WA CITRUS
contacts WA Citrus Committee Producer Committee Members Mary Ann O’Connor, Chair m: 0429 012 503 e: chair@wacitrus.com.au Richard Eckersley Shane Kay Andrew Sorgiovanni Cliff Winfield Daniel Ying
Affiliate Committee Members
From the
industry
Damien Guthrey Brett Heather
WA Citrus Office Building 16, 3 Baron-Hay Court, SOUTH PERTH WA 6151 Bronwyn Walsh, Industry Development Manager m: 0400 873 875 e: industrymanager@wacitrus.com.au Kate Cox, Administrative Services m: 0439 899 600 e: admin@wacitrus.com.au Helen Newman, Biosecurity Representative e: biosecurity@wacitrus.com.au
about WA Citrus is the industry body representing citrus growers and industry in Western Australia. WA Citrus aims to: • Assist in the development of a profitable and sustainable citrus industry in WA • Provide services, facilities and support to assist WA citrus growers supply premium citrus in the local, national and export markets • Assist with growing the consumption of Western Australian citrus fruit
BY BRONWYN WALSH INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT MANAGER (IDM)
W
e are facing incredibly challenging times with the COVID-19 pandemic. It has raised many issues including the movement restrictions international, inter and intra-state, which has impact access to labour; disruptions to supplies such as cleaning products, chemicals and fertiliser; and access to export markets.
WA Grower WINTER 2020
The impact of COVID-19 on all businesses is still being monitored so please contact myself, Bronwyn or a Committee member to discuss what information or action you need.
The 2020 season is looking similar to 2019.
I have spoken to growers in northern and southern regions and overall the 2020 season is looking similar to 2019, in terms of supply, with some varieties substantially reduced and others carrying a similar or slight increased load.
The desire by consumers to increase their consumption of immune boosting foods has increased demand for fresh fruit and vegetables. Time will tell if this will see a good return to growers for their product.
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The ability for our industry to be represented in various networks involved with monitoring and responding to the unfolding COVID-19 situation has been of great benefit. It has enabled us to be well prepared, keeping ourselves, family, business and supply chain healthy. Thanks to Joseph, Shane and Bronwyn for attending weekly videolinks as well the Committee for ongoing support.
Meanwhile, our industry activities continue to progress. The APC Citrus SubCommittee (CSC) has recommended the fee for service rate for next financial year remain the same after careful consideration of the crop forecast and potential impact of COVID-19. This recommendation will go to the APC Commission for approval. The CSC also reviewed seven proposals for services to the industry, including R&D, promotions and communication and leadership. After considering the five assessment criteria, three proposals
