Member & Grower Enquiries: ism@passionfruitaustralia.org.au Website: www.passionfruitaustralia.org.au
the views of Passionfruit Australian Incorporated, the Editor or Horticulture Innovation Australia Limited (Hort Innovation). The advice is at the reader’s own risk, and no responsibility is accepted for the accuracy of the material presented. Inclusion of an advertisement in this publication does not necessarily imply endorsement of the product, company or service by Passionfruit Australia Incorporated, the Editor or Hort Innovation. Hort Innovation and Passionfruit Australia make no representations and expressly disclaims all warranties (to the extent permitted by law) about the accuracy, completeness, or currency of information in The Passion Vine. Reliance on any information provided by Hort Innovation or Passionfruit Australia is entirely at your own risk.
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Wherever you see this logo, the initiative is part of the Hort Innovation Passionfruit Fund. Like this publication itself, it has been funded by Hort Innovation using the passionfruit levy and, in the case of R&D, with contributions from the Australian Government. Some projects also involve funding from additional sources.
President's Report
Dennis Chant, New South Wales
Welcome to your annual edition of The Passion Vine produced by Passionfruit Australia Inc (PAI) on behalf of the whole industry. Growers and other industry stakeholders who regularly attend passionfruit field days and events often comment on how valuable they find the information in our printed journal. It has become an important reference resource for the industry.
For those in the industry that do not have access to earlier copies, informative articles from those publications can now be found in the new Passionfruit Australia Resource Library on the website at bit.ly/PAI-RL along with a host of useful resources. Many of the previous editions of The Passion Vine can also be read digitally via the website at bit.ly/PAI-TPV
As will be noted in the market reports and regional roundups, the extreme wet weather conditions in the first half of this calendar year have proven challenging across all of the major east coast growing regions. After the record production figures achieved in the 2024 financial year of 5,654 tons it will be of great interest to see if our growers can achieve the same results in FY25.
If you are interested in seeing more data about the passionfruit industry, you can access the Australian Horticulture Statistics Handbook online at bit.ly/HSH-23-24 The annual Handbook provides the most comprehensive and up-to-date data on 75+ horticultural products, including fruit, vegetables, nuts, nursery, turf, and flowers. It draws on multiple supply chain sources to cover retail and foodservice use, exports and imports, state-by-state production, wholesale value, and volume. The handbook for the year ending 30 June 2024 is published by Hort Innovation and was produced by the multi-industry levy investment Australian Horticulture Statistics Handbook 2021-22 to 2023-24 (MT21006).
Many of our levy paying growers will be aware from information provided in the Passiflora e-Newsletters and discussions at our industry forums, that PAI has commenced consultation with industry stakeholders.
This is to assist in preparing a submission to facilitate changes to the existing levies to fund obligations associated with biosecurity response and activity components through the introduction of biosecurity levies. The proposal originally put forward for consultation by PAI suggested a reduction in the marketing levy currently set at 20 cents per carton to 15 cents and 5 cents being assigned to the biosecurity levies, leaving no net change to overall levy amounts deducted from growers.
Following initial consultation with growers and other industry stakeholders it has been suggested that it would be in the industry’s best interests to take this opportunity to reallocate all levy funds, except those required for biosecurity purposes, to Hort Innovation’s R&D programs. This would, to some extent, improve outcomes for the industry which has a comparatively low level of industry funding that is spread 50/50 between R&D and Marketing activities. It is PAI’s intent to review its original discussion paper to reflect this increased emphasis on R&D funding and consult further with industry before a submission is finalised. Whilst the proposed changes would mean that no levy funds would be available for marketing to consumers, there would be a significant increase in funds available for R&D projects. This opens up the opportunity to initiate priority research projects including supply chain and market research and development.
This edition of The Passion Vine is the last under the current Hort Innovation funded three-year (PF22001) Passionfruit Industry Communications Program 2022-2025 delivered by PAI. PAI would like to acknowledge the many contributions from our growers and other industry stakeholders who have given freely of their time to ensure the relevance of the content of the various publications and particularly the success of the very well supported industry field days and farm walks. At the time of publication, Hort Innovation has issued a new request for tender to manage the industry communication program and we will inform growers of the outcome of that process when a new contract has been awarded and contracted. PAI has made a tender submission on behalf of the industry.
Wishing all in our wonderful industry a successful winter and spring season and thank you for your continued support.
Workforce Update: A summary of important changes in 2025/26
Jane Richter
Superannuation Guarantee increase to 12%
From 1 July 2025
All Employers must contribute 12% of all eligible employee’s ordinary time earnings into their nominated super fund which includes full-time, part-time, and eligible casual workers — including those on piece rates or under the Horticulture Award
Change to Minimum Wage
From 1 July 2025
The National Minimum Wage increased by 3.5% to $948 per week or $24.95 per hour
Award minimum wages increase by 3.5%
The new minimum wage rates will apply from the first full pay period starting on or after 1 July 2025
PALM Scheme Minimum Hours Guarantee
Until 31 March 2026
The Australian Government has extended the requirement for PALM scheme employers to provide short-term workers with a minimum of 120 hours over any four-week period until 31 March 2026. This extension ensures continued income stability for workers and gives the government time to review key settings within the scheme. Farms employing short-term PALM workers must continue to meet this minimum-hours rule for compliance
Payday Super
From 1 July 2025
All employers must now pay super on payday, meaning each time they pay wages, they must also pay the corresponding Superannuation Guarantee (SG) amount to the employee’s super fund
Criminalisation of wage underpayments
From 1 January 2025
At the beginning of this year, wage theft became a criminal offence in Australia. Farm employers who intentionally or recklessly underpay wages, super or entitlements could face up to 10 years in jail or fines of up to $7.8 million. While genuine mistakes won’t be criminally prosecuted, civil penalties still apply — so it’s vital to ensure all workers are correctly classified, paid the right award rates (including for piecework), and receive full super and penalty entitlements
Level 1 time limit under the Horticulture Award
From 1 April 2025
Farms can only classify workers as Level 1 under the Horticulture Award for a maximum of three months, including any prior horticulture experience across crops or roles. After that, workers must be moved to Level 2, which comes with higher pay rates. The Award also now provides clearer task descriptions for Level 2, helping employers understand when reclassification is due
You can also subscribe to receive email updates at fairwork.gov.au/about-us/contact-us subscribe-to-email-updates
For other useful resources that are specific to Horticulture, visit the Horticulture Showcase online at horticulture.fairwork.gov.au
Regional Reports
Far North Queensland:
Cynthia and Dale Barbagallo, Packed with Passion, Mareeba
FAR NORTH QLD MAREEBA,
DAINTREE, COOKTOWN
Can you believe that another year has passed and winter is here again? In October last year, it was wonderful to welcome, world-renowned guest speaker, Graeme Sait from Nutri-Tech Solutions, to our two-day Queensland Reef Water Quality Program Workshop on the Atherton Tablelands. Graeme shared his extensive knowledge and discussed how as farmers we can work together to improve our run-off water quality and soil nutrient retention, through nutrition farming. We visited several passionfruit farms and got to see firsthand how some of them have already implemented in part Graeme’s Nutritional Farming Practices, with wonderful success.
The wet season in Far North Queensland was again challenging for growers in the region. The FNQ floods earlier this year caused widespread damage across parts of our growing regions and cut off all transport routes to key markets. Supplies from the south were limited to essentials only, and most transport depots and trucks were packed to their limits. Thankfully the region has once again recovered well.
As we move into winter, temperatures have so far been mild, and it is looking good for continued flowering for established orchards, which will hopefully see more fruit available on the market in September and October.
Sadly, Fusarium solani continues to be an ongoing challenge for many growers in our region, with some of our growers, including ourselves, spelling growing plots in the hopes of reducing vine death occurrence in our next crops.
Dale and I are also putting into practice the improved nutritional farming methods we learned in our workshops, and we’re hoping they’ll lead to an even more successful season ahead.
So, until next time, happy growing and we hope your next season is Packed with Passion!
Wide Bay: Sarah & Jason Meiers, Meiers Tropical Plantation
G’day from Bundaberg! We hope you’re all doing well.
WIDE BAY BUNDABERG
We’ve had a great start to the season once the rain disappeared after the first quarter and the fruit started to clean up after the wet, water damage. A few showers since but only around 30mm average every few weeks.
We are currently in a low period (mid-June) after being kept on our feet having some of our biggest weeks sending away fruit yet through May. It is looking like we will have a bumper crop coming in mid-July to August that will keep us very busy as we are expecting it to break our previous farm records!
The next crop coincides with peak grafting season, making it an especially busy time and adding extra pressure on all our workers. We have just started pulling out posts that have been in the ground for 25 years and should have the 5,000 new posts back in the ground ready for the upcoming planting season.
Wishing all growers a good season ahead from the Meiers family.
SUNSHINE COAST
GYMPIE TO GLASS HOUSE MOUNTAINS
Sunshine Coast: Brad & Hanna Millard, Beenham Valley Passions
It’s been another challenging season for growers in our region. After a dry start to the planting season in October, our young vines were longing for rain — and they certainly got it! The Christmas period brought persistent wet weather, which slowed fruit development and delayed harvesting.
Tropical Cyclone Alfred only added to the complications, dumping more rain onto already saturated soils. Although we were lucky to avoid the winds, the moisture decided to hang around. Combined with extended periods of cloud cover, this created ideal conditions for disease and fungal outbreaks. Over the past six months, an average of 48% of days have been classified as “wet and cloudy” — and as every grower knows, passionfruit vines thrive on sunlight. As a result, production has taken a hit.
Here on our farm near the coast east of Gympie, rainfall has consistently tracked above average. Frequent coastal showers have left the ground with little opportunity to dry out. In contrast, farms located to the north of Gympie have had significantly less rain and cloudy days. But on the positive side, Brad hasn’t had to irrigate! Less picking also means there is plenty of time to tackle those maintenance jobs around the farm!
However, there’s cause for optimism. The recent stretch of cold, sunny weather has signalled a change. While our vines have slowed during the cooler conditions, we’re now seeing encouraging signs of recovery. Fresh growth is pushing through, flowers are setting, and we’re hopeful for a solid harvest before the next planting season kicks off. Wishing you all the best for your growing season as the days start getting longer!
Northern NSW: Dennis Chant, AD & JL Chant
The weather in the northern rivers area has been particularly challenging for passionfruit growers, and other horticultural and grazing industries, over the last three months. Many farmers reported plant and infrastructure damage as a result of Tropical Cyclone Alfred that struck the Tweed Valley from 6-8 March. Widespread damage was reported with major impacts on trellises and young vines. Recovery efforts have been hampered by persistent rain since that event and disease control has been difficult.
NORTHERN NSW
TWEED VALLEY
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Despite these setbacks, some growers are recording reasonable crops of fair quality given the weather conditions. The recent sunshine after lengthy overcast periods has seen plants starting to throw new shoots. Tweed growers have reported mixed results with new varieties they have planted whilst some of the plant breeding project trial vines are looking promising. Hopefully better times are ahead!
Western Australia: Thea Walker, Seven Days Farm
Hello again from Western Australia! The last 12 months have seen Western Australia have one of its largest production years in recent times, due to exceptional growing conditions. The mild spring and summer weather enhanced fruit set, which coupled with a slight increase in plantings, contributed to the significant increase in fruit volumes and quality. With the majority of our fruit ripening in the March and April months, we did experience a temporary oversupply of our WA wholesale market during this time.
Despite this, the favourable growing conditions facilitated excellent vine development in young plantings over summer, with new varieties and growing systems being trialled across multiple farms in the southwest. We are looking forward to seeing how they cope over the winter months and perform in coming seasons.
Looking ahead, the development of the WA market, cooler climate varieties and more efficient growing systems will continue to be a focus for growers here. The long-range weather forecast indicates another mild winter without extreme weather events which is positive for our spring season ahead. We hope to further connect with other growers in WA over the next few months and wish the rest of Australia a productive and rewarding season to come!
Investing in Innovation: A Year of Growth for the Australian Passionfruit Industry
By Brett Fifield, CEO at Hort Innovation
As we reflect on the past 12 months, it’s clear that the Australian passionfruit industry continues to evolve through strategic investment in research, development, and marketing. At Hort Innovation, we are proud to manage the passionfruit R&D and marketing levies on behalf of growers, ensuring that every dollar is directed toward building a stronger, more resilient industry.
One of the cornerstone projects over the past year has been the Passionfruit Industry Communications Program, delivered by Passionfruit Australia Inc. Now in its final year, this three-year initiative has played a vital role in connecting growers, those across the supply chain, and other stakeholders with timely and relevant information.
Through regional field days, such as the well-attended event in Beenham Valley last August, and the bi-monthly Passiflora eNewsletters and annual The Passion Vine publication, the program has fostered knowledgesharing and collaboration. It has also created the opportunity for co-collaboration with other industries, such as Custard Apples, to create the Hort Innovation sponsored, Taste of the Tropics conference, which has further amplified the project’s reach, creating synergies with other tropical fruit industries.
Looking ahead, the tender for the next iteration of this program has been opened and signals our commitment to continuous improvement in industry communications. Ensuring growers remain informed and connected is essential to navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Field visit of a progeny trial by scientists from the University of Queensland, Murdoch University and Queensland Department of Primary Industries in 2024
Photo credit: Dr Mo Alam
Attendees at the Hort Innovation sponsored 'Taste of the Tropics' held in February 2025
Photo credit: Passionfruit Australia
On the R&D front, the National Passionfruit Breeding and Evaluation Program, led by Dr Mobashwer Alam at the University of Queensland, has made significant strides. The establishment of two germplasm repository sites and the planting of 786 new progeny across four locations mark a major step forward in securing the genetic diversity needed for future passionfruit breeding success. With another 1,000 progenies in development, the program is well-positioned to deliver new varieties that meet the evolving needs of growers and consumers alike.
Importantly, this work is not happening in isolation. The breeding program is closely aligned with a Hort Innovation Frontiers-funded project, led by Professor Rajeev Varshney at Murdoch University. This collaboration is harnessing advanced genomics to accelerate breeding outcomes. Through co-investment from research partners Murdoch University, The University of Queensland, The Department of Primary Industries QLD, Griffith University and The University of Western Australia, this program will assist to accelerate the benefit of the levy-funded passionfruit breeding program, enabling Dr Alam and his team to more efficiently identify and select progeny with the traits most valued by the industry—whether that’s improved yield, disease resistance, or fruit quality.
This integration of cutting-edge science with practical, industry-led feedback—facilitated through field days, industry publications, and a dedicated project reference group—ensures that the breeding program remains grounded in real-world grower needs while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Meanwhile, on the marketing front, a fresh campaign launched in May is helping to drive consumer awareness and demand during winter. Funded by the Passionfruit Marketing Levy, the campaign taps into consumer insights which revealed while sales are growing yearon-year, 24% of Australians have never purchased a passionfruit. Yet those who do are passionate advocates, describing the fruit as “delicious,” “unique,” and “exotic.”
To bridge this gap, the marketing campaign is leveraging social media, branded advertising, and influencer partnerships to inspire new ways to enjoy passionfruit— particularly as a flavour-packed snack. By showcasing the fruit’s versatility and vibrancy, we aim to convert curiosity into purchase and passion into loyalty.
The past year has demonstrated the power of strategic investment and collaboration. From breeding breakthroughs to marketing momentum, the Australian passionfruit industry is laying the groundwork for a bright and sustainable future. At Hort Innovation, we remain committed to working hand-in-hand with growers and partners to ensure that passionfruit continues to thrive— on the vine, in the market, and in the hearts of consumers.
If any growers have questions about the work happening at Hort Innovation, please contact our Passionfruit Industry Service Manager, Gemma Burger: email gemma.burger@horticulture.com.au phone 0458 650 876
The Passionfruit Industry Communications Program (PF22001) and National Passionfruit Breeding and Evaluation Program (PF20000) have been funded by Hort Innovation, using the passionfruit research and development levy and contributions from the Australian Government. The passionfruit marketing campaign is funded by the passionfruit industry marketing levy.
The Building an Advanced Genomics Platform for Australian Horticulture (AS21006) is funded by Hort Innovation Frontiers, with co-investment from Murdoch University, The University of Queensland, The Department of Primary Industries QLD, Griffith University and The University of Western Australia, and contributions from the Australian Government.
Passionfruit recipes and ideas promoted through social media Photo credit: Instagram
Passionfruit Field Days Passionfruit Events
Wide Bay-Burnett | 16 August 2024
Regional Field Day, Workshop & AGM
The Wide Bay–Burnett regional field day was held on Friday 16 August 2024, at Beenham Valley Passions, Beenham Valley.
Our hosts Brad and Hanna Millard provided a lovely morning tea of homemade passionfruit slice and then took guests for a stroll through the fields!
Aaron Mears, from Lulu’s Perch Permaculture shared some ideas on preparing the soil for fungal issues, making large scale fertilisers and brought along his famous inoculated bio char for growers to try.
It was great to see both familiar industry faces on the day as well as several new growers to the passionfruit industry.
The PAI Annual General Meeting was also held on the day, where key industry issues were identified and potential solutions were explored.
Brad Millard showcases the internals of fruit from one of the trial vines
Photo credit: Hanna Millard
Atherton Workshop & Field Day | 21-22 October 2024 Passionfruit Farmers Working Together to Improve Water Quality
In 2023, Passionfruit Australia secured funding from the Queensland Government’s Reef Water Quality Program. On 21-22 October 2024, Passionfruit Australia held a workshop and field day in Atherton, and it was fantastic! We had around 30 attendees, with a few growers travelling from afar to join us. We even had two of our wonderful growers travel six hours just to attend the event!
Attendees were blown away when Graeme Sait from Nutri-Tech Solutions spent the whole day presenting on regenerative farming to improve water quality on the Great Barrier Reef. We had Paula Ibell from Growcom present on ways farmers can reduce run off to improve water quality and save themselves money. We also had a representative from a local agriculture store, Tableland Fertilizers, present on how they can assist with putting reef protection methods into place on farms.
The next day was filled with field walks in the area. We were lucky to spend the morning at Joe Ferraro’s farm in Tolga, where Graeme Sait conducted some leaf testing and morning tea was enjoyed by all. Next, we drove down the road to Chris and Liane Newman’s Tolga farm for lunch and soil testing. Then it was off to the last farm of the day, Alex and Alicia Bertola’s farm in Kairi to see some of Graeme Sait’s methods in action. It was great to see how they had put their learning from Graeme’s course into play on their farm.
The project continued with a catch-up event held in Mareeba on 6 June 2025 where attendees from the workshop got together and discussed what they have been working on since the workshop. Graeme Sait joined the catch up via Zoom and was delighted to see how the farmers had implemented several of the ideas discussed at the workshop. We would like to thank everyone who attended. It was a great event! We would also like to thank the Integrated Engagement and Capacity Building project through the Queensland Government’s Reef Water Quality Program, who funded the project.
Graeme Sait conducting soil tests
Photo credit: Passionfruit Australia
Some of our event attendees in the field
Photo credit: Passionfruit Australia
Attendees enjoying the cool of the canopy at one of our farm visits
Photo credit: Passionfruit Australia
Graeme presenting at our workshop
Photo credit: Passionfruit Australia
Time for some morning tea and networking
Photo credit: Passionfruit Australia
Taste of the Tropics Conference 2025
6-7 February 2025
Passionfruit Australia Inc. (PAI) joined forces with Custard Apples Australia (CAA) in early February to bring to life the Taste of the Tropics Conference! Wow! What a spectacular couple of days we had! Seventy passionfruit, custard apple and industry stakeholders attended the event at Tropical Fruit World, Duranbah NSW.
The first day was a workshop which opened with PAI president Dennis Chant and CAA president Brian Keating setting the scene. The workshop goal was to set priorities for custard apple and passionfruit industry development. Attendees broke up into small groups and mind mapped their industry’s priorities, returning to the group and sharing their ideas. There were updates from Hort Innovation and Hort Frontiers. After morning tea, there were presentations on pest and disease management.
After lunch, participants took part in a workshop on interpreting soil and plant test results, which included case studies from growers’ farms and was well received. In the afternoon, a second workshop focused on the on-farm variety testing program and its protocols. The day was finished with CAA and PAI members separating and visiting a local farm. Passionfruit attendees were lucky to venture through the fields at Frank and Jan Julius’s Farm in Cudgen. What a fantastic tour we had of the Julius’s abundant and vibrant vines.
On the second day, we all jumped on board the tractors and toured Tropical Fruit World, with a special look at the custard apple orchards and the passionfruit vines and a drone demonstration from JDS Drone Pasture Solutions. It was great to be able to work with Custard Apples for this event and we hope it’s the first of many to come!
We would like to thank the event sponsors: Hort Innovation, Tropical Fruit World, TenFarms, Jetbest Group and JDS Drone Pasture Solutions.
Bundaberg Field Day | 23 May 2025 Growers Connect, Learn, and Look to the Future
Bundaberg recently played host to a successful Passionfruit Field Day, drawing over 40 attendees— primarily growers, along with several industry representatives. The event kicked off at the North Bucca property of Dean and Chendra Cameron who welcomed us to their Panama passionfruit farm.
Dean’s farm, located just 30km west of Bundaberg, has 3,000 vines and has been established for nearly five years. He shared valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of passionfruit production and interesting discussions around farm management and productivity strategies with growers. There was some interesting discussion about Dean’s bee hives and the current impact of Varroa mite on growers. Some growers shared that in the absence of bees, other pollinators - such as ants - had proven to be just as effective.
In the afternoon, we made our way to the Young Australian Hotel for presentations and updates. Passionfruit Australia President Dennis Chant delivered his report, outlining the organisation's latest projects and current initiatives.
Dr. Mo Alam from the University of Queensland followed with an exciting update on breeding program developments. From the first-stage progeny of his research, 20 promising new passionfruit varieties have been identified. Dr. Alam is now seeking growers to participate in trialling these selections on their farms. Interested growers are encouraged to get in touch directly with him on m.alam@uq.edu.au
Liam Reidy from Metagen also spoke, sharing cutting-edge insights into soil DNA profiling. His presentation highlighted the importance of understanding soil microbiomes, and he offered practical advice for enhancing soil health and productivity.
The day wrapped up with a marketing update from Holly Jackson of Hort Innovation. She shared plans for the upcoming winter passionfruit flush, which will be promoted via digital platforms including websites, Facebook, and Instagram health influencers. Keep an eye out for the fresh seasonal slogan: “Burst of Flavour in Every Bite.”
This Field Day proved a valuable opportunity for growers to network, learn, and stay informed about the future of passionfruit growing in Australia.
Attendees heard from farm owner Dean Cameron pictured above with wife Chandra
(L-R) Rod Griffth, Brad Millard and Dennis Chant
Passionfruit Levy Fund Update
Jane Richter
How does the levy work?
The Passionfruit Levy was first introduced 1 May 1999 and means that all fresh passionfruit that are produced in Australia and sold by a producer or that are exported attract a mandatory levy. The Passionfruit Levy is currently set as:
When you receive a Grower Return from your market agent or processor, you will see the Levy component has been deducted and it is their responsibility to pass this money onto the Levy.
In Australia, the Australian Government supports the horticulture sector by matching industry levy investments in research and development (R&D). When growers pay a mandatory levy (such as for passionfruit), these funds are pooled and managed by Hort Innovation to deliver R&D projects that benefit the whole industry.
For every dollar spent on eligible R&D projects using levy funds, the Australian Government matches it dollar-for-dollar. This effectively doubles the investment, increasing the impact of the work done to improve productivity, sustainability, and profitability across horticulture industries.
Marketing activities, however, are not matched and are funded solely by the industry levy.
A new legislative framework for the Australian agricultural levies system comes into effect in 2025, with the changes applying to Passionfruit from 1 July 2025. This reform consolidates over 50 pieces of legislation into five streamlined Acts, aiming to simplify the levy system and clarify obligations for all participants. Despite the structural overhaul, the levy rates, recipient body (e.g., Hort Innovation) and permitted uses of levy funds, such as research and development, marketing, biosecurity, and residue testing all remain the same.
Find out more at www.agriculture.gov.au/agriculture-land/farm-food-drought/levies/rates/passionfruit
Who decides what the levy gets spent on?
Hort Innovation’s 2022–2026 Strategic Investment Plan (SIP) for passionfruit was developed through extensive consultation with growers and stakeholders, including Passionfruit Australia. It continues to guide how levy funds are invested to support industry growth and priorities until 2026 when the new investment planning is implemented.
Download the full plan at: horticulture.com.au/growers/passionfruit-fund
What is the Hort Innovation SHIFt program?
Hort Innovation is consulting on how the compulsory levy is invested, aiming to create a more impactful, streamlined system to guide decisions beyond 2026. The current Strategic Investment Plans (SIPs), which have driven levy spending across 37 industry funds, expire in June 2026. Recognising the system’s limitations—such as duplicated goals, static strategies, and a lack of coordination across industries—Hort Innovation has embarked on the Strategic Horticulture Investment Framework (SHIFt) program to consult with industry on the next generation of investment planning.
SHIFt will be delivered in three stages:
1. Investment Framework – Redesigning how planning is structured, governed, and reviewed
2. Investment Content – Setting future-facing goals and priorities
3. User Needs & Tools – Making plans simpler, digital-first, and more accessible to all growers
Hort Innovation wants greater grower input and is encouraging growers to share their feedback. Key goals include more responsive planning, better value-for-money, cross-industry collaboration, and clearer impact reporting. Importantly, this new system will not just replace Strategic Investment Plans—it aims to future-proof levy investment to meet real-world challenges and deliver better returns to growers like you.
How much levy is collected for Passionfruit each year?
This table has been compiled from the Passionfruit Fund Annual Investment Plan and you can see the full report at bit.ly/PAI-AIP-24-25.
Passionfruit Levy fund actuals at 2023/24 and forecast to 2026/27 (as at July 1, 2024)
1 Project funding includes committed projects and projects supported by the advisory panel and currently in the process of procurement
What projects are currently being funded through the Passionfruit R&D Levy?
Project Name
Regulatory Support & Response Co-ordination
Consumer behavioural retail data
Horticulture Impact Assessment Program 2023/24 to 2025/26
Consumer Usage & Attitude tracking 25/26
Passionfruit industry communications program
Generation of Data - Crop Protection 2022
National passionfruit breeding and evaluation program 2022-2027
Consumer usage and attitude tracking 2023/24
National Bee Pest Surveillance Program: Transition Program
Project Code Delivery Partner
MT20008 DTS Regulatory Consultants
MT21004 Nielsen IQ
MT24005 ACIL Allen Consulting
MT24201 Accenture Australia
PF22001 Passionfruit Australia
ST22004 Agreco Australia
PF22000 The University of Queensland
MT23201 Accenture Australia
MT21008 Plant Health Australia
Strategic Agrichemical Review Process (SARP) 2023 updates MT23001 AGK Services
Projects with codes beginning with 'PF' are dedicated solely to the passionfruit industry and are fully funded by the Hort Innovation Passionfruit Fund. Projects with codes starting with 'MT' are multi-industry initiatives, to which the Hort Innovation Passionfruit Fund contributes as one of several funders.
How can you have an input into how your levy money is invested?
Gemma Burger is Hort innovation’s Industry Service & Delivery Manager responsible for the management of the Passionfruit Fund activities, and she would welcome your call to discuss any questions you have about levy investments.
Stronger Farms start with Mentally Resilient Farmers
Jane Richter
Rural Aid’s second Pulse of the Paddock survey offers a vital snapshot of the emotional, social, and business wellbeing of Australian farmers. Conducted in October 2024, the survey gathered responses from 687 primary producers, including fruit and vegetable growers. It highlights the ongoing pressures on Australian farms and the opportunities to build resilience through connection, support, and education.
Perhaps the most pressing takeaway is the mental health of our farmers. A staggering 58% of respondents rated their mental health as “average or below,” and 1 in 5 reported a decline in wellbeing over the past year. The statistics are sobering: suicide rates among farmers are 59% higher than the national average.
Yet many don’t seek help. Over a third of those struggling said they hadn’t reached out for support, often due to stigma or a reluctance to appear vulnerable. Encouragingly, this attitude is beginning to shift slowly.
The survey found that:
• 61% of farmers would now reach out for counselling support
• 75% would do so if a family member needed help
• One in three reported a more positive attitude towards accessing mental health services
Seeking support is not a sign of weakness; it's an investment in your family and farm’s future
Nearly all respondents (94%) said their local community was vital for accessing essential services including health care, childcare, postal delivery, and more. But 38% said they had trouble accessing those very services.
Barriers included:
• Isolation: Long travel times, poor roads, high fuel costs
• Workload: Farming’s 24/7 nature makes appointments hard to schedule
• Shortages: Not enough health workers or patchy phone or internet connectivity
• Financial stress: Uncertain income streams and low eligibility for assistance
Despite these challenges, 85% of farmers felt a strong connection to their community. Sporting clubs, local shows, and other events were named as key sources of support. For passionfruit farmers working in rural or regional zones, maintaining those community ties is not only good for mental health, it can also be a practical lifeline during tough seasons.
The report highlighted the fact that farmers are keen to improve their practices when support is available and accessible. Of those who had taken part in sustainability training, 83% made changes to their farm, and 86% saw positive results. These included improved soil and water retention; reduced input costs through better efficiency; and greater resilience to drought, floods, and pests.
This is especially relevant for passionfruit production, where perennial vines rely on healthy soil and good water management. Strong biodiversity can also support pollination and reduce chemical reliance. However, as with mental health, time and money remain key barriers to taking that next step.
Offering flexible education - such as online courses, on-farm demos, or grower-led discussion groupscould make a real difference. If you haven’t considered attending one of the industry field days then perhaps that is the first step to greater industry connectivity, enhanced access to training and resources, and a sense of belonging that could be a lifeline in tough times.
Although more than half of farmers said they felt confident about reaching their goals this year, 69% admitted they felt unprepared to deal with looming threats, be it drought, market instability, or rising debt.
Farming is as demanding as it is rewarding. The Pulse of the Paddock shows that while the pressures are real, growers are adaptable, resourceful, and open to change.
For those growing passionfruit - often balancing the demands of vine health, climate pressure, seasonal markets, and off-farm commitments - this is a timely reminder. Stay connected. Take care of your mental health. Make time for learning, even in small steps. And use services like Rural Aid to keep you, your family, and your farm thriving through all seasons.
For support or more information, visit: www.ruralaid.org.au
Chemical Update
New SARP for the Passionfruit Industry published
A Strategic Agrichemical Review Process (SARP) is a simple but important check-up for the chemicals (like fungicides, herbicides, and insecticides) used to protect crops like passionfruit.
A SARP looks at:
• What pests and diseases are a problem for passionfruit growers
• Which chemicals are available to control them
• Which ones are missing, limited, or at risk of being lost (due to regulation or resistance)
It helps identify gaps, set priorities, and plan for new permits, research, or product approvals to make sure growers have access to safe and effective tools.
Why does it matter for passionfruit farmers?
• Helps keep key chemicals available
• Flags where new solutions are needed
• Supports permit applications to the APVMA for off-label use
• Ensures growers can stay on top of pest and disease control
• Strengthens the industry’s ability to respond to changing regulations
In short, SARP protects your crop protection toolbox—so you can keep growing healthy, market-ready passionfruit.
Find the latest SARP at the new Industry Resource Library by searching ‘SARP’ www.passionfruitaustralia.org.au/resource-library
Chlorpyrifos Decision
On 30 September 2024, the APVMA made the final regulatory decision for the reconsideration of chlorpyrifos. The APVMA has cancelled or restricted many uses of chlorpyrifos following its chemical review, due to safety concerns for workers and the environment.
For passionfruit growers, this means:
• Some registered uses of chlorpyrifos on horticultural crops have been cancelled, especially where safer alternatives exist or risks couldn’t be mitigated.
• The use in passionfruit against Queensland fruit fly is not supported in the assessment.
• Remaining approved uses will come with stricter application rules, such as:
◦ Buffer zones
◦ Protective clothing requirements
◦ Re-entry intervals
• Existing stocks are subject to phase-out periods, after which on-farm use is no longer allowed.
Growers are advised to consult the information available at www.apvma.gov.au/chemicals-and-products/chemical-review/listing/chlorpyrifos
Product Spotlight: Luna Sensation Fungicide
for Passionfruit
Luna® Sensation, by Bayer, is a dual-action fungicide registered for use on passionfruit, delivering powerful protection against Septoria spot and brown spot. With active ingredients fluopyram (Group 7) and trifloxystrobin (Group 11), Luna Sensation offers both systemic and protectant action — making it an effective tool for managing early latent infections and reducing post-harvest disease impacts.
Key benefits for growers include:
• Improved fruit quality and shelf life
• Rainfastness within 4 hours
• Short 1-day withholding period
• Safe for use during flowering, with low impact on pollinators and beneficials
• Supports resistance management when rotated with other fungicide groups
Application rate is 60 mL/100 L, with a maximum of three applications per year, not exceeding 2 L/ha in any 12-month period.
Timely use is essential—apply preventatively, with follow-ups under pressure or before harvest.
Luna Sensation is a reliable, flexible option for growers aiming to maintain high-quality fruit throughout the season while supporting IPM programs.
For more details, visit www.crop.bayer.com.au/products/fungicides/luna-sensation or contact your local agronomist.
BENEFITS FROM THE GROUND UP
Pre-plant soil fumigation with STRIKE80 is a critical step to ensure that your passion fruit plants get off to a good start.
STRIKE80 is used to manage soilborne pathogens and suppress harmful nematodes. Creating a healthy soil environment prior to planting creates an ideal foundation for healthy root development and vigorous plant growth.
Contact TriCal Australia today to learn more. 08 8347 3838 info@trical.com.au trical.com.au
Member Profile: Scotchy Pocket Passions A Growing Life Rooted in Family and Farming
Hanna Millard
Tucked away just off the Bruce Highway in the tranquil community of Scotchy Pocket, Gunalda, lies Scotchy Pocket Passions ; a thriving passionfruit farm where dedication, family, and hard work form the heartbeat of the operation.
At the forefront is Pete, a former construction worker whose family roots stretch back to sugarcane farming and small crops. Although agriculture wasn’t his first career, farming was always in his blood. Three years ago, he and his wife Taria decided to take the leap into passionfruit, and they haven’t looked back since.
Their 100-acre farm is home to 4,000 vines, growing two main varieties: Swanco and J.E Tipper variety Passion BurstTM. Together with two part-time staff, Pete and Taria handle the day-to-day operations, balancing their busy work life with raising their two young children three-year-old Ardy and baby Zaylia.
But the path hasn’t been without its challenges. Pete admits that weather extremes, staffing difficulties, and a steep learning curve have tested his resolve. “Experience takes time,” he says. “There’s no shortcut. You just have to keep learning.”
Pete's fruit makes its way to the Brisbane Markets, where his careful work and consistent quality are paying off. While many growers aim for rapid expansion or diversification, Pete is currently more focused on stability. “For now, we’re keeping the farm steady, mastering the varieties we have and improving year by year.”
Soil health remains a top priority with a reliable water supply from the Mary River scheme. Pete is focused on building a strong foundation for long-term productivity over the next ten years.
At Scotchy Pocket Passions, success is measured not just in fruit yield, but in resilience, learning, and the joy of raising a family close to the land. It’s a story of patience, purpose, and passion—just like the fruit they grow.
“Farming passionfruit has been incredibly rewarding,” Pete shares. “It’s fascinating to see how the plants respond to the weather and the effort you put in. And being able to do this while staying close to my family—that’s the real reward.”
The 100-acre farm is home to 4,000 vines Photo credit: Hanna Millard
The family have 2 part time staff as well as working full time on the farm themselves All photos credit: Hanna Millard
Pete, Taria & baby Zaylia
Three-year-old Ardy is already a skilled picker and eater of passionfruit!
Protecting Pollination: What Passionfruit Growers Need to Know About Varroa Mite in QLD and NSW
Jane Richter
The Varroa destructor mite, a parasitic pest that attacks European honey bees, was first detected in Australia in 2022. Since then, it has spread across New South Wales, Victoria, the ACT, and, most recently, Queensland’s Lockyer Valley in March 2025.
In September 2023, the National Management Group declared eradication unachievable, shifting the national strategy to long-term management.
This transition has significant implications for passionfruit growers, who rely heavily on honey bee pollination. The Varroa mite weakens bees by feeding on their fat bodies and transmitting viruses, leading to colony collapse if unmanaged.
Current Situation in Queensland and NSW
In Queensland, the Varroa mite was confirmed in the Lockyer Valley in March 2025. Biosecurity Queensland has since shifted focus from eradication to management, implementing movement controls and urging beekeepers to conduct monthly hive health checks and report findings using the Bee 123 online form.
Queensland growers can check the map at www.business.qld.gov.au/industries/farms-fishingforestry/agriculture/animal/industries/bees/varroa-mite/ surveillance-map to see where the latest detections have been recorded.
In New South Wales, the Department of Primary Industries is rolling out a national Varroa education program to train beekeepers and pollination-dependent industries in pest management.
Recommendations for Passionfruit Growers
1. Collaborate with Beekeepers: Work closely with beekeepers to ensure hives are healthy and Varroafree. Regular communication can help detect and manage infestations early.
2. Implement Biosecurity Measures: Adopt on-farm biosecurity practices, such as controlling hive movements and disinfecting equipment, to prevent mite spread.
3. Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest guidelines from Biosecurity Queensland and the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. Attend workshops and training sessions on Varroa management.
4. Monitor Pollination Services: Ensure that any contracted pollination services comply with current biosecurity regulations and have measures in place to manage Varroa mite.
5. Support Research and Innovation: Engage with initiatives like the National Virus Baseline Project, which aims to strengthen and future-proof Australia’s honey bee and pollination-dependent industries.
The Varroa mite poses a significant threat to honey bee populations and, by extension, to passionfruit production. By collaborating with beekeepers, implementing stringent biosecurity measures, and staying informed, growers can help mitigate the impact of this pest and ensure the continued health of their crops.
Resources
The National Varroa Mite Management Program has produced a range of resources to assist beekeepers and growers who rely on pollination services varroa.org.au
The Australian Honey Bee Industry Council (AHBIC) works to protect the long-term economic viability, security and prosperity of the sector and to promote the important links between the honey bee and healthy Australians. Their website has links to a range of recorded webinars, factsheets and other resources to assist honeybee.org.au/varroa
BeeAware is a hub of information for beekeepers and growers about honey bee biosecurity and pollination of agricultural and horticultural crops. The site contains an extensive range of information about exotic and established pests and diseases of honey bees, and helps beekeepers to identify and respond to these pest threats. beeaware.org.au/industry/education-and-resources
PAI represents the passionfruit industry's interests in the various stages of the response to the Varroa mite incursion. Together with other pollination dependent industry bodies and relevant federal and state agencies, PAI was a member of the Consultative Committee on Emergency Plant Pests (CCEPP) and the decision making National Management Group (NMG). As a pollination dependent industry and a signatory to the Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed (EPPRD), PAI is required to make a proportionate contribution to funding the industry agreed response activities. This funding is to be covered through the introduction of the Biosecurity Response Levy.
Rethink Your Rubbish: Stewardship Schemes
Big Bag Recovery
Big Bag Recovery is an Australian Government Accredited Product Stewardship Scheme for plastic bulk bags and sacks over 15kg/l of contents.
Big Bag Recovery began with honest and humble roots. Founder and Director, Stephen Richards originally worked in the agricultural industry and noticed a growing issue; bulk bags were being burned or buried on farms. Stephen saw an opportunity to support farmers and reduce our environmental impact by encouraging them to segregate their bulk bags on farms. A few times per year, he and his kids would take road trips to collect the bags and deliver them to recyclers.
Fast forward 10 years, Big Bag Recovery is now a nationwide initiative, helping brand owners take responsibility for the end-of-life impact of their bulk bag packaging.
Why is stewardship important?
Under the mandatory national co-regulatory framework for packaging, National Environment Protection (Used Packaging Materials) Measure 2011 (NEPM) and the Australian Packaging Covenant there are environmental obligations for brand owners that must be met.
These obligations include brand owners taking responsibility for their packaging waste and ensuring that it can be recycled – this is where Big Bag Recovery steps in! They support brand owners to ensure the material is collected, pelletised and processed into new products.
How does it work for farmers?
If you’re a consumer and are purchasing bulk bags or sacks from suppliers, Big Bag Recovery can recycle the material at no cost to you.
Contact Big Bag Recovery to find a return location near you. www.bigbagrecovery.com.au
(L) Co-Founder & Chief Strategy Officer Stewart Ford and (R) Director & Founder Stephen Richards Photo credit: Big Bag Recovery
Why should I recycle my bulk bags?
Unfortunately, most bulk bags are single-use and after their use, end up either landfilled, burned, or buried all of which contribute to:
• Climate Change
• Carbon Emissions
• Contamination of Soil & Water
• Human Health Issues
• Loss of Valuable Resources
Rather than disposal, Big Bag Recovery offers an Australian Government Accredited Stewardship Scheme for recycling these bags.
What happens to the bulk bags?
All recovered bags are recycled via Circular Communities Australia who have just opened a dedicated facility in Toowoomba, Queensland.
Collection
Used bulk bags are gathered from businesses in various conditions, beginning their transformation journey
Sorting
Bags are sorted and inspected for contamination
Pelletising
Once received, materials are processed through shredding and granulating to create clean plastic pellets
What are bulk bags transformed into?
The recycled plastic pellets are transformed into water evaporation disks, new school chairs and other sustainable products.
bagMUSTER:
A sustainable solution for agricultural plastic waste
What is bagMUSTER?
bagMUSTER is an industry-led, not-for-profit program designed to provide producers with an environmentally responsible way to recycle single-use polypropylene (PP) bags.
These bags, commonly used for fertilisers, seeds, grain, stock feed, and pet food, are collected through a streamlined process to reduce plastic waste on farms and support sustainable agricultural practices.
New Products
Clean pellets are then manufactured into new valued products
How does it work?
• Eligible bags: Only single-use PP bags purchased from participating retailers after 1 October 2024 are eligible for the program.
• Preparation: Bags must be clean, empty, and free of non-PP liners. Neatly rolling or folding them ensures efficient transportation.
• Find a site: Customers visit bagMUSTER.org.au to find their nearest collection site.
• Drop-off: Bags can be delivered to designated collection sites, where they will be responsibly recycled into new products.
Program rollout
bagMUSTER launched in early 2025, starting with phase 1 in Western Victoria. Collection sites are now operational from Mildura to Geelong, providing producers with convenient locations to drop off eligible bags for recycling.
As infrastructure expands, more sites will be added across Western Victoria. Planning for Phases 2 and 3 has begun, with future expansion set to extend the program into other states. Stay updated on new collection sites and program developments by visiting bagMUSTER.org.au.
Why participate?
• Environmental benefits: Reduce plastic waste and prevent pollution of waterways, farmland, and ecosystems
• Local recycling: 100% of collected bags are recycled in Australia, supporting the circular economy
• Convenient recycling: Participating in bagMUSTER is straightforward, with an easy preparation and dropoff process
• Support for QA programs: Participants receive compliance certificates, assisting with food safety and Best Management Practice requirements
• Free disposal: Dropping off bags at collection sites comes at no additional cost
Get involved
For producers, bagMUSTER is an opportunity to contribute to a circular economy and promote sustainable practices in agriculture.
Visit bagMUSTER.org.au to learn more, find participating retailers, and sign up for updates as the program grows.
drumMUSTER
drumMUSTER is Australia’s national recycling program for eligible, empty, triple-rinsed agvet chemical containers. Farmers and chemical users can return cleaned drums to designated collection sites, where they’re inspected and safely recycled into new products like fence posts and wheel stops. The service is free, funded by a levy on participating chemical products.
Visit www.agsafe.org.au/dm-program-overview to find your nearest collection site, learn how to prepare drums correctly, and see which products are eligible. You can also contact your local council or ag supplier for collection dates.
ChemClear
ChemClear is a national program that helps farmers and agricultural businesses safely dispose of unwanted or obsolete agvet chemicals. Managed by Agsafe, the program offers an easy online registration process for listing chemicals no longer in use. Once registered, eligible chemicals can be dropped off at local collection events or picked up by arrangement. Since 2003, ChemClear has collected over 1 million litres of chemicals, supporting safer farms and environmental sustainability.
Visit www.agsafe.org.au/cc-program-overview to register chemicals, check upcoming collections, or learn about accepted products.
CURRENT AT JULY 2025
Permit & Expiry Date
Earliest Harvest Da te(EHD) Withholding Period (WHP)
MINOR USE PERMITS
PER12781 Version 4 30 Apr 2028
PER13859 Version 4 31 May 2030
APPLICATION RATE
CHEMICAL PEST / DISEASE USE
Max Use 3 x Season E HD 1 Day
N/A
Postharvest Use Only
40 mL per 100 L water or 50 g per 100 L water
Follow instructions on the permit
Follow instructions on the permit N/A
Non-Harvest Use Only
Anthracnose & Septoria Spot
Cabrio® (Pyraclostrobin)
PER87164 Version 3 30 Sep 2028 Orchard cleanup Fruit Fly host crops following harvest Fruit Fly
PER89870 Version 2 31 Jul 2025
Max Use 4 x Season No W HP*
40 mL per 100 L water
Post-harvest dip or flood spray Various Fruit Fly species
Dimethoate
Entrust® Fall Armyworm
The product label for Corteva Entrust® Organic* Qalcova® now includes Tropical and sub-tropical fruit crops (inedible peel) where passionfruit is listed. Refer to Product Label for details.
PER88379 Version 2 31 Dec 2028
Max Use 1 x Season EHD 3 Days
35 mL per 100 L water
Passionvine Mite & Two-spotted Mite
Etoxazole is not effective as an adulticide treatment, and where large numbers of adults are present, it is recommended that a miticide from a different mode of action (MoA) group be used to control adults immediately.
PER90591 Version 2 31 Jul 2027
Etoxazole
Max Use 2 x Season EHD 1 Day
40 mL per 100 L water
Where biological control of Two-spotted Mite is being practiced –20 mL per 100 L water
Passionvine Mite & Two-spotted Mite
Fenbutatin Oxide (Miticide)
* when used as directed All efforts have been made to provide the most current, complete and accurate information on these permits, however we recommend that you confirm the details at the APVMA website port al: portal.apvma.gov.au/permits . If you believe you have had a non-performance or an adverse experience following use under a Minor Use Permit, please report it using the online portal found at portal.apvma.gov.au/aerpexternal/welcome.htm . A ‘non-performance’ is an unintended or unexpected effect on plants, plant products, animals, human beings or the environment, including injury, sensitivity reactions or lack of efficacy associated with the use of an agricultural chemical product(s) when used according to label (or permit) directions.
Industry Resources Update
Jane Richter
Check out the new Resource Library at passionfruitaustralia.org.au
The new website Resource Library will house all available tools and resources that are generated by Passionfruit Australia, as well as a set of historical resources collected together across all the Australian passionfruit and horticulture industries where these are still relevant – all in one simple searchable digital library at bit.ly/PAI-RL
Types of resources:
• All articles from The Passion Vine magazine from the Spring 2017 edition onwards in downloadable PDF format will be added over time
• Factsheets, posters, videos, links to webinar recordings or case studies that have been produced over the last decade in horticulture that have useful information for passionfruit growers
• Links to related industry websites which provide specialist resources or grower support in areas like irrigation & nutrient management, pest & disease management, business & labour management, and emerging technologies.
How do I access the Resource Library?
1. Use this shortcode bit.ly/PAI-RL to open the library directly in your web browser or navigate to passionfruitaustralia.org.au and select RESOURCE LIBRARY from the menu bar
2. You can filter the library by Category OR Document Author OR you can enter a keyword into the Search box to find all items related to that word
3. Click on the ‘Click here’ icon to open the resource item or link
Industry Tools
Passionfruit Australia has produced a series of tools to assist growers over the years. The following are available to Australian Passionfruit Growers to purchase directly from the website at bit.ly/PAI-Tools:
Grading & Defect Posters
Each pack $40
These A2 sized posters have been developed to help growers quickly identify defects and grade their passionfruit at the time of packing. Each pack contains 3 copies of the Grading posters & 3 copies of the Defect posters. The packs are available for Purple passionfruit and Panama/Pandora passionfruit.
Problem Solver Field Guide
$25
This guide has been written to help growers quickly identify problems that may occur in their passionfruit plantations and provide information on how to manage these problems.
The guide is divided into six sections, colour-coded on the edge of the pages to make it easier to locate the relevant section.
Market Insights
Thanks to a series of investments made by Hort Innovation on behalf of hort industries, we now have access to a range of tools which provide insights into how consumers are purchasing fruit and vegetables. Used correctly this data can help guide consumer marketing programs, packaging development and even guide long term breeding programs.
Harvest to Home is an analytics tool, developed by Nielsen and Hort Innovation, providing insights on marketing performance and shopper behaviour trends. It is an online tool that is free to access with data updates at least twice a year in each category. This project has been funded by Hort Innovation, using the Australian Horticulture research and development levies, and contributions from the Australian Government.
Visit www.harvesttohome.net.au/fruitmushroomnuts/ latest-highlights/passionfruit to see the latest passionfruit data.
Hort IQ provides consumer and customer data and insights on Australian horticulture. It is Hort Innovation’s new one-stop shop for powerful consumer insights designed to fuel growth.
At Hort IQ you can find out about:
• The market landscape: Gain a clear picture of the Australian retail landscape
• Consumer needs: Understand what drives fruit and vegetable choices in Australia
• Buying trends: Stay ahead of the curve with insights into purchasing habits
• Consumer perceptions: Discover how Australians view your products
Access to Hort IQ is available to eligible people engaged in growing, marketing, selling and development of Australian horticulture. Access is free for growers, Hort Innovation members and Peak Industry Bodies. This project is funded by Hort Innovation using multiindustry strategic levies and contributions from the Australian Government.
Visit the Hort IQ portal at www.hortiq.com.au to register.
Horticulture Statistics Handbook
The nation’s most comprehensive source of Australian horticulture data. The annual Australian Horticulture Statistics Handbook offers the most comprehensive and up-to-date data available on more than 75 horticultural products including fruit, nuts, vegetables, nursery, turf, and cut flowers.
Drawing on data from several supply chain sources, including international trade statistics and industry peak bodies, the Handbook includes information on retail and foodservice use, exports and imports, share of production by State and Territory, wholesale value, and volume. This project has been funded by Hort Innovation, using multi-industry levy and Australian Government contributions.
You can view the latest edition online in an interactive dashboard at bit.ly/HSH-23-24 or to see previous years, visit the industry Resource Library at bit.ly/PAI-RL and search for ‘stats’.
Passionfruit has a New Plan for Biosecurity
Dr Stephen Quarrell, Plant Health Australia
Australia’s biosecurity system works in a dynamic environment with major challenges growing and evolving rapidly. Through the project ‘Biosecurity Plan for the Lychee, Papaya and Passionfruit Industries (MT18006)’, Plant Health Australia (PHA), with Hort Innovation levy investment, has developed a separate Biosecurity Plan for each of the Australian lychee, papaya and passionfruit industries.
These three Biosecurity Plans (the Plans) recognise that the operating environments affecting the biosecurity of these Australian tropical fruit industries is vastly different today to that of the past, and that these industry’s response capabilities need to keep pace, if they are to remain relevant and effective into the future.
These Plans lay the foundations for a stronger biosecurity system and more resilient lychee, papaya and passionfruit industries by identifying and prioritising the growing number of exotic pests and pathogens that could, if introduced, impact on their crop production and trade. These Plans also analyse the various preparedness resources needed to manage these risks and provide a program of current and future activities that will strengthen their biosecurity responses preparedness.
These Plans were developed with valuable input from industry groups including Australian Lychee Growers Association (ALGA), Australian Papaya (AP), Passionfruit Australia Inc. (PAI) along with biosecurity and crop protection experts from state, territory and commonwealth governments.
There are three major components to a Biosecurity Plan. The first is a review of all exotic pest and disease species that are known to infect the target crop. These reviews highlighted 119 different exotic pests and diseases species that impact lychee production, 78 exotic species known to impact passionfruit and 131 exotic species that affect papaya.
These species’ reviews informed the development of risk ratings for each of the identified exotic pests and diseases. The risk ratings focus on the potential of each
species to enter, establish and spread within Australia and an estimate of their potential economic impact. Species that receive a high or extreme risk rating are deemed a ‘High Priority Pest’ (HPP) of that industry. Of those species reviewed, five species were deemed HPPs of the lychee industry, ten species HPPs of the passionfruit industry and 13 species HPPs of the papaya industry.
The second component was an analysis of the preparedness resources that are currently available to each HPP. The resources included contingency plans, fact sheets, diagnostic and surveillance protocols and taxonomic reference specimens.
The third and final component of a Biosecurity Plan is the development of an Implementation Plan that describes the critical activities that, if implemented, will improve the industries’ biosecurity preparedness and response capabilities.
The Implementation Plans, were developed and will be reviewed annually through a Biosecurity Reference Panel (BRP), comprising of industry and government representatives. The Implementation Plans outline strategies, communication and engagement activities specific to the lychee, papaya and passionfruit industries, as well as activities and resources utilised by other industries that share the same exotic pest and disease threats and identifies potential international and domestic collaboration opportunities.
For a digital copy of the Biosecurity Plan for the Passionfruit Industry Version 2.4 November 2024: email biosecurity@phau.com.au
This project has been funded by Hort Innovation, using the Passionfruit research and development levy and contributions from the Australian Government. Hort Innovation is the grower-owned, not for profit research and development corporation for Australian horticulture.
Grow with Confidence: Perfect Passionfruit Vines for Your Region –Now at Arbour Grove
Megan Crowhurst, Arbour Grove Nursery
Located at Woombye on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, Arbour Grove Nursery is the result of years of dedicated passionfruit growing and breeding. Owned and operated by Dave and Megan Crowhurst, the nursery specialises in tropical, subtropical, and rare fruit trees and vines - carefully selected to thrive in their new homes. All varieties are evergreen and self-pollinating. Like all passionfruit, they grow best in full sun (80–100%), with well-drained soil and a moderate watering schedule. Varieties currently on offer are listed here. Call Megan (0417 622 908) or Dave (0418 730 773) to discuss your options.
ED19
A beautiful, sweet passionfruit with a dark purple shell. This standout variety performs especially well in South East Queensland and Northern NSW.
PICK FROM GROUND
GRAFTED
WARM TEMPERATE
SUB-TROPICAL
FLAMENCO
Heavy cropping, a beautiful purple shell, this grafted variety has been a popular choice of growers for over ten years. A versatile fruit, medium size and suited for most regions.
PICK FROM GROUND
HARVEST FROM VINE
GRAFTED
WARM TEMPERATE
SUB-TROPICAL
TROPICAL
SENSATION
This hybrid is just as the name states – a mass producer with exceptional cropping during the winter months. Slightly paler foliage and fruit, but full and sweet on the inside.
PICK FROM GROUND
GRAFTED
WARM TEMPERATE
SUB-TROPICAL
NOVA
This sweet and pulped-filled heavy fruit is gaining popularity in South East Queensland. The large, tropical fruit comes from a grafted and vigorous vine.
VINE/GROUND HARVEST
GRAFTED
WARM TEMPERATE
SUB-TROPICAL
TROPICAL
PANAMA PANDORA
The leading commercial variety grown from Bundaberg to far North Qld, this heavy cropping vine produces red to purpled skinned fruit. It is large and sweet with a superb flavour.
HARVEST FROM VINE SEED
SUB-TROPICAL
TROPICAL
MISTY GEM
Misty gems have been a notable jewel in the passionfruit industry. Known for its dark purple skin and rounder shape, this variety performs its best from Bundaberg up to North Queensland.
PICK FROM GROUND
GRAFTED
SUB-TROPICAL
TROPICAL
To discuss which variety would suit your growing conditions or to find out more about the ordering process, please contact:
Megan Crowhurst mobile 0417 622 908
Dave Crowhurst mobile 0418 730 773
web arbourgrovenursery.com.au
Strengthening Supply & Growing Our Industry
Article provided by Jetbest Group
PassionBurst™ passion fruit are improving the consumer and in store experience to support long term industry growth
The Jetbest Oz Pash varietal development program is now in its fourth year and is continuing to invest in the refinement of the agronomic characteristics and crop performance required to develop and deliver excellent quality passionfruit at sustainable volumes, and the hard work is paying off. Consumers and retailers alike are attributing industry growth to the improved availability, eating and instore experience.
Characterised by large and heavy fruit with a dusting of white speckle, PassionBurst™ is now grown in commercial quantities by twenty-two experienced growers stretching from Far North Queensland to Northern New South Wales.
Passionate lead growers, Shane Adams & Tim Johnson are proud of the always improving quality and standard of the fruit now being sold. Their work in mentoring the group and in supporting the next generation of younger growers such as, Jim Li (Glasshouse Mountain region SE QLD), and Peter Bambling (Gympie Region SE QLD), is pivotal to the success of the program and long-term sustainability of the industry.
There are currently over 120,000 vines in the ground, which will expand as growers reach their capacities over the next 12-24 months. Additional plantings coupled with the experience and learnings from previous years is allowing growers to develop farming schedules to support and supply additional volume. In turn, reliable supply of fruit allows customers to access PassionBurst™ year-round and benefits all members of the supply chain from farm to plate.
The team’s commitment to quality and supply can be thanked for the improved results we are seeing industry wide. The Australian Horticulture Statistics Handbook
2023/24* released by Hort Innovation, recorded a 20% growth in passionfruit production volumes during 2024 compared to the previous year. We believe much of this growth is attributed to our project.
Fresh supply, food service and retail channels have also each recorded growth in both volume and value. The demand initially felt in the Brisbane and Sydney markets is now being seen in independent retailers and supermarkets, where this next generation passionfruit variety is performing well. When displayed on shelves, the fruit is aesthetically pleasing, the firm shiny skin and large heavy pieces of fruit entice consumers to purchase, and the taste does not disappoint. When opened, PassionBurst™ spills juice and is filled with sensational flavour and pulp.
The Australian Horticulture Statistics Handbook 2023/24 went on to report 19% of the 9.4 million households surveyed, are now purchasing passionfruit each year, equalling seven shopping occasions each year, per household. This presents us with several opportunities for PassionBurst™ to be front and centre, and as expected, the surprise and delight of the eating experience, is driving additional consumption by consumers.
Passionfruit can be eaten alone as a snack by simply cracking it open and grabbing a spoon – it can also be added to yoghurt, juices, smoothies, cereal, and fruit salads, but be warned, when cutting open PassionBurst™, do so over a bowl! You don’t want to waste a drop of the delicious juice! Passionfruit is packed with vitamin A and C, has excellent levels of fibre and potassium, and is under 100 calories.
PassionBurst™ next generation passionfruit is available in independent green grocers and supermarkets, so keep an eye out for the bright orange packaging!
* The Australian Horticulture Statistics Handbook for the year ending 30 June 2024 is published by Hort Innovation. It was produced by the multi-industry levy investment Australian Horticulture Statistics Handbook 2021-22 to 2023-24
Boxes of PassionBurst™ available exclusively from JE Tipper in the Brisbane and Sydney markets
mobile 0429 726 801 web www.jetipper.com.au
The Case for Passionfruit Tissue Culture & Critical Steps Required for Success
Chris Kuo, Doris Marcsik, Alan Niscoli, Peter Bergin, and Chelsea Moore Northern Territory Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF NT)
The Northern Territory Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF NT) developed hybrid passionfruit suited to the Top End through a breeding project. These hybrids were made available for commercialisation, and clean mother plants were vital for this process. To provide disease-free clonal plants, DAF NT used tissue culture technology for propagation.
Tissue culture (TC) is a propagation method that produces large numbers of genetically uniform, disease-free plants. Plant Industries' staff developed a TC system for passionfruit that can generate up to 15 plants from one shoot tip in about 7 months, depending on the hybrid. These plants are pest- and disease-free, genetically identical to the mother plant, and have been validated from the laboratory to nursery through to container growing. Plants have been observed flowering and setting fruit within 7 months post-laboratory.
Nursery Care for TC Plants
The first four weeks after removing plants from culture containers - called deflasking - are critical. During this period, TC plants are vulnerable due to the absence of a protective waxy cuticle on their leaves, making them prone to dehydration. Proper acclimation is essential to prevent dehydration, and to ensure survival and healthy development. This involves gradually introducing the plants to environmental conditions similar to their eventual growing location.
Deflasking of TC plant
Here is a step-by-step guide to the deflasking and acclimation process for TC passionfruit plants.
Step-by-Step Deflasking Process
1. Clean and Prepare:
Wash hands or wear gloves for sterility. Work in a clean, cool area out of direct sunlight.
2. Remove the Plant:
Gently open the container and remove the plant using clean fingers or sterile tweezers.
3. Rinse Away the Gel:
Carefully rinse off the gel medium from roots and leaves with clean water. Use a soft paint brush if needed to remove gel from roots.
4. Inspect the Plants:
Check for damage, rot, or disease. Trim off any damaged roots or leaves with sterilised scissors or tweezers.
5. Planting:
Place the plant in a 50 mm square propagation tube filled with moistened perlite. Ensure roots are covered, but leaves stay above the surface.
Step-by-Step Acclimation Process
1. High Humidity Environment:
Place the newly planted TC plants in a mist house or under a humidity dome (>70%) with low light for 2–3 weeks. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf damage.
2. Gradual Adjustment:
Once new growth appears, begin reducing humidity by slightly opening the dome or mist house for a few hours daily. Increase ventilation over 1–2 weeks. Alternatively, move plants to a 70% shade house with frequent overhead irrigation to avoid sudden shock.
3. Repotting:
When healthy new leaves and roots emerge from the bottom of the tube, transplant the plant into a 90 mm square deep pot with a well-drained potting mix with a 1:1 mix of cocopeat and small wood chips.
4. Increased Light Exposure:
After 3-4 weeks, plants can be transferred to a 50% shade house. Avoid direct sun which can scorch young leaves.
5. Transition to Normal Conditions:
After 6–8 weeks, plants should be robust enough for full sun exposure.
TC plant 3 weeks after deflasking
Feeding Guidelines
1. Begin fertilising one week after deflasking using a ¼-strength soluble fertiliser like Yates Thrive®, applied daily.
2. Increase fertiliser solution concentration to ½-strength after 4 weeks, and then to full-strength after repotting, applied daily.
3. At repotting, apply 0.5 g of slow-release fertiliser (e.g., 270-Day Nutricote®) per plant.
4. Reapply slow-release fertiliser before transferring plants to full sun.
5. Avoid over-fertilising. Excess nutrients can harm the plant, causing root damage, leaf burn, yellowing, and wilting.
All photos credit Northern Territory Government.
Trellis TC passionfruit plants with fruit
Protect your Farm, Family and Staff From Fire Ants
National Fire Ant Eradication Program
Fire ants are small but aggressive pests that can turn your thriving farm into a complete battlefield. But you’re not alone in this fight.
The National Fire Ant Eradication Program (the Program) is working to stop this growing biosecurity threat, and as a grower, you play a vital role in helping to eradicate fire ants from Australia by 2032.
Here’s why protecting your farm matters and how you can help safeguard Australian agriculture from fire ants.
Why eradicate fire ants?
Fire ants are among the world’s most invasive pests, causing devastating impacts on our health, environment, economy, and outdoor way of life. They destroy crops, machinery, plants, and seeds – turning paddocks into wastelands and disrupting supply chains. If left untreated, fire ants could infest 97% of Australia and cause $381 million in agricultural losses annually. Beyond damaging farms, fire ants pose risks to you, your workers, pets, livestock, and native animals. When disturbed, they swarm en masse and sting multiple times. Their stings cause intense burning and itching that can last for hours. Multiple stings can feel like your body is on fire, and small pustules may form at sting sites, which can become infected. In rare cases, fire ant stings can trigger life-threatening allergic reactions known as anaphylaxis.
Where are fire ants found?
The Program has currently contained fire ants to a small area, predominantly in South East Queensland. It is also managing discrete outlier responses in parts of northern New South Wales, Toowoomba, and the Sunshine Coast. Fire ants are highly mobile, travelling over and under the ground, flying up to 5 km, and even forming rafts on water to relocate their colony. However, the biggest cause of fire ant spread is human-assisted movement of materials that can carry fire ants, such as soil, hay, mulch, manure and other landscaping materials.
The data is updated monthly, and the map can be found at www.fireants.org.au/treat/program/planned-activities
How to protect your farm?
Follow biosecurity rules – implement fire ant-safe work practices, check fire ant biosecurity zones, and follow movement controls before handling or moving materials that can carry fire ants originating from within the zones.
Complete free fire ant training – learn more about fire ants, how to treat, and manage them.
How is treatment delivered and is it safe?
The Program leads eradication efforts in the eradication treatment area, while Queensland’s Fire Ant Suppression Taskforce (FAST) supports activities in the suppression treatment area.
ERADICATION TREATMENT AREA – all properties receive multiple rounds of treatment over several years, whether fire ants are visible or not.
SUPPRESSION TREATMENT AREA – you can self-treat fire ants to control populations until eradication treatment reaches your area.
Check the fire ant activities map to see if your farm is in an eradication or a suppression area.
Fire ant eradication treatment is safe, effective, and approved by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority. Treatment consists of small pieces of corn grit soaked in soybean oil and a low concentration of insect growth regulator. Foraging ants take the granules back to their nest, where it stops the queen from reproducing viable and reproductive offspring – leading to the colony naturally dying off.
Treatment is delivered using drones, helicopters, fixed wing planes, utility terrain vehicles, and handheld spreaders. All methods are minimally disruptive, so your farm can keep operating while managing fire ants.
Know what to look for:
Fire ants are copper brown in colour with a darker abdomen, measure 2–6 mm in size, and vary in sizes within one nest. They nest in gardens, lawns, crops, piles of organic matter, near dams, along irrigation lines and edges of farmed land.
Check a suspect nest:
Wear protective clothing, boots, and gloves.
Poke the nest with a long stick and observe from a distance.
Watch for their colour, size, and swarming behaviour.
Report fire ants and nests immediately:
Report online or call 132 ANT (13 22 68). If possible, take a photo or video to assist with identification.
Depending on your location, the Program may treat the nests, or you may need to self-treat.
www.fireants.org.au
DOWNLOAD THE FIRE ANT POSTER AT passionfruitaustralia.org.au/resource/poster-pest-imported-red-fire-ants
Will reporting fire ants disrupt my farm operations?
If you’re in the eradication treatment area, the Program will work with you to create a safe and effective treatment plan. Completing a property information form helps ensure that access considerations like locked gates, animals, livestock, crops, or water bodies are factored into the approach.
If you’re in the eradication treatment area, you can work with the Program to minimise any impact on certification and production. Treatments can be scheduled after harvest or during rotation periods. Program officers can provide tailored treatment options that align with organic standards, ensuring compliance while protecting your farm from fire ants.
If you’re in the suppression treatment area, FAST can help you self-manage fire ants on your farm with free treatment products and support.
Eradicating fire ants is a shared responsibility
Stopping fire ants is a shared responsibility and we all must work together. By staying vigilant, reporting sightings, and working with the Program, berry growers can protect their farms and the entire industry from this super pest.
Photo credits: National Fire Ant Eradication Program
Visit fireants.org.au or call 132 ANT (13 22 68)
National Passionfruit Breeding & Evaluation Program Update
Dr Mobashwer Alam (m.alam@uq.edu.au), Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, The University of Queensland Australia (UQ)
The project - funded by Hort Innovation through the passionfruit R&D levy with co-investment from the Australian Government - has moved into its second year of delivery. Led by Dr Mobashwer Alam and the QAAFI team at The University of Queensland, it is rapidly developing a passionfruit varietal pipeline that will produce high-quality passionfruit varieties tailored to Australian conditions.
In the past 12 months the team has:
• submitted or published three research articles centred around understanding and evaluating current Australian passionfruit germplasm
• identified two standout selections (PF102 and PF110)
• launched multi-location on-farm trials
• sown and evaluated more than 700 progeny seedlings from an initial 15 cross pairing
• conducted an extensive crossing program in 20242025 season generating 90+ new crosses
These activities keep the program on track to deliver quality, resilient passionfruit cultivars to growers nationwide.
Fresh science driving smarter selections
Breeding team member Ms Sun Xinhang has just published a research article on genetic diversity in Australian passionfruit breeding program. This study was conducted based on 189 Australian scion and rootstock accessions from previous breeding program projects (PF15000 and PF19000) and distinguished six rootstock clusters (Figure 1) and two scion sub-populations (Figure 2). The analysis showed the high genetic diversity of Australian rootstocks and less diversity in the scion germplasm. Although the current breeding program (PF22000) has access to most of the scion accessions, we extended international collaboration to increase genetic diversity.
New varieties on the radar
Over the last year, we reinvestigated the performance of ten priority accessions, spanning six selections from the previous breeding programs, and the four commercial cultivars (Sensation, ED19, Sweetheart and Misty Gem).
All ten were assessed in field trials. One variety developed by the breeding program PF102 (breeding program) and Sensation (PF115), consistently produced strong yields while maintaining desirable fruit quality traits, and variety ED19 (PF101) stood out for its extended shelf-life.
Early data from our Nambour, Beenham Valley, Northern NSW and Moorland trial sites suggest two of our early selected varieties PF102 and PF110 as having commercial potential. We are still collecting data from all these sites aiming to provide detailed characteristics and comparative performance of the elites in the next edition of The Passion Vine.
To see real-world validation, if you would like to host a small-block trial (1–2 whole rows) of either line, please contact the team. Every extra location improves the accuracy of our recommendations.
This year we evaluated >700 new progeny at our Nambour, Yandina, Woombye and Gympie sites. Based on preliminary observations on fruit quality, we have included ~30 new accessions (purple and Panama type) in our varietal pipeline.
We would like to evaluate these selections in multi-location trials across the passionfruit growing regions. In each trial, we aim to plant 15 clones of each accession along with two comparators (PF02 and PF110). If you would like to see the performance of the new selections in your orchard, please contact the team (by mid-August 2025) with the following information:
Name | Farm Address | Phone number | Email Address | Number of accessions | Passionfruit type: Purple/Panama/Yellow | Tentative planting time
Over the last year, we generated over 90 new families aiming to generate >5,000 new progeny. This year, we aim to screen 1,500 new progeny. To evaluate this large number of progeny vines, we have established new trellis at Nambour (Figure 3).
Figure 1. The phylogenetic relationships among the 94 rootstock accessions based on SNP markers
Figure 2. The phylogenetic relationships among the 95 scion accessions based on SSR markers
of
Multi-location trials – status and next steps
2023-24 cohort (PF102, PF110 + 3 industry standards)
2025-27 cohort (new elite selections from 2024-25 progeny, from ~700 accession)
Bundaberg (Q. Springham), Woombye (Keith Paxton), Beenham Valley (Brad Millard) + 1 NSW site (TBC)
5
5–10 plus two comparators
First season of yield and quality data collected; year-two assessments to begin in November 2025
Final Selections to be made in next month
Scion to be grafted; planting planned for late Sep – Oct 2025
Patrick harvesting ripe fruit at one
the trial sites for Mo to check the brix levels (sweetness) using a refractometer
Photo credit: Hanna Millard
Figure 3. New trellis installed at the Maroochy Research Station at Nambour Photo credit: Jane Richter
Ms Imas Rita Saadah, New PhD student (Passionfruit Sensory genomics for improved productivity), QAAFI, UQ. Funded By Indonesian Government Photo credit: QAAFI
National engagement
In June 2025 the Passionfruit breeding team attended the Australasian Plant Breeding Conference in Perth. Dr Alam outlined the overall passionfruit breeding program strategy, while Ms Sun Xinhang presented her work and future plans in the passionfruit space, including the genomic diversity work, elite accession evaluation and development of a predictive breeding platform. Both talks generated strong interest from a number of experts in breeding.
Exposure to the latest breeding strategies presented at the conference will help us implement the program to best-practice standards. Dr Mason also met with WA grower Mitch East (Willara Gold) to discuss WA production challenges and options for hosting western-region trials of elite passionfruit lines from our breeding program, an exciting step toward truly national evaluation.
New expertise on flavour front
We’re happy to welcome Imas Rita Saadah, a PhD student focusing on the sensory chemistry and genomics of passionfruit. Imas is developing rapid analytical methods to detect and quantify the key compounds that drive passionfruit’s signature flavour profile. Working with Prof Heather Smyth’s sensory team at QAAFI, she will pair these chemical fingerprints with an expert tasting team to develop a clear understanding of consumer preference. The resulting tools will help us clearly and rigorously identify passionfruit with outstanding flavour and help us develop tools to predict the seedlings that have tasty fruit even before the fruit has set!
Thank you to our partners and opportunities to host new trials
The program is indebted to the passionfruit community for their time, land and expertise especially Megan & Dave Crowhurst (Arbour Grove Nursery), Brad Millard, Jim Gordon, Keith Paxton, Ian & David Constable, Ross Brindley and the wider QAAFI/UQ teams. Several new growers have already expressed interest in on-farm trials; please reach out if you’d like to be involved. Hosting a trial is the fastest way to see tomorrow’s varieties on your farm under your management and to shape the traits we target next.
Dr Patrick Mason, QAAFI
email p.mason1@uq.edu.au
mobile 0438 886 534
Dr Mobashwer Alam, QAAFI
email m.alam@uq.edu.au
mobile 0407 925 991
Passionfruit Marketing Update
Holly Jackson, Hort Innovation
The latest passionfruit marketing campaign launched in May and will run until July, aiming to drive top-of-mind awareness during the winter season. The campaign is funded by the Passionfruit Marketing Levy Fund through Hort Innovation.
To ensure maximum impact, the marketing strategy draws on key consumer insights:
• Sales are growing, with passionfruit sales value and volume ahead of last year (FY24), but value growth still lags behind the broader fruit category
• Passionfruit performs strongly in the dessert occasion compared to the broader fruit category, but it's mostly consumed as a snack
• Purchasing peaks over the Christmas period, but passionfruit is not as top-of-mind during other seasonal flushes
• Purchase intent remains a challenge, with 24% of Australians stating they have never bought a passionfruit
• However, passionfruit consumers are enthusiastic, describing the fruit as delicious, colourful, unique, and exotic –most commonly enjoyed fresh on their own or as a topping
These insights have been used to help craft the FY25 marketing plan. Marketing activity will focus on increasing consumer awareness, reminding Aussies of passionfruit via a targeting social media campaign:
• Branded ads have been developed with a mixture of video and static content that will run across both Facebook and Instagram. A paid media budget has also been allocated to boost messaging, ensuring stronger reach and engagement.
• Passionfruit will be brought to life through influencer partnerships as well. Two influencers will share engaging recipe content that puts passionfruit front and centre.
• There was a focus on the snacking occasion - showing how passionfruit are a wonderfully delicious fruit, packed with flavour.
These delicious recipes have kindly been created and shared by Matt Golinski
Chef Matt Golinski is all about real food that is seasonal, local, and packed with flavour. Being a proud Sunshine Coast local and long-time advocate of Queensland produce, Matt has built a career around his love for fresh ingredients and the stories behind them. Today, Matt brings his passion for food to life in many ways as a consultant chef, festival guest, food writer, and active Slow Food advocate.
Passionfruit Scallop Ceviche
with Avocado Salsa, Crispy Shallots, Chilli and Mint
INGREDIENTS
12 half shell scallops
2 tbs fresh passionfruit pulp
2 tbs lime juice
1 tsp sugar
½ tsp salt
1 tsp shallot, minced
1 ripe avocado, diced
METHOD
1 clove garlic, crushed
2 tbs lemon juice
2 tbs crispy shallots
1 red chilli, julienned
24 mint leaves
1. Remove scallops from their shells and slice in half or thirds horizontally. Wash and dry the shells.
2. Mix the passionfruit, sugar, lime juice, salt and shallots together until the sugar and salt have dissolved.
3. Gently mix the lemon juice and garlic through the avocado and season with salt and pepper.
4. Toss the sliced scallops with the passionfruit mixture and allow to ‘pickle’ for 5 minutes.
5. Place a spoonful of avocado in the centre of each of the shells and top with 2 slices of scallop.
6. Garnish with chilli, mint and crispy shallots.
Jamaican Jerked Chicken & Grilled Pineapple with Passionfruit Dressing
INGREDIENTS
1 whole chicken, butterflied
1 golden shallot, peeled and roughly chopped
1 clove garlic, peeled
1 tbs fresh ginger, peeled
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
¼ tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground allspice
½ tsp white pepper
1 tsp fresh thyme or
½ tsp dried thyme
2 tbs soy sauce
Juice of 1 lime
1 tbs brown sugar
2 tbs olive oil
2 tsp salt flakes
½ ripe pineapple, sliced into 1cm slabs
2 tbs vegetable oil
¼ cup fresh passionfruit pulp
¼ cup lemon juice
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tbs seeded mustard
½ cup fresh coriander leaves
2 mild green chillies, sliced into rounds
1 golden shallot, finely sliced SERVES 4
METHOD
1. In a small food processor blend the shallot, garlic, ginger, spices, thyme, soy, lime juice, brown sugar, olive oil and salt flakes to a paste.
2. Rub over the chicken, cover and refrigerate overnight.
3. Whisk together the passionfruit pulp, lemon juice, olive oil and mustard and season with salt and pepper.
4. Rub the pineapple with vegetable oil and grill on a hot grill pan or BBQ until caramelised.
5. Pat the chicken dry with paper towel, drizzle with oil and grill on both sides until cooked through.
6. Cut the chicken into pieces and arrange on a platter with the grilled pineapple.
7. Pour over the passionfruit dressing and garnish with the coriander, green chilli and sliced shallot.
8. Serve with steamed rice.
Social Media Success: Passionfruit Australia's Online Growth
Hanna Millard
Big Results from a Small Grant
At the end of last year, Passionfruit Australia Inc. received a small grant to enhance its social media presence—specifically through its Facebook page, Passionfruit Australia Inc. (www.facebook.com/ passionfruitausinc).
Designed as a resource hub for both commercial growers and home gardeners, the page shares practical tips, industry updates, and educational content related to growing passionfruit.
When the project launched, the page had just 121 followers. The goal was clear: grow the audience and increase engagement through informative, relevant content.
Four key objectives guided the campaign:
• Increase page followers by 20%
• Boost average likes per post by 30%
• Increase views per post by 30%
• Encourage at least a 5% rise in followers sharing posts
The results far exceeded expectations.
Facebook Growth & Counting
Today, the page boasts 308 followers— a remarkable 154% increase. Before the campaign, many posts struggled to gain a single like. Now, engagement has surged.
The standout success was an educational video on Alternata spot, which reached new heights with 282 likes and 46 shares. This clearly highlighted a trend: posts with useful, informative content—particularly videos—resonated most with the audience.
One of the most recent posts attracted 636 views, a dramatic rise from just 68 views on similar posts from the same period last year.
Beyond the funding
With a larger and more engaged following, Passionfruit Australia is excited to continue expanding its digital reach—even without further funding. The project has proven that with the right content, even modest funding can yield impressive growth and create lasting value for the industry.
Stay connected with the latest updates, tips, and industry news by following our official Facebook page – Passionfruit Australia Inc.
Simply log in to Facebook, visit @passionfruitausinc and click 'Follow' to join our growing community: facebook passionfruitausinc
Get Involved
Join Passionfruit Australia
Passionfruit Australia Inc. (PAI) is the peak industry body representing passionfruit growers in Australia
Becoming a Passionfruit Australia member gives you:
• Access to projects funded by PAI or through competitive grants which provide funds outside of the existing levy system
• Grower alerts about immediate threats to your business from weather or pest events provided by our Management Committee
• Representation by an industry body who has your interests as its only priority
• Access to useful tools and special deals developed exclusively for members
• Membership runs from July 1 to June 30 each year, rates are pro-rated
• Membership lapses if renewal not paid within three months of the start of the fiscal year
• Associate Members receive special discounted rates to advertise in The Passion Vine
Membership rates 2025/26
• Free access to Hort Innovation Final Reports
• A monthly e-newsletter, Growing Innovation
• Direct invitations to participate in industry events, as well as Hort Innovation forums and consultations
• The opportunity to exercise voting rights at Hort Innovation’s Annual General Meeting
• Please remember paying a levy does not automatically make you a member of Hort Innovation. If you haven’t become a member, then now is your opportunity.
Jetbest are a grower-focused and consumer-driven fresh produce marketing group that connects consumers with growers and growers with markets across Australia. We offer a whole of group solution and specialise in national & independent retail sales, traditional wholesale markets and food service. Our unique and integrated service model provides a whole of crop model backed by associated logistics, ripening and pre-packing services.
Jetbest are committed to growing produce categories. We have invested in farms, farmers, new variety development & support services. Development of new products to increase market penetration and grower returns. Our model offers lower operating costs, delivering better returns to our growers. A true whole-of-crop sales solution with proven results in grower sales and value. Supported access to markets in all states, plus retail, wholesale & food service sectors.
