network for the existing Notifier system and replaced it with approximately 10 km of cabling installed for the new fibre connection and communications network.

The site-wide dry fire system is projected to be completed by 2025.

Building H to hasten recovery Following the creation of a critical spares stockpile earlier in the year, Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) is demolishing the aging Building H workshop to commence construction of a purpose-built facility to facilitate the long-term storage of these critical spare parts.

Building H currently houses BML’s maintenance equipment, along with work areas and amenities for the cleaning, grounds and maintenance teams.

The new storage facility will feature a high-level loading dock for equipment receivals; secure, racked storerooms for critical spare parts and staff work areas on the upper level, above flood height and connected to the Multi-level Car Park to allow for access during flooding events. The ground level will continue to provide storage and work areas.

Electrical protection: Control panels and generators at pump stations are being raised at Brisbane Markets.

BML Managing Director and CEO, Andrew Young, said the company was progressing with this significant investment to provide for the ongoing upgrading and redevelopment of the Brisbane Markets site and increased flood resilience.

“One of the key learnings from the 2022 flood event was that infrastructure and services recovery is contingent on lead times for components, and that supply chain impacts can delay the arrival and increase the cost of the critical parts needed to re-establish services,” Mr Young said.

“The development will provide secure storage above recent peak flood levels for high value critical parts and equipment, a disaster control centre during flood preparation and recovery works, and provide a modern working environment for BML staff.”

Detailed designs for the project were finalised in July, with BCC approving the development application in May 2023.

The building will be constructed by SBP Australia, with works expected to commence before the end of 2023 and practical completion scheduled for August 2024.

Summer 2023 FRESH SOURCE

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Markets

Community pays tribute to Mike Ahern With great sadness, the Brisbane Markets community learnt of the passing of Former Queensland Premier and Treasurer, and inaugural Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) Director, Michael Ahern AO. Mr Ahern passed away on Friday, 11 August 2023, aged 81.

Born in Maleny and going on to study agricultural science at the University of Queensland, Mr Ahern was a strong proponent of Queensland agriculture and horticulture throughout his political career and beyond.

He was a strong advocate for industry-based ownership of the markets and a passionate supporter of BML, having served on the BML Board from its establishment in 2002 to 2013.

His contribution as a BML Director is tremendously valued to this day. The impact of the guidance he provided to BML’s Directors, prior to the acquisition of the Brisbane Markets from the Queensland Government, cannot be understated. Mr Ahern was described by then BML Chairman, Tony Joseph, as “a guiding light.”

Mr Ahern’s contribution was extremely important, offering the BML Board strategic advice and insights, and working to give the Brisbane Markets a higher profile and recognition. He was a valuable mentor.

Reflecting on his professional career in 2014, Mr Ahern was, “proud to say that one great joy [in my life] was through my

Brismark confirms commitment to wholesaler sector Brisbane Markets wholesaler representative organisation, Brismark, held its Annual General Meeting on 31 October 2023.

During the meeting, the ongoing benefits of strong industry representation were emphasised, with the 2023 financial year result of a pre-tax operating profit of $2.65 million and net assets of $73.02 million reported, which reflects the organisation’s ongoing commitment to its strategic priorities.

Brismark Chair, Gary Lower, said: “Brismark’s core focus continues to be the provision of industry representation and business support services to assist our members and their associated businesses and to help strengthen the central market system. Our vision remains unchanged and continues to include maintaining a strategic level of ownership in Brisbane Markets Limited (BML).”

Brismark’s focus, in addition to its representation and advocacy activities, includes providing support services such as recruitment, training, bookkeeping, and work health and safety, human resources, industrial relations, food safety, and quality assurance support and advice. Brismark’s Credit Service also acts as the financial clearing house for transactions that occur in the Brisbane Markets .

Brismark Credit Service Committee Chair, Mark Murphy, explained that the Credit Service continued to provide a 10 FRESH SOURCE

Summer 2023

Markets mentor: Mike Ahern AO during a BML Board meeting in 2006.

hands-on experience from 2002 on the Board of Brisbane Markets Limited… Queensland can be proud of its markets and proud of the Brisbane Markets community.”

valuable service for its members, offering bad debt protection, which was important particularly during difficult financial times.

“The Credit Service saw a record throughput of $787 million last financial year and was able to pay up to 90% of bad debts due to its members, where debts were not able to be fully recovered,” Mr Murphy said.

Brismark’s strong working relationship with BML saw several long-standing initiatives maintained, including managing site work health and safety, the Brisbane Markets Mango Auction, the A better choice! Retailer Program, a grower hotline, and partnerships with Bowen Gumlu Growers Association and Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers.

The Brismark Board elections resulted in Mark Murphy being re-elected to the position of Deputy Chair and Mark Clarke and Marke Moore re-elected as Directors, all for three-year terms.

Director Hamish Montague retired from the Board at the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting, which has created a casual vacancy to be addressed at the next Board meeting.

“We thank Hamish Montague for his dedication and support over 12 years of service to the Brismark Board and its members,” Mr Lower said.

The 2023/24 Brismark Board consists of Chair Gary Lower (J Allen Pty Ltd), re-elected Deputy Chairs Mark Murphy (John Potter Pty Ltd) and Stephen Edwards (Murray Bros), re-elected Directors Mark Moore (M&D Vegetable Specialists Pty Ltd) and Mark Clarke (Favco QLD Pty Ltd), and existing Directors Paul O’Toole (O’Toole Produce), Troy Beaton (H E Heather & Co) and Lachlan Armstrong (Armstrong Brothers).

Supporting Queensland’s Fresh Produce Wholesalers and Associated Businesses

To nd out more about our members and our services visit www.brismark.com.au or call (07) 3915 4222 • Industry Representation • Advocacy • Credit Service • Business Services • Grower Hotline and Services

Markets

Foodbank farewells Bob McMillan Brisbane Markets wholesalers are great supporters of Foodbank Queensland (FBQ), donating 516,639 kg in produce to those who need it most over the 2023 financial year.

Now, FBQ farewells the man working behind the scenes to make that donating as easy as possible, Bob McMillan.

Having started his career in the Brisbane Markets with Lindsay Fresh Logistics, in recent years Bob has been working tirelessly to increase donations from wholesalers, making more produce available to Queenslanders in need.

But not to worry, wholesalers can still make use of FBQ’s free service, which has them collect produce direct from wholesaler tenancies for donation, as FBQ welcomes a new Food Supply Manager in Peta Tuck.

“It is with great pleasure that I welcome Peta Tuck as the new Food Supply Manager at Foodbank Queensland, who has a wealth of knowledge in the Brisbane Markets, having previously worked as a market agent for 15 years,” Mr McMillan said.

Wholesalers are encouraged to call FBQ direct to arrange for collection of produce for donation on (07) 3395 8422.

Fond farewell: BML Managing Director, Andrew Young with FBQ’s Bob McMillan and Peta Tuck.

Guests treated to a look into market Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) played host to visiting groups over recent months, with delegations from Protected Cropping Australia, the National Party, Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers, Bowen Gumlu Growers Association, University of Queensland, and Rural Bank, a division of Bendigo Bank, all visiting the Brisbane Markets.

Visitors were impressed by the quantity, quality and variety of produce on the trading floor, and showed considerable interest in the workings of market operations. Following the tours, some delegates were welcomed into the Fresh Centre Training Rooms to get a more indepth run down of the operation of the Brisbane Markets and the importance of central market system.

The tours proved a great opportunity to educate a range of stakeholders about the Brisbane Markets and the wholesaling sector of the supply chain, with many wholesalers on the trading floor answering questions and entertaining the guests.

BML hosted 45 delegates from the Protected Cropping Australia conference in July, the majority of whom were growers from around the country.

Alongside the conference delegates, BML’s grower partners, the Bundaberg

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Sneak peek: Agri-business representatives from Rural Bank, a division of Bendigo Bank, enjoying their tour of Brisbane Markets with BML Managing Director and CEO, Andrew Young.

Fruit and Vegetable Growers, attended with an additional group of growers. 10 Nationals MPs and guests from around the country were also treated to an inside look at the Brisbane Markets.

A group of 15 agri-business representatives from Rural Bank, a division of Bendigo Bank, also undertook a tour of the Central Trading Area and participated in an educational session on the central markets and their role in the horticulture supply chain.

In October, students from the University of Queensland’s School of Agriculture and Food Sustainability were treated to a glimpse of the inner workings of the Selling Floor and learnt from Brismark about the variety of careers available at the Brisbane Markets.

Then, in November, BML’s grower partner Bowen Gumlu Growers Association brought along 15 growers to learn about the markets and see their produce on the Selling Floor.

Ag minister opens H1 With dignitaries and industry stakeholders in attendance the new Building H1 warehouse was officially opened on Wednesday, 17 May by the Hon. Mark Furner, Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries.

Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) and tenant, Green Endeavour, held the well-attended event in the rooftop garden of Building H1.

BML Chair, Anthony Kelly, said that the development was an incredible achievement for all involved.

“We’ve worked to make Green Endeavour’s unique ideas for this space a reality, ” said Mr Kelly.

“It is this type of industry support and ongoing investment in state-of-the-art warehousing and distribution facilities at this site that is at the core of BML. “By embracing the needs and challenges of our tenants as our own, BML is committed to providing the support necessary to sustain and grow the fresh produce industry in South East Queensland into the future.”

New roads offer a smoother ride Major asphalt resurfacing works have been completed across Brisbane Markets’ Northern Industrial Precinct and there is more to come.

During August, the road between Buildings J, K, M and Q was resurfaced, followed by the road running north to south beside Building Z, and the high traffic intersection between Buildings I, L1 and Q. Profiling of the road between Buildings J and M occurred during August and the road was resurfaced between Buildings K and Y in October.

These asphalt works employed a new process of installing Ha Telit C, a flexible mesh product made from high-modulus polyester yarns, which reinforces asphalt layers to deliver a long-lasting and durable road surface.

The product resists permanent dynamic loads very well, which is due to the special properties of polyester, providing a cost-effective solution for a surface which will better stand up to high traffic and heavy vehicles.

Making it official: The grand opening of Building H1 was attended by Green Endeavour’s Graeme Twine, Doug Rylance and Adam Dilworth, the Hon. Mark Furner with BML Chair, Anthony Kelly, BML Deputy Chair, Peter Tighe and BML Managing Director and CEO, Andrew Young.

Clean and fresh Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) undertook a pre-spring clean in July and August, to take advantage of the slower time of year and ensure the Brisbane Markets site was in tip-top shape.

From late July through to early August, BML worked closely with tenants to establish clearways across the Central Trading Area (CTA) to accommodate a program of works to clean down surfaces and refresh the line marking.

During the wash down of the entire CTA asphalt surface and pedestrian walkways, BML was able to assess drainage in this area to confirm water flow and identify any potential blockages.

Line marking was then refreshed progressively over several days to clearly mark out the licensed areas Tenants use to display produce, the designated forklift work areas, Buyer Bays, stormwater grates, exclusion zones and road markings.

Deep cleaning was also progressed elsewhere on site, including the interior and exterior of the Commercial and the Fresh Centres. Mezzanine levels and public amenities were also deep cleaned throughout the site.

The refreshed line marking has been completed in accordance with Brisbane Markets Limited (BML)’s Traffic Management Plan to improve safety for vehicles and pedestrians in these areas.

BML continues to invest in the road network at Brisbane Markets to create the best possible road surfaces to keep road users safe and maintain the quality of produce being transported on site.

Lick of paint: Fresh lines on the Selling Floor help to ensure the safety of markets users.

Summer 2023 FRESH SOURCE 13

Rizzolo takes the title A new Forklift Operator of the Year has been crowned after a tightly contested grand final at the Brisbane Produce Market on Tuesday, 24 October, with Aaron Rizzolo from John Potter taking the coveted title.

The event saw the top ten contestants battle it out over a timed, practical course, losing precious seconds for every error they made.

In a close contest that came down to the wire, Rizzolo took out the top prize of $3,000, with a spectacular final time of 2 minutes and 19 seconds. Nathan Heskett from Shamrock Marketing came second with a time of 2 minutes and 27 seconds, scoring $1,500 for his efforts, narrowly beating Amanda Blume from Franklin Bros who took the $500 prize money with a time of 2 minutes and 28 seconds.

This was Rizzolo’s second go in the grand final, having made the top ten in 2018.

“I didn’t have any expectations coming into the race, I just knew I had to be faster than my last attempt. I pushed through the nerves and was happy with my time,” Rizzolo said.

“Now, I’m feeling a bit giddy! Can’t believe I actually won it!”

The event is hosted by Brisbane Markets Limited (BML), with the support of event sponsors Toyota Material Handling, The Drug Detection Agency, SBP Australia, and Brismark.

Brisbane Markets is home to 381 registered forklifts with 961 forklift operator permits active on site, 14 FRESH SOURCE

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Aaron Rizzolo receives his winner’s cheque from BML Director and Brisbane Produce Market wholesaler, Stephen Edwards.

according to BML Director and Brisbane Produce Market wholesaler, Stephen Edwards.

“The Forklift Operator of the Year competition is a great way to recognise the hard, often overlooked, work that our forklift operators do at this site.

They are really put to the test during this competition and the top three really are the cream of the crop,” Mr Edwards said.

After competing in a month-long observation period, where they were scored on their adherence to safety and traffic rules on the Brisbane Markets site, the entrants are narrowed down to the top 10 who competed in the grand final obstacle course in front of the crowd that gathered within the Brisbane Produce Market to watch the spectacle.

According to Rizzolo, the event builds camaraderie amongst the site’s forklift operators and encouraged other forklift operators to get involved.

A focused Aaron Rizzol o navigates the course .

“It really is a unique experience. It’s good fun and all you need to do to compete is what you do every day on the job anyway,” he said.

The top three: Amand a Blume, Aaron Rizzol o and Nathan Heskett.

Contestant Louise Bedford carefully moves a crate full of balls during her run in the grand final.

y Bros.

Ali Arshad from Murra

Peter Szucs from Per fection

Fresh.

Thanks to our sponsors:

Summer 2023 FRESH SOURCE 15

Events

75 years of serving the community

By Bree Watson, Chief Executive Officer, Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers On 30 September, the Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association (BFVG) celebrated 75 years of fighting for farmers.

Founded in 1948, BFVG has been instrumental in transforming the agricultural landscape of the Bundaberg region and has been pivotal in providing local farmers with the resources, knowledge, and advocacy needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive market.

Without the hard work, thousands of voluntary hours and passion of our local farming families, and others, our organisation wouldn’t be the relevant, vocal, and passionate advocate that it is.

In looking back through our history books, whilst Thomas Watson (the surname is not lost on me!) is said to be the first to cultivate land in Bundaberg in 1868, it took another 80 years before the first official meeting of the Bundaberg and District Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association was held and Mr J Kelly was elected Chair.

Of huge interest to me is the prices growers reportedly received for their produce in that and subsequent years.

In 1984, the region took out the title of Australia’s Tomato Capital with production surpassing Bowen and it is estimated around 250 farmers were growing tomatoes at the time. Prices fluctuated from the bottom rate of $3.32 a carton to an average of $16.00 a carton and seem familiar even now.

support our sector, and we couldn’t do it without the valued relationships that have been built over that time with our industry colleagues and supporters, like the Brisbane Markets.

Just like all good and long relationships we’ve had our ups and downs, but frank conversations ensure both sides of production horticulture can be profitable and productive.

We honour the resilience, hard work, and ingenuity of our farmers that has characterised the region’s sector for nearly a century, but we need massive change to ensure our farmers are able to farm into the future and the next generation of growers can be profitable agribusinesses. This means more efficient and cost-effective growing practices, better collaboration amongst growers and fearless advocacy from the likes of ourselves to ensure we have a sustainable future.

We will continue to fight for farmers, to deliver local projects and solutions that

A rich history: Harvest time in Bundaberg.

Charities benefit from markets outing The generosity and camaraderie of the Brisbane Markets was on show recently when members of the markets community took to the golf course for a day of fun and fundraising.

The annual Brisbane Markets Charity Golf Day, sponsored by Brisbane Markets Limited and Brismark, was held on Friday, 1 September.

The event was quickly filled with the 36 teams featuring 144 players taking to the course at Brookwater Golf & Country Club for the four-person ambrose.

This year’s event was proudly won by market legend Rob Clarke, and three of his grandsons, Mitchell Clarke, Hayden Clarke and Toby Delfine.

Phil Thomas has organised the event since it first started in 2014, with assistance from Mark Moore.

“Phil is such a driver of this event, it really is such a success every year because of the hard work he puts in,” Mr Moore said.

Since 2014, the event has raised over $130,000 for charity, with this year’s beneficiaries, Diabetes Australia and Springfield Mo-Men, sharing over $30,000 in donations.

On par: Mark Clarke with the winning combination of Toby Delfine, Mitchell Clarke, Rob Clarke and Hayden Clarke.

“This year, we included a raffle as well as the registrations on the day to increase the monies raised for our worthy charities,” Mr Moore said.

“The event is great for everyone involved. It gives the markets community the chance to socialise in a more relaxed environment while supporting a really good cause.”

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Summer 2023

Events

Central markets sponsor industry highlight Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) and Brismark represented Brisbane Markets wholesalers at the recent 2023 Hort Connections Trade Show, alongside their central market and chamber colleagues from around Australia.

The trade show was joint sponsored by Fresh Markets Australia (FMA) and the Central Markets Association of Australia (CMAA), under the banner of Australia’s Fresh Produce Markets as a united leading representative body for fresh produce markets in the country. As a major sponsor of the event, FMA and CMAA highlighted their commitment to supporting the growth and development of the industry.

Held in Adelaide from 5 June to 7 June, Hort Connections brings together growers, suppliers, and retailers from the horticulture sector. It serves as a platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and showcasing the latest innovations in the industry. The trade show plays a crucial role in fostering collaborations and driving business opportunities for all stakeholders involved.

By sponsoring the event, FMA and CMAA aim to strengthen the position of central markets wholesalers as key advocates for the Australian horticulture industry, amplify the voices of its members and highlight the importance of these markets in the fresh produce supply chain as well as promotion of the A better choice! retailer program.

Australia’s Fresh Produce Markets’ sponsor stand at Hort Connections 2023.

FMA Chair, Shane Schnitzler said, “By establishing a strong presence at the trade show, FMA can connect with growers, suppliers, retailers, and other industry professionals, to forge partnerships that can drive the future growth and prosperity of Australia’s central market system.”

The event, which is recognised as the largest horticulture conference and trade show in Australasia, was well attended by around 3,500 delegates from across the industry. With over 200 exhibiting companies involved in the trade show, the entire supply chain was represented in various forms. From ag-chem and fertiliser companies, through to machinery and technology services, there was an exhibitor of interest for every delegate.

The trade show offered a range of educational sessions, workshops, and panel discussions that addressed the latest trends, challenges, and innovations in the horticulture industry.

Woods recognised for industry service During the Hort Connections Gala Dinner, Fresh Markets Australia (FMA) honoured former Brismark Gener Manger, Gail Woods. with the highly esteemed FMA Meritorious Service Award and Mark Russo with the prestigious FMA Col Johnson Young Achievers Award.

Mrs Woods is a highly respected figure in the fresh produce industry and her significant contributions to Brismark and FMA have had a lasting impact on the industry. As the former General Manager of Brismark from 2012 to 2020 and the current General Manager of FMA, Gail’s visionary leadership has played a pivotal role in shaping the organisations.

In addition to her role at FMA, Mrs Woods serves as the Deputy Chair of Freshcare and is a staunch advocate for the five central markets across Australia. Mrs Woods tirelessly champions the industry at both the state and national levels, working to support its growth and success.

She has also been instrumental in advocating for fair practices and transparency through her work on the Horticulture Code of Conduct. Furthermore, Mrs Woods’ involvement with FreshTest has facilitated low-cost testing for wholesalers and growers, ensuring the quality and safety of fresh produce.

Mark Russo is a passionate grower from Adelaide Hydro Fresh.

Mr Russo’s entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to his craft have been evident in the expansion of his business and the recent opening of a wholesaler store in the South Australian Produce Market. He actively participates in local and national conferences, demonstrating his commitment to personal and 18 FRESH SOURCE

Summer 2023

Gail Woods, FMA General Manager, Shane Schnitzler, FMA Chair and Mark Russo, Adelaide Hydro Fresh at the 2023 Hort Connections Gala Dinner.

professional development.

FMA Chair Shane Schnitzler said “FMA recognises and celebrates the outstanding contributions of two individuals in the fresh produce industry annually. Gail Woods and Mark Russo have demonstrated exceptional dedication, passion, and leadership, making them deserving recipients of these prestigious awards.”

Ideal winter leads to price drop A double whammy of perfect weather and plenty of water meant the Queensland winter vegetable season proved frustrating for growers and misleading for customers.

Brisbane Markets wholesaler, Mark Moore from M&D Vegetable Specialists, said the conditions over winter, particularly in South East Queensland, were ideal for growing vegetables.

“We had a long period of mostly mild weather and no rain but plenty of water around to irrigate. It’s when growers have a lot of rain or the temperatures get too extreme that yield and quality is impacted,” Mr Moore said.

Not only was growing good in South East Queensland, the Bowen and Bundaberg regions also experienced the same excellent conditions.

Bowen Gumlu Growers Association president, Carl Walker, said while farmers always hope for a good season, Queensland’s winter vegetable season had been too good.

“We had the same number of plants in the ground, but production was up by 30 percent. Unfortunately, you’ve got a beautiful crop and so does everyone else as well,” Mr Walker said.

According to Brisbane Markets wholesaler, Jason Lower from GNL Produce, the good weather and growing condition meant all regions were producing at maximum capacity, sometimes at the same time.

“This increased the volumes which in turn made the prices come well down across the board in the veggie lines and a lot of produce was being sold at well below production cost,” Mr Lower said.

“It’s been a pretty tough winter for everybody involved. Hence some of the retail price have been extremely low.”

Consumers are set to lose in the long term, with cheap produce giving consumers a misperception of the true cost of growing in Australia and frustrating efforts for a fair price.

Mark Moore, M&D Vegetable Specialists.

“Once we return to a reasonable retail pricing level, where it needs to be for everyone to cover costs and make a living, then the consumer thinks it is too expensive. But it isn’t, it is the level where it should be to ensure we continue to have plentiful access to Australian-grown produce,” Mr Lower said.

Mr Walker said that pricing needed to better reflect the cost of production facing growers, but acknowledged growers play a part.

“Everyone forgets in Australia, we have 26 million people and we already grow enough food for 60 to 80 million people,” he said.

“So to expand this year, when we knew economically it was going to be tough, is a fool’s errand. You are better off consolidating and actually being here next year.”

According to Mr Lower, only on-farm change can ensure returns meet grower expectations.

“While the consumer enjoys the benefit of cheaper produce in the short term, in the long-term having such low prices isn’t a good thing,” Mr Lower said.

“Growers really need to listen to their market and strongly consider pulling back production by about 20% to get us to the true ratio of supply vs demand,” Mr Lower said.

“It gives the perception that those low prices are what the produce is worth and it’s just not the reality, if it was there would be no Australian growers – they would be priced out of the business.

An El Niño has been declared, which usually heralds reduced rainfall through winter and spring, along with warmer than average temperatures particularly in the second half of the Continued on page 21.

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Summer 2023

Never rains but it hails After months of very little rainfall, the Lockyer Valley was hit by a devastating hailstorm on Friday, 10 November 2023.

The storm caused one fatality and an estimated $50 million in damage, with around 40 farms impacted by the hail and 87km-hour winds. Eggplant, spring onions, chokos, broccolini, butternut pumpkin and corn are some of the major lines impacted.

Lockyer Valley Growers President, Michael Sippel, said the tornado-like storm cut a 5 km swathe through the Lake Clarendon area, flattening crops and infrastructure in its wake.

“The storm has basically flattened everything and ripped roofs off of greenhouse structures. It has been quite devastating for the people involved,” Mr Sippel said.

Brisbane Markets wholesale and Carter & Spencer Business Manager – Vegetables, James Christodoulou, said that impacted growers were understandably shocked at the ferocity of the storm and the damage it wreaked.

“Growers are concerned because the storm comes on the back of one of the worst seasons in terms of low pricing.

So, to lose all crops in the ground means they are facing no income until planting and production can resume,” Mr Christodoulou said.

“There are also significant repairs to farms and re-building of infrastructure, an extremely costly and painstaking process. The growers are a very resilient bunch but know that a great deal of hard work is required to get back on their feet and back into production.”

Brisbane Markets wholesaler Perfection’s proprietary broccolini variety was hit hard with their Queensland General Manager, Graham Rowles, saying that broccolini would be short until midDecember.

“We will be trying to bring up some early stock out of Victoria, but on a national basis, these guys probably supplied about 50% of our national supply for the next four to six weeks,” Mr Rowles said at the time of the storm.

“A number of lines, including spring onions and greenhouse eggplant, have already made their way to Brisbane in greater quantities to support the shortfall and they will continue to be sourced from Victoria to support local demand.”

Mr Sippel said it would be three months before impacted growers will be looking at an income again.

“If yields remain high across other growing region the shortfall in produce may not be noticed at a consumer level.

But we always get concerned that the big supermarkets may take advantage of hysteria and use the opportunity to jack prices up,” Mr Sippel said.

“There’s a little bit in the cold rooms to pack out for the next week and then after that we’ll be done and dusted.”

The storm hit at the tail end of the season, with production in the process of moving south, so while supplies may take a dip the storm is not expected to make a lasting impact on consumers.

“Most of the lines impacted were in the process of being picked for immediate sales as well as crops that were in the growing stages in preparation for harvest over the next ten to twelve weeks,” Mr Christodoulou said.

Farms flattened: Crops close to harvest were shredded by the freak hailstorm.

Continued from page 20.

year. This increases the risk of fire danger, as we have already seen in Queensland and Northern NSW. In Queensland, a reduced number of tropical cyclones is a positive, with cyclones being half as likely to cross the coast during El Niño years compared to neutral years.

Both Mr Moore and Mr Lower agree that while El Niño has been declared, we are not expected to see its effects on vegetable production until further down the line, if at all.

“Moving into a dry El Niño period, the initial impacts will really depend which growing region you are in,” Mr Lower said.

“Some regions and growers are already low on water and having to come up with creative solutions, while others have enough in reserve. Everyone will be a bit careful with their water security over the next year or two.”

Mr Moore said: “While we know what usually happens in El Niño years and what can be expected, it doesn’t necessarily reflect what will happen on the ground. You can’t generalise how it will impact the different regions until after it occurs.”

Indeed, while nine out of ten droughts have occurred during El Niño, not all El Niño result in drought and, as we know too well, what’s true for one area of Queensland can be completely different elsewhere.

Jason Lower, GNL Produce.

“The size of Queensland and the variety of growing areas we have, weather impact down south could be completely different to the impact in the north of the state,” Mr Moore said.

Summer 2023 FRESH SOURCE 21

Perspectives

Mangoes may miss Christmas It’s been a rocky start to the mango season and supplies aren’t expected in large amounts any time soon.

The 2023 season is expected to be challenging for growers across most regions, according to Ben Martin, Chair of the Australian Mango Industry Association, a Brisbane Markets tenant.

“This is mainly due to the variation in flowering and has occurred across most varieties,” Mr Martin said.

Brisbane Markets wholesaler and mango grower, Perfection, has experienced the same difficulties, according to their Category Supply Manager, Terry Xanthos.

“Temperatures during the flowering period impacted supply windows and volume, with some early season varieties starting later, while other varieties started as normal,” Mr Xanthos said.

Mr Xanthos said that Queensland’s crop expectations usually reflect what is happening in the Northern Territory (NT).

“Both growing regions are experiencing quite a bit of warm, dry weather at the moment and irrigation is very important during this time,” Mr Xanthos said.

Brisbane Markets wholesaler, Sam Haddad from HE Heather & Co, said that while his NT growers had fruit come in, in September volumes were down considerably.

“When the fruit did come in, they picked heavily very quickly, which impacts the market a lot. Instead of having, say, a fiveweek picking window, they probably picked the same volume over two or so weeks,” Mr Haddad said.

“There was a period there when there was a whole lot of mangoes in the market at once when the media reports were saying it was going to be short and then, all of a sudden, it’s gone dead with hardly any mangoes around.

“Talking to growers, anyone that’s got a crop will either be all over and done with before Christmas comes close while others won’t pick until mid to late December which means they’ll miss the Christmas season entirely.

“Some growers aren’t even just down 50% - they don’t have a crop at all. One of my growers picked nearly 30,000 Kensington Prides last year but won’t pick a whole tray this year.”

The big question on everyone’s mind is, will there be mangoes for Christmas Day? “I think people are going to get a shock because they won’t realise how bad it is until Christmas. Particularly when you come to the Kensington Prides, it is going to be the lowest supply we’ve seen in my 15 years of selling mangoes,” Mr Haddad said.

Mr Haddad and Mr Xanthos both agreed there would be mangoes available for Christmas, just not the volumes and varieties that we are used to.

“While there will be mangoes for the Christmas table, there’s going to be more supply available into the January/February period with an opportunity for mangoes to be enjoyed on Australia Day and treats for back to school lunches,” Mr Xanthos said.

Mr Xanthos said it was the late flowering/set where the big question mark sits.

“Growers who have been farming for 40 years plus are hesitant in setting the back end of their season. Flowering that has stretched out to four months with multiple sets has made it difficult to set a forecast,” he said.

Rollercoaster season: This graph released by the Australian Mango Industry Association shows just how rocky the start of the Australian mango season was.

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Summer 2023

Markets workers wanted While the worker shortages created during the COVID-19 pandemic have eased, Brisbane Markets businesses are still feeling the pinch when it comes to sourcing skilled workers.

Brismark’s HR and Business Services Manager, Lisa Dwyer, said many employers were struggling to find suitable applicants and, when they do, phone calls often go unanswered.

“It can be particularly frustrating when you really want someone to start and then they just ghost you,” Ms Dwyer said.

Perfection Fresh’s General Manager Brisbane Markets, Graham McRae, said “the most difficult thing is finding people with the right skill set to work in the markets early morning shift”.

“Due to the worker shortage a lot of people are finding work outside the market on day shift hours and would prefer that.

“We have been advertising intensely, focusing on finding staff from outside the markets and upskilling them

internally,” Mr McRae said.

GNL Produce’s Michael Pimm said that filling the night shift was particularly difficult.

“At Brisbane Markets it has been a challenge to find quality workers that have a good work ethic,” Mr Pimm said.

“We advertise on local Facebook pages, through Brismark and have an ad running on Seek at the moment, but we’ve had hardly any applicants at all.”

Mr Pimm said that the new award conditions for night workers were challenging.

“A lot of people are going to have to evolve and change their business in order to meet the award, it’s just another added cost to doing business,” Mr Pimm said.

“One option for increasing the necessary skillset is creating a warehousing program to train young adults like a TAFE course with the markets being a post graduate employment option,” Mr McRae suggested.

Brismark operates a Recruitment Service, working directly with markets businesses to assist with labour shortages. The service provides a range of affordable recruitment support options from advertising through to candidate review, shortlisting and screening.

You can find more about Brismark’s Recruitment Service by clicking or scanning the QR code below.

Mr McRae said education streams could be useful for encouraging market careers amongst schoolleavers.

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Summer 2023 FRESH SOURCE 23

Perspectives

From Brisbane Markets to the world Queensland has long been seen as a major producer of Australian produce, responsible for around 33% of Australia’s fruit and 20% of the country’s vegetables, but we’re seeing increasing volumes of locally grown fruit and vegetables exported out of Queensland, with Brisbane Markets wholesalers leading the charge.

Even though Queensland is less than 1% of the world’s total land area, according to the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries Queensland (DAF), the state produces 0.4% of the world’s food supply and almost 1% of the world’s agricultural exports.

DAF reported the export value of Queensland fruit and vegetables for the 2022/23 financial year as over $960 million. This figure is expected to grow with businesses in the Brisbane Markets innovating and expanding to facilitate this growth market.

“The export potential for Brisbane Markets wholesalers is a key component of the advocacy work the wholesaler member representative organisation, Brismark, does in promoting the potential gains available to Brisbane Markets based businesses,” said Brismark CEO, Andrew Young.

Earlier this year, Carter & Spencer Group was shortlisted for the Hort Innovation Exporter of the Year Award for their work building foreign market relationships.

“In addition to the locally grown produce we move through the Brisbane Markets every year, we also export Australiangrown sugar plums, cherries, citrus, lychees, sweet potatoes, and more to all of south-east Asia, China, India, Canada, the USA, New Zealand, and the Middle East,” said Carter & Spencer Group Business Manager, Matthew Spencer.

Earlier this year, Murray Bros employed an Export Sales Manager to come on board as they saw an opportunity with current times and crop quantities to target the international market and are already making strides.

“We go to Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Middle East, New Caledonia, and Fiji, and we are about to go into Canada as well,” said Murray Bros CEO, Susan Lewis.

“Our main drive is avocados, so we can export those 12 months of the year, but we also export mangoes, stone fruit and citrus. We deal in mixed vegetable lines 24 FRESH SOURCE

Summer 2023

Feeding the world: Brisbane Markets wholesalers are ramping up their export capacity.

as well, so can also export a variety of vegetables.

“At the moment, our export department is developing a good footprint in our business, however we see further growth yet to come.

“For the past 18 months, the weather has been great and growing conditions are fantastic. With the current growing conditions and increased volumes there is certain lines of produce showing too much for Australia to handle, which opens opportunity to sell more of our growers’ produce for a good value offshore.”

Murray Bros have also invested in facilities to allow them to prepare the exports in-house at their headquarters at the Brisbane Markets.

“We have full export clearance facilities as well as fumigation facilities. We load containers and air units onsite and have transport that takes the produce to the airport once it is inspected and complete,” Mrs Lewis said.

When Darling Group took over JH Leavy & Co in 2016, they also significantly ramped up the export side of the business, and in 2021, the construction of their new warehouse, which features a dedicated export operation, allowed this part of their

business to grow even further.

“Our refrigeration technology allows us to fast cool, ripen, and fumigate all on one site, and we are also a Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry approved biosecurity facility, both for import and export, which is quite unique. This allows us to inspect export produce and do the necessary government requirements in-house and load containers onsite,” said JH Leavy & Co CEO, Jacob Darling.

At this stage, 25% of JH Leavy & Co’s Brisbane Markets-based operation is exports, with high volumes of Queensland grown citrus, mangoes, and avocados regularly shipping to New Zealand and throughout south-eastAsia, which Mr Darling sees as a major growth market.

“The commodities the state produces are growing from a production perspective.

The domestic market can only handle so much produce, and we have some pretty solid varieties in comparison to the global stage. We also have the geographical benefit of being close to Asia in comparison to some of the South American regions where some of their produce is produced,” Mr Darling said.

“That means we have a natural advantage, and we have scale as a country, so with Queensland being the

Dedicated facilities: Building E1 was constructed with separate export and import sections to meet the needs of tenant, JH Leavy & Co.

fruit bowl of Australia, if you like, for those commodities it gives a significant opportunity for people in this sector going forward.”

Businesses operating in the export market without their own in-house facilities are often able to partner with other wholesalers and businesses to complement their own capabilities.

Open for export: A multi-purpose extension was added to Building A1 which included fumigation facilities to enhance Murray Bros export services.

Favco regularly exports carrots, onions, mangoes and citrus out of Brisbane Markets to Pacific Nations such as New Zealand and Papua New Guinea, as well as Hong Kong, Singapore, and the Middle East.

Favco Director, Chris Deveny, says they often arrange for produce to go to business partners that can perform cold

sterilisation or irradiation treatments as required by the receiving country’s protocols.

“The protocols dictate what gets exported and what treatments are required. There is no one answer fits all,” said Mr Deveny.

Grants grow demand from Queensland Queensland’s fresh produce is getting an export boost, with avocados, mangoes, melons and persimmons, benefitting from the $600,000 up for grabs from the state government’s Food and Fibre to Market: Industry Partnerships Program (FF2M).

As a grant recipient, Brisbane Markets tenant Avocados Australia will receive $100,000 towards further developing their Shepard avocado supply chains to Hong Kong, Malaysia and Singapore by undertaking consumer research and educational workshops for importers and new marketing resources targeting both consumers and chefs to fuel growing demand in Asia for Queensland’s green-skin avocados.

According to John Tyas, CEO Avocados Australia, 99% of Australia’s Shepard avocados are grown in Queensland.

“Our domestic market is strong and secure which means that Avocados Australia can ramp up its efforts to promote high-quality Shepard avocados to our closest neighbours,” he said.

“The increased marketing and brand awareness activities supported by the Queensland Government, combined with the growing Asian consumer-demand for Shepards and the success of sea freight means that Shepard avocado exports could potentially grow by another 15% in the next few years.”

Another Brisbane Markets tenant, the Australian Mango Industry Association (AMIA) has received $52,000 to

develop mango industry supply chains to the United States (US) by improving growers’ export capability. AMIA will use the money to support two mango businesses to export mangoes to the US, while also delivering a growers/ exporters guide, travel for a US buyer to Queensland and targeted marketing activities in the US. Other projects to benefit from the cash injection included North Queensland’s Daintree Fresh and their supply chain partners trial of a new, sweet, white-fleshed melon, Emperor’s Pearl, for the Japanese market and Persimmons Australia’s project to map supply chains and undertake trial shipments of persimmons to Southeast Asian markets and build growers’ export capability.

Queensland Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities, Mark Furner said the projects sought to strengthen and deepen the shared knowledge and expertise of Queensland’s agricultural supply chain partners – growers, exporters, importers and retailers.

“Queensland is an export powerhouse. In 2021-22, Queensland’s agricultural exports were valued at $10.7 billion,” Minister Furner said.

“One in five jobs is generated by exports. Growing our international trade is critical to the future prosperity of our agriculture, fishing and forestry industries and regional communities [and] the best way to increase our exports is to work in partnership with industry.”

Summer 2023 FRESH SOURCE 25

Perspectives

A fair share for growers

By Ry Collins, General Manager, Bowen Gumlu Growers Association

As the sun begins to set on another year of vegetable production for many of our local growers, we find ourselves turning our attention to summer fruits and looking to inspect the challenges that have emerged in recent months.

Production wise it has been a strong year for vegetables and melons in the north with relatively consistent weather and an improved labour market however the issue of pricing remains a significant concern for our growers.

The disparity between the cost of production and the prices offered to growers by the big supermarkets has been a persistent challenge. It’s hard to see news headlines of record profits being made elsewhere while many growers are receiving prices that have on average barely risen in the past 10 years.

There is obviously a raft of reasons for this, not the least being a reduction in consumer demand as cost-ofliving pressures mount on everyday Australians. But make no mistake. These low prices have placed our industry under immense pressure.

Nearly all growers, large and small, are in the red this year, with unfortunately some that are unable to weather this economic storm and are unlikely to produce next year.

Bowen Gumlu Growers Association (BGGA) has actively voiced these challenges by providing feedback on these issues to the ongoing independent review of the Food and Grocery Code and we’ll be extending our advocacy to the recently announced competition policy review and supporting efforts to consumers and retailers to support the fresh produce industry.

Much of the current challenge stems from ongoing cost pressure. We feel much of this is being driven through an overextension of regulation and government idealism adding additional cost to doing business without thought to how this cost can be recovered in the value chain. To address this, we believe it’s our responsibility as an industry to educate the government about policy decisions and their real-world impact on our dedicated growers.

In collaboration with other industry groups, BGGA has written to the federal 26 FRESH SOURCE

Summer 2023

Pipeline in pipeline: The Bowen Pipeline Project has secured annual water allocations from the Burdekin Falls Dam.

government, urging them to reject the farmer biosecurity levy proposed in the last federal budget. We’re also engaging in ongoing discussions with the government throughout October, addressing rising labour costs triggered by changes to the visas and the government’s industrial relations reforms, which affect growers across the board.

Though the road to achieving these changes may be challenging, our commitment to advocating for our growers remains unwavering, and we’ll keep you informed of any progress.

In an exciting development for North Queensland growers, the Bowen Pipeline Project has taken significant steps towards enhancing water security in the region. On 5 July, the project lodged an application for designation as a Coordinated Project with the Coordinator-General.

This milestone marks the beginning of a transformative journey for the region’s agriculture, horticulture, and aquaculture industries.

The recent state government announcement of the Korean-Australian Han-Ho green hydrogen export project has added a new dimension to the pipeline’s importance. With demand for water exceeding 85% of the designed capacity of 80,000 ML per year, the Bowen Pipeline Project is poised to play a pivotal role in meeting this growing need.

In addition to these developments, the project has secured crucial support and resources, including a $5 million commonwealth grant for a comprehensive business case, water demand assessment, and engineering design.

It has also acquired the necessary land for pipeline alignment and pump stations, securing annual water allocations from the Burdekin Falls Dam. The project, spanning 110 km underground, will provide a reliable water supply to an area responsible for one fifth of Australia’s vegetable production and $600 million worth of fruit and vegetable crops annually.

With bipartisan government support and strong community investment, the Bowen Pipeline Project promises a brighter and more secure future for North Queensland’s agriculture.

In parallel, the Burdekin Water Plan review is advancing, with substantial funding and stakeholder consultation.

This inclusive approach ensures that the water access and regulatory frameworks for producers in the Burdekin and beyond are well-considered, supporting growth opportunities for the region, including the Bowen Pipeline project.

The Bowen Pipeline Project’s commitment to water security and sustainable growth is a beacon of hope for North Queensland’s growers, promising a prosperous future for the region’s agriculture.

Direct relationship puts Dorman Farms in control It’s hard for Queenslanders to miss the television advertisements that Brismark and Brisbane Markets Limited are currently running across Channels 7, 9 and 10.

The commercials feature a few local growers and are designed to emphasise the important role of the Brisbane Markets in Queensland’s fresh produce supply chain, and the advantage of shopping at independent, A better choice! fruit and vegetable retailers.

Scott Dorman from Dorman Farms is a pineapple grower based in Beerwah who appears in these commercials and has been seeing the benefits of dealing directly with Armstrong Bros Fruit & Veg Merchants at the Brisbane Markets since 2020.

Prior to this, Mr Dorman was sending his produce to a packing house but felt he would be in a better position if he were dealing with a wholesaler and supplying the Brisbane Markets directly, to have more control over his own product.

“The setup with the packing house is fine if you are a much larger grower,” said Mr Dorman.

“But for the smaller growers, I believe having an agent where the relationship is really good, and there is a lot of communication and trust there, works really well for both parties.”

It was this thinking that led Mr Dorman to reach out to Armstrong Bros to develop a more beneficial relationship, one that suited a smaller grower and wholesaler alike.

Lachlan Armstrong, General Manager of Armstrong Bros, agrees that the relationship he has developed with Dorman Farms is mutually beneficial.

“We worked together on what sort of pack he does for the market, the sizes that the customers we serve in the market generally like, and it all went from there,” said Mr Armstrong.

As a result, since September 2020, Dorman Farms have been sending an average of 5,000 pineapples per month through the Brisbane Markets to Armstrong Bros.

“We actually only sell Scott’s pineapples now at the markets,” said Mr Armstrong.

“We have found there is a much closer, personal relationship with the agent and the grower than there is with the big pack houses. We find that Armstrong Bros certainly do go above and beyond to get the best returns they possibly can for their growers,” said Mr Dorman.

Perfect pick: Scott Dorman says his relationship with Armstrong Bros Fruit & Veg has allowed him to have more control over his product.

“I don’t know whether it’s also a flow on effect, but one thing I think I’ve seen from that is a change in consumer view and attitudes towards the farmers.”

There are several reports that confirm this changing habit, such as the CommBank Consumer Insights Report 2021, which found that 52% of Australians believe locally sourced and manufactured products are now more important than before the pandemic.

“When I first came on the farm in the late 80s there wasn’t really that sort of overall support for growers and the awareness of what farmers go through to get that produce to consumers,” said Mr Dorman.

“I think now that awareness is certainly there, with consumers wanting to buy more local produce, and not through the big supermarket chains unless they have to.”

Mr Armstrong says the relationship they have with Dorman Farms is very reflective of what they work to build with all their growers.

“A lot of agents have changed now, and you are expected to deal in more produce lines as opposed to less. Our method is to deal with the growers, rather than focus on the actual produce lines we supply,” said Mr Armstrong “So many of the growers we deal with are the only growers that supply us those lines.”

“This means the profit margins are better for us, we are seeing better returns.”

As growing numbers of consumers turn away from large supermarket chains in favour of independent retailers and locally sourced produce, relationships built between growers and agents at the Brisbane Markets are strengthening as a key part of the supply chain.

While Mr Dorman returned to farming in 2012, his family has been growing pineapples and other produce since the 1970s and he has noticed a big shift in the market since then.

“Consumers can only buy Doman Farms pineapples, grown locally in Beerwah, at their independent fruit and veg retailer,” Mr Armstrong said.

“The big supermarket chains seem to have stepped in and changed the dynamics of the industry, becoming a big dominant factor, and I certainly do not think for one minute that it is for the benefit of the growers – it is all for benefiting their commercial bottom line,” said Mr Dorman.

Scan or click the QR code to see Scott Dorman in action on the television commercials being run by Brisbane Markets Limited and Brismark.

Summer 2023 FRESH SOURCE 27

Perspectives

Sky’s the limit for Australian lychees Australian lychees are growing in popularity within Australia and abroad, with fans lauding our superior fruit and innovative growing practices.

“It’s all about quality and price: if they are good quality, they will buy a few but if they are good quality at a reasonable price point they will be them in quantity.”

The fruit has a long history in Queensland, with Australia’s first trees planted in the north of the state in the 1870s. Now, Queensland grows 99% of the country’s lychees, with the remainder coming from Northern NSW.

There are 40 varieties grown in Australia, and over 16 varieties produced on a commercial scale, each with their positives and negatives. Like apples and mangoes, the different varieties are starting to gather a cult following among consumers.

Brisbane Markets wholesaler and lychee grower, John Trimboli of Romeo’s Marketing Queensland, said while traditionally the domain of those from Asian backgrounds, lychees were starting to catch the eye of the wider Australian consumer.

“It is all about personal preference in the consumer as well, people like different flavour profiles and have different expectations of the fruit,” Mr Trimboli said.

“Consumption of lychees is definitely growing, we are seeing a much wider appeal amongst the Australian market and a greater knowledge from the customer about the fruit,” Mr Trimboli said.

“We’ve been in the lychee industry for ten years now and consumer understanding has really increased, every year Australians are understanding more about what they are buying and the varieties that are available.”

Brisbane Markets buyer and A better choice! retailer, Joseph Guardala from Indooroopilly Fruit, said he had noticed an expansion in the fruit’s audience.

“While a large percentage of consumers come from Asian heritage, the popularity of lychees is growing every year. As more people become familiar with the fruit, get a consistent eating experience and share that experience, the audience will just keep on growing,” Mr Guardala said.

The experience at Feast on Fruit differs, according to Sergio Carbone, another Brisbane Markets buyer and A better choice! retailer.

“For the last twenty years, we have stocked lychees when they are in season. I haven’t really noticed much of a change in consumer habits,” Mr Carbone said.

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“We can have ten different varieties in our cold room but I’ll be able to find a home for all of them. The most important thing for buyers in the markets is ‘know your demographic’. There is a market for everything and everyone, and that’s certainly the case for lychee varieties.”

When it comes to varieties, Mr Carbone and Mr Guardala have their favourites but both balance their customers’ desire for quality at a reasonable price point.

“Consumers love the lychees with the smaller seeds because, obviously, they want more flesh,” Mr Guardala said.

Both Mr Guardala and Mr Carbone aren’t fans of the earlier varieties, which tend to have bigger seeds, so they are waiting it out for their favourites to come in season.

“We sell a lot of lychees and our customers definitely prefer varieties will smaller seeds but we know they’re a bit hard to get and only available at certain times in the season,” Mr Carbone said.

“For our shop, it all just depends on the price point. Consumers are after the more fleshy variety because it gives the perception of having more bang for your buck.”

While new varieties have extended the lychee season in Australia, the local crop still has the element of seasonal speciality.

“Like mangoes, lychees only grow in very specific regions in Australia, so it is difficult to extend the season further than we have already,” Mr Trimboli said.

Mr Trimboli’s farms on the Atherton Tablelands started producing in mid-October and continue through to March.

“The lychee season is well timed, with Christmas and Lunar New Year right after each other. It puts Australian lychees in a perfect position, especially when you look at global demand,” Mr Trimboli said.

Australia is also perfectly primed for export markets and holds the unique position of having the world’s longest growing season. Currently South Africa is our only real competition during our season, and their fruit is often perceived as being inferior in overseas markets.

The majority of lychees globally are produced in the northern hemisphere, and imports are only allowed into the country in Australia’s off season during the winter months.

Sergio Carbone, Feast on Fruit.

While the industry sees the benefit of imports for growing consumer awareness, growers remain worried about the impact of poor-quality overseas lychees on consumer perceptions of quality consistency.

“We will only stock Australian lychees because we feel that, when in season, they are far superior to the imported fruit,” Mr Carbone said.

Like any product that sees an upswing in popularity, there has been an increase in plantings with the Australian Lychee Growers Association expecting a 75% increase in production volume over the next ten years.

“There are a lot of trees in the ground so there is a worry about what will happen when those trees start fruiting in four to five years’ time, but hopefully we will have increased domestic consumption by the time those plantings come on,” Mr Trimboli said.

Debbie and John Trimboli, Romeo’s Marketing Queensland.

“I think the future for lychees is bright. I am concerned about oversupply, but as long as work on increasing domestic sales and opening overseas markets we can get the balance right.”

For Mr Guardala, it is the prospect of more varieties on the horizon that gets him excited about the future of lychees.

“We’re very blessed that we have some of the best lychee growers in the world. They are always trying to improve and better their product, so every year the fruit gets better and more consistent,” Mr Guardala said.

“In the next four to five years we’re going to have lychees with no seeds at all, it is unbelievable the type of research and improvements growers are putting into the fruit.”

Joseph Guardala, Indooroopilly Fruit.

DID YOU KNOW? According to the Australian Lychee Growers Association, Australia produces between 2,500 and 3,000 tonnes of lychees every year, valued at around $30 million.

Exports represent approximately 25% of local production.

“Consumers want to know that the fruit they buy will be a consistent product every time. If the consumer knows that they will be able to buy lychees that are consistently sweet, juicy and have a great size, then price is only a small consideration. If they know it is good, they will pay a bit extra for it.”

Joseph Guardala, Indooroopilly Fruit

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Perspectives

Promising signs for citrus While not without its challenges, there have been signs of improvement for the Australian citrus industry over the 2023 season.

Comparing the season to date with that of 2022, Citrus Australia CEO Nathan Hancock said fruit quality had improved in 2023 and the tail-end of the harvest is particularly strong from a quality perspective.

“While the earlier fruit this season struggled a little with internal maturity – due to a cold and wet spring and mild summer – the mid- and late-season varieties are eating well. Quality has improved compared to the 2022 season,” Mr Hancock said.

Mr Hancock said there has been a heavy ‘on’ crop of small fruit this season.

“Across most growing regions, the 2022 spring did not provide enough hot, dry weather, which affected fruit set and consequently size,” Mr Hancock said.

“Early season navels were particularly small given their naturally shorter growing season, combined with cool wet conditions. Fruit sizing in the mid-season did improve overall despite a heavy crop, while the late-season crop load is lighter.

“The valencia crop is light this year, with small fruit sizes expected unless we see warm weather through spring and summer, which may add size.”

Brisbane Markets wholesaler and citrus grower, John Trimboli from Romeo’s Marketing Queensland, said that 2023 was dryer than previous years and while quality was excellent, fruit were slow to size up to market expectations.

“From personal experience, our quality and our volume was up, I’m not sure if that can be extrapolated across the industry, but from our perspective we definitely saw improvements in our crop,” Mr Trimboli said.

According to Brisbane Markets wholesaler, Joseph Spoto from United Lettuce, fine growing conditions led to strong supplies.

“From a markets point of view, supply wasn’t an issue at all,” Mr Spoto said.

“Navels and lemons have been steady and, as at mid-November, are receiving a higher price when compared with last season.”

“Last year, we had a wet spring which delayed a lot of fruit across the board,

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Strong season: Citrus lines have been strong on quality and volumes this year.

but this year, growing conditions have been good and dry. So hopefully supply will continue to be strong,” Mr Spoto said.

Mandarin production, which has continued to expand across the country, has seen some mixed results. Markets took time to adjust to an increase in early fruit supply.

“For the first time we have seen some significant yield increases from areas such as Far North Queensland, as well as Emerald. This has meant that more Australian mandarins are available earlier in the season,” Mr Hancock said.

According to Mr Trimboli, the rise of the Afourer variety is extending the Australian season.

“The emergence of the Afourer mandarin means less reliance on imports in the off season and helps the growers diversify. The Afourer won’t go away, it’s going to get bigger,” Mr Trimboli said.

“While the Imperial mandarin might be better eating, it’s a bit harder to grow and doesn’t yield as well as the Afouer so there’s a place for both.”

Mr Spoto said that there was a slight oversupply in the mandarin category.

“The middle part of the season saw varieties such as honey murcott selling

at a lower price than they would traditionally receive if exported,” Mr Spoto said.

Mandarin exports started earlier this season, due to the increased volumes of early fruit. This gave growers options other than the domestic market early in the year.

“The mandarin category continues to power ahead. We expect to see volumes continue to climb over coming seasons, making export market expansion an important part of the industry’s strategy going forward,” Mr Hancock said.

While some north Queensland growers have expressed concerns about the federal government’s decision to allow commercially produced fresh Persian limes from Mexico into Australia, Mr Trimboli said they have nothing to be concerned about.

“As a wholesaler, I can get 12 months supply of limes from within Australia.

There’s just no reason for me to be looking at imports when we have an Australian supply available,” Mr Trimboli said.

“It’s the same for wholesalers, retailers and consumers: if there is Australian produce available, we will always choose Australian produce above overseas imports.”

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