The Goulburn Valley: Pear capital of Australia

FRESH fruit and vegetables are a go to item for most families. In fact, with so much emphasis on healthy eating, there has been a real shift in recent years to fresh produce. The Goulburn Valley has a strong reputation for having skilled growers and a fantastic climate, which makes it an attractive proposition for companies like Freshmax.

Freshmax work throughout the world to source exciting new fruit and vegetable varieties, which offer better longevity and flavour, and ultimately improved eating characteristics for consumers.

Freshmax IP management and commercialisation, Andrew Maughan said, “The Goulburn Valley is world renowned as the pear capital of Australia. The Goulburn Valley has excellent climatic conditions, a strong heritage and background with 85 percent of Australia’s pears grown in this region, which reliably produces excellent quality pears.

Along with local growers, Freshmax has invested heavily in the region, particularly with new apples and pear varieties. The Honey Belle pear is a small, snack sized pear which matures early in the season making it perfect for export and the Piqa Boo pear is a red skinned cross between Asian and European pears. Both pears are largely grown in the Goulburn Valley.

Andrew said, “Bringing new apple and pear varieties into the Goulburn Valley injects a fresh energy offering real options for growers at a time when processing has dropped along with exciting fruit options for consumers.”

EXCITING NEW FRESH FRUIT VARIETIES… Varapodio Orchards owner, Rocky Varapodio is a Goulburn Valley grower providing new fruit varieties in partnership with Freshmax. Photo: Alicia Niglia.

Farm insurance that fits

Healthy rivers, resilient productive landscapes, vibrant communities

For many Australians, farming is more than just an occupation; it’s a way of life. That’s why at Elders Insurance we offer a range of farm insurance options to suit your needs.

Contact your local Agent today. 5822 7577

William Phillips

125-131 New Dookie Road, Shepparton

eldersinsurance.com.au/shepparton

442

HOW?

• Goulburn Broken Regional Catchment Strategy • Community engagement • Engagement with Traditional Owners • Tree planting and revegetation • Resnagging and fencing works • Sustainable irrigation initiatives • Floodplain management • Pest plant and animal control • Protection of remnant vegetation • Supporting Landcare and community natural resource management groups • Climate change initiatives • Environmental watering

WHY?

• Protection of threatened species • Protection of native flora and fauna • Improved river and wetland health • Improved land health • Improved water-use efficiency • Sustainable agricultural industries • Supporting a resilient resource-rich region • Underpins our way of life, wellbeing, prosperity and future

WHO?

Why not you?! To learn more and find out how you can be part of catchment management, visit the Goulburn Broken CMA website:

www.gbcma.vic.gov.au