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This publication is produced upon the understanding that no responsibility is accepted by Avocados Australia Limited (ABN 87 105 853 807), its Directors and Officers or the Editor for any opinions, claims, statements made and views expressed in any edition of Talking Avocados Horticulture Innovation Australia (Hort Innovation) and Avocados Australia Limited make no representations and expressly disclaims all warranties (to the extent permitted by law) about the accuracy, completeness, or currency of information in Talking Avocados. Reliance on any information provided by Hort Innovation and Avocados Australia Limited is entirely at your own risk. Hort Innovation and Avocados Australia Limited are not responsible for, and will not be liable for, any loss, damage, claim, expense, cost (including legal costs) or other liability arising in any way, including from any Hort Innovation, Avocados Australia Limited, or other person’s negligence or otherwise from your use or non-use of Talking Avocados or from reliance on information contained in the material or that Hort Innovation or Avocados Australia Limited provide to you by any other means. Readers should rely on their own inquiries when making decisions concerning their interests. All material in the magazine is copyright. Reproduction in whole or part is not permitted without the written permission of the editor.
Talking Avocados is published through the National avocado industry communications program (AV21004), funded by Hort Innovation, using the avocado 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.
Wherever you see this logo, the initiative is part of the Hort Innovation Avocado Fund. Like this publication itself, it has been funded by Hort Innovation using the avocado levy and, in the case of R&D, with contributions from the Australian Government. Some projects also involve funding from additional sources.
40 Marketing Update
40 Australian Avocados Domestic Marketing Campaign: A Smashing Success so far!
43 Australian Avocados Go Global - International Marketing Driving Worldwide Demand
47 Research and Development
47 Environmental Sustainability Metrics for Australian Avocados - Spotlight on Carbon Footprint
50 Avocado retail quality update: How do online orders compare to in-store purchases? Do premium stores deliver better quality fruit?
53 Nitrogen & calcium levels in Hass avocado fruit in the lead-up to harvest
56 Revolutionising avocado production
59 A ‘home grown’ decision support tool - supporting robust high quality avocado fruit
62 Automating Fruit & Banana Spotting Bug Monitoring with AI
63 Snapshots - International Avocado Research Update
66 International News
66 Mexican avocados to enter the United States without import duties
66 Mexico’s avocado output & exports projected to rise in 2025
66 Peruvian exports close 2024 with historic figures & new destinations
CHAIR’S PERSPECTIVE
Matt Kleyn, Avocados Australia Limited
Welcome to the autumn issue of Talking Avocados magazine.
I would firstly like to acknowledge the growers who have been impacted by weather events that have occurred so far this year. One grower has lost half of their crop another their whole crop and many others have received well above normal rainfall and high-speed winds. These growers reached out to Avocados Australia for assistance, and we have been connecting these growers with the supports that are available. We are not the only industry experiencing this level of impact, and I know that these kinds of weather events are expected to continue.
Since December 2024 numerous flooding rain events have impacted North Queensland (NQ) with the Bruce Highway experiencing multiple closures. Both road and rail were impacted on multiple occasions, and this literally brought the Shepard harvest to a standstill for a period again. In February 2025 Avocados Australia produced a Letter of Support to contribute to a submission calling on the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition to commit funds to improve the necessary NQ Road infrastructure. Other industries joined us in supporting this submission. In the same week we contributed to the submission the Queensland Government announced that they had succeeded in restoring an 80:20 funding agreement with the Federal Government securing a $9 billion package for use on critical upgrades along the Bruce Highway.
Efforts to progress China market access continue. The current advice we have been given is that the apples protocol is expected to be finalised very soon, and we are hopeful that avocados will then be nominated as the next priority along with blueberries. I attended a special symposium in China in April, along with John Tyas and Richard Magney. Our China trip provided us with the opportunity to continue to network and work with key stakeholders to advance our cause.
Australian avocado exports for January to December 2024 were 17,031 tonnes, which was 2.8 per cent higher compared to the previous year. It is good to see that this is an increase on the previous period rather than a decrease given the amount of fruit available, so well done to all involved. I encourage all Australian growers to commit to your export programs or establish one if you have not done so already. Help your business and the industry by exporting at least 30% of your crop. In 2024 exports from Queensland drove the main growth for the year while Western Australia held at a similar level. This effort is important, and I ask our exporters and particularly growers to stay committed to our export markets, we need to increase exports year-on-year to ensure sustainable farm gate returns. Returns for exports should at least match what the domestic prices for the same size are, and are often higher.
And on the topic of export programs, growers can source inside knowledge, tips and insights on our export markets at the next three Export Regional Forums happening this year in Western Australia (July), North Queensland (October), and Central Queensland (November). The details will be emailed out to you all closer to the events.
Fruit quality continues to be a priority for Avocados Australia whether our avocados head to domestic customers or to overseas markets.
Recent in-market maturity monitoring testing found that some fruit did not meet the industry’s required standards. If we are going to continue to grow domestic or international demand for our product, then we really need to make sure that the fruit we are sending to any market is going to give consumers positive eating experiences. To ensure consumers have the best avocado eating experience this season, please ensure you are meeting the minimum dry matter (DM) standards. For ALL Hass varieties the standard is 23% DM. For Shepard the standard is 21% DM. The recommended approach currently is to sample at least 10 fruit per block from a minimum of five trees. Select equal numbers of fruit from each side of the canopy (e.g. east:west). For more information refer to the Avo Alert email notices emailed to you or look on the Best Practice Resource (BPR) in the “Growing” section under “Harvesting”. Here is a short link for ease of access: bit.ly/2OHvON1
I recently attended the SQ Grower Regional Forum held in Highfields on 26 March. I enjoyed meeting growers from the region and hearing about the main things that affected them. Despite the weather, many growers from the region came out to hear the latest advice on managing pests and diseases. Chip Saint, the SQ Director, and I provided an update on some of Avocados Australia’s activities. It was an excellent opportunity for growers to ask questions directly to the speakers and I know I gained value from attending. My sincere thanks go to Shanara Veivers, the SQ Regional Lead, Bridie Carr and the rest of the Avocado industry development and extension project (AV23010) team for organising this event. Look out for Avocados Australia email notices for the details of the remaining four regional forums and make sure you register to attend.
Wishing you all well for your coming season.
CEO’S REPORT
John Tyas, Avocados Australia Limited
Welcome to another issue of Talking Avocados magazine, Avocados Australia’s flagship publication.
We have been continuing to strive to increase demand for Australian avocados by increasing consumption domestically and in our overseas markets. In this issue you will also find news updates on other topics and issues of relevance to the Australian avocado industry.
I am pleased to say that the March launch of the Australian avocado season in Southeast Asia was a success. The launch celebrated the commencement of the Shepard season and paved the way for Hass avocados’ arrival in late April. As part of the launch, and to continue to drive export growth, a launch roadshow was delivered across Malaysia, Singapore, and Hong Kong. The first arrival of Australian avocados was celebrated with a gathering of key stakeholders at the wholesale market in Kuala Lumpur. Our thanks go to our distinguished guests who attended on the day, the deputy high commissioner to Malaysia, Simon Fellows; agriculture counsellor Kate Makin; and trade commissioner, Gregory Harvey. Kym Thiel, Avocados Australia’s Tristate Director, took part in the launch and connected with wholesalers, importers and other key stakeholders as part of the campaign. Coverage of the launch appears in this issue.
The Export project’s Middle East Study Tour held during February provided participants with firsthand insights into the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Oman markets. They explored channel trends, consumer behaviour, and avocado market dynamics through store visits and industry meetings. I encourage Australian growers and exporters to participate in future study tours. Contact Flora Zhang for more information, email export@avocado.org.au
Avocados Australia recently received an ASEAN-Australia Centre grant. The grant will support the export project’s activities in strengthening regional trade and culinary engagement in our Southeast Asian markets. The Centre received nearly 300 grant applications and Avocados Australia was 1 of just 10 recipients, the only stakeholder from the agriculture sector, so we are particularly proud of this achievement.
To support Australian Avocados activities in the Indian market Avocados Australia was a Gold Sponsor of Fresh Produce India. This event was held at the Trident Nariman Point Hotel in Mumbai over two days, 3-4 April, and as part of this event I participated on a panel on the topic of “Keeping pace with consumers: the changing retail landscape”. My fellow speakers on this topic were: Avinash Joshi from Reliance Retail, B Sumit Kumar from TCI Cold Chain Solutions and Salhath Khan from Flipkart. Fresh Produce India annually assembles key stakeholders from the fresh produce industry in India and
provides us with the ability to connect with customers, buyers, suppliers and service providers. This activity is an important step in further developing our place in the Indian market.
Avocados Australia is working closely with the Australian Avocados international marketing team to ensure that international marketing activities are making positive inroads into expanding Australian Avocados’ global footprint. Strategic activities are planned in key export markets including Thailand, Japan, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), India, Singapore, Malaysia, and Hong Kong. The focus is to enhance brand awareness, boost sales and reinforce Australian Avocados’ premium positioning. See the details in the international marketing article in this issue.
As expected, Varroa mite (Varroa destructor) has continued to spread, and it is now present in NSW, VIC, QLD and the ACT. To recap, the focus is now on management and the plan aims to minimize the on-going effects of Varroa mite on European honey bees (EHBs) and pollination-reliant industries to ensure business continuity. An article in this issue outlines key information and resources available to assist growers. I also encourage growers to complete our Pollination Survey to help us stay informed about growers’ pollination needs. The link is: www.surveymonkey.com/r/5KYT5Q8.
I am so pleased that Hayleigh Dawson has returned to Avocados Australia as Market Development Manager. Though she never really left, as she was working with us on a casual basis, she has now returned to a full-time position with us which is good news. You can contact Hayleigh by email at mdm@avocado.org.au.
I encourage you all to claim the date - 4 JUNE – put it on your calendar and register to attend AVO CONNECTIONS. This year AVO CONNECTIONS will be held at the Brisbane Convention Centre, and it will be our biggest and best event so far. We are bringing together industry thought leaders from across the globe, trade experts, and marketing masterminds to explore the latest trends, insights, and opportunities for Australian Avocados. This year tickets are AU$100 per person (plus GST and the booking fee) but I want to assure you it will be worth every dollar. Australian avocados are truly going global, so we want to keep you informed of emerging international developments, opportunities and challenges. Tickets are limited so secure them now, just scan the QR code provided.
I wish you all the best for your season.
AROUND AUSTRALIA
Tristate
By Kym Thiel
As we approach the end of summer, I am sure it’s one that most growers would like to put behind them with hot and dry conditions and at times windy, persisting for the majority of summer especially from Christmas onwards. To help offset this was the long-awaited price spike finally eventuating in January and those growers that had fruit, which seemed to be few and far between, were able to capitalise, albeit for a short period of time.
Unlike our Queensland counterparts, conditions are as dry in the Murray basin as I can ever remember. Fortunately, water prices have remained viable, and storages are still ok carrying water from the 2022/23 floods. However, many trees I feel are looking “tired” and summer flush has been minimal given the dry conditions. Some Autumn rains will be very welcome to help push fruit size and promote tree health in general.
I cannot remember the Tri-State region ever having such a big fluctuation in crop loads from one end of the river to the other as there was in 2024/25. With this in mind, and the large number of growers coming off lower crop loads last year, I am expecting the Tri-State crop to rebound strongly, and it should approach the 2.5-3 million tray mark putting us as the 4th largest avocado producing region in the country. As we are such an important player it is imperative that we have our estimates right and growers/packers are talking to their marketers and planning as far ahead as possible as it is no secret that WA will also rebound strongly with their crop this year and we are going to have to use a lot of market intelligence to market this crop responsibly in our spring/ summer timeframe.
Please pencil in your diaries our annual regional forum to be held in the Mildura region this year on the 14 May. More details will come out with industry communications in the near future so keep an eye out for this.
The South Australian Avocado Growers Association (SAAGA) is still a contributor, and helping to fund, the Riverland Fruit Fly Co-Ordinator position now held by Leanne Rathbone. I have been involved in reviewing her workplan and setting priorities moving forward. Whilst all partners, including and especially state government, are committed to eradication, we must have this in mind and do everything we can to manage this pest. When export markets open up, protocols become so much more manageable and accessible with area freedom
status, however, I do recognise we are still a long way off this being re-instated or achieved. Thank you to those growers who are also members of SAAGA and who once again signed on with OPAL packaging for the rebate we receive which goes towards funding this position.
Central New South Wales
By Ian Tolson
The forecasted extreme weather conditions expected from Cyclone Alfred fortunately did not live up to expectations in the Stuarts Point region. The water table remains extremely low with light rain over the week-long period of “Alfie” resulting in between 50 – 100 mm being recorded. More rain will be needed sooner rather than later for the Stuarts Point area, to relieve the pressure on irrigation systems.
Heavy rainfall in the surrounding catchments caused minor flooding at Bellingen. Growers in Comboyne experienced up to 500 mm of rain. Overall, besides some wind damage, orchards across the region have benefited from the rainfall event. For those who received the heavier rain, orchard management will need to be monitored carefully.
The two grower events held recently, February’s Pest ID Management Workshop held in Comboyne and the March Sprayer Workshop held in Red Hill, have been well attended. The excellent attendance at both workshops is not only encouraging, it also reflects growers commitment to improving fruit quality. Information at both workshops was pertinent to grower needs and allowed constructive interaction between growers and presenters. The success and continuation of these days is reliant on grower participation and transparency. Of course, the highlight of any workshop or field day is the opportunity for a farm walk. Thank you to Scott Hurrell and David Afele for allowing access to your farms.
The harvest period for the majority of growers in this region is over. Good crops and prices for last season were welcomed by all. The coming season is shaping up to have a much smaller volume of fruit. Coupled with the figures in the Quarterly Forecast estimating extremely high volumes across other areas, it would be wise to concentrate on fruit quality and size to ensure maximum returns in what looks to be ‘glut’ conditions.
Hort Connections is the annual premier horticultural conference and trade show being held at the Brisbane Convention Centre from the 4-6th of June. The event continues to grow in stature, showcasing the latest research and technology and is a fantastic opportunity to network and learn from your peers. The highlight for our industry is Avo Connections which will be held on Wednesday 4th of June. A fantastic way to keep up to date with industry trends and insights.
Till next time, focus on producing quality fruit for better returns.
Tamborine and Northern Rivers
By Izhar Adar
Alfred paid us an unwanted visit to remind us all, IT'S A NEW BRAVE WORLD, when recorded history tells us that 2024 was the hottest year on record and the hottest for our oceans (according to BOM).
As farmers with boots on the ground, we can feel that the world is getting hotter, wetter (or dryer in some areas) and more turbulent with more extreme weather events happening, frequently with frightening intensity.
After below-average rainfall in January and February we got hit with 300mm-800mm in a few days, and the worst thing were the strong winds that made young trees brake, fruit and branches fall and wind damage on the fruit that remained on the trees and that is in a season that farmers in our area expected average to low yields.
The "Alfred" wake-up call is hard with a line of damages all along the coast of QLD and NSW, life lost and terrible damage to so many people, infrastructure and as we feel it - farmers. Despite the media counting the costs we will survive but the price is dear and the pressure is hard. If you read all the way
to here and you are not sure what else you can do, there is always financial help and more important, mental help. I can remember the bad years when farmers were on the news for all the wrong reasons, if you feel bad about it, just call Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636, or Lifeline on 13 11 14, or go to the “ifarmwell” website at ifarmwell.com.au or say something to your friends or your neighbour.
In these situations, we have to look out for each other.
Fruit size is expected to be above average on most farms and I can just hope for good prices to help and recover.
Humid condition diseases like Phytophthora and soil health will need our extra attention. See the Grower Notice sent out to all TNR and SQ growers (go to it online here: https://bit.ly/3E9wsgn).
On 13th of February, we had a great workshop at NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) Wollongbar and then an orchard walk at Summerland Farm at Alstonville. 36 growers from all around the region attended and I am sure that they learnt something new and enjoyed their day. For those who couldn't attend and
I would like to thank so many people for making this day happen, especially Bridie Carr (QDPI), Adam Goldwater (AHR), Isabella Ellmers (AHR) for the day and Eddy Dunn and Chris Smith for the orchard walk.
For the near future, I would like to start a friendly growers club "walk and talk" in our region.
The idea is to meet every second or third month on a Friday morning. Each time will be in a different location, walking, talking and sharing ideas or raising issues and contributing to one another.
If you are interested in joining this, and even better, hosting one of the walks in your farm, please contact me. I would like to hear your thoughts and ideas on this one.
I wish you all the best with the coming months easing into harvest and Happy Easter/Passover to everybody.
Western Australia
By Duncan Wells
Hello everyone. I would like to start off by introducing myself. My name is Duncan Wells, and I am the new 2nd Director for Western Australia (WA). I
manage an avocado farm in the Manjimup/Pemberton region, so please feel free to reach-out if you would like to chat or meet.
In mid-March, the harvest season for WA was just about wrapped up, with small amounts of fruit still coming out of the Manjimup/Pemberton area. Growers enjoyed strong pricing for most of the season, and fruit size and quality was great. Seasonal conditions have been ideal for growing in the southern region, with not many significant heat events. This has meant that growers have generally used less water than last season, and this will hopefully give most dams an opportunity to fill in the coming winter. There has also been some gentle early autumn rain in the southern parts, and a general feel that the season has turned, and the cooler weather is moving in.
WA fruit set is still looking strong for the next season, despite reports from growers in the region that there has been a lot of natural fruit shedding as trees adjust to the heavy early set, and that many growers are conducting significant pruning programs now that harvest has ended. The heavy set in WA is probably a good reminder of the need for growers and packers to work together and communicate closely in the next season so that all can benefit from smooth, strong supply that will no doubt be consistent for the whole picking season. I also encourage all growers who have registered for export this year to commit to these programs via their packers and marketers, not just in the season ahead, but for the longer term.
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The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) organised two nutrition workshops in WA and presented interesting insights from findings from the Growing Robust Avocados project and National Tree Crop Intensification (shade netting and tree density) project. Thanks to all growers who attended, Alan Blight, Sheralee and Andrew Stoddart, for allowing access into your orchards, and to Rachelle, Declan, Stuart and Simon for presenting/ organising. I’m sure many growers walked away having learnt something, or at least had some thought stimulated for nutrition strategies moving forward.
Good luck to all growers well into their pruning programs, keep safe in the orchards and we look forward to seeing you again at the Regional Forum in June. To access information and register to attend the forum enter this short URL in your web browser - https://bit.ly/3Ec5BAl - or scan this QR code.
South Queensland
By Chip Saint
Picking in South Queensland (SQ) is still a few weeks away. Fruit size is haphazard across orchards reflecting the uneven fruit set brought on by a cold snap in the latter part of 2024. Estimated crop volumes are down a little from last year too. That said, some orchards are also reporting good sizing and great predicted volumes. With prices expected to hold up in the medium term, many growers will be looking to pick early in the season.
Cyclone Alfred’s unexpected presence in the SQ region capped off an unusual spring/summer season. The end of 2024 was marked by wet weather and a flurry of orchard maintenance tasks to keep the grass and weed growth in check. The weather started to change in mid-January and by February orchards were starting to show signs of drying out. Alfred’s impact was felt across the growing region, and while not as severe as in the Tambourine/Northern River's region, widespread rain and strong winds caused localised damage to a number of orchards. With rainfall totals of up to, and in some cases above, 350mm, some areas will require careful management to prevent Anthracnose and Phytophthora. Growers in affected areas are encouraged to check the BPR page Managing Avocado Orchards Affected by Wet Weather. Growers are also encouraged to seek assistance if required through the Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA). Growers can refer to the Avocados Australia email dated 13 March for further details (see it online here: https://bit.ly/3E9wsgn).
Avocados Australia continues to work hard for Australian avocado access to China. In addition to the work done by Avocados Australia staff and a number of Directors in China, Avocados Australia has maintained a focus on securing support from Australian politicians prior to the 2025 elections. This is a long road but one the Avocados Australia Board believes is crucially important to take if we are to continue to thrive as an industry. Although our avocado exports have increased by 600% over the last three years, there is still a great deal of work to be done to open up new markets, with China our top priority.
On 5 March, the Department of Primary Industries Qld (QDPI) reported the first detection of Varroa Destructor in Queensland, in the Lockyer Valley (https://www.daf.qld.gov. au/news-media/news/first-varroa-destructor-qld ). Although the detection was not unexpected, it is a timely reminder to all growers of threats to our pollination providers. As a signatory to the Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed (EPPRD), Avocados Australia remains committed to supporting the Transition to Management Plan for Varroa Destructor. Dean Stephen from QDPI provided an update on Varroa mite management as part of the 26 March SQ Regional Forum held at the Highfields Cultural Centre. In addition to Dean, a range of other experts spoke on various topics related to the technical theme which was “Pest and disease management”. The Avocados Australia Chair, Matt Kleyn and I attended the SQ Regional Forum and the feedback from those in attendance so far has been very positive.
SQ Growers are also encouraged to consider attendance at Avo Connections in Brisbane on Wednesday, 4 June and then to attend the 2025 Hort Connections over the following two days. Details for both events, including how to register, have been sent out. If you haven’t received these emails, please contact me on c.saint@avocado.org.au
Central Queensland/ Sunshine Coast
By Eric Carney
It’s harvest time!!! The 2025 Central Queensland (CQ) Shepard harvest has kicked off. Growers should be pleased with the returns so far. At the time of writing this article, mid to late March, pricing is in the high $30’s. Some growers would have even received low $40’s. I’m sure many are saying… “about time” and with some growers experiencing lower volumes, this margin is welcomed. Reports of many marketers holding firm on price despite chain stores trying to drag them down to match another marketers’ offer is encouraging to hear. When looking at the weekly dispatches, we are currently seeing respectable volumes of 450-500 thousand trays. These are good volumes at good returns, and I am optimistic for the future that we are moving this kind of volume, at this time of
year and retail pricing has been mostly $2.90+ a piece and just now moving to $2.50 each.
Interestingly, the weekly volumes in March 2024 where about the same as March 2025. When mid-April 2024 came and we saw 650 thousand trays in one week, the impact of WA Hass traditionally not seen in those volumes at such a time, coupled with Shepard fruit and probably equally or larger factor was the number of “sellers” and everyone fighting over the same pie…this all led to some very painful times. Sometimes, growers/markets are our own worst enemies. I say all this to remind everyone and hopefully avoid in 2026 what happened in 2024. Please take note of Infocado volumes, take note of seasonal forecasts. Consumers are paying $2.50 a fruit and moving 500+ thousand trays. It is imperative that growers commit to exporting 20-30% of their crop. Export pricing has also been good this March, with sales comparable and sometimes higher than domestic. If you haven’t, please ask your marketer about export, talk to your neighbour and other growers about exporting. There are good returns there and every tray off the domestic market gives the market breathing room. Export, careful timing and not being in a rush to drop the price will be key to give 2026 returns a fighting chance.
In February, we held a regional forum on Nutrition and Fruit Quality. We had excellent speakers, and I am still amazed at how many things I continue to learn when attending these. We all know calcium is critical for fruit quality and it can only enter the fruit in its first 70 days, but by attending, I learnt that Ca can only be taken up by a short narrow band in the roots, the ‘Area of Elongation’. Perhaps roughly only 15% of the root can actually take up calcium and foliar calcium isn’t an option according to the speaker. If you didn’t attend, I recommend you check out the BPR where the CQ Grower Regional Forum presentations can be found.
Perhaps by the time this enters your letterbox some may already be harvesting Hass, but I urge growers to be mindful of dry matter percentages: 21% Shepard, 23% Hass. On 18 March random sampling saw 12% of Shepard fruit fail the minimum. Disappointingly, on the same sample date, ALL but 1 out of 30 Maluma fruit failed, with most Maluma testing around 17% dry matter. This is the quickest way to give a consumer a bad experience.
I hope that everyone has a profitable 2025 harvest and as always, please reach out if you have any questions, comments, concerns as well as any suggestions for the Industry, Research and so forth (0403917769 or email e.carney@avocado.org.au).
North Queensland
By Lawrence Masasso
As I write this, North Queensland Shepard growers are continuing to harvest a good crop. Demand has been strong, and prices remain above average.
Weather for harvest has been excellent. It seems a long time since we have had week after week of fine weather during the harvest period. It certainly makes picking go a lot smoother.
Prices have remained higher than average to this point. This will come as welcome relief for Shepard growers following on from a very difficult 2024 harvest.
Infocado indicates that around 10% of Shepards are being exported every week. This is a fantastic achievement for Shepard growers and marketers. It has greatly contributed to prices domestically remaining strong. Shepard avocados continue to be seen as a premium offering in Southeast Asia and highly sought.
Hass growers will be starting to think about the season ahead for their picking window. Growers are starting to sample dry matters and make plans for their 2025 harvest. Season estimates have the crop in North Queensland at a similar level
to last year. This will require some careful planning to make sure that we are not putting pressure on supply chains and price.
Growers will need to work closely with their marketers. Infocado will be a valuable resource in planning when best to harvest. Please take the time when forecasting to give the most accurate information you can to the team at Avocados Australia. This will make Infocado the most relevant it can be for the whole industry.
On the research front we have now said goodbye to Tamaya Peressini who worked as regional lead in the avocado development and extension project. Like many of you I’ve had a lot to do with Tam in the last few years and she will be greatly missed. Her enthusiasm and passion for the industry was always easy to see. She says that this is only a sabbatical and that she may return to the avocado space at some point. I’m sure that I would be joined by many others who hope this is the case.
The good news is that her replacement has been announced by the Queensland Department of Primary Industries. David Bin will be a name and a face that many are familiar with. He is a Mutchilba local and will hit the ground running. He is an enthusiastic and hard-working young person, and I believe that the avocado development and extension project is being passed into good hands.
NEWS
By Bridie Carr, Queensland Department of Primary Industries
The second year of the project is off to a strong start, with practical workshops and the first regional forum successfully delivered. These events, shaped by grower input through consultations with regional leads and the regional advisory group (which includes growers), ensure they are practical, relevant, and tailored to each region's needs.
After a busy first year of organising events across the country, the project team came together in late October 2024 for planning. We reflected on feedback from growers, gathered through regional leads and the Project Reference Group, and assessed what worked well while identifying areas for improvement. This ensures our events continue to engage and add value to growers. The feedback so far has been very positive, with particular praise for:
• Practical workshops, which have been instrumental in delivering targeted, hands-on support tailored to regional needs.
• Introduction of round robin sessions, which growers have found valuable, as these informal conversations with technical speakers and fellow growers foster collaboration and learning.
• Appointment of regional leads and regional advisory groups, strengthening local connections and ensuring events are more responsive to regional priorities.
• Irrigation workshops, which have received positive feedback for providing practical, tailored advice for growers.
• The diversity of technical speakers, who have contributed valuable content and insights to the forums and workshops.
Based on the feedback received, we’re making some adjustments this year to further improve our events:
• Longer grower-focused round robins: Based on grower feedback, we’re extending the round-robin sessions and grouping growers together. This will help manage group sizes and allow more time for valuable, grower-focused discussions.
• Balancing grower and industry stakeholder attendance at regional forums: Based on grower feedback, we’re adopting a “two persons per business” policy for industry stakeholders at regional forums. This approach will ensure the forums stay focused on growers’ needs while still allowing valuable industry input.
• Improved awareness of R&D project outcomes: We’re working to improve how we communicate R&D projects to growers, with a focus on enhancing collaboration with Mary Burton, the industry’s dedicated RD&E coordinator. Mary will attend all regional forums and showcase R&D posters to boost grower awareness and provide a direct link to the wide range of R&D activities happening.
• Strengthening regional networks and communications: Our goal is to engage at least 80% of regional production at each forum. To achieve this, we’re working closely with Avocados Australia, regional directors, and regional advisory groups to increase grower participation in project activities. Regional leads are also focused on strengthening their networks and encouraging growers to get in touch!
New South Wales Practical Workshops –Comboyne & Alstonville
The pest management practical workshops, attended by 44 growers across Comboyne and Alstonville, were a great success, thanks to the support and practical expertise of Eddy Dunn from Total Grower Services. His guidance was invaluable in delivering hands-on sessions focused on pest identification and integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.
The feedback from growers was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the practical, interactive nature of the workshops. A big thank you to Scott Hurrell, Chris Smith, and Shaun Reynolds for hosting the farm walks, and to Kempsy Adams for organising the live Spotting Bugs samples, which showcased various instar stages.
Grower feedback:
• Lots of good information talk about regarding our major pest, the fruit spotting bug. Still seem there is a lot to learn about the problematic citrus blossom bug
• Good to learn and hear about what others are doing and sharing experiences
• It was a great open conversation between growers
• Better understanding of spotting bug lifecycles and when to optimise spray periods
• Better info about chemical control options than I previously had
Central New South Wales Sprayer Workshop
Fifteen growers attended the Central NSW sprayer workshop in Cooperabung, hosted in partnership with Muirs and led by Don Thorp. A special thanks to David Afele for generously hosting the event on his property -workshops like these wouldn’t be possible without the support of such hosts.
The session kicked off with a brief overview of spray efficiency and sprayer setup, followed by a hands-on practical session in the orchard. Growers had the opportunity to assess calibration adjustments and refine their spray coverage.
The workshop was a great success, with many growers eager to see Don return to Central NSW for future events.
Central Queensland Regional Forum – Fruit Quality & Nutrition
Fifty growers, representing 67% of Central Queensland production, and 49 industry stakeholders gathered in Bundaberg for the regional forum, organised by Renata Grunennvaldt, the regional lead.
The day began with technical presentations, followed by a split session: industry stakeholders met with Avocados Australia Ltd (AAL), while growers participated in roundrobin discussions with technical experts. These interactive sessions allowed growers to engage directly with speakers, ask questions, and explore practical farm applications. Topics included nitrogen, calcium, and potassium timing, and their roles in carbohydrate management and fruit quality improvement.
Scan the QR code below for a comprehensive summary of the regional forum, including links to PowerPoint presentations and additional resources.
Technical Speaker Summary:
John Agnew (DPI) discussed how positive tracebacks can help identify practices that lead to more robust fruit. Key findings from packhouses involved in the AV22011 extended storage challenge, highlighting essential practices for improving fruit quality which included:
• Optimal nutrition—conducting fruit mineral analysis, using calcium (Ca) custom blends, and timing Ca applications correctly alongside irrigation scheduling.
• Temperature management—ensuring rapid bin movement from field to cold rooms, dispatching Hass at 5°C pulp temperature, and using temperature loggers.
- Strict grading and adherence to quality protocols— regular library trays and retention samples.
- Good supplier communication—providing crop management and quality feedback.
Lisa Fyffe (Ripe Horticulture) highlighted the importance of tree carbohydrate reserves, which are built in autumn to support flowering. April–August is a critical window in Queensland to influence nutrient uptake. Key messages included:
• Conducting baseline tree health assessments with soil and leaf tests.
• Developing a balanced nutrition and management plan and monitoring tree health indices.
• Observing leaf indicators to adjust irrigation and fertilisation.
• Using tools to quantify yield potential and adapt nutrition programs.
• Monitoring flower bud stem thickness, which correlates with yield potential.
Simon Newett (consultant) emphasised the importance of managing nitrogen (N) to optimise tree health and fruit production and provided the background research that went into the recent updates to the Best Practice Resource recommendations:
• Too little N can stunt canopy development, cause premature leaf drop, and reduce yield.
• Too much N leads to excessive vegetative growth, compromising fruit quality.
• The timing of N applications is just as important as the rate—main applications should occur in autumn, with additional top-ups as needed in winter and flowering.
• Autumn leaf sampling is critical for checking nutrition management effectiveness.
• Spring leaf sampling can help fine-tune N applications but should be done with agronomic guidance.
• Optimising nitrogen management ensures proper spring flush growth and fruit development.
Chris Searle (MacAvo Consulting) covered key practices for enhancing fruit quality, emphasising an integrated and balanced approach to nutrition management, with a particular focus on calcium. Key messages included:
• Maintaining good root health through proper mulching, drainage, and Phytophthora management.
• Ensuring adequate calcium availability—calcium moves slowly in soil and must be available during early fruit development.
• Balancing nutrients—excess magnesium (Mg) and potassium (K) can inhibit calcium uptake.
• Timing nitrogen applications to prevent excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruit development.
• Managing irrigation effectively to support nutrient uptake.
Farm Walk – Donovan Family Investments
A big thank you to Clayton Donovan for generously hosting the forum’s farm walk! He provided an overview of the Givelda block, where Hass and Shepard varieties are grown on multiple rootstocks. While the farm's Oakwood soil differs from the Childers Red soil found on other properties, the core growing practices remain consistent. The Donovan family follows a “little but often” fertilising approach, particularly for nitrogen, aligning with Simon Newett’s presentation and industry best practices shared earlier in the day.
A few days before the forum, Luke Griffin (DPI) installed soil suction tubes at the farm to showcase their setup for measuring soil solution calcium availability. During the farm walk, he demonstrated their use, with Stuart Irvine-Brown (DPI) also sharing insights from the AV21005 Growing Robust Avocados project. Key takeaways included:
• Applying gypsum improves calcium availability to roots, but timing depends on its form and release rate. Finer gypsum particles release calcium more quickly than coarser ones due to greater surface area.
Estimated Calcium Availability Timing by Gypsum Type: Gypsum Form Micronized (finely ground) Mined By-product
Availability 2-6 weeks 4-8 weeks 8-14 weeks
• Regular irrigation, guided by soil moisture testing, ensures calcium uptake by active root tips.
• As a rough guide the calcium availability from gypsum in common free draining avocado soils is faster in light soil (sandy and very low CEC) than medium soil (silty low CEC) and slower in heavier soil (clayey moderate CEC).
• Soil suction tubes (SSTs) offer an easy way to monitor soil solution calcium in the key 10-20 cm root zone during the critical fruit calcium investment period (8 weeks from peak flowering to post-fruit set).
• To use SSTs, apply vacuum pressure with a syringe before irrigation or rainfall, then collect a sample 48 hours to a week later.
• Calcium concentration testing can be done at a laboratory or using Merck Millipore calcium strip tests.
• The AV21005 Growing Robust Avocados project suggests a calcium concentration of 150ppm or higher is ideal, with further insights coming soon.
• SSTs can be purchased from Soil Spec Australia (www.soilspec.com.au) or via Ian Cowling (0417 313 949, accnts.tksystems@gmail.com).
• Place SSTs within the irrigation zone at a 10-20 cm depth, preferably between the irrigation point and trunk where roots are active.
Scan the link below to watch a case study video that Steven Falivene (Tristate regional lead for the project) put together with Luke Griffin, providing some more information on soil suction tubes:
Grower feedback:
• There was a good diversity of speakers moving between the tables who were able to speak or discuss about different aspects of the industry. Lots of good discussions, perspectives and insight.
• Amazing I learnt so much from and got a bigger insight on what other farms are doing, and it was really relatable
• Great to get firsthand knowledge on things
• Was very informative and useful to talk to other growers and hear their questions
• Loved the grower round robin sessions
Project News
We’ve had a few staff changes recently that we’d like to share with you.
Farewell to Tamaya Peressini
In late January, we bid farewell to Tamaya Peressini, who transitioned from her role as the North Queensland regional lead to pursue a new adventure in outdoor tourism in New Zealand. I’m happy to report that she’s having a fantastic time!
Welcome to David Bin
We’re excited to welcome David Bin as the new North Queensland regional lead, with Emily Pattison continuing as the support lead. David is looking forward to meeting North Queensland growers over the coming months, particularly at the upcoming canopy management practical workshops in May (13th & 15th) and the regional forum on ‘Crop Management’ on the 27 of August in Tolga.
Introducing Isabella Ellmers
We’re also pleased to welcome Isabella Ellmers to the team. Some of you may have already met her at the recent practical workshops, and she’s certainly hit the ground running! Isabella, a recent graduate Applied Horticulture Research, will be supporting Adam Goldwater in his role as the Central NSW regional lead. Isabella will be at the upcoming Central NSW regional forum at Stuarts Point on the 3 of July.
Stay in Touch
The project continues to work on strengthening regional networks through the dedicated regional lead approach. Growers are encouraged to reach out - whether to share insights, discuss challenges, or simply have a friendly chat. Check the map to find your regional lead or get in touch for more information.
Verifying Infocado accuracy for calendar year 2024
By Daniel Martens, Avocados Australia
Accurate and reliable reporting of industry and market data is critical in maintaining the trust and participation of stakeholders. In the Australian avocado industry, this is achieved by verifying reported supply volumes through a comparison between levy receipt data and Infocado volumes.
The table below presents the quarterly data for 2024, highlighting levy receipt volumes, Infocado-reported volumes, and the percentage Infocado volume represents over levy volume.
These figures demonstrate that Infocado reported volumes differ minimally relative to reported levy receipt volumes, with variances ranging from -3.10% to 6.13%. The mean absolute deviation tells us that on average, quarterly deviations have been 3.83% away from 100% for calendar year 2024.
The small quarter to quarter variances between Infocado and levy-reported volumes the 2024 reveals, as with other periods, remain below 10% margin of difference, which is well within the required established threshold for industry reporting, and the differences are largely attributed to timing and reporting variations.
The verification of supply data in the avocado industry is a critical process that ensures the credibility and accuracy of reported figures. We have been applying this validation process for many years. The Levies Revenue Service (LRS), which operates under the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry (DAFF), is responsible for collecting and administering levies. Every quarter, Avocados Australia receives a report detailing the levy receipts from LRS and uses them as a benchmark to validate the supply volumes recorded in Infocado. Since levy payments are a legal obligation for all avocado producers, exporters, processors, and traders, the levy receipt dataset is widely regarded as a dependable reference for industry data validation.
Avocados Australia, through the Infocado system compiles data from packhouses across Australia at regular periodic time intervals: weekly, monthly, and quarterly. The direct on-line participation rate in Infocado remains very high,
especially in key regions such as Western Australia, Northern Queensland, and Central Queensland, covering approximately 90% of total avocado production. Further to this 90% direct contribution, for each Quarterly Infocado Report produced, indirect data contributions and data modelling is applied to incorporate the remaining percentage of volume not directly supplied by participating packers.
The ongoing quarterly comparison between levy receipt volumes and Infocado-reported data highlights the effectiveness of industry reporting mechanisms and remains a cornerstone of industry transparency and trust. By sustaining a high participation rate, we ensure our industry has access to accurate and actionable supply data.
The Avocado industry supply and trade data capture and analysis 2023-2028 project (AV22016) is funded by Hort Innovation, using the avocado 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.
Export Trade at 17,000 tonnes in CY2024
By Wayne Prowse, Fresh Intelligence Consulting
What a difference 6 months can make.
After Australian avocado exports cruised past the 20,000-tonne milestone for the 2023/24 financial year the calendar year result to December 2024 recorded 17,031 tonnes valued at AU$88.5 million. This was just 2.8 per cent higher than the 2023 result.
Significantly the average unit value per kg increased 12.1 per cent to $5.20 though with a large deviation between high and low price points.
To understand this apparent easing of the growth we look at the monthly relationship between the volume and unit values. From July to December 2023 the monthly exports, mostly from Western Australia and driven by a heavy crop lifted to almost 2,000 tonnes per month while the until values were at times below $4.00 per kg. The trend continued into the Queensland season in early 2024 with strong demand while prices remained in the low $4.00 area. The high volumes from Western Australia and Queensland combined to drive the 2023/24 result to almost 22,000 tonnes.
From July to December 2024 the Western Australia crop was lighter and this influenced the domestic prices to be higher and in turn the export prices offered were higher, which pulled the volumes lower and more in line with the 2022/23 season. The main markets bought less from Australia and more from others including New Zealand, Peru, Chile and Kenya. Thus, the calendar year result included 6 months of record breaking monthly volumes from Queensland followed by 6 months up to 50 per cent lower volumes from Western Australia albeit with up to 70 per cent unit value increases.
Over the year Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia remained the largest destinations accounting for 82 per cent of the export trade. Japan, India, Thailand and Middle East markets accounted for the remaining 18 per cent.
This is still encouraging as only 2 years ago the top three markets accounted for 96 per cent of the exports. (Figure 2.)
The diversification of markets is slowly yielding promising results although the Australian market shares are very small compared the big three markets where Australia is in a market leadership position.
In the 7 months from July 2024 to January 2025 compared to same period in the previous year, imports by Hong Kong overall have fallen 9 per cent though imports from Australia are 36 per cent lower offset by increased supply from New Zealand and Chile. Similarly, Singapore imports are 11 per cent lower in the same period influenced by 35 per cent less from
Figure 1.
Figure 2.
Australia. This was partially offset by large increases from New Zealand, Kenya and Mexico. Again, Malaysia saw a similar position with the decline in supply from Australia offset by Kenya, New Zealand and United States.
While weather and fruit setting impacts on Australia’s supply capability, the buyers in export markets, unlike in our domestic market, have more choice to seek supply elsewhere rather than pay higher prices. Australia has developed a strong reputation as a supplier of choice in Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong with a market leading volume share albeit shifting around depending in the supply and price. However, the newer markets for Australia including Japan, India and Thailand have only a small market share and are less likely to tolerate a volatile supply and price. It has been a hard fought battle to achieve the market share gains to date in these markets. These markets are less likely to tolerate Australia coming in and out of the market depending on our domestic supply capability. These markets need supporting at competitive prices even when supplies are tight and domestic prices are higher, since these markets are key to reducing reliance on three main markets only.
Indian avocado imports grow by 141 per cent
India’s avocado imports lifted 141 per cent to 9,222 tonnes in
12 months to December 2024 including 7,883 (or 86 per cent) from Tanzania and 572 tonnes from Australia. Australia was the second largest supplier for the year though most of the volume was supplied during the first half of the year and only 48 tonnes since July. Tanzania has a tariff advantage at this stage with zero tariff while the tariff for Australian avocados is currently 17.1 per cent and will fall to zero by 2029.
Avocado Trade into Asia is 13 per cent lower
Asian markets imported 143,586 tonnes of avocados in 2024, which was 13 per cent less than the previous year bringing the growth trajectory back almost flat or up 1 per cent per year over 5 years CAGR. China dropped 26 per cent to 48,000 tonnes and could be responding to unreliable quality from Peru. Japan dropped almost 22 per cent in the year to 47,000 tonnes mostly from Mexico and Peru. South Korea, the No.3 market dipped 11 per cent to 11,000 tonnes.
Australia’s share of the Malaysian and Singapore markets was around 75 per cent for the year albeit falling below 60 per cent in December though is the dominant supplier in both markets. These markets have a combined 7 per cent share of all avocado imports by Asian markets.
US tariffs
Had the proposed 25 per cent tariff on all Mexican goods imported by the United States included the 1.2 million tonnes of avocados where Mexico supplies 87 per cent of the country’s imported avocados could have increased the price of avocados to AU$6.53 per kg at CIF. Only 8 per cent is produced locally, mostly in California.
However, at the time of writing the US has now exempted Mexican avocados from the tariff though in a separate move has applied a 10 per cent tariff to other suppliers including Colombia, Chile and Peru, giving Mexico a new cost advantage as well as their geographic advantage. If Mexico’s supply remains constrained then they will be able to increase prices to match others with a tariff, while Colombia, Peru and Chile may look more towards Europe and Asia. Indeed, this will ease the price pressure on Japan from Mexico. It seems like a win for Mexico.
Impact on Australia? On the surface it may seem like a world away however the sheer scale of the Mexican avocado trade lane to the US means that any disruption will have ripple effects globally and we may well be competing with fewer Mexican avocados and even more from South America in our Asian markets. Watch this space!
Anderson Horticulture
Duranbah Road, Duranbah, NSW
Contact: Daniel Abbey | Ph: 0438 390 441
Fleming’s Nurseries Qld
71-83 Blackall Range Rd, Nambour, QLD
Contact: Liz Darmody | Ph: 07 5442 1611
Turkinje Nursery
100 Henry Hannam Drive, Walkamin, QLD
Contact: Peter and Pam Lavers | Ph: 0419 781 723
Victorian Citrus Farms Pty Ltd
393 Woomera Avenue, Red Cliffs, VIC
Contact: Sean Arkinstall | Ph: 0419 391 558
Chislett Farms Pty Ltd
833 Kenley Rd, Kenley, VIC
Contact: Jonathan Chislett | Ph: 03 5038 8238
2025 Australian Avocado Season Officially Kicked Off!
By Flora Zhang, Avocados Australia
The Australian avocado 2025 season’s launch in Southeast Asia was a success, with Shepard avocados leading the charge and the launch showed that the industry has a strong supply of premium fruit ready for both domestic and export markets. From late April Hass will dominate from North Queensland, followed by Central Queensland.
A Strong Year-Round Supply to Support Australian Avocados Export Growth
Thanks to Australia’s diverse growing regions, our avocado industry maintains a 12-month supply cycle, moving clockwise around the country from Far North Queensland through to the southern parts of Western Australia. This ensures consistent availability for both local and international markets, allowing retailers, foodservice operators, and consumers to enjoy fresh Australian avocados throughout the year. With growing demand for avocados in key export markets, the industry is focused on supporting category expansion by delivering a reliable, premium product backed by strong supply chain management.
Industry Support & Market Development
The Australian avocado industry stakeholders remain committed to supporting growers, exporters, retailers, and consumers through investment in market development, technical expertise, and supply chain innovation. Industryled initiatives focus on expanding customer awareness, knowledge sharing with trade partners, and enhancing postharvest handling techniques to maximize fruit quality and reduce waste.
As part of the industry's commitment to driving export growth, a season launch roadshow was successfully conducted across Malaysia, Singapore, and Hong Kong. The industry welcomed distinguished guests, including the Deputy High Commissioner to Malaysia, Simon Fellows, agriculture counsellor Dr Kate Makin and Trade Commissioner Gregory Harvey, to unveil the arrival of Australian avocados for 2025 at the wholesale market in Kuala Lumpur. The event was followed by a knowledge-sharing and networking session at The Majestic Hotel, attended by over 60 participants, demonstrating strong support and commitment to further growing Australian avocado exports. Flora Zhang, General Manager of Export, and KC Liew, General Manager of Southeast Asia, both attended the event, reinforcing the industry's focus on market expansion and collaboration.
Distinguished guests, the Deputy High Commissioner to Malaysia, Simon Fellows, agriculture counsellor Dr Kate Makin and Trade Commissioner Gregory Harvey, took part in the arrival celebration of Australian avocados at the wholesale market in Kuala Lumpur.
Australian avocados being unloaded.
Best Practices for Storage, Ripening & Handling
Proper storage and handling are crucial to maintaining the quality of Australian avocados, whether they are destined for retail shelves or foodservice kitchens. Here are some key tips:
• Storage: Keep unripe Hass avocados at 5-7°C and Shepard avocados at 8-12°C to maintain quality and extend shelf life. Avoid chilling injury by preventing exposure to temperatures below 3°C.
• Ripening: To ripen avocados efficiently, store them at 16-20°C with controlled ethylene exposure. Retailers and distributors can use ripening rooms to ensure fruit is ripen consistently at the right stage for consumers who requires "ready now" avocados.
• Handling: Minimize bruising by handling avocados gently throughout the supply chain. Proper packaging and transport conditions help maintain the fruit’s premium quality from orchard to consumer.
• Maximizing Shelf Life: To extend avocado shelf life, store them at the appropriate temperatures, avoid excessive moisture, and dramatic temperature change. Keeping fruit in optimal humidity levels and reducing ethylene exposure until ripening is necessary can also help maintain freshness and reduce waste.
A Bright Year Ahead for Australian Avocados
With strong supply, growing demand, and a commitment to quality, 2025 is shaping up to be another successful year for Australian avocados. Australian avocados will continue to deliver premium taste and nutrition to consumers worldwide.
We look forward to working with our partners across the supply chain to ensure another year of strong category growth, market expansion, and top-quality Australian avocados.
For further information tailored for the export sector, please visit avocado.org.au/global/
For more Australian avocado-inspired recipes, please visit australianavocados.com.au/recipes/
Australian avocados on display ready for sale.
Shepard Workshop participants learn about best practice approaches for Shepard storage, ripening and handling.
Market Access Update
By Richard Magney, Avocados Australia
Inbound Mission – Shanghai Huizhan Fruit Market
Avocados Australia is excited to announce the inbound visit of the executive leadership team from Shanghai Huizhan Fruit Markets. The executive leaders will visit for one week in early June and will attend Avo Connections and then travel to Bundaberg to visit farms and packing sheds. The team look forward to actively meeting our industry stakeholders to further reiterate their support for avocado exports to China, particularly given the AUD$300million pre-purchase agreement struck at the 7th China International Import Expo in Shanghai in November last year.
R&D – fumigation quality trials to support new and improved market access
On 13 March, the Evaluation of methyl bromide fumigation on avocado quality (AV24007) project’s first Project Reference Group (PRG) meeting convened to discuss the methodology for achieving a successful fruit quality outcome for Methyl Bromide (MB) fumigation for Hass and Shepard varieties. MB fumigation is a well-established and accepted pathway for many countries, and industry stakeholders have supported
the need to develop a quality and efficacy data pack to provide additional options for the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) to negotiate avocado market access.
Australian Avocados to Parliament House
On Monday 10 February, Avocados Australia delivered a tray of the season’s first Shepard pick from Far North Qld to Parliament House. With the support of Senator Susan McDonald, Avocados Australia was able to deliver a tray to each sitting Member and Senator, and the parliament media, accompanied with a letter from CEO, John Tyas, and Chair, Matt Kleyn, strongly advocating for and seeking support for market access. As an outcome, Senator Susan McDonald and Senator Dave Sharma, separately posed questions at senate estimates enquiring how Government can better assist the avocado industry. Further, Avocados Australia received many letters of thanks and support from representatives from both sides of the divide. Our special thanks go to Greenskin Avocados for donating two pallets of Shepard avocados and their assistance with the costs associated with the logistics to assist the cause.
Richard and John preparing trays of avocados for delivery to Parliament House.
Middle East Study Tour a success
By Avocados Australia
Participating growers and exporters of Avocados Australia’s Gulf Cooperation Council Study Tour that took place from 15 to 25 February were not disappointed. With every tour new insights into the Middle Eastern markets are helping to improve business partnerships and grow a better understanding of how avocados are handled in Middle Eastern supply chains.
Avocados Australia, in collaboration with Export Connect, hosted a briefing about the study tour to prepare participants so that they could gain the best value from the experience. Growers and exporters exporting to, or planning to export to, the Middle East gained firsthand knowledge and had opportunities to learn more about the market conditions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain and Oman.
The Study Tour group also attended the tradeshow Gulfood 2025 (17-21 February 2025) as part of the tour. They received Market Comparison Snapshots (about the UAE, Bahrain and Oman), and saw how the avocado category performed in each location. Wholesale and retail store visits were insightful, particularly useful for seeing competitors’ fruit and displays.
For more information about future study tours contact Flora Zhang email export@avocado.org.au or call 0499 600 613.
The International Avocados Middle East Study Tour project (AV23004) was funded by Hort Innovation, using the avocado research and development levy and contributions from the Australian Government. Hort Innovation is the growerowned, not-for-profit research and development corporation for Australian horticulture.
Middle East Study Tour participants visited Barakat the produce market.
Highlights of the multiple retail store visits.
A visit to Noon, a leading online shopping provider in the Middle East.
Study tour participants inspecting a competitor’s fruit at a wholesale market.
Grower Profile – Clayton Donovan from Donovan Family Investments
By Anna Petrou, Avocados Australia
For many Australian avocado growers farming is “in the blood”. It is common to find avocado orchard operations run by generations of growers; some others find their way into the industry after successful careers in other fields or are returning to the family farm after pursuing other endeavours. In the case of Clayton Donovan, growing avocados is a family passion.
Since the 1990s, the Donovan Family has been growing avocados, and they also operate a packhouse in Childers. Over this time Clayton’s parents, Annaleise and Lachlan, consistently demonstrated their strong commitment to the horticulture and avocado industries and pursuit of excellence in their avocado orchard operations. Their efforts were recognised in 2022 with a Horticulture Awards for Excellence Grower of the Year award. The Donovan Family were also among the first to receive accreditation through Growcom’s Fair Farms and Reef Certification, proving their environmental stewardship and ethical work practices.
As an agronomist, Clayton is dedicated to continuing the family’s tradition of excellence and this can be demonstrated by his commitment to best practice in his approach to maintaining the family’s orchards situated in the Burnett catchment.
Talking Avocados recently had the chance to catch-up with Clayton to hear his perspective.
What attracted you to the idea of becoming an avocado grower?
It’s something that always interested me. Growing up there was always something interesting going on and I enjoy agronomy. I am particularly interested in orchard nutrition and the up-coming biologicals.
What do you think are the biggest challenges currently facing Australian avocado growers?
The number one issue is sourcing skilled labour. Second to this is the need to open up export markets for our fruit.
Avocados Australia is doing all it can to increase exports and open up new overseas markets. How important do you think this work is to the future of the industry?
I think increasing exports and opening up new overseas markets is extremely important. It should be an industry priority. Our fruit is highly regarded with overseas consumers. Australian growers have a reputation for supplying clean and green produce and we have high standards and this is regarded as a competitive advantage.
What avocado varieties do you grow?
Currently we grow around 75-80% Hass and 25-20% Shepard. How much of your land is currently dedicated to avocado farming?
Around 600 hectares are dedicated to growing avocados. What is the most valuable lesson you have learnt about growing avocados?
There are a couple: 1) the biggest is sourcing good people to work for you and rewarding them well, and 2) is retaining that skilled labour.
Above from left, John Tyas Avocados Australia CEO and Clayton Donovan from Donovan Group.
What in your opinion is the main challenge that you need to overcome in successfully running an avocado farm in your region?
There are two challenges in my opinion. Firstly, sourcing labour – that is everything. The other is managing pests, particularly Fruit Spotting Bug (FSB). In Central Queensland, FSB is the number one pest that reduces the quality of fruit. It can reduce 75% of the value with 1 sting, with 2 stings it reduces fruit value by around 90%.
What are the soil types like in your growing region?
The soil types that we operate on range from volcanic soils in Childers, which is similar to Atherton Tablelands’ soils, and loam sandy soils around Bundaberg. We are dedicated to best practice with regard to the management of topsoil, the use of fertiliser and pesticides, and use innovative irrigation techniques across all of our avocado orchards.
How do you obtain pickers to assist you at harvest time?
At the moment we use a combination of sources including the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme.
How long does it take to harvest your fruit and when do you do it?
We start our Shepard harvest in March-April to then harvest Hass to mid-September.
Do you enjoy eating avocados yourself? If so, how do you enjoy eating them best?
I enjoy eating avocado best on toast. Add a little pepper and salt, or for something fancy add vegemite. Simple is best. Avocado is also a healthy substitute for butter.
Is your operation on a Sustainability journey? If so, what sustainable practices are you currently adopting?
We are, though we are not on a formal journey, we are implementing what is practical. We have registered for Growcom’s Hort360 and are using its ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) platform. The Hort360 ESG platform gives us the ability to report our sustainability efforts against global, national, and state-based goals.
We are reducing soil run-off and erosion. We will be using inter-row cover crops starting next season. Also, we measure our carbon and are improving our soils. It is the best thing for the tree, and we are producing even better fruit. By reducing our inputs, we are improving productivity and becoming more efficient, so it gives us improved cost efficiency.
Varroa Mite (Varroa destructor) Management Update
By Anna Petrou, Avocados Australia
Varroa Mite is now present in NSW, VIC, QLD & ACT
On Friday 4 April the National Varroa Mite Management Program confirmed a positive case of Varroa mite (Varroa destructor) in the Kowen district of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). Just one month prior, on Wednesday 5 March, Biosecurity Queensland officially announced the first detection of Varroa mite (Varroa destructor) in Queensland. It is now present in four states: New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and the ACT. The spread of Varroa mite was expected and the Varroa Mite Management Plan that is currently being implemented is working to minimize the on-going effects of Varroa mite on European Honey Bees (EHBs) and pollination-reliant industries to ensure business continuity.
Initial Queensland samples came from a recreational apiary in the Lockyer Valley. Biosecurity Queensland says they are prepared and will be working closely with affected beekeepers to slow the spread of varroa mite and help guide management practices. They expect to see increased detections in Queensland's border regions in the coming months due to natural spread from New South Wales.
The national Varroa education program is being rolled out to train beekeepers and pollination-dependent industries on how to prepare and manage the pest (for more information and register for training go online to: www.varroa.org.au/training).
Beekeepers are required to register and regularly inspect their own hives for pests and diseases, as per their General Biosecurity Duty (that applies in each jurisdiction) and the Code of Practice (The Australian Honey Bee Industry Code of Practice - bit.ly/3EeHXTO). All detections of Varroa must be reported. You can do this online here: www.varroa.org.au/reporting
For growers using commercial pollination services
Growers using commercial pollination services are encouraged to do the following:
1. Make sure your provider has provided evidence their hives are free or below thresholds for Varroa.
2. Keep thorough records.
3. Stay in contact with your pollination service provider in case of updates.
Contacts
Varroa Development Officers (VDOs) have been recruited around the country under the National Varroa Mite Response Plan, and they are available to provide guidance directly to beekeepers on how to manage varroa mite and appropriately utilise the chemical control options available. Beekeepers with concerns can contact VDOs to seek advice on early detection and integrated pest management principles. More information about this can be found online here: www.varroa.org.au/vdo.
The Varroa Emergency Response Hotline can be accessed via the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline 1800 084 881 and is operational Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm.
Key resources
National Varroa Mite Management Program website:
This website helps you to register for training, learn how to monitor varroa mite, report varroa, manage varroa and contact a Varroa Development Officer (VDO):
SHORT LINK: www.varroa.org.au
Scan to access the National Varroa Mite Management website.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM):
SHORT LINK: www.varroa.org.au/ipm
Scan to access the Varroa Mite IPM advice.
Other resources
Varroa Management Workshops
Access the details about the FREE training workshops being offered to beekeepers about how to manage Varroa mite. Growers who keep bees would find these workshops of value. More locations and dates are expected to be added.
SHORT LINK: https://bit.ly/3DZBP1P
Scan to access the details about the workshops.
Varroa and Pollination Webinar videos
View the Australian Honey Bee Industry Council’s (AHBIC’s) webinar videos for detailed information about the response, varroa biology, monitoring, Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and more:
SHORT LINK: https://bit.ly/3EhgAbI
Scan to access the AHBIC YouTube Channel.
Alternative Pollinators resources
In the summer 2025 issue of Talking Avocados Magazine it included an R&D article about “Alternative pollinators for avocados” (page 61). It also includes an article about “New fly pollination agents” (page 65).
SHORT LINK: https://bit.ly/4i4laYR
Scan to access the summer 2025 issue of Talking Avocados magazine.
Download resources to assist with pollination
- Maximise your avocado crop with better pollination Fact Sheet
SHORT LINK: https://bit.ly/4ck7Yhp
Scan to download the Fact Sheet.
- On Farm Reference Guide for Honeybee Management Fact Sheet
SHORT LINK: https://bit.ly/4lg4yjx
Scan to download the Fact Sheet.
Questions & feedback
If you have questions or feedback about Varroa mite (Varroa destructor) or the Varroa Mite Management Plan please contact Avocados Australia, call us on 1300 303 971 or email co@avocado.org.au.
3rd edition of “The Avocado Book” OUT NOW!
By Anna Petrou, Avocados Australia
“The Avocado Book” - 3rd edition - is now available for sale online from the CABI Digital Library website. The 3rd edition of the book provides a comprehensive source of information for avocado researchers, and covers everything from the history and distribution, novel agronomic practices, ecological and climatic requirements, and emerging diseases and pest problems. The authors (Daniel Carrillo, Bruce Schaffer, B Nigel Wolstenholme and Tony Whiley) aimed to compile “state-of-the-art information” to promote more sustainable production systems and to better prepare avocado growers to face the challenges that will shape the future of avocado production.
Fully updated, the third edition includes many new international contributors especially from those regions with active and expanding avocado industries. It also includes a new chapter on avocado uses and human nutrition. The book currently retails for £175 (~AU$364.67).
ORDER THE BOOK ONLINE:
SHORT LINK: https://bit.ly/4jkYrsF
Scan to order your copy from the CABI Digital Library website.
Food & Grocery Code of Conduct is now mandatory
By Anna Petrou, Avocados Australia – Source: ACCC notices
The Food and Grocery Code of Conduct (the Code) is now mandatory for Australia’s largest supermarkets and grocery wholesalers.
The Code, to be enforced by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), sets out the rules for how supermarkets and wholesalers negotiate and contract with suppliers. It requires them to have written supply agreements in place, act lawfully and in good faith towards their suppliers, and ensure suppliers do not face retribution for exercising their rights under the code. Large supermarkets and wholesalers now face significant penalties for contraventions of the updated code.
The additional requirements under the mandatory Code are expected to increase protection for suppliers through:
• Prohibiting and protecting against retribution.
• Requiring senior managers of large grocery businesses to oversee supplier interactions.
• Requiring large grocery businesses to appoint a Code Mediator.
• Requiring the appointment of a Code Supervisor which can independently review the processes of Code Mediators on request.
• Requiring incentive schemes run by large grocery businesses to be consistent with the purposes of the Code.
• Including a larger section on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) processes available to suppliers.
• Requiring notification to the ACCC when a grocery business becomes a large grocery business within the relevant financial year.
• Confidentiality requirements for Code Mediators, Code Supervisors and parties to an ADR process.
The changes make the code mandatory for all retailers and wholesalers that earned over $5 billion from their supermarket or grocery wholesaling businesses in the previous financial year. Suppliers to those retailers and wholesalers are automatically protected by the code.
The ACCC will now be able to issue infringement notices and take court action seeking penalties against businesses that contravene the code. For the most harmful contraventions, this includes a maximum penalty per contravention that will be the greater of $10 million, or 3 times the value of the benefit derived, or, if that value cannot be determined, 10% of the company’s turnover during the preceding 12 months.
The ACCC has also launched a new online portal for people to make anonymous reports about potential contraventions of the code. Access this by using the short link or QR code provided.
LINK: https://bit.ly/43BXGqw
Scan to access the ACCC’s new online portal to report contraventions.
Businesses can also continue to make reports via the ACCC’s Infocentre to report an issue affecting your business
SHORT LINK: https://bit.ly/42t3z8f
Scan to report an issue via the ACCC’s Infocentre.
Guidance on the updated code, including the ACCC’s approach to enforcement and compliance actions, is available from the ACCC website.
SHORT LINK: https://bit.ly/3XHITa6
Scan to access the ACCC’s online guidance about the Code.
SHORT
Pollination Survey - Are your Pollination needs changing?
By Anna Petrou, Avocados Australia
Effective pollination, and pollinators, have never been more important to Australian avocado growers. As a pollinationreliant industry we need to ensure successful pollination to achieve sustainable yields so if our industry's needs are changing, we need to know. Avocados Australia has been providing information and resources to assist growers with pollination via our email notices, the Best Practice Resource (BPR), R&D articles in Talking Avocados magazine along with useful handouts at events.
By completing Avocados Australia’s quick 2-minute survey you will help us to continue to support the industry's pollination needs as your needs change.
Help us, to help you. Go online to complete the survey today.
SHORT LINK: https://bit.ly/4lg2PuK
Scan to go to Avocados Australia’s Pollination Survey.
Nuffield Scholarship - Building food safety culture
By Katherine Seddon, on behalf of Nuffield Australia
It was in the early morning quiet of a packing shed, where Andrew McKillop had an epiphany of sorts.
He had come to observe the packing process, but what he saw were inefficiencies that wasted time and money for the grower.
“The grower had come in at 8am, but it wasn’t until 8:30 or 9am that the first products were being packed and sent off the line. During that time, there were plenty of staff working, but there was no efficiency in it. I looked at the operation and made some recommendations and created a checklist. I said to the grower, ‘turn up 15 minutes earlier and get this checklist done’,” Andrew remembers.
“The next day he did just that, and the first product was packed and off the line by 8am. Just by turning up a little bit earlier and having clear tasks for staff, this grower saved time and money for his business,” Andrew explains.
Finding efficiencies in production are at the heart of Andrew’s passion for developing a food safety culture in Australian horticulture and beyond. But it's not just about ticking boxes on a checklist - it's about fostering a culture that places
food safety at the heart of profitable, sustainable farming operations.
With over two decades of experience in horticulture, his path to understanding food safety culture began with a wake-up call.
"Several years ago, I was running a cucumber hydroponics operation and was on the receiving end of a bad audit outcome. I thought to myself, 'I am never letting that happen again.' I decided then and there, I needed to get better at food safety so I could spend less time and money on it. I worked out what systems I could implement to do that. Operating year round made it much easier to implement changes because there was greater continuity of staff.”
This kickstarted Andrew’s desire to see food safety culture grow in horticulture. He pursued a scholarship with Nuffield Australia, investigating how the adoption of food safety culture can enhance both quality assurance and transparency around primary production.
Through his Nuffield scholarship, Andrew studied how businesses are driving profitability and delivering safe, highquality food to market, by implementing a culture of food safety right across the supply chain.
Beyond Compliance
The challenge with food safety is that growers’ eyes start glazing over at the mere mention of it. Andrew quips "it takes 20 minutes before they start listening".
His research has revealed that despite food safety culture now being an auditable element in the production process, many growers know very little about it, and not many are doing it well.
"It is mostly the large enterprises that have embraced food safety culture, the smaller producers just don't have the resources which can make establishing a persistent food safety culture very challenging," Andrew explains.
Andrew believes that the industry needs a mindset shift. "Primary producers need to start thinking of themselves as food producers, not just primary producers," he suggests.
“Domestically and in major export markets, adopting a food safety mindset is critical to the sustainability of primary production businesses. Consumers and major Australian retailers are increasingly demanding primary producers improve practices and transparency,” Andrew said.
Above, Nuffield Scholar Andrew McKillop, investigated how the adoption of food safety culture can enhance both quality assurance and transparency around primary production.
He hammers the point by posing a thought-provoking scenario: "If you went into a restaurant and saw your waiter go to the toilet and not wash their hands, you'd be appalled. Why should it be any different for those working with food on the farm?"
Finding efficiencies
Perhaps his most surprising discovery was the direct link between a thriving food safety culture and operational efficiency.
As part of Andrew’s Nuffield Scholarship, he undertook a global travel tour. On a farm in Canada, "I asked the owner's son if he thought food safety culture was important, and he said 'absolutely.' He said it allows him to easily replace staff when they are sick or absent because he has developed systems and processes to enable people to understand all the roles and to move between them."
Andrew saw that by implementing systems and processes for food safety into the production process, this producer was able to gain serious operational efficiencies and more importantly continuity of operations.
While on the tour, he was struck by an offhand comment from a fellow Nuffield scholar in the Netherlands.
“We were talking about food safety, and she said that the problem is that the consumer doesn't understand food safety and what it takes to get it from grower to supermarket. There is a massive divide between the realities of food production and consumer expectations,” Andrew explains.
Andrew’s experience as a Nuffield scholar gave him valuable insights. He would love to encourage more people working in horticulture to pursue a Nuffield scholarship.
“There is a big opportunity for those in horticulture with Nuffield. The scholarship helps to broaden your understanding of agriculture and learn from other sectors within agriculture,” he says.
The Road Ahead
As the National Quality Manager for The Avolution, Andrew now spends considerable time on avocado farms around Australia, helping growers navigate compliance requirements. He’s observed that the food safety culture is adequate – it's meeting the requirements but not exceeding it.
Andrew says “I see some producers are doing it better than others, and usually this is along the lines of size of enterprise. The smaller producers just don’t have the capacity nor the time to fully comprehend the compliance framework well.”
For avocado growers, particularly those operating seasonally, implementing robust food safety culture presents unique challenges. Training staff and high staff turnover can hinder improving efficiencies and food safety culture. However, viewing food safety as an investment rather than a burden can lead to substantial returns in efficiency and market access.
"I advise the growers I work with to get themselves well organised and they will reduce the time spent on food safety and compliance. The biggest problem is not the compliance itself but debunking what it means for the grower. Many lack the knowledge and understanding of the compliance framework and how they can best comply in a practical sense," Andrew says.
However, with new legislative changes on the horizon for some horticultural products bringing mandatory food safety requirements, the industry stands at a crucial juncture. "It's a change management process, it's changing a mindset," he explains.
“More often than not, food safety and compliance requirements are the last thing primary producers are thinking about. I want it to be the first.”
As the industry continues to evolve, the message is clear: food safety culture isn't just about compliance – it's about creating sustainable, efficient, and profitable farming operations that meet the growing demands of modern food production. The question isn't whether to embrace food safety culture, but how to implement it in a way that drives business success while ensuring consumer safety.
Apply for a 2026 Nuffield Scholarship
Nuffield Australia is calling on the next crop of Australian agriculturalists to be curious, drive change and help their industry thrive.
Farmers and those working in the agriculture industry are encouraged to seize the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity by applying for a scholarship for 15 weeks of overseas study.
The organisation awards around 20 scholarships each year, enabling the sharing of knowledge that creates a sustainable and profitable food and fibre industry. Some of these scholarships target specific agricultural industries, while others are open to a wider range.
Nuffield Australia, which this year celebrates its 75th year of scholarships, will again offer up to five drought resilience-specific scholarships, supported by the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund.
You can apply for a 2026 Nuffield Scholarship online at: www.nuffield.com.au/how-to-apply
Applications close 16 May 2025. If you miss this round just prepare for the next one!
Topics to address
Tom McCue, the R&D Manager at Hort Innovation, believes it is essential that the topics of a Nuffield Scholarship aim to address the key issues impacting productivity and profitability.
“Prospective Nuffield Scholars should aim to take a topic that addresses emerging challenges and opportunities - such as mechanisation and automation, pest management, irregular bearing, and canopy management. These are just a few examples, from a broad spectrum of critical topics, that Nuffield scholars could address. I'm always happy to discuss ideas with prospective candidates who are passionate about tackling these issues head-on,” said Tom McCue.
Those interested in pursuing a Nuffield Scholarship should contact Tom McCue, email tom.mccue@horticulture.com.au or call 0407 438 258.
Turn your irrigation water into a balanced supply of plant-available macro and micronutrients with YaraRega water-soluble NPK compound fertilisers. These premium quality fertilisers dissolve readily in water with less than 1% insolubles and are ideal for use with pivot, lateral, sprinkler or drip irrigation systems. Contact Yara or your rural supplier and find out how YaraRega can turn your irrigation water into a top drop.
Best practice when using pesticides
By Anna Petrou, Avocados Australia – Source: APVMA
The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) instructs that no matter which pesticide you use or where you use it, you should always read and understand the label instructions and use only as directed. Following the directions helps maximise the product’s effectiveness and minimises your risk of exposure to the chemical while helping protect people, animals, crops and the environment.
When using a pesticide, always remember:
1. If you can’t see the APVMA or National Registration Authority (NRA) number on the label, it may not be registered, and it could be dangerous – don’t use it.
2. If the label has been damaged, search the APVMA’s PubCRIS database (portal.apvma.gov.au/pubcris) or talk to your supplier to find the safety and use directions.
3. Some of the label instructions are legally binding – this includes the booklet if provided.
4. Don’t use a product if you don’t understand the label.
Make sure you and your workers seek assistance or a translation of a product’s label if you have any difficulties understanding it. Whether you or your workers are unfamiliar with a term or symbol, you have reading or eyesight difficulties or if English isn’t your first language, seeking assistance from a workmate, friend, family member or your chemical supplier to understand the label is important to protect your health and safety.
Several labelling codes apply to pesticide products in Australia. Generally, pesticides supplied for large-scale use by farmers provide more information on the label than those intended for other uses.
Safety data sheets are a requirement under state and territory work health and safety legislation and are intended for use by businesses to assess the risks of almost all hazardous chemicals in the workplace, particularly related to safe handling and storage, managing spills, first aid and transport. Note, they are not regulated by the APVMA.
APVMA labels are designed to provide information about safe use for the specific uses outlined on the label. If the label doesn’t specify a use, the APVMA has not considered the risks of using the product in that way, and the APVMA has not approved the use. This is true even if a product is similar to another product with that use on the label. This is because the APVMA’s risk assessments consider the specific use and formulation for that product, which can impact the safety instructions and use directions.
Additional resources
Understanding pesticide chemical labels booklet:
SHORT LINK: bit.ly/4i9aAjp
Scan to download APVMA’s chemical label guide.
APVMA – Using Chemicals webpage:
SHORT LINK: www.apvma.gov.au/resources/using-chemicals
By Cai Christian, Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development
The polyphagous shot-hole borer (PSHB), a tiny beetle with a potentially significant impact, has been a focus of intense scrutiny in Western Australia since its initial detection in East Fremantle in 2021. As a declared pest, PSHB poses a threat not only to our urban landscapes but also potentially to our agricultural industries, including the avocado sector. Avocados Australia is committed to working with growers and the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) to safeguard our orchards.
A Monumental Response Effort
DPIRD has launched the largest surveillance program in its history, a nationally funded biosecurity response, to contain and manage this pest. Since the initial detection, over 2.6 million trees have been inspected across more than 115,000 properties within the expanded Quarantine Area (QA), which now encompasses the entire Perth metropolitan area, covering 30 Local Government Authorities. This monumental effort includes deploying over 3,000 traps and collecting over 180,000 samples for rigorous testing, resulting in 4,300 infested trees being removed and an additional 1,000 being pruned.
PSHB, a beetle about the size of a sesame seed, bores into the trunks and branches of trees, creating galleries where it cultivates a symbiotic fungus, Fusarium euwallacea. This fungus is the beetle’s food source, but it also disrupts the tree’s vascular system, hindering the flow of water and nutrients. In susceptible trees, this can lead to dieback and even death. While the box elder maple, robinia and coral tree are considered extremely susceptible, it's crucial to understand that PSHB can affect a wide range of species. While data from DPIRD's extensive surveillance of commercial fruit trees has revealed relatively low infestation rates overall, avocado trees are highly susceptible; therefore, ongoing monitoring remains crucial. To date, DPIRD has inspected 10,055 avocado trees for signs of PSHB, resulting in the removal of 20 and the pruning of 9 infested trees. Notably, no PSHB has been detected in commercial orchards in WA.
Key Messages for Avocado Growers:
• Containment is Essential: DPIRD is successfully containing PSHB within the Perth metropolitan area, thereby minimising the risk to our broader agricultural regions.
• Surveillance and Monitoring: DPIRD’s ongoing surveillance program includes strategic trapping and monitoring in areas adjacent to avocado production. We are working to map priority areas for enhanced regional monitoring.
• Early Detection is Crucial: Regular orchard inspections are vital. Look for signs such as small, round holes (~1mm in diameter), frass or sawdust, dieback and dark galleries.
• Reporting is Essential: If you suspect any occurrence of PSHB, report it immediately through the MyPestGuide® Reporter app or contact the Pest and Disease Information Service (PADIS).
• Movement of Fruit is Unaffected: PSHB infestation does not restrict the movement of avocado fruit. The beetle only infests the wood, not the fruit.
• Mitigation Through Best Practices: Global evidence suggests that current canopy management and hygiene practices are effective in mitigating the impacts of PSHB.
• Research and Innovation: The WA Government has invested $2 million in PSHB research through the WA Agricultural Research Collaboration (WAARC), focusing on host-pathogen interactions, innovative control strategies and improved detection methods.
Enhanced Support for Growers
DPIRD and Avocados Australia are committed to providing growers with the tools and knowledge necessary to manage PSHB. We are developing additional training materials focusing on identification and reporting and increasing the frequency of information sessions and webinars. We encourage growers to access the online training available on the DPIRD website.
Quarantine Area Information
The QA is divided into two zones with specific restrictions on the movement of untreated or unseasoned wood and plant material. Understanding these restrictions is crucial for preventing the spread of PSHB. For detailed information and an interactive map, visit agric.wa.gov.au/borer
A Collaborative Effort
Controlling PSHB requires a collaborative effort. DPIRD is working closely with industry, local governments, other state government departments, community, businesses and Traditional Owners to protect our valuable agricultural industries. By staying informed, vigilant, and proactive, we can safeguard our avocado orchards and ensure the continued success of the industry.
We urge all avocado growers to remain vigilant and report any suspected PSHB activity. Your observations are vital in our collective effort to protect our industry.
• Report PSHB observations via the MyPestGuide® Reporter app or via the DPIRD Pest and Disease Information Service on 9368 3080, padis@dpird.wa.gov.au
• Stay informed by visiting agric.wa.gov.au/borer.
• Participate in the training provided by DPIRD and Avocados Australia.
By working together, we can effectively manage PSHB and protect the future of the WA avocado industry.
• Receive payments after the fruit has been received by NFC
• Gain access to diversified markets including direct access to supermarkets
• Are supplied with packout information within 24 hours and return estimates every Wednesday for fruit received in the previous pool week
Australian Avocados Domestic Marketing Campaign: A Smashing Success so far!
By Victoria Zourkas, Senior Brand Manager, & Emma Day, Senior Marketing Manager, Hort Innovation
The Australian Avocado domestic marketing program continues to deliver strong results, utilising a strategic mix of outdoor advertising, digital retail media, social media, and earned media to inspire more Australians to choose avocados. By tapping into key cultural moments and engaging consumers at multiple touchpoints, the campaign is successfully positioning avocados as a versatile, healthy choice for every occasion. With impressive reach and engagement to date, Australian avocados are set to remain a top choice for shoppers nationwide.
Outdoor advertising
From July to December 2024, Australian Avocados maximised consumer awareness and purchase intent through the use of both large-format and retail outdoor advertising.
Large format outdoor advertising was strategically timed to align with key cultural moments – the Olympics and King Charles III’s visit to Australia – to maximise visibility and engagement.
• 2024 Paris Olympics: During the Olympics, the Go Green Gold campaign was showcased on large-format outdoor panels in high-traffic areas across the Australian Eastern Seaboard. Featuring dynamic, reactive content that celebrated key Olympic moments, the campaign captured attention and inspired consumers to enjoy Australian Avocados.
• King Charles III’s Visit: In October, King Charles III’s visit to Australia presented another prime opportunity to connect with audiences. Following the news that the King
Creative in the market from outdoor signage, OOH and socials.
enjoys half an avocado for lunch daily, Australian Avocados tapped into the cultural conversation and designed a commemorative avocado spoon and holder – fit for a king! This royal avocado carriage was displayed on large-format digital panels in key locations, including Sydney Airport to capture the attention of the king upon his arrival, and millions of Australians alike.
Across both bursts, messaging was featured on 61 digital panels across roadsides nationwide, contributing to significant reach.
Complimenting large format, retail outdoor panels provided sustained exposure along the customer path to purchase. Running from September to December across 1,854 locations near supermarkets and fresh food grocers, these displays showcased the versatility of Australian avocados, capturing shoppers' attention and encouraging purchase at the point of sale.
Collectively, outdoor advertising reached an incredible 10.2 million people, exposing 74% of main grocery buyers to the ad at least once across all markets. Over 187 million impressions were also generated in total, reinforcing brand salience.
Digital retail media
Digital retail advertising played a crucial role in driving avocado sales by targeting consumers at key decision-making moments on Coles and Woolworths eCommerce sites. Tiles,
banners, and page cards encouraged shoppers to ‘Go Green Gold,’ reaching 2.3 million new-to-brand consumers on Coles' website and 127,000 on Woolworths' site.
Social media (paid)
From July to December 2024, an always-on social media strategy drove engagement through a mix of short-form videos, branded content, and influencer collaborations. The campaign featured a diverse range of creatives, including Olympic-themed green and gold messaging during the Paris Olympics, recipes, avocado pairings, and influencer-led storytelling. A consistent rotation of creatives showcased the taste, versatility and health benefits of avocados while preventing creative fatigue.
Across Meta and TikTok, the campaign generated over 62 million impressions nationwide, reaching 7.7 million users on Meta and 2.1 million users on TikTok. Performance remained consistent across all creative variations with three out of the top four placements featuring avocados within a finished dish, indicating that visually appetising content resonates well with audiences.
Social media (owned)
From October to December, Australian Avocados’ owned Instagram, Facebook and TikTok channels continued to engage audiences with original content, collectively reaching over 3.4 million people.
The Adventures of Avo, Cado, and Pip – a sitcom style video series that humorously brought avocados to life.
A key highlight was The Adventures of Avo, Cado, and Pip – a sitcom style video series that humorously brought avocados to life. Following the daily adventures of three avocado characters, this content entertained audiences and highlighted the everyday appeal of our beloved fruit. Content was posted as organic Instagram reels and TikTok videos, with two videos boosted as ads in December, reaching 2.8 million people and generating over 7,000 impressions.
Given avocados’ strong presence in meme and pop culture, this creative approach was the perfect way to solidify their iconic status.
Recipe content also played a major role in inspiring audiences and spotlighting the versatility of avocados. Australian Avocados partnered with well-known foodie content creator Lilian Kaskoutas, aka @Lileets, whose aesthetic yet simpleto-make recipes showcased new ways to enjoy avocados across breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Her content was shared across her own TikTok, as well as the Australian Avocados’ Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok pages, collectively receiving 12,690 engagements. Content shared on the Australian Avocados Facebook page generated the greatest reach, with over 2.8 million people viewing the content. To inspire broader audiences, Lilian’s content was boosted across both her channels and the Australian Avocados’ platforms, further driving reach and engagement.
Earned media
Australian Avocados strategically leveraged key cultural moments to spark conversation, highlight new usage occasions, and generate widespread media coverage.
On National Avocado Day, the Corn Chip Safe Guacamole campaign playfully addressed a common snacking frustration—the structural failure of corn chips in guacamole. Partnering with renowned chef Toby Wilson of Rico’s Tacos, Australian Avocados introduced the world’s first ‘Corn Chip Safe’ guacamole, offering a solution to this age-old problem. But that wasn’t enough—we called on the corn chip industry to step up and create stronger chips through a bold fullpage ad in The Daily Telegraph. The call-to-action sparked a response from major corn chip brands, extending the reach of the campaign through industry engagement.
The royal avocado carriage campaign, that coincided with King Charles III’s visit to Australia, also captured the attention of top-tier journalists and producers, securing earned news coverage. Running across 16 large-format sites in major eastern seaboard cities, in Sydney outdoor ads alone achieved a reach of 1.225 million people – over a quarter of the city’s population.
Overall, earned media efforts generated 12 pieces of coverage across key publications, with a total potential reach of more than 5.8 million people, cementing Australian Avocados' position in both cultural and media conversations.
Australian Avocados’ owned Instagram, Facebook and TikTok channels continued to engage audiences with original content.
Australian Avocados Go GlobalInternational Marketing Driving Worldwide Demand
By Hort Innovation
The Australian Avocados international marketing program is making significant strides in expanding the industry’s global footprint. With strategic activities in key export marketsincluding Thailand, Japan, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), India, Singapore, Malaysia, and Hong Kong – this program is enhancing brand awareness, boosting sales and reinforcing Australian Avocados’ premium positioning.
Thailand: strong sales growth through retail partnerships
In Thailand, partnerships with major retail chains such as Wholesale Market, Lotus, and AEON, have delivered impressive month-on-month sales growth. November 2024 sales surged by 35 per cent compared to October, followed by a further 48 per cent increase in December, following the delivery of point-of-sale promotional materials and in-store sampling sessions.
From January to February 2025, the campaign further captivated Thai shoppers with immersive in-store experiences in partnership with Tops, Marko, Lotus, and Foodland.
Key activities included:
• Live cooking demonstrations in flagship stores to attract new customers and drive in-store purchases.
• In-store sampling and push selling to directly engage customers and highlight the many benefits of avocados.
• Product displays and special promotions in stores to enhance product visibility.
• Gift-with -purchase initiatives to encourage repeat purchases and brand loyalty.
Collectively, these efforts have strengthened Australian Avocados’ presence in Thailand’s top supermarket chains, ensuring continued demand and long-term sales growth.
Japan: impressive sales and trade show success
In Japan, a strategic retail activation in AEON stores has successfully boosted sales. Launched in late January 2025, the campaign featured display competitions, point-of-sale marketing, and pop-up caravans across eight stores. Over three days, the activation generated 18 million Japanese yen in sales - a 150 per cent increase compared to the previous season.
Complimenting in-store efforts, a social media campaign amplified brand awareness, with five influencers generating 1.2 million impressions and over 9,000 engagements on their posts, surpassing targets. Recipe content featuring avocados paired with bread resonated particularly well, suggesting its popularity in Japan as a breakfast or snack option.
In-store cooking demonstration in Thailand.
Special Australian Avocados in-store display.
Japan Supermarket Trade Show (SMTS)
In February, Australian Avocados also took centre stage at the SMTS 2025, one of Japan’s largest and most influential trade events. Organized by the National Supermarket Association of Japan, which represents 10,000 supermarkets across the country, SMTS is a key platform for global food brands to connect with Japan’s thriving retail sector. This year’s event attracted close to 78,000 attendees, providing a significant opportunity for the Australian Avocados delegation to showcase the premium quality, freshness, and versatility of Australian Avocados to key stakeholders.
Australian Avocados were received very positively at the event, generating a number of business leads and opportunities in the Japanese market. Attendees valued the Australian Avocados’ consistent quality and high creaminess and noted that their texture compliments Japanese flavours.
Media coverage further amplified brand visibility within the Japanese market, with features in economic and trade publications, online media, and select TV programs. Highlights include articles in the Japan Food Journal (circulated to 94,500 food manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers) and Pan News (circulated to 15,000 bakery and confectionary industry professionals). Additional trade publication features are also planned for later this year, providing ongoing exposure for Australian Avocados.
United Arab Emirates (UAE): expanding market reach and engagement
Retail activations in the UAE have successfully boosted sales and brand awareness by enabling potential customers to experience Australian Avocados firsthand. In December alone, over 35,000 avocados were sold across participating stores – a 239 per cent increase from November – achieved through a combination of point-of-sale materials and digital advertising on e-commerce sites. January sales also remained strong, with 32,000 avocados sold, supported by in-store sampling sessions.
New, custom Australian Avocados packaging was also launched across 55 Spinneys and 16 Waitrose stores, providing further brand exposure to encourage customer loyalty.
Gulfood event in Dubai
Australian Avocados made a strong impression at Gulfood Dubai in February, connecting with key importers, distributors and retailers. The booth featured engaging visual displays, informational materials, showcasing Australian Avocados’ premium attributes to the Middle Eastern market. Tasting sessions, led by renowned chef Neha Deepak Shah, enabled trade professionals and consumers to experience Australian Avocados' creamy texture and unique flavour firsthand, sampling Neha’s avocado and mango salsa tarts and avocado and ricotta crostini. Custom-designed marketing materials – including flyers, brochures, tote bags, and recipe cards- educated visitors and extended the Australian Avocados experience beyond the event.
Delicious Australian avocados could be sampled at Gulfood.
Delegates enjoyed sampling Australian avocados.
India: capitalising on market opportunities
Supply shortages from Tanzania brought a major opportunity to Australian Avocados in the Indian market, with major retail chain Reliance and other outlets across India now stocking the fruit. Retail promotions and chef-led activations throughout December to January generated strong consumer interest.
In January, Australian Avocados were featured at Reliance Retail’s “CURATE” event at their destination store in Bangalore, where a live cooking demonstration, tasting experience, and educational session on avocado ripeness stages, captivated over 80 attendees. The event successfully positioned Australian Avocados as a premium, versatile option for Indian consumers, with participants walking away with strong positive sentiment and enthusiasm.
Upcoming activities: Hong Kong, Singapore, and Malaysia
The marketing program is now gearing up for activations in Hong Kong, Singapore, and Malaysia, promoting the Shepard variety until April, followed by Hass until June to align with supply.
Across the three markets, planned activities include:
• In-store displays and sampling sessions to engage consumers directly.
• Chef-led roadshows and live in-store demonstrations to showcase avocado versatility.
• Gift-with-purchase promotions to drive repeat sales.
• Social media influencer collaborations featuring innovative avocado recipes.
• Retailer e-commerce promotions and advertising to boost online visibility and sales.
Through a strategic mix of retail partnerships, trade show activations, and engaging consumer campaigns, the
International marketing activities are targeting Hong Kong, Singapore, and Malaysia.
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RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT Environmental Sustainability Metrics for Australian AvocadosSpotlight on Carbon Footprint
By Beatriz Reutter & Marguerite Renouf, Lifecycles
Introduction
As consumer demand for sustainability grows, businesses increasingly require detailed information about their environmental credentials. The Hort Innovation project Industry level life cycle assessment (LCA) of Australian avocado production (AV23015) aims to develop robust and reliable environmental sustainability metrics for the Australian avocado industry. The metrics of interest are carbon footprint, a measure of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and water footprint, a measure of the impacts of water use.
The metrics developed by this project are needed to advance the industry’s sustainability efforts, by informing the sector’s sustainability strategies, guiding strategic investments, and responding to customer data requests. The end outcome will be a robust set of science-based data the industry can use to demonstrate its environmental credentials.
At the halfway point in the project, this article provides information about the carbon footprint component of the project, and early insights about the main sources of GHG emissions contributing to the carbon footprint. These insights have been drawn from the first stage assessment of six case study avocado farms in different regions. Future stages will gather more data from a larger sample of growers to generate carbon footprint and water footprint metrics for the industry, expected to be reported in 2026.
Australian avocado growers from all regions are encouraged to participate so the project can build a good sample from which to generate useful metrics for the industry. Instructions for grower participation can be found at the end of the article.
LCA method
The method used in this project was environmental life cycles assessment (LCA), following the international standard for
LCA (ISO14044). LCA is the recognised methodology for quantifying environmental impacts of products over their life cycles. It underpins methods used for carbon footprinting and GHG accounting
LCA provides the scientific basis for estimating not only carbon and water footprints, but also several other impacts, such as land use, water quality impacts from eutrophication and ecotoxicity, human toxicity and marine microplastics (to name a few). However, the focus in this project is carbon footprint and water footprint.
This first phase of the project applied LCA to quantify the GHG emissions across the life cycle of Australian avocados up to the farm gate, to generate a ‘cradle to farm gate’ carbon footprint. This included the upstream production of farm inputs, transport of inputs to the farm, and on-farm growing activities (including waste) (see Figure 1). The packaging, storage, ripening and distribution of avocados, were not included thus far, but will be assessed in the next stage of the project.
The GHGs accounted for were carbon dioxide (CO2) from fossil fuels, methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O). Annual emissions of these gases (kg/yr) were estimated for each life cycle stage and then aggregated, converted to carbon dioxide equivalents, and divided by annual avocado yields (t/ha/ yr) to generate the carbon footprint per kilogram (kg) of harvested avocado (kg CO2-e/kg). Figure 1 shows the sources of GHG emissions that were accounted for in our case study assessments.
Carbon footprints typically do not count biogenic CO2 emissions and removals, associated with biological materials and considered part of the natural carbon cycles. For example, the carbon taken up in the vegetation of avocado plants is a biogenic CO2 removal and is assumed to be re-emitted to
atmosphere as a biogenic CO2 emission when the tree dies and decomposes. These biogenic removals and emissions are assumed to cancel each other out. Biogenic CO2 removals are only counted in a carbon footprint as a carbon sequestration if they are fixed in plant vegetation or derived products for at least 100 years. Since the productive life of avocado plants was assumed to be less than 100 years, biogenic removals and emissions were not counted.
Carbon footprints assign all the life cycle emissions to the end product. It is recognised that the responsibilities for and control of emissions typically lies with the supply chain stage that generates them. Therefore, emissions can be assigned to the party responsible, as Scope 1 (direct), Scope 2 (electricity) and Scope 3 (indirect) emissions, as occurs in organisational GHG accounting. For example, the carbon footprint of avocados produced by a grower will include fuel combustion emissions from tractor operations on farm (scope 1), emissions from producing the electricity used to pump water (scope 2) and emissions from the manufacture of the fertilisers that the growers buy (scope 3). Even though growers are not responsible for scope 2 and 3 emissions, they can still influence those emissions to some extent through purchasing choices.
The project thus far has generated carbon profiles for six case study farms up to farm gate, to prove the method, refine data collection and identify hotspots (aspects contributing most to the carbon footprint). The sample of case studies included
farms in Western Australia, North Queensland, Central Queensland, and Northern New South Wales.
Early results and insights
The general picture obtained from the early case studies is that Australian avocados have a carbon footprint similar to that reported for avocados grown in other countries [1, 2]. The early results also confirm that Australian avocados have a relatively small carbon footprint compared with other food products and compared to horticultural products produced in protected cropping and greenhouse systems [3].
As is typical for agricultural crops generally, the hot-spots for GHG emissions (i.e. aspects contributing the most to the carbon footprint) were found to be on-farm energy use (in the form of fuel for machinery operations and energy for irrigation) and fertiliser use both in terms of the energy intensity of fertiliser production and the potential for nitrous oxide (a strong GHG) releases when N fertilisers are applied to soil. The breakdown of GHG emissions contributing to the carbon footprint is shown in Figure 2, highlighting energyrelated emissions in grey and N-fertiliser related emissions in green. Other aspects such as agrochemical production and irrigation infrastructure are less significant.
Variation in the carbon footprint results was observed in this initial sample, suggesting that regional conditions, practices and yield potentials will influence the carbon footprint. The next stage of the project will build a larger sample of data in
Figure 1: Life cycle stages and processes for avocado production. Processes up to avocados at farm gate were included in the ‘cradle to farm gate’ carbon footprint.
each producing region to gain a clearer picture of variability and the variables that most influence the avocado carbon footprint.
Conclusions and next steps
Early carbon footprint results from a small initial sample of Australian avocado growers, generated at the halfway point in the AV23015 project, confirmed the relatively low GHG emissions intensity of Australian avocados, and identified onfarm energy use and fertiliser use as the main contributors to GHG emissions.
The early results provide a good basis for the next phase of the project, which will build a larger data sample to better understand variability across the sector, generate industry average carbon footprints for different regions, and identify priority opportunities for GHG emission reduction. The next phase will also consider post-farm supply chain stages, so emissions up to farm gate can be put into perspective against whole supply chain emissions.
The carbon footprint metrics will benefit growers by enabling them to benchmark their performance, be ready for future requests for sustainability credentials from customers and supply chain partners and know where best to invest in any emission reduction initiatives.
More information
For further information on the Hort Innovation AV23015 project "Industry level life cycle assessment (LCA) of Australian avocado production", contact Beatriz Reutter from Lifecycles (Beatriz@lifecycles.com.au) or Onyeka Nzie from Hort Innovations (onyeka.nzie@horticulture.com.au).
A project summary can also be found at the Hort Innovation website by searching for ‘AV23015’.
Acknowledgements
Project AV23015 has been funded by Hort Innovation, using the Avocado 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. For more information on the fund and strategic levy investment visit horticulture.com.au
The project team are extremely grateful to the avocado growers who hosted site visits and provided data to generate the early case study results and also acknowledge the valuable inputs from Project Reference Group members.
Call for grower participation
Grower participation in the project is needed to build a larger data sample, from which a high-quality and representative set of environmental metrics can be derived. The metrics will strengthen the entire industry’s ability to tell a positive environmental story to customers and regulators. Participation
Figure 2: Breakdown of GHG emissions contributing to the ‘cradle to farm gate’ carbon footprint of Australian avocados, based on the average derived from initial sample of six case study farms.
will involve a couple of online meetings with the project team to gather information about your farm practices. Register your interest here for more information or to contribute to the sample:
References
1. Majumdar, S. and S.J. McLaren, Towards use of life cycle–based indicators to support continuous improvement in the environmental performance of avocado orchards in New Zealand. The International Journal of Life Cycle Assessment, 2024. 29(2): p. 192-217.
2. Blaauw, S.A., et al., Life Cycle Assessment of an Avocado: Grown in South Africa—Enjoyed in Europe. Environmental Management, 2024. 74(5): p. 989-1005.
3. Clune, S., E. Crossin, and K. Verghese, Systematic review of greenhouse gas emissions for different fresh food categories. Journal of Cleaner Production, 2017. 140: p. 766-783.
Avocado retail quality update: How
do online orders compare to in-store purchases? Do premium stores deliver better quality fruit?
Summer retail fruit quality update
Consumers were likely very satisfied with the quality of Australian Hass avocados over summer, as acceptable fruit levels steadily increased from 86% in November to an impressive 97% in February. In contrast, the quality of imported New Zealand avocados was significantly lower, particularly during December and January (Figure 1). Stem-end rot was the main contributor to the poorer performance of New Zealand fruit.
The quality of Western Australian (WA) grown avocados improved throughout the season. In November, body rots affected 3% of WA-grown fruit, but this declined as the supply season progressed. This improvement was likely due to a wet winter and spring, followed by a relatively dry summer, which may have helped reduce disease pressure.
In contrast, the 2023-24 WA season saw a decline in quality, particularly in late summer.
Maturity monitoring:
Avoiding immature fruit
Sampling of Shepard avocados in February 2025 identified 4 out of 25 samples collected were harvested immature (<21% dry matter). Immature avocados not only deliver an unsatisfactory consumer eating experience but are also more susceptible to postharvest diseases and disorders, including rots and shrivelling. This fruit tends to ripen inconsistently, further impacting consumer satisfaction.
As the start of the Hass season approaches, ensure consumers have the best eating experience by:
By Anne Larard, Avocados Australia
Figure 1. Percentage of acceptable Australian and New Zealand grown Hass avocados at retail from November 2024 to February 2025.
• Conducting dry matter testing each season to account for year-to-year variations in maturity timing
• Testing fruit which are representative of those to be harvested
• Harvesting Hass avocados with a minimum dry matter of 23%
The Avocado Supply Chain Quality Team (AV22011) will monitor Hass maturity in the Sydney central markets throughout May and June. Results will be shared directly with growers and published in the Guacamole newsletter for packhouses meeting the minimum maturity standard.
For detailed guidance on sampling and dry matter testing, scan the QR code.
Scan the QR code for more information on fruit maturity and dry matter testing.
How does quality of online orders stack up?
With the growth of online shopping, concerns about the quality of onlineordered avocados have risen. This particularly relates to the potential for poor handling, and subsequent bruising of fruit.
Between June and October 2024, we evaluated 21 online orders in Sydney, comparing them to in-store purchases. The online orders included a standardised basket of goods typically purchased with avocados. The orders were packed and delivered by the retailer itself, as opposed to a thirdparty such as Uber Eats.
A common concern is that avocados are bagged with heavy items like bottles, leading to bruising. Encouragingly, in 80% of orders, avocados were packed alongside other fresh-produce items (Figure 2). However, two orders did have heavier items (e.g. milk and ice cream) stacked on top of the fruit, increasing the risk of damage.
Online orders were delivered in sturdy plastic crates, which likely reduced damaged from bag-to-bag interaction. Yet bruising risks remains when heavier items are placed on top of avocados, or if fruit rolls around within the bag.
Approximately 13% of avocados from online orders were deemed unacceptable due to bruising, compared to 8% for in-store purchases (Figure 3). However, studies show that bruising severity can increase after consumers take in-store purchases home (Joyce, 2015). Accounting for this postpurchase bruising likely narrows the gap between the two buying methods. Ongoing monitoring will offer further insights this year.
Do ‘premium’ stores sell better avocados?
Some of the major retailers allocate store types according to the demographic of the area, or shopping centre, using the terms ‘premium’, ‘mainstream’ and ‘budget’. To account for this variability, we sample from a range of demographic types in each city.
While it might be expected that premium supermarket stores would have better quality avocados, the previous retail quality monitoring project found slightly better quality in budget stores. In this project, we see this again, with a trend towards slightly
Figure 2. Avocados were almost always packed with other produce items. Only two deliveries were received where avocados were packed with bottle or container packed items.
Figure 3. Bruising (>10% of flesh) of avocados purchased in-store versus from online orders. Vertical bars represent the standard error.
Figure 4. Percentage of acceptable avocados by store demographic type for the three major retailers.
better quality in budget or mainstream stores (Figure 4).
This trend may stem from display practices. Premium stores stock more fruit on the display, and often have fruit stacked higher than mainstream and budget stores. This may contribute to slightly more bruising in fruit sampled from premium stores.
Although premium stores tend to stock larger fruit, this does not appear to explain the difference; both large (18-20 count) and small (23-25 count) showed similar quality.
References
Joyce, D. (2015). Understanding and managing avocado flesh bruising (AV12009). Horticulture Innovation Australia. Final Report AV12009.
More information
For up-to-date retail quality data, and more in-depth analysis, visit the Avocados Australia Best Practice Resource at avocado.org.au/bpr/, go to the ‘Retail’ tab, and select ‘Retail Quality’.
Maturity monitoring results are available on the Best Practice Resource under the ‘Packhouse’ tab, followed by ‘Maturity’.
For further details, please contact Adam Goldwater at Applied Horticultural Research (AHR) adam.goldwater@ahr.com.au or Anne Larard at Avocados Australia (AAL) idm@avocado.org.au
Acknowledgements
The project Monitoring Avocado Supply Chain Quality (AV22011) has been funded by Hort Innovation, using the avocado 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.
Local, Specialist and Direct Farm Insurance
Nitrogen & calcium levels in Hass avocado fruit in the lead-up to harvest
By Muhammad Asad Ullah (The University of Queensland) & Daryl Joyce (Queensland Department of Primary Industries)
Optimum avocado fruit robustness at harvest is critical to maintaining consumer satisfaction and market confidence. Nutrients, such as nitrogen (N) and calcium (Ca) influence avocado fruit shelf life and the postharvest expression of fruit diseases and disorders (Hofman et al., 2002).
Hort Innovation project AV19004 reviewed roles of N, Ca, potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), and boron (B) in fruit quality (Joyce, 2021). The ratio of N to Ca in fruit skin and flesh tissues was advocated as a decision support index of fruit robustness, including in association with stem end and body rots, bruise expression, flesh browning, and vascular discolouration. The review proposed that ‘Hass’ fruit with <33 flesh N: Ca were relatively robust, being less likely to express postharvest problems.
Avocado industry actors expressed interest in how long before harvest fruit could be sampled for N and Ca before reaching harvest maturity at 23% dry matter. The interest was in the context of predicting fruit N: Ca at harvest toward identifying blocks of trees to harvest for ‘long’ supply chains involving storage, export, or both.
Maturing Hass fruit were sourced from several orchards in Southwest Western Australia (SW WA) in 2022 and Southeast Queensland (SEQ) in 2023. Ten individual fruit from each of five trees in each orchard were harvested fortnightly. They were analysed individually for their skin and flesh mineral concentrations.
Trends for increasing N: Ca in skin and flesh samples were evident in WA fruit over 10 weeks before commercial harvest for one orchard designated A
Figure 1: N: Ca (vertical axes) in the lead up to commercial harvest in flesh and skin samples of ‘Hass’ avocado fruit sourced over 14 weeks from orchards A and B in SW WA in 2022. Each sample time point (horizontal axes) represents the average of 10 individual fruit. The error bars associated with each vertical bar represent the standard deviation of the mean for each sample.
and over 14 weeks for a second orchard designated B. Nevertheless, the ratios did not change significantly (p > 0.05) over these study periods (Figure 1). Thus, sampling sufficient representative fruit from around 10 weeks up to anticipated commercial harvest date offers a meaningful estimate of N: Ca ratio at harvest.
However, fruit sample size must be sufficient to encompass site fruit to fruit variability. Hence, sample size should consider variation within the canopy, between trees, and across blocks, regions, and seasons.
Considering assessing skin and flesh samples at orchard level their N: Ca ratios were correlated against one another (Figure 2). A strong positive and significant (p < 0.001) correlation was found using skin versus flesh N: Ca ratio values pooled across the 330 individual analyses. The regression analysis accounted for 73% of the variability in the dataset (R 2 = 0.73; Figure 2).
Previous work by Witney et al. (1990) established that fruit Ca accumulates early in fruit development, namely over 8 – 12 weeks after fruit set. Ca concentration did not change markedly over the subsequent fruit maturation phase from around 12 weeks after fruit set up to harvest. It was similar for late Hass from SEQ, where actively growing fruit showed a steady increase in dry matter (DM) content. Ca concentrations did not change significantly in fruit flesh in 11 weeks before commercial harvest (Figure 3).
Ca moves to fruit through the water conducting xylem system (Joyce, 2021). This flow is largely driven by transpiration which mostly occurs via leaves, but also via flowers and fruit. Flowers and fruitlets transpire during early fruit set and development (Blanke, 1992) via functional stomatal pores (Figure 4a).
Thereafter, in association with cell expansion during fruit development and maturation after around 8 – 12 weeks, the stomata rupture. Thereupon they become lenticles that do not
Figure 2: Trends in dry matter (top panel) and flesh calcium concentrations (bottom panel) in ‘Hass’ avocado from an orchard in SEQ in lead up to commercial harvest in 2023. Each data point represents the average for 10 individual fruit analyses.
Figure 2: Correlation between ‘Hass’ fruit skin on the vertical axis and fruit flesh N: Ca ratio on the horizontal axis for all fruit sourced from two orchards (A and B) in WA in 2022 along with those from two orchards in SEQ in the lead-up to commercial harvest in 2023. Each data point represents an individual fruit skin and flesh N: Ca ratio (n = 330).
transpire as much water from the xylem system (Figure 4b). At this anatomical transition point, Ca import into fruit diminishes and subsequent fruit expansion growth dilutes the existing Ca pool in the fruit.
Hence, towards realising low N: Ca ratios in skin and flesh associated with greater robustness management could focus on 1. improving Ca in soil water at early fruit development stages, 2. fruit sampling for early estimation of at harvest mineral status from approximately 2 months ahead of expected harvest time, and 3.skin samples instead of more difficult to collect and process flesh mineral analysis to predict flesh N: Ca mineral at harvest. In the latter case, a flesh N: Ca ratio of 30 equates to a skin N: Ca ratio of approximately half, viz. 15.
Acknowledgement
This work was supported by CRC Food Agility funded project (FA046) with co-investments from Costa (Avocados), Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) Queensland, and Queensland University of Technology (QUT). We gratefully acknowledge our interstate research associates Declan McCauley and Dario Stefanelli from Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) who kindly sourced fruit from WA, our Qld. industry collaborators Shara Jones (Costa Group), John Tannock, and Eric From for advice and access to their farms and fruit, and Jayanti Mendhi, an electron microscopist from QUT.
Figure 4: Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images of: (a) a functional stoma (arrowed) clearly delineated by its two opposite guard cells around a pore on juvenile Fuerte avocado fruit at 1 week after anthesis (Blanke, 1992), and (b) maturing Hass avocado fruit skin approximately 3 months before commercial harvest (J. Mendhi, pers. comm.). Fruit surface remnants (arrowed) of apparently non-functional stomata overlaid by epicuticular wax (arrowed).
References
Blanke, M.M., 1992. Photosynthesis of avocado fruit. In Proc. Second World Avocado Congress (Vol. 1, pp. 179-189).
Hofman, P. J., Vuthapanich, S., Whiley, A. W., Klieber, A., & Simons, D. H. (2002). Tree yield and fruit minerals concentrations influence ‘Hass’ avocado fruit quality. Scientia Horticulturae, 92(2), 113-123.
Joyce, D. C. (2021). Improved fruit robustness and quality in avocado
supply chains (mineral nutrition) (AV19004).
Witney, G., Hofman, P., & Wolstenholme, B. (1990). Effect of cultivar, tree vigour and fruit position on calcium accumulation in avocado fruits. Scientia Horticulturae, 44(3-4), 269-278.
For more information
For further details, please contact: Daryl Joyce, QDPI, email daryl.joyce@daf.qld.gov.au.
The proven low pressure method for effective phytophthora control in avocado trees. The AvoJect® are high quality syringes with a small tip to minimise tree damage.
Revolutionising avocado production
By Applied Horticultural Research
The Australian horticulture industry is embarking on a transformative journey through the Hort Frontiers project Growing Horticulture Through Protected Cropping Innovation (AS23001). This $52 million initiative, led by Applied Horticultural Research (AHR) and delivered through Hort Innovation, aims to revolutionise protected cropping by integrating advanced automation technologies to address critical workforce challenges and enhance productivity.
Costa Group is a key partner in this project. With significant investments and active participation, Costa is at the forefront of adopting innovative practices to advance the avocado industry.
Cormac te Kloot, Costa Group's General Manager for Avocados, emphasised the project's impact.
“This program will advance the avocado industry’s approach towards sustainability, agronomy, automation, energy usage, and improving staff skills and management,” Cormac said.
The project has been designed to address key opportunities identified in the Australian Protected Cropping Strategy 20212030. By bringing together researchers, growers, and industry specialists, the project focuses on sustainability, agronomy, automation, energy efficiency and workforce development.
The containerised trial in Childers, Queensland
In Childers, near Bundaberg, Queensland, the Costa trial represents a major shift in avocado cultivation, moving away from traditional orchard practices towards a controlled, hightech environment. By growing avocados in containers under netting, researchers can closely monitor and manage factors such as irrigation, canopy structure, and nutrient application with extraordinary precision. This method, a departure from traditional open-field orchards, protects the trees from extreme weather and facilitates research and observation into optimising growing conditions.
A key focus of the project is developing data-driven tools to enhance avocado production.
Senior data scientist, Dr José Padarian (AHR), explained that while data has always been important in agriculture, decisionmaking is often limited by the high cost of data collection and the complexity of farming systems.
This project aims to develop tools that allow for large-scale data collection and, more importantly, use statistical modelling and machine learning to turn that data into valuable insights to guide management practices. For example, a better understanding of flowering patterns help to develop better ways to manage biennial bearing. Another important component is to provide the tools necessary for automation. Robots rely on cameras and other sensors in combination with machine learning to navigate and understand their surroundings.
“By combining large-scale data collection with machine learning will not only transform how decisions are made in individual orchards but will also be a powerful platform to derive general knowledge about avocado production within the country as the amount of data increases," Dr Padarian said.
Maximising yield
To maximise fruit yield and quality, the project team will document detailed farm management plans, incorporating historical data and baseline parameters from each trial site. Cutting-edge data capture technology such as Lidar, drone imagery, and in-field sensors will be deployed to optimise canopy and light management, nutrition, irrigation efficiency, and chemical application.
These trials, conducted across different phenological stages and geographic regions, will inform refinements to best practices. The research aims to develop performance metrics and quality management systems specifically for avocados grown in substrate, as well as tools to estimate yield, manage biennial bearing, and improve light interception.
Testing automation
Automation is another critical pillar of the project, with trials evaluating the potential benefits of technologies designed to reduce labour costs and enhance operational efficiency. Robotics, including Burro autonomous robots, are being tested to alleviate workforce constraints, while adapted spraying systems are under review for their efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Potential limitations, such as system reliability, adaptability to different field conditions, and overall cost-benefit balance, will also be assessed.
Data from these trials will determine whether these innovations are ready for commercial implementation or require further refinement. The ultimate goal is to establish an economically viable, scalable and adaptable automation framework that enhances productivity while maintaining fruit quality.
Building human capacity
Beyond technological advancements, Costa have committed to building human capacity within their operations, training farm staff members to ensure the adoption of these innovations.
From the left, Aaron Parker (Aussie drones), Dr José Padarian (AHR), Anita Chennell (AHR), Drikus Heyns (Costa), Graham Hull (Costa), Dr Álvaro Vidiella (Costa), and Demetrio Bruno (AHR).
The Costa containerised avocado orchard in Childers.
Across the industry, Agronomy group meetings will provide a platform for knowledge sharing, while farm visits across Australia’s avocado growing regions, as well as international study tours, expose industry professionals to global best practices.
Next steps
The next phase of the project will refine the technologies being tested, with a focus on scalability and commercial viability. Dr Álvaro Vidiella, Avocados and Bananas National Agronomist, with Chris Wilcox, Regional Farm Manager, are leading the scientific and practical aspects of the project. They will work closely with AHR to finalise trial milestones and integrate findings into broader farm management practices.
AHR researchers recently visited the Childers orchard, meeting with the Costa team and technology partners, including Aussie Drones, to discuss advancements in scanning technology for precision agriculture.
Program manager Anita Chennell said the trip provided valuable insights into the challenges facing avocado production, particularly in relation to the trial work.
“We could discuss key issues including pollination, irrigation, and canopy management.”
“Observing these challenges firsthand provided a clearer perspective on the research objectives and the practical considerations involved.”
Projects like the Costa avocado trials in Childers provide valuable insights into the future of horticulture, serving as demonstrations to showcase what is possible for other growers. By integrating data, technology, and collaboration, the research aims to support a more efficient and sustainable avocado sector.
For more information
To learn more about the project, email info@ahr.com.au or visit ahr.com.au/protected-cropping
Acknowledgements
The Growing horticulture through protected cropping innovation project (AS23001) is funded through Hort Innovation Frontiers, with co-investment from Applied Horticultural Research (AHR), Flavorite Hydroponic Tomatoes, The Costa Group, Apex Greenhouses, The Victorian Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA), PolyBee and contributions from the Australian Government.
A ‘home grown’ decision support tool - supporting robust high quality avocado fruit
By Pratibha Bishnoi, Daniel Pelliccia, Declan McCauley, Dario Stefanelli, Yiru Chen & Daryl Joyce (QDPI)
The Australian avocado industry strives to provide high-quality fruit to consumers in increasingly competitive domestic and export markets. Among other parameters, dry matter (DM) at harvest and fruit firmness changes after harvest are generally recognised as reliable robustness indices of fruit maturity, shelf life, and eating quality. Preliminary modelling on historical data has shown that DM is a significant co-predictor with other pre-harvest factors (e.g., mineral nutrients) of avocado fruit quality (e.g., days to eating soft).
DM content (DM%) is the most widely used index of fruit maturity. Minimum commercial flesh DM% standards in Australia are 23% for dark-skinned ‘Hass’ and 21% for green-skinned cultivars (Hort Innovation, 2018). Following harvest, fruit firmness informs storage, ripening, and handling decisions, including when the fruit is ready to eat (White et al., 1999).
Traditional methods of assessing avocado fruit quality parameters are often destructive, time-consuming, and / or unsuitable for real-time decisionmaking. Non-destructive alternatives may require frequent recalibration and / or can present logistical access and maintenance challenges. For instance, some such technologies need to be sent overseas for service and repair, incurring delays and additional costs. Such considerations suggest the need for conveniently accessible and serviceable solutions to address national avocado industry challenges.
Spectroscopy, including near infrared (NIR), is an approach increasing adopted in the quality assessment area (Vignati et al., 2023). Importantly,
technologies based on light spectrum spectroscopy can be linked to spatial and / or real time analysis information.
In this general context, we evaluated for avocado fruit a device developed by Rubens Technologies (rubenstech. com) based in Victoria, Australia. It is based on the light spectral range from 400 to 850 nm. The technology features a handheld scanner which cups individual fruit (Figure 1) and connects to smartphones or tablets. When calibrated for the cultivar and the quality attribute, the parameter value (e.g., dry matter content (DM%), pulp firmness (relative Shore units)) is displayed on the smartphone application and available on a dashboard accessible via a web browser. This spectroscopy platform provides convenience and efficiency as a prospective decision support tool for avocado growers, packers, transporters, and sellers.
As well as for fruit hanging on the tree in the orchard, the scanner can be used for collecting data at harvest and throughout the postharvest supply chain. Once the device has access to machine learning models for avocado once trained with calibration samples, it can predict and report specific fruit DM% and firmness values in real-time.
In this preliminary study, we evaluated the Rubens Technologies device in Western Australia (WA) initially with Hass, the highly popular, purpleskinned cultivar. We also worked on Hass in Queensland (QLD) in piloting this emerging technology and with the less popular, green-skinned cultivar Reed.
Fruit dry matter assessments
Figure 2 shows linear correlation relationships between DM% predicted with the non-destructive Rubens Technologies device versus DM% measured by the traditional destructive and time-consuming oven drying method. The green line represents the ideal 1:1 correlation between predicted and reference values. Most data fall between 20-30 DM%, with comparatively fewer data points towards the edges.
The R2 (Coefficient of Determination) value explains the variance in the dependent variable, namely DM%. Its value ranges from 0 to 1, where closer to 1.0, including that of 0.75 (Figure 2), shows that model fits the data well. The RMSE (Root Mean Squared Error) indicates the average magnitude of
Figure 1. A Rubens Technologies handheld scanner being used to cup an avocado fruit hanging on the tree for assessment.
errors between predicted and actual values. MAE (Mean absolute error) represents the average of absolute differences between predicted and actual values with lower values being better, including that of 1.39 (Figure 2). Overall, Figure 2 shows good correlation between measured DM% by the oven drying method and that predicted by the Rubens Technologies scanner with R2 value of 0.75.
Fruit firmness assessments
Figures 3 and 4 show linear correlation relationships between predicted avocado fruit firmness during different stages of ripening (hard, rubbery, softening, firm-ripe, and medium-soft ripe) by the Rubens Technologies device versus the same quantity parameter measured by a conventional hand-held durometer firmness test method. Scatter plot data for ‘Hass’ avocado has fewer outliers compared to the scatter plot data for ‘Reed’, which may suggest somewhat more variability. Nonetheless, R 2 values for ‘Hass’ (0.82) and ‘Reed’ (0.83) were both high, indicating strong positive correlations between firmness predicted by the Rubens Technologies scanner and reference firmness measured with a Turoni durometer.
Discussion
Overall, the relatively novel Rubens Technologies scanner demonstrated promising results in these first calibration studies for non-destructive assessment of avocado fruit dry matter (DM%) versus firmness (relative Shore units). Strong correlations between predicted and reference values were reflected in high R² values of 0.75 for DM% in Hass and in over 0.80 for flesh firmness in both Hass and Reed cultivars. These findings illustrate the Rubens Technologies HS scanners’ practical potential as a reliable tool for real-time quality monitoring in Hass and Reed and prospectively all other avocado cultivars.
In general, the Rubens Technologies device offers other advantages over traditional avocado fruit quality assessment methods. By contrast, it is quick and non-destructive. Moreover, it’s design is convenient for pre- and
Figure 2. Relationship between DM% predicted with the Rubens Technologies scanner versus standard reference DM% by the oven drying method for ‘Hass’ avocados. The pink to red dots predominantly represents cv. Hass fruit in WA.
Figure 3. Relationship between fruit firmness for Hass avocados predicted with the Rubens Technologies scanner versus the reference firmness measured by flesh deformation assessed manually with a Turoni durometer (53215TT). Pink to red dots represent the WA trial and blue dots the QLD trial.
Figure 4. Relationship between fruit firmness for Reed avocados predicted with the Rubens Technologies scanner versus reference firmness measured using a Turoni durometer (53215TT).
postharvest usage on avocado fruit. The novel scanner does not require frequent recalibration, thereby offering consistent performance across extended usage. In being ‘home grown’ and based in Australia, logistical and financial considerations associated with repairs and servicing overseas are mitigated.
Future work in Hort Innovation project AV21005 - Growing Robust Avocados and / or other avocado fruit robustness and quality related projects could expand calibrations to other avocado varieties (e.g., Shepard) and be applied to other fruit characteristics across local and regional orchards, different production environments (e.g., subtropical Qld. vs. Mediterranean SW WA), and management practices (e.g., nutrition, irrigation, etc.).
Practical considerations for use of this device include that sampling to estimate DM% content needs to take calibration accuracy and sample natural variability into account. Assuming relative accuracy of calibration and sample variability are both ±2%, the sample number of fruit that need to be chosen at random (n) to estimate average DM% would be n = 8 at +/-1.0% DM uncertainty and n = 30 at +/-0.5% DM uncertainty.
When this device is first used, several calibration steps are required for users to fine-tune the device. These involve 1) scanning and conducting oven dry DM assessments on 20 individual fruits, 2) checking the correlation dataset in a provided industry spreadsheet template to see if there is offset between the Rubens and traditional oven dry destructive sampling, 3) sharing the data with Rubens Technologies for an update of the calibration if needed as an offset correction made remotely on the device, and 4) repeating this calibration process every 4 weeks as the season progresses. Because the models are updated remotely, new calibrations and offset correction can be performed as often as required.
In summary, the Rubens Technologies scanner represents a novel, practical, and user-friendly tool for non-destructive measurement of important avocado fruit quality attributes. Its calibration and performance are demonstrated in this study. They suggest that the device can support growers, packers, and retailers in making better informed decisions throughout their supply chains. Ultimately, integrating spectroscopy technology throughout the avocado supply chain could, should, and would facilitate end-to-end quality monitoring from farm to retail.
Acknowledgements
This preliminary decision support tool study was conducted under project AV21005 - Growing Robust Avocados (AV21005) funded by Hort Innovation using the avocado research and development levy and contributions from the Australian Government, the Qld. Department of Primary Industries, the W.A. Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Central Queensland University, and GLT Hort Services. The lead author was a student with the School of Agriculture and Food Sustainability at The University of Queensland.
Hort Innovation (2018) Australian Avocado Supply Chain Best Practice Guide, https://afccc.org.au/pdfs/resources%20 and%20training/Avocado-Best-Practice-Guide.pdf
Pelliccia, D. (2025) Rubens Technologies – Product information and use cases for avocado – Technical Report. Rubens Technologies Pty Ltd, daniel@rubenstech.com, https://rubenstech.com
Vignati, S., Tugnolo, A., Giovenzana, V., Pampuri, A., Casson, A., Guidetti, R., & Beghi, R. (2023) Hyperspectral imaging for fresh-cut fruit and vegetable quality assessment: Basic concepts and applications. Applied Sciences 13 (17), 9740.
White, A., Woolf, A., Harker, R., & Davy, M. (1999). Measuring Avocado firmness: Assessment of various methods.
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Automating Fruit & Banana Spotting Bug Monitoring with AI
By Shaun Trewin, Elegant Media
Fruit Spotting Bugs (FSB) and Banana Spotting Bugs (BSB) are posing significant challenges for growers across Australia’s horticultural industry. FSBs have caused crop losses of over 50%, with the NSW Department of Primary Industries reporting this damage in 2016, highlighting the urgent need for better pest management solutions.
To address this issue, Hort Innovation Australia Ltd and Macquarie University, in collaboration with Elegant Media, a Melbourne-based AI software solutions provider, are working together to develop an automated monitoring system using Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, and Computer Vision to design smart traps that can detect and quantify these pests in real-time. This technology will help growers manage pest populations more efficiently, boosting productivity and crop health.
Farm Visits Provide Key Insights for AI Development
A key step in this exciting project was a recent farm visit to avocado and macadamia farms in the Ballina region of New South Wales. The visit, facilitated by Mary Burton from Avocados Australia, had one core purpose: to collect valuable images and videos of the fruit spotting bugs in their natural environments. This real-world data is crucial for training the AI systems, allowing them to accurately recognise and monitor these pests over time.
The farm visit also provided Elegant Media with deeper insights into the day-to-day challenges that growers face when managing FSB and BSB. Through direct engagement with producers, the team discussed obstacles such as how to capture high-quality data in varied farm conditions and how AI systems can be optimised for accurate, reliable pest identification and tracking. These firsthand insights are helping shape the development of a tailored and effective AI-powered monitoring system that will address the unique needs of growers.
Innovating Pest Management for a Sustainable Future
The integration of AI in pest management is a crucial step towards a more efficient, sustainable future for Australian growers. By harnessing advanced technologies, this project not only enhances pest control but also aligns with broader sustainability and resource efficiency goals across the agricultural sector.
This initiative, funded by Hort Frontier Funds is just one example of how innovation is transforming Australian agriculture. As growers, researchers, and tech innovators collaborate, we can expect even more breakthroughs that will enhance pest management, contribute to sustainability, and improve the quality of Australian produce.
Keep an eye out for the launch of this game-changing AIpowered pest monitoring system - it’s set to revolutionise the way we grow, protect, and manage our crops, while contributing to the broader goals of sustainability, efficiency, and resource conservation.
Acknowledgements
Elegant Media extends its thanks to Mary Burton, Research Development and Extension Coordinator who works as part of the Hort Innovation funded project AV22012, and to Craig Maddox and Dr Saleh Adnan, Research Horticulturist Entomology, Northern Horticulture from the NSW Department of Primary Industries for their expert guidance.
This series of research snapshots is compiled from abstracts of published scientific papers accessed through CAB Direct as well as Google Scholar searches. Dates provided reflect the date research was published.
Tree Physiology
Influence of plant density on fruit and foliar nutritional composition for Hass avocado in Colombia.
de Jesús Córdoba-Gaona, Oscar; BedoyaRamírez, Sara Isabel; Loaiza-Ruiz, Ruby Alejandra; Barrera-Sánchez, Carlos Felipe; Cano-Gallego, Lucas Esteban Columbia (2025)
This study aimed to determine the effect of plant density on avocado fruit and leaf nutritional composition in commercial orchard cv. Hass in the department of Antioquia, Colombia. The experimental design was a randomized complete block with three replicates. The treatments consisted of six plant densities (204, 278, 333, 400, 625, and 816 tree ha-1), and each experimental unit consisted of six 9-year-old trees. The 333 and 400 trees ha-1 plant densities presented the highest leaf concentrations of N, P, Ca, Mg, S, Zn, and B and fruits' lowest saturated fatty acid contents. The nutritional balance index for N, Ca, Mg, S, Fe, Mn, Zn, and B was significantly affected by plant densities. The plant density significantly does not affect K, Ca, S, and Fe concentration in fruits, and the percentage of avocado fruits by size showed no significant differences due to plant distances.
SHORT LINK: bit.ly/4jnRxCR
Doses and application method of seaweed extract to enhance physiological behavior in different “Hass” avocado stages in tropical environments.
Cano-Benitez, M.; Gross-Urrego, J. A.; Pantoja-Benavides, A. D.; Moreno-Poveda, G. A.; Ramírez-Godoy, A.; Chávez-Arias, C. C.; Restrepo-Díaz, H. Columbia (2024)
Knowledge of Ascophyllum nodosum extracts (ANEs) is still limited to avocado 'Hass' in the tropics. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of two ANEs application methods (foliar v. drench) at four different doses (0, 2.5, 5 and 7.5 ml/l) on the physiological response of three different avocado stages (seedlings and young and adult trees). Foliar or drench ANEs applications were performed monthly for all plants for 16 weeks. The evaluated variables were recorded at 4 and 20 weeks after the start of treatment (WAT). The results showed that ANEs can be applied to the drench or foliar method
at doses ≥5 ml/l in the different growth stages evaluated. In seedlings, foliar or drench ANEs applications increased total dry weight (34.5 and 57.9 g for 0 and ≥5 ml/l, respectively) and stomatal conductance (gs) (380 and 205 mmol/m2s for 0 and ≥5 ml/l, respectively) at 20 WAT. In young trees, both application methods also improved growing index (88.6 and 102 cm for 0 and ≥5 ml/l, respectively) and gs (516 and 636 mmol/m2s for 0 and ≥5 ml/l, respectively) at the last sampling point. Adult trees showed that foliar or drench applications at higher doses also caused an increase in fruit yield (3.4 and 8.7 kg/tree for 0 and ≥5 ml/l, respectively) at 20 WAT. In conclusion, the use of foliar and soil ANEs applications at higher doses (≥5 ml/l) can be considered for integrated crop management of 'Hass' avocado.
SHORT LINK: bit.ly/3R44tSg
Postharvest Management
Control of anthracnose (Colletotrichum gloeosporioides) growth in “Hass” avocado fruit using sachets filled with oregano oilstarch-capsules.
Colín-Chávez, Citlali; Virgen-Ortiz, José Juan; Martínez-Téllez, Miguel Ángel; Avelino-Ramírez, Cristina; Gallegos-Santoyo, Nancy Lissete; Miranda-Ackerman, Marco A. Mexico (2024)
Active antifungal packaging is a technological solution for reducing the postharvest losses of fruits and vegetables associated with phytopathogens. Anthracnose (Colletotrichum gloeosporioides) is the principal fungus that causes post-harvest avocado fruit decay. In this study, antifungal sachets filled with oregano oil-starch capsules were prepared, and their active effects were demonstrated on Hass avocado fruits. Oregano oil (31% of carvacrol) was encapsulated with corn starch by spray drying. Tyvek sachets (4 × 4 cm) filled with 80 (T1) and 160 mg (T2) of oregano oil-starch capsules (99.35 ± 1.86 mg g-1) were fabricated. The antifungal effects of the sachets were tested in vitro and in vivo using a humidity chamber (90-95% relative humidity (RH)) on fruits inoculated with anthracnose. The results showed that T1 and T2 inhibited 75.21 ± 2.81 and 100% in vitro growth of anthracnose at 25°C for 12 days. Furthermore, Hass avocado fruits stored in a humidity chamber at 25°C for 6 days showed that only T2 significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the area of lesion produced by artificial inoculation of Hass avocado fruits with anthracnose. On average, the lesion area in the Hass avocado fruits treated with T2 was 13.94% smaller than that in the control fruit.
SHORT LINK: bit.ly/42lbiUO
Date estimation for the control of avocado (Persea americana Mill.) anthracnose (Colletotrichum sp.)
Objective: To generate a program that estimates the dates or times for the control of avocado anthracnose, based on the meteorological conditions required for the infection, establishment, and development process.
Design/Methodology/Approach: An Excel program was developed to estimate temperature (T), relative humidity (RH), dew point (PR), leaf wetness (LW), and probability of precipitation (PoP) and to evaluate, on an hour-per-hour basis, the fulfillment of the climate thresholds required for the establishment and development of Colletotrichum sp. The maximum and minimum daily temperature must be determined with an 80% probability of occurrence and the probability of precipitation. This information was obtained from the daily records of the CONAGUA (National Water Commission) weather stations for three avocado-producing municipalities in Puebla during a 16-year period (2007-2022).
Results: The resulting program estimates the meteorological variables for the following ten days. The conditions in January were not optimal for the onset and development of avocado
Bee Friendly Farming
anthracnose in the three municipalities of Puebla taken as a case study. On the contrary, June had optimal temperature and relative humidity, as well as a higher probability of precipitation.
Study Limitations/Implications: Accurate data on the meteorological conditions of the orchards under study are required to increase efficiency.
Findings/Conclusions: The program will help producers to determine application dates, developing a more user-friendly and efficient management proposal for controlling avocado anthracnose.
SHORT LINK: bit.ly/43MNpbb
Sustainability
Life cycle assessment of an avocado: grown in South Africa-enjoyed in Europe.
Blaauw, Sheldon A.; Broekman, André; Maina, James W.; Steyn, Wynand J. V. D. M.; Haddad, William A. South Africa (2024)
Food production is known to have significant environmental impacts, with the main contributors residing in the farming and transportation life cycle phases. Of the various food products transported around the world, avocados have
increasingly gained attention as a high-commodity superfood. Avocados require specific climatic and agricultural conditions for farming, with the most fertile land and conditions located outside Europe. Consequently, most avocados consumed in Europe are imported over vast geographical distances, with little information available to quantify the environmental impacts of this imported superfood. This paper aims to present the most detailed life cycle assessment results of an avocado cultivated, grown and harvested in the Limpopo Province of South Africa and exported to the European market for sale and consumption. A life cycle assessment was developed for the farming, harvesting, handling, packaging, ripening, transportation, and carbon sequestration potential of the avocado, and it was used to conduct a holistic life cycle assessment. Input data was obtained through an 18-month data collection campaign across the relevant stakeholders. A baseline 'business-as-usual' scenario is focused on throughout this study, and scope for optimisation is identified for each life cycle phase where applicable, accompanied by uncertainty analyses. Results show a total carbon input of 904.85 kg CO2e/tonne. Mitigating this, 521.88 kg CO2e/tonne is offset, resulting in a net carbon footprint of 382.97 kg CO2e/tonne with uncertainty ranges of -23.22 to +58.69 kg CO2e/tonne, normalised to 57.45 g CO2e/avocado grown in South Africa and sold in Europe. The environmental impacts of the avocado industry under consideration are largely mitigated by the 'nature first'
philosophy of the farming and logistics enterprises, which have made significant investments in reducing emissions. Sensitivity analyses indicate that implementing large-scale renewable energy, using alternative packaging instead of cardboard, and selling avocados unripened could further enable the farming enterprise to achieve Net Zero objectives. These measures could reduce baseline emissions from 382.97 kg CO2e/tonne to a theoretical -68.54 kg CO2e/tonne, representing a 117.9% decrease. Although this study does not quantify climate change impacts, qualitative analyses suggest that climate change will have a net negative effect on the avocado industry in South Africa. These regions, typically located in micro-climates, are projected to become wetter and warmer, adversely affecting crop phenology, pest control, road conditions, management complexity, farmer livelihoods, and food security. The study recommends large-scale implementation of the optimisation strategies identified to achieve Net Zero objectives and the development of proactive climate change mitigation strategies to enhance the resilience of avocado supply chains to future stressors. These insights are crucial for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and consumers aiming to promote sustainability in the avocado market.
SHORT LINK: bit.ly/4223iJm
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Mexican
avocados to enter the United States without import duties
On 4 April, 9news.com.au reported that Mexico had “dodged the latest round of tariffs” from the White House. Apparently, President Claudia Sheinbaum said that the free-trade agreement signed by Mexico, Canada and the US during Trump's first administration had shielded Mexico. Many countries, including Australia, were targeted by the tariffs President Donald Trump introduced on what is now dubbed as "Liberation Day". Trump says he aims to use the tariffs as a way to bring jobs back to the US.
Mexico’s avocado output & exports projected to rise in 2025
Fresh Plaza recently reported that Mexico is expected to produce 2.75 million metric tons (MMT) of avocados in 2025, a 3% increase over the estimated 2.67 MMT in 2024.
This growth is attributed to favourable growing conditions, improved agricultural practices, and strong export demand. Avocado exports are forecast at 1.34 MMT in 2025, up 5% year-on-year. The United States remains the top export destination, receiving 80% of shipments, followed by Canada (7%) and Japan (3%).
Peruvian exports close 2024 with historic figures & new destinations
On 4 April, Fresh Plaza reported that the value of Peru's total exports of goods reached USD 74,664 million, which represents an increase of 15.6% over the previous year and marks is an “all-time” record. This growth, they say, stands well above the regional average for Latin America (4%), and follows the recovery trend observed since the pandemic.
Peru's non-traditional agro-export sector recorded a total of USD 11,553 million worth of shipments overseas, which represents an increase of 21.6% compared to the previous year.
Tridge.com cited that in 2024, Peru became the leading exporter of Hass avocados to China, shipping 50,000 tonnes, a 40% increase from the previous year. It was also reported that this achievement placed Peru as the global leader in the Asian market and surpassed competitors like Chile and Kenya. The success is being attributed to a collaborative effort between the government, farmers, and exporting companies, and the country's year-round production and favorable weather conditions.
Grower Member Application Form
The Australian avocado industry is a growing, successful and progressive industry. As the Australian avocado industry’s peak industry body we work closely with all of the stakeholders that can have a direct impact on the marketplace. If you are looking to gain the maximum benefit from being a part of the Australian avocado industry we recommend that you become a member of Avocados Australia.
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