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Tropical Exotic Fruit Industry Strategic direction setting 2012-2015

JULY 2012 RIRDC Publication No. 12/050

Tropical Exotic Fruit Industry - Strategic direction setting

2012-2015

by Yan Diczbalis

July 2012

RIRDC Publication No. 12/050 RIRDC Project No. PRJ-002333

ISBN 978-1-74254-393-2 ISSN 1440-6845

Tropical Exotic Fruit Industry - Strategic direction setting 2012-2015 Publication No. 12/050 Project No. PRJ-002333

The information contained in this publication is intended for general use to assist public knowledge and discussion and to help improve the development of sustainable regions. You must not rely on any information contained in this publication without taking specialist advice relevant to your particular circumstances.

While reasonable care has been taken in preparing this publication to ensure that information is true and correct, the Commonwealth of Australia gives no assurance as to the accuracy of any information in this publication.

The Commonwealth of Australia, the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC), the authors or contributors expressly disclaim, to the maximum extent permitted by law, all responsibility and liability to any person, arising directly or indirectly from any act or omission, or for any consequences of any such act or omission, made in reliance on the contents of this publication, whether or not caused by any negligence on the part of the Commonwealth of Australia, RIRDC, the authors or contributors.

The Commonwealth of Australia does not necessarily endorse the views in this publication.

This publication is copyright. Apart from any use as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, all other rights are reserved. However, wide dissemination is encouraged. Requests and inquiries concerning reproduction and rights should be addressed to the RIRDC Publications Manager on phone 02 6271 4165.

Researcher Contact Details

Yan Diczbalis Agri-Science Queensland, Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation. PO Box 20, South Johnstone, Qld, 4859

Phone: 07 40641128 Fax: 07 40642249 Email: [email protected]

In submitting this report, the researcher has agreed to RIRDC publishing this material in its edited form.

RIRDC Contact Details

Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation Alan Davey, Senior Research Manager Level 2, 15 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600 PO Box 4776 KINGSTON ACT 2604

Phone: 02 6271 4100 Fax: 02 6271 4199 Email: [email protected]. Web: http://www.rirdc.gov.au

Electronically published by RIRDC in July 2012 Print-on-demand by Union Offset Printing, Canberra at www.rirdc.gov.au or phone 1300 634 313

Foreword

Australia’s horticulture industries are varied, a reflection of the geographical and climatic diversity of the continent. The tropical north is home to a range of producers of exotic tropical fruits, introduced from all areas of the globe. Although each of these crops are produced in small volumes and often have a gross value of less than $1 million, in unison the tropical exotic fruit industry is a significant contributor to the economic and social fabric of northern Australia.

This project provides the tropical exotic fruit industry with information on the diversity of crops grown and the economic value of these industries. The industry is represented by “Tropical Exotic Fruits Australia” which is still in its infancy and faces a number of challenges. Government agencies at a State and Federal level who interact with industries will also gain from the information provided in the report.

There are 20 fruit species produced in commercial quantities with a further 45 species grown by collectors and tropical fruit enthusiasts which may be commercialised in the future. The estimated gross value of the industry is $16 million with $9.5 million being produced in north Queensland and $6.5 million produced in the northern territory. Industry consultation has determined three primary objectives over the next five years; communication and providing information to producers, lobby regulators on issues directly affecting producers (eg. minor crop chemical registration) and promoting the unique tropical exotic fruit grown in northern Australia

A unified and fully supported industry body such as TEFA could ensure that real change and progress for industry members is a reality. Policy makers should carefully consider the benefits of a highly diversified industry such as the tropical exotic fruits industry. Industry members provide unique employment opportunities, often in isolated regions, and contribute greatly to the economic viability of small communities.

This report is an addition to RIRDC’s diverse range of over 2000 research publications and it forms part of our New Plant Products R&D program, which aims to facilitate the development of new rural industries based on plants or plant products that have commercial potential for Australia.

Most of RIRDC’s publications are available for viewing, free downloading or purchasing online at www.rirdc.gov.au. Purchases can also be made by phoning 1300 634 313.

Craig Burns Managing Director Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation

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About the Author

Yan Diczbalis (M.Agr.Sc) has worked with tropical exotic fruit producers in the Northern Territory and north Queensland for the past 20 years. For the past eleven years he has been based at the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation’s Centre for Wet Tropics Agriculture in South Johnstone. His particular interest is industry development and assisting producers with the commercialisation of new crops. His research interests include understanding the influence of environmental triggers on flowering, fruit set and crop productivity. Acknowledgments

The author would like to acknowledge the considerable insights, inputs and assistance of members of the project steering committee; Mark Gray, John McCormack, Ken Lake, Kerry Eupene, Rob Doyle and John Gracie. Without their time this project would not have been possible.

The role of all tropical exotic fruit and crop producers who have contributed directly in the project workshops and or indirectly through supporting the author in tropical exotic crop promotional activities is gratefully acknowledged.

The careful deliberations and negotiating skills provided by the industry strategic planning workshop facilitator, Mr Tony Biggs was highly appreciated and led to a successful outcome.

Thanks also to Northern Territory Department of Resources – Primary Industry officers, Mark Hoult and Mark Traynor for their continued support and assistance with industry meetings. Other Northern Territory contributors who gave generously of their time include Kate Peak NTHA and Patti Flannery (Fresh Produce - NT).

Thanks are also expressed for the continued support of department colleagues with particular reference to Kaye Nunan (Principal Policy Officer – Regional Services) and Matt Weinert (Horticulture Senior Extension Officer – Mareeba).

Abbreviations

BOM – Bureau of Meteorology

DAFF – Federal, Department of Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries

DEEDI – Queensland, Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation

DOR – Northern Territory Department of Resources – Primary Industry

NTHA – Northern Territory Horticultural Association

TEFA – Tropical Exotic Fruits Australia

Contents

Foreword ...... iii

About the Author...... iv

Acknowledgments...... iv

Abbreviations ...... iv

Executive Summary ...... viii

Introduction ...... 1

Objectives ...... 2

Methodology ...... 2

Industry Survey ...... 3

Industry Stocktake and Industry Value ...... 4 Introduction ...... 4 Stocktake results ...... 9 Primary Commercial Species ...... 9 Secondary species ...... 11 Industry Value ...... 17

Cyclone Risk and Avoidance Strategies ...... 18 Introduction ...... 18 Cyclone Ratings and History ...... 20 Cyclone Larry ...... 21 Cyclone Yasi ...... 24 Cyclone damage mitigation ...... 24

Strategic Plans ...... 27 Industry direction plan ...... 27 Update of Existing Tropical Fruit Strategic Plans ...... 29 Durian ...... 29

Results ...... 36 Industry stocktake and industry value ...... 36 Industry Survey ...... 36 Cyclone Risk and Avoidance Strategies ...... 36 Strategic Plans...... 36

Implications...... 37

Recommendations ...... 37

References ...... 38

Appendix 1 - Industry Survey Results ...... 39

Appendix 2 - TEFA Exotic Fruit Growers Industry Survey Booklet ...... 44

Tables

Table 1 Example - stocktake and production table in the grower survey ...... 4

Table 2 Tropical fruit for which tree numbers and production data was provided ...... 5

Table 3 Exotic tropical fruit, common tropical fruit, native fruit and tropical vegetable species displayed at the 2010 Feast of the Senses market day display ...... 6

Table 4 Primary commercial tropical exotic fruit grown in Queensland and the NT ...... 15

Table 5 Secondary commercial tropical exotic fruit grown in Queensland and the NT ...... 16

Table 6 Assumed value of tropical exotic fruits produced in the NT and Queensland ...... 17

Table 7 Cyclone rating as per the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) ...... 20

Table 8 Tropical Cyclones (TC) which passed within 100 km of Cairns and Darwin from 1980 to 2006 ... 21

Table 9 A profile of tree damage, loss of crop and infrastructure damage due to Cyclone Larry ...... 22

Table 10 Issues that have had considerable R&D effort expended on them ...... 29

Table 11 Durian R&D issues and the percentage of grower priority selections in 2010 ...... 30

Table 12 Durian industry key issues identified by industry and researchers in 1999 and updated in 2002 .... 31

Table 13 Mangosteen industry key issues identified by industry and researchers in 1999 ...... 32

Table 14 Mangosteen R&D issues and the percentage of grower priority selections ...... 32

Table 15 Rambutan industry key issues identified by industry and researchers in 1999 and updated in 2003 ...... 34

Table 16 Rambutan R&D issues and the percentage of grower priority selections ...... 35

Figures

Figure 1 Map of far north Queensland indicating the main coastal zone for the production of tropical exotic fruit ...... 18

Figure 2 Map of regional areas surrounding Darwin in the NT indicating the main production area for tropical exotic fruit ...... 19

Figure 3 Cyclones which crossed the coast within 100 km of Cairns and Darwin between 1980 and 2006 .. 21

Figure 4 Images of orchard damage following tropical cyclone Larry in March 2006 ...... 23

Figure 5 Proposed TEFA organisational chart and objectives ...... 28

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Executive Summary

What the report is about

The report is about the development of strategic directions for the tropical exotic fruit industry. It includes the results of an industry survey to gauge issues within the industry, an industry stocktake and calculation of industry value. The report also discusses the risk of cyclones to the industry and a summary of damage caused by Cyclone Larry as well as potential damage mitigation strategies.

The report details upgrades to existing strategic plans for durian, mangosteen and rambutan and the development of objectives for the industry organisation – Tropical Exotic Fruit Australia Inc.

The work carried out in this project allows the industry to regroup and reform following the devastation caused by cyclone Larry to industry production and morale.

Who is the report targeted at?

The report is targeted at members of Tropical Exotic Fruit Australia as well as non-member growers and federal and state government support agencies.

Where are the relevant industries located in Australia?

The tropical exotic fruit industries are located in northern Australia. In north Queensland the primary production region for tropical exotic fruit ranges from Cooktown (15o 46’S) to Murray Upper (18o 04’S) with the bulk of production being produced along the coastal strip within a 150km radius of Cairns. Production of tropical fruits which are well adapted to the sub tropics, occur in the western regions of the Atherton Tablelands and as far south as the Sunshine coast rural area, north of Brisbane. In the Northern Territory the industry is located within a 100km radius of Darwin.

The industry is highly diversified with member/producers growing over 20 fruit species commercially. There are an estimated 170 producers involved with approximately 120 producers in north Queensland and 50 producers in the NT. The north Queensland growing region is the main production region closely followed by production in the NT.

Production is principally for the domestic market with the bulk of product servicing the requirements of immigrants from SE Asia. The rambutan industry has had some export success in the past.

Background

The Australian Tropical Exotic Fruit Industry remains in recovery mode from the devastating effects of Cyclone Larry (March 2006) on a major production area, from Tully to Cairns, in north Queensland. The direct effect of Cyclone Larry on production and economic return has had follow-on effects on the community of tropical exotic fruit producers with many growers retreating to their farms to do what they can to remain viable. As a result the development of TEFA, an amalgamation of growers from north Queensland and the NT, which began prior to Cyclone Larry, stalled once growers were faced with survival as the economic reality.

viii

Aims/objectives

• Assist the Tropical Exotic fruit industry to develop a data base of tree numbers and an estimate of industry value; • Develop a cyclone risk and protection strategy which will include mapping areas at risk as well as detailing aspects of crop agronomy, diversification and also growing location; • Upgrade existing strategic plans for rambutan, mangosteen and durian; • Develop an overarching TEFA strategic plan which can be used to direct research, development and extension activities for the next five years.

Methods Used

The process undertaken included:

• Formation of a project steering committee (February 2010); • Formulation of industry stocktake methods; • Industry meetings in Queensland and the Northern Territory (July 2009); • Commence update of current specific crop strategic plans for rambutan, durian and mangosteen; • Industry strategic direction setting and supply chain workshop (March 2010); • Meeting in Darwin with Northern Territory based board members (August 2010); • Meeting in Babinda with Queensland based board members (September 2010); • TEFA plan update and farm walk with Queensland growers (November 2010).

Results/key findings

There are a total of 142,000 trees in the tropical exotic fruit category in northern Australia. The bulk of production is in north Queensland with 79,900 trees. The top five species in terms of tree numbers are dragon fruit (50,100), rambutan (25,100), mangosteen (11,800), jackfruit (9,300) and pomelo (5,300). There are a further eight species with more than a 1,000 trees and another 5 species in which tree numbers range from 380 to 900 trees. The report profiles 20 exotic fruit species.

The potential value of the industry, assuming average cropping and price is $16.03 million.

Survey results indicated that the majority of growers have had little interest in or taken heed of outcomes of previous industry planning workshops. The majority of growers (62%) had not accessed the RIRDC website. Only 9.6% of respondents indicated that they had accessed one or more RIRDC project reports linked to their industry.

Existing plans for durian, mangosteen and rambutan are comprehensive and overly optimistic and a reflection of the enthusiasm of the day. Many of the key issues and resulting action plans have not been acted on due to a lack of industry and government support agency funding and a lack of capacity within the industry to drive the issues raised in previous plans. The report details areas of work which have been undertaken since the previous plans were developed. Strategic plan updates for the period 2010 to 2015 were limited to 5 key points per crop.

An industry plan was developed by industry members. The industry which is still recovering, following severe economic loss caused by cyclone Larry in north Queensland, discussed the importance of a representative body such as TEFA and how it may operate in the future. Important directions for the immediate future of the organisation include;

1. Communication with growers and affiliated bodies (newsletter & website) 2. Dealing with industry issues (eg Chemical registration, winged vertebrate pests, import applications, etc). 3. Product promotion, with particular reference to promoting product to the food services community (Restaurants and Providores).

Since the draft of the report was completed in January 2011, tropical cyclone Yasi crossed the coast near Mission Beach on the 3 February 2011 and destroyed up to 26% of Queensland tropical tree stock. Growers in north Queensland are particularly dispirited following two major catastrophic climatic events in five years. As a consequence most north Queensland members of TEFA have allowed their membership to lapse.

Implications for relevant stakeholders

This project provides the tropical exotic fruit industry with information on the diversity of crops grown and the economic value of these industries. The industry, in its united form as Tropical Exotic Fruit Australia representing producers across northern Australia, is still in its infancy and faces a number of challenges.

The report indicates the economic value of these diverse industries to northern Australia and the importance of fostering new industry development. To quote a line from the musician Paul Kelly “from little things big things grow”.

Government agencies at a state and federal level who interact with industries will also gain from the information provided in the report.

Recommendations

• The experience of other industries indicates that the presence of a strong, viable industry organisation which can coordinate communication across the industry and help guide its R&D, can be advantageous to the development and viability of an industry. Participants in this industry may like to consider how their interests may be affected in the absence of a peak industry body.

• There is an opportunity to disseminate information relevant and useful to commercial growers through the TEFA website and newsletters.

• Maintaining an active workshop program for growers is a useful tool to ensure they keep up to date with current research and management techniques to maintain productivity and assure quality in their crops.

• Many establishing industries have received great benefits from funding an industry executive/development officer to assist with implementation of industry objectives. Growers might like to consider whether such an investment would be useful for this industry.

• Existing plans for durian, mangosteen and rambutan need to be updated.

Introduction

Tropical exotic fruit were introduced into northern Australia as early as the late 1800’s. Benson (1914) discusses the cultivation of fruits “such as mango, pineapple, banana, papaw, granadilla, guava, custard apple, litchi, soursop, cocoa nut, breadfruit, jack fruit, monstera, alligator pear (avocado), and others of a purely tropical character”. Benson’s introduction to the potential for tropical fruit growing also highlights that mangosteen was introduced through the Kamarunga quarantine facility, on the outskirts of Cairns, in October 1891 and that a thriving young plant was recorded on Dunk Island (off Mission beach).

In north Queensland, planned tropical fruit plant introductions and evaluations were conducted by the now defunct Department of Primary Industries Kamerunga Research Station in Cairns, during the 1970 and 1980’s. Private and government sponsored plant introductions lead to the establishment of a range of commercial industries the most prominent being the rambutan industry in the wet coastal part of north Queensland. In the Northern Territory a range of tropical exotic fruit were introduced early in the territory’s history. A major wave of introductions occurred in the late 1980’s, by the horticulture branch of the then Department of Primary Production.

Grower and market interest in a range of tropical exotic fruits continues to increase. DEEDI has actively supported promotional activities at food industry events such as the Hilton Master Class and Sydney Restaurant 2009 and Queensland Produce events. At these promotional events there is a strong interest in the range of tropical exotic fruits produced in northern Australia.

The Northern Territory Department of Primary Industry and Fisheries was actively involved in both rambutan and durian research during the 1990’s with support from Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC).

The development of a national grower body for Tropical Exotic Fruits was initiated by Queensland and Northern Territory exotic tropical fruit growers in 2004, and came to fruition with support from the Department of Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries under the Industry Partnership Program. Tropical Exotic Fruit Australia Incorporated (TEFA) was established in 2007 following a merger of the Rambutan and Tropical Exotic Growers Association Incorporated (RTEGA) of Queensland with the Rambutan and Tropical Exotic Fruit sub- groups of the Northern Territory Horticultural Association.

TEFA was established to improve the profile and foster the development of the tropical exotic fruit industry estimated to be worth over $9 million annually. The role of TEFA is to work to improve the industry by commissioning national research and development projects in partnership with RIRDC and others. TEFA can also be the vehicle to provide a united voice, a visible profile and coordination on responses to critical issues of interest to participants in the tropical exotic crops industry.

TEFA has a management committee comprising three Queensland representatives and two Northern Territory representatives. Committee members are elected by commercial grower members in their respective regions. The NT Horticultural Association (NTHA) based in Darwin, has been appointed to provide secretariat services to TEFA. The Australian Tropical Exotic Fruit Industry remains in recovery mode from the devastating effects of Cyclone Larry (March 2006) on a major production area, from Tully to Cairns, in north Queensland. Many professional and hobby farmers lost a high percentage of their fruit

trees and or experienced a high level of damage. Production of the major species (rambutan) started to return in the 08/09 season with commercial crops appearing in the 09/10 season.

The direct effect of Cyclone Larry on production and economic return has had follow-on effects on the community of tropical exotic fruit producers with many growers retreating to their farms to do what they can to remain viable. As a result the development of TEFA, which began prior to Cyclone Larry, ceased once growers were faced with survival as the economic reality. Objectives

The project objectives are to assist the Tropical Exotic fruit industry to develop a data base of tree numbers and an estimate of industry value and which exotic fruits are at the forefront of commercialisation.

A specific objective of the project will be to develop a cyclone risk and protection strategy which will include mapping areas at risk as well as detailing aspects of crop agronomy, diversification and also growing location. Both major growing areas are subject to the incidence of severe cyclones which can have a significant effect on production.

Upgrade existing strategic plans for rambutan, mangosteen and durian.

The information gained above will be used to develop an overarching TEFA strategic plan which can be used to direct research, development and extension activities for the next five years.

The strategic plan will also be of significant value to industry development partners in federal and state research and development agencies. Methodology

A RIRDC project was initiated in 2007 but postponed until early 2009, to develop a strategic direction plan for the industry. The process undertaken included:

• Formation of a project steering committee (February 2010); • Formulation of industry stock take methods; • Industry meetings in Queensland and the Northern Territory (July 2009); • Commence update of current specific crop strategic plans for rambutan, durian and mangosteen; • Industry strategic direction setting and supply chain workshop (March 2010); • Meeting in Darwin with Northern Territory based board members (August 2010); • Meeting in Babinda with Queensland based board members (September 2010); • TEFA plan update and farm walk with Queensland growers (November 2010).

Industry Survey

Industry members were invited and encouraged to fill in a survey form. The survey aimed to identify information about the makeup of the tropical exotic producing community and was conducted in the 2009/10 financial year.

The results of the survey provided the basis for the industry stocktake and industry value analysis in this report.

Questions were aimed at defining:

• The tropical exotic grower • Issues which impacted on production and business • Influence of past strategic planning exercises • Use of RIRDC resources • Proposed strategic directions.

Responses were received from eighty five participants which included 50 from the NT and 35 from Queensland. The response rate of 35 responses from Queensland growers was 17.5% (35/120 growers) given that estimates suggest there are approximately 120 growers involved in some form of tropical exotic fruit production. The 35 responses from Qld included the major tropical fruit producers. In calculating tree numbers for Queensland the project team included trees that they were aware of which were not covered in the survey data. The team is confident that it has captured the bulk of trees.

The low response rate from Queensland is likely to be due to producers still recovering from Cyclone Larry (March 2006) and the fact that many of these smaller producers were engaged in income activities (work) unrelated to the farm.

Full results are provided at Appendix 1.

The TEFA 2009 Exotic Fruit Growers Industry Survey Booklet is at Appendix 2.

Industry Stocktake and Industry Value

Introduction

An industry stocktake was designed to gather data on the number of new and mature plantings of tropical fruit species and production data at the time of the survey. Each survey participant was asked to fill in the table below (Table 1) for each species grown on their farm.

Survey participants provided tree number and production data for 25 tropical fruits (Table 2).

Table 1 Example - stocktake and production table in the grower survey Tree Tree Production Production Production Pre Larry production Age Number (08/09) (07/08) (06/07) (05/06)

Kg/cartons Kg/cartons Kg/cartons Tree Production Number Kg/cartons 0-1 2-4 5-10 11 -19 20+ TOTAL

A diverse range of fruit species have been introduced into northern Australia. The bulk of them are grown by plant/fruit collectors. The variety of fruits grown is shown in Table 3, below, which lists the species collected and shown at the 2010 Innisfail “Feast of the Senses” market day display. The Feast is a celebration of all things tropical. The tropical exotic fruit grown in the region are an important part of the display. The display was made up of 78 species which included 60 species of tropical exotic fruit, five common tropical species, six native fruit species. The display also included six tropical vegetable species and one spice.

Table 2 Tropical fruit for which tree numbers and production data was provided Common Name Latin Name Common Name Latin Name

Rambutan Nephelium Carambola Averrhoa carambola lappaceum Durian Durio zibethinus Water/Malay Syzygium Apple aqueum/malaccense Mangosteen Garcinia Abiu Pouteria caimito mangostana Jack fruit Artocarpus Breadfruit Artocarpus atilis heterophyllus Pomelo Citrus grandis Hogs Plum Spondias cytherea

Soursop Annona muricarta Asian custard Annona squamosa x apple cherimola Rollinia Rollinia mucosa Sugar Banana Musa spp

Sapodilla Manilkara zapota Common Tropical Fruit

Jaboticaba Myrciaria cauliflora Papaya Carica papaya

Duku-Langsat Lansium domesticum Passion fruit Passiflora spp.

Guava Psidium guajava Figs Ficus carica

Dragon fruit Hylocerus Thaitian Lime Citrus latifolia polyrhizus/undatus Star Apple Chrysophyllum Longan Dimocarpus longan caimito

Five of the 25 tropical fruits grown (Papaya, Passionfruit, Figs, Tahitian Limes and Longan) are well established and are represented by their own producer associations, hence they will not be dealt with in any detail in this report.

Table 3 Exotic tropical fruit, common tropical fruit, native fruit and tropical vegetable species displayed at the 2010 Feast of the Senses market day display Common Name Scientific Name Exotic Tropical Fruit Soursop Annona muricarta Bignay Antidesma bunis Kelidang Artocarpos anisophyllus Breadfruit Artocarpus atilis Jackfruit Artocarpus heterophyllus Kwai Muk Artocarpus hypargyreus Lakoocha Artocarpus lakoocha Terap Artocarpus odoratissimus Monkey Jack Artocarpus rigidus Bilimbi Averrhoa bilimbi Carambola Averrhoa carambola Tampoi Baccaurea angulata Baccaurea (Rambai) Baccaurea motleyana Tampoi Baccurea macrocarpa Ackee Blighia sapida Peanut Butter fruit Bunchosia armeniaca Star Apple Chrysophyllum caimito Pomelo Citrus grandis Kaffir Lime Citrus hystrix Buddha's Hand Citrus media vr. Sarcodactylis Coconut Cocos nucifera Kola Nut Cola acuminata Longan Dimocarpus longan Black sapote Diospyros digyna Persimmon Diospyros kaki Durian Durio zibethinus Araca Eugenia stipitata Brazil Cherry Eugenia uniflora Kumquat Fortunella polyandra Rheedia Garcinia brasillensis

Table 3 continued Common Name Scientific Name Camboge Garcinia cambogia Yellow mangosteen Garcinia dulcis Achacha Garcinia humilis? Mangosteen Garcinia mangostana Button Mangosteen Garcinia prainiana Dragon Fruit - red flesh Hylocerus polyrhizus Dragon Fruit - white flesh Hylocerus undatus Ice Cream bean Inga spp. Langsat Lansium domesticum Mamey Mammea americana Sapodilla Manilkara zapota South American Sapote Matisia cordata Banana – exotic (Red Dacca, Dwarf French Plantain, Blue Java, Sucree) Musa spp

Rambutan Nephelium lappaceum Nephelium op Nephelium sp. Uncinatum Pandanus Nut Pandanus sp. Passion Fruit Passiflora spp. Abiu Pouteria caimito Mamey sapote Pouteria sapota Guava Psidium guajava Rollinia (Biriba) Rollinia mucosa Salak Salacca edulis Thai Salak Salacca wallichiana Santol Sandoricum koetjape

Yellow dragonfruit Selenicerius megalanthus

Hogs Plum (Ambarella) Spondias cytherea Miracle Fruit Synsepaleum dulcifium Malay apple Syzgium mallacensis Water Apple Syzygium aqueum African Breadfruit Treculia africana

Table 3 continued Common Name Scientific Name Spice Vanilla Vanilla planifolia

Common Tropical Fruit Pineapple Ananas comosus

Custard Apple Annona squamosa x cherimola Papaya Carica papaya Mango Mangifera indica Avocado Persea americana

Tropical Vegetables Okra Abelmoschus esculentus Bamboo Shoot Bambusa sp. Taro Colocasia esculenta Costus flower - French Kiss Costus woodsoniana Torch Ginger Etlingera elatior Cassava Manihot esculentus

Native Fruit Lemon Aspen Acronychia acidula Atherton Nut Athertonia diversifolia Finger lime Citrus australasica Russell river lime Citrus inodora Davidson plum Davidsonia pruriens Noni Morinda citrifolia

Stocktake results

The industry stocktake was relatively comprehensive with planting data collected on 18 tropical exotic species.

Plant numbers were highly variable between growing locations with Queensland having more trees for 10 of the 18 species (Table 4 and 5).

Primary Commercial Species

There are three species of dragon fruit (pitaya) normally grown and marketed (Hylocersus undatus (red skin white flesh), Hylocerus polyrhizus (red skin red flesh) and Selenicereus megalanthus (yellow skin with white flesh). The fruits are members of the cactus family. They are popular among immigrants of Vietnamese decent. The fruit are an attractive addition to a fruit platter. Some consider the flesh bland. The red fleshed species lends itself to be used as a base for exotic spiced or sweet sauces. Dragon fruit is currently the most prolific species recorded in the survey with 50,100 planting sites#. The bulk of the plantings are in the NT (34,150 sites or 62.2% of total plantings). The survey did not distinguish between the three species but experience suggests that the bulk of the plantings in the NT are based on Hylocerus undatus while Queensland produces a high proportion of Hylocerus polyrhizus. The third species (S. megalanthus) is usually grown in small quantities. The farm gate value of the pitaya industry, based on the survey data, is $2.25M from a production of 750 tonnes. # - A planting site or pole may consist of up to three individual plants.

Rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum) has been the main stay of the tropical exotic fruit industry. The fruit is the “tropical” cousin of lychee and longan. The attractive soft spined exterior skin surrounds the sweet translucent to white flesh containing one seed. Rambutan is best eaten as a fresh fruit. The majority of trees are located in north Queensland (approx. 20,000 or 79.7% of total plantings) with approximately 5000 trees recorded in the NT. The production potential of rambutan, at a modest yield of 25 kg per tree, is 627 tonnes valued at $3.76M. Rambutan production is dependent on ideal environmental conditions. Hence yearly production is highly variable.

Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) is considered the “Queen” of tropical fruit. The thick purple skin surrounds a number of white fleshed citrus like segments which may contain one or two seeds. Mangosteen is primarily grown in north Queensland (11,606 trees or 98.6% of total plantings). The remaining 163 trees are recorded in the NT. This is not unexpected given that mangosteen is not ideally suited to the monsoonal tropics. The production potential of mangosteen, at a modest yield of 15 kg per tree is 176 tonnes valued at $1.77M. Mangosteen production is dependent on ideal environmental conditions. Hence yearly production is highly variable.

Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) is a relative of breadfruit and mulberry and is chiefly grown for its ripe fruit that is eaten fresh or used in desserts and sweet drinks. Immature green fruit is also commonly used in vegetable curries and the seed of ripe fruit can be eaten after being boiled or roasted. Jackfruit is an increasingly important fruit with major plantings in The NT (7,240 trees, 78.1% of total production). The remaining 2,031 trees are grown in north Queensland. The fruit also has an important profile in farmers markets in the Northern Territory. The estimated production potential of Jackfruit, at a yield of 80 kg/tree is 741 tonnes valued at $2.6M. Selected varieties of Jackfruit are assumed to have potential for the fresh cut market. This would allow the fruit to be introduced to a new market.

The pomelo (Citrus grandis) a citrus, best suited to the hot humid tropics, is the largest of the citrus fruits with specimens recorded up to 6 kg in weight. Pomelos are round or pear shaped depending on cultivar and tend to have relatively thick rind. Skin colour is generally light green, yellow or light pink. The flesh varies in colour from pale yellow to pink. The juice sacks are large and lightly crunchy containing a mildly sweet acidic juice. The fruit is a favourite among Chinese people, particularly during festivals such as Chinese New Year and the Moon Festival. Pomelo is grown widely in tropical north Australia with major plantings in the NT (4,100 trees or 76.7% of total). The fruit are growing in acceptability in the market and are being increasingly utilised by high-end restaurants in fusion style salads. The estimated production potential of pomelo, at a yield of 60 kg/tree is 321 tonnes valued at $0.96M.

Durian (Durio zibethinus) the “King” of tropical fruit perfectly represents the term “exotic fruit”. A fruit armoured with spines and a pungent odour when ripe. The creamy edible flesh surrounding the seeds has a flavour similar to garlic custard. The bulk of trees accounted for in the survey are in the Northern Territory (3,107 or 62.2% of total). The remaining 1,888 trees in Queensland are the survivors following cyclone Larry. Pre Larry stock-take suggested that there were up to 13,000 durian trees planted in north Queensland. The estimated production potential of durian, at a yield of 12 kg/tree is 60 tonnes valued at $0.48M.

Guava (Psidium guajava) is well known for its use as an ingredient in tropical juices. The skin and interior flesh containing small seeds are edible when immature as a crisp fruit or as a mature soft fruit. Flesh colour varies with variety from white to salmon pink. The white fleshed fruit are supplied to the market as mature unripe for fresh fruit consumption. The pink fruit are supplied for fresh fruit consumption as ripe fruit. The fruit, in particular the pink fleshed varieties, have recently gained notoriety with exposure on Master Chef®. Guava is an underrated fruit with major plantings in Northern Territory (3,290 trees or 86.2% of total production). The remaining 525 trees are grown in north Queensland. The estimated production potential of guava, at a yield of 30 kg/tree is 114 tonnes valued at $0.5M.

Carambola (Averrhoa carambola) or star fruit has been widely grown as a back yard fruit tree along the SE coast of Queensland and northern Australia. Commercial plantings exist from northern NSW, southern and central Queensland and the rural regions surrounding Darwin. The main commercial cultivars are B2, B10, B17, Arkin, Fung Tung and Giant Siam (Diczbalis and McMahon 2004). The fruit is primarily grown for the food service market where it is used as a garnish surrounding fruit platters. The survey indicates there are 2,200 trees (65.7%) planted in Queensland with the bulk of commercial trees in regional areas surrounding Rockhampton and Bundaberg. The remaining 1,150 trees are grown in the Darwin rural area. The estimated production potential of carambola, at a yield of 45 kg/tree is 150 tonnes valued at $1.21M. Opportunities exist for industry expansion if the fruit can be introduced to the larger Australian market. The fruit is highly versatile as a fresh fruit and a refreshing juice.

Soursop (Annona muricata) or guanabana is a relative of the better known custard apple and native to central and South America. The fruit flesh is ideal for use in tropical flavoured ice-creams and juices. Recently the fruit is being touted on the internet as having anti-cancer properties (http://www.buzzle.com/articles/soursop-and-cancer- cure.html). This has increased demand for product. The bulk of soursop is grown in north Queensland (2440 trees or 97.6% of total plantings). There are reported to be 60 trees in the Northern Territory. The estimated production potential of soursop, at a yield of 20 kg/tree is 50 tonnes valued at $0.30M. Opportunities exist for industry expansion if the fruit can be successfully introduced to the specialist food service market.

Secondary species

Duku–Langsat (Langsium domesticum) is a relatively unknown fruit in Australia although well known in Thailand, Malay Peninsula and the Indonesian islands. The fruit are grape like clusters on the trunk and main branches of the tree. The fruit is covered in a leathery skin which is easily peeled to reveal two to three translucent flesh segments. Immature fruit produce latex at the edge of the broken skin. Fruit may contain one greenish seed similar in size to a pumpkin seed. In most cases the seeds are aborted. The flesh has a refreshing flavour with a hint of acidity. The survey revealed a surprising number of trees in northern Queensland and the Northern Territory. There are 1200 trees planted in north Queensland (68.7%) with a further 550 trees (31%) in the NT.

Star Apple (Chrysophyllum cainito) is an attractive fruit native to South America but well know through Asia with a particular following in the Philippines. Trees are grown throughout northern Australia where they are often planted for their attractive foliage. The survey data suggests there are a total of 1,717 trees with the bulk (68.3%) grown in the NT. There are purple skinned (Cv. Grimal and Haitian) and green skinned (cv. Philippine Gold) fruit with green skinned fruit generally receiving a higher market price.

Rollinia (Rollinia deliciosa) also known as Biriba is a relative of custard apple native to tropical central America and south America. The fruit is a yellow and heart shaped with a bumpy surface of soft leathery spines. The soft white tasty flesh is interspersed with black seeds which are not eaten. The tree is commonly propagated by seed and no varieties exist in commercial production. The fruit is challenging to move when ripe but a number of specialist growers are managing to get the fruit to southern markets. Fruit are best eaten fresh or can be used in cooking (cheese cakes and ice creams). The survey suggests that 100% of the crop is grown in far north Queensland (1330 trees). The tree bears early and prolifically.

Sapodilla (Manilkara zapota) or chico is native to Mexico and central America. The fruits aromatic and sweet “brown sugar” like flesh has led to its cultivation throughout tropical regions of the world. It is particularly popular in India and latex from the trees was extracted as the base for chewing gum prior to the development of synthetic gum base. The survey suggests there are 1076 trees with 79.6% (856 trees) in north Queensland and 220 trees in the Northern Territory. The tree is ideal for back yard production. The fruit lends itself to fresh eating and the flesh can be stirred into creams, ice creams and mousse.

Hog Plum (Spondias cythera) or Fiji Apple, Ambarella, Vi Apple or Otaheite Apple is a member of the mango and cashew family. The fruit, dark green in colour, is plum shaped sweet-sour to taste and is eaten at all stages of ripeness. The fruits have a distinct spiny seed that hardens as the fruits mature thus requiring care when the flesh is sucked from the seed. Although the fruit is native to the Pacific it is now commonly grown and eaten throughout SE Asia and Central America. The fruit is grown commercially in the Northern Territory with 890 trees representing 97.3% of total plantings. Fruit is produced from two major selections a large tree and a dwarf variety.

Abiu (Pouteria caimito) originates from South America in the tropical regions of Peru and Brazil. The yellow fruit is round to oval in shape and some varieties have a nipple like protrusion at the end of the fruit. The fruit is best eaten fresh to reveal the subtle caramel flavoured flesh. There are a number of selections which include Gray, Z2, Z4 and E4. There are a total of 610 trees with 73.8% (450 trees) in North Queensland and 122 trees in the Northern Territory. Abiu was regarded as an exotic fruit with potential (Ross 1997). Production is generally not a problem. The fruit bruises easily and the major challenge is getting unbruised fruit to market.

Breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis) is a fruit native to the Pacific islands and is inexorably connected to Captain Bligh who was responsible for transporting the trees from Tahiti to the West Indies. The fruit is an important staple food in the Pacific and can be used for making crisps and chips. The tree is truly tropical in its requirements and is ideally suited to the Northern Territory. In Queensland its range is currently restricted to areas north of Cairns or elevated areas, free of the influence of cold air drainage, south of Cairns. The survey suggests there are nearly 500 trees with 350 trees (74.2%) located in north Queensland. The remaining 120 trees are planted in the rural areas adjacent to Darwin.

Jaboticaba (Myrciaria cauliflora) are native to southern Brazil. The fruit are produced directly on the main trunk and branches and are similar in appearance to a large black skinned grape. The skin of jaboticaba is relatively thick and contains a translucent flesh similar to a grape. The fruit are delicious when eaten fresh and would lend themselves to being presented in a punnet similar to temperate berries. The survey suggests there are 441 commercial trees with all of them present in north Queensland. Jaboticaba will also grow successfully in sub-tropical areas such as SE Queensland.

Malay and WaterApple (Syzygium malaccense and S. aqueum) are native to the Indo Malay region. Malay and Water Apple are closely related to Australia’s lillypillies but are larger fruit in comparison. The fruit vary in colour, white to deep crimson red, and usually have a crisp white flesh. The whole fruit is edible except for a seed which is found in the Malay Apple. The fruit is traditional eaten fresh with an accompanying spiced salty dry dip. The fruit lends itself to fresh salads. The survey records suggest there are 383 trees in production with the bulk of trees (79% or 303 trees) being grown in the Northern Territory. The remaining trees are produced in north Queensland

Black Sapote (Diospyros digyna) or chocolate pudding fruit is native to Mexico and a close relative of persimmon. The fruit is easily produced in the tropics from a variety of seedling selections. Large squat fruit are preferred to the smaller oval types. The fruit is a culinary fruit because it is best used in recipes where it is used in association with chocolate or as a replacement for chocolate colouration. The fruit are climactic and can be picked green mature. They are best to consume when fully softened. The tree is hardy and is used successfully as a windbreak. The tree is well adapted to warmer sub-tropical areas as well as the west coast of north Queensland. There are an unquantified number of trees in northern Australia. Market demand is increasing due to interest in the fruit from chefs.

Achacharu (Garcina humilis) is a fruit recently introduced from Bolivia. It is related to mangosteen and is borne on a tree similar in appearance but with smaller lanceolate leaves and more sun tolerant. The trees of the variety “A-SE” (17,000 trees) are owned (under plant variety rights) by one company and planted in an area south of Townsville. The fruit is bright yellow in colour and

egg shaped. The white crisp flesh, surrounding a single seed is slightly acidic in nature and is delicious fresh. The skin can be used to make a refreshing drink and the flesh also lends itself to being used in purees and juices.

There are many more tropical exotic fruit species grown for commercial gain as well as by collectors (Table 6). Many of these are believed to have commercial potential and entrepreneurial growers are testing the commercial realities of a number of these fruits. Species such as Acerola (Malpighia glabra), Grumichama (Eugenia braziliensis), Canisel (Pouteria campechiana), Kwai muk (Artocarpus hypargyreus), Rambai (Baccaurea motleyana), Mamey sapote (Pouteria sapota) and Miracle fruit (Synsepaleum dulcifium) are some of them.

Table 4 Primary commercial tropical exotic fruit grown in Queensland and the NT Tree Age (years) No. Crop State 0-1 2-4 5-10 11-19 20+ Total

1 Dragon Fruit Qld 1000 950 6500 7500 0 15950 NT 1200 4950 25400 2000 600 34150 Total 2200 5900 31900 9500 600 50100 2 Rambutan Qld 1365 3720 6465 5990 2455 19995 NT 0 600 2260 767 1460 5087 Total 1365 4320 8725 6757 3915 25082 3 Mangosteen Qld 0 2300 2122 4474 2710 11606 NT 10 0 53 0 100 163 Total 10 2300 2175 4474 2810 11769 4 Jackfruit Qld 40 260 861 570 300 2031 NT 0 650 6110 480 0 7240 Total 40 910 6971 1050 300 9271 5 Pomelo Qld 0 200 295 600 150 1245 NT 0 0 4100 0 0 4100 Total 0 200 4395 600 150 5345 6 Durian Qld 0 90 92 1206 500 1888 NT 0 0 7 3000 100 3107 Total 0 90 99 4206 600 4995 7 Guava Qld 0 150 130 245 0 525 NT 0 0 3290 0 0 3290 Total 0 150 3420 245 0 3815 8 Carambola Qld 130 735 450 712 175 2202 NT 4 45 900 0 200 1149 Total 134 780 1350 712 375 3351 9 Soursop Qld 50 1090 950 300 50 2440 NT 0 35 24 0 0 59 Total 50 1125 974 300 50 2499

Table 5 Secondary commercial tropical exotic fruit grown in Queensland and the NT Tree Age (years) No. Crop State 0-1 2-4 5-10 11-19 20+ Total

10 Duku-Langsat Qld 195 60 86 830 37 1208 NT 0 0 550 0 0 550 Total 195 60 636 830 37 1758 11 Star Apple Qld 20 110 65 150 200 545 NT 0 0 1172 0 0 1172 Total 20 110 1237 150 200 1717 12 Rollinia Qld 50 230 800 200 50 1330 NT 0 0 0 0 0 0 Total 50 230 800 200 50 1330 13 Sapodilla Qld 150 161 245 150 150 856 NT 0 40 30 0 150 220 Total 150 201 275 150 300 1076 14 Hogs Plum Qld 0 0 0 25 0 25 NT 0 200 690 0 0 890 Total 0 200 690 25 0 915 15 Abiu Qld 0 50 150 150 100 450 NT 0 0 10 150 0 160 Total 0 50 160 300 100 610 16 Breadfruit Qld 50 0 0 150 150 350 NT 0 0 42 80 0 122 Total 50 0 42 230 150 472 17 Jaboticaba Qld 34 28 147 66 166 441 NT 0 0 0 0 0 0 Total 34 28 147 66 166 441 18 Water/Malay Apple Qld 0 80 0 0 0 80 NT 150 30 123 0 0 303 Total 150 110 123 0 0 383

Industry Value

The current and potential value of the industry is difficult to determine due to the low volumes of tropical exotic fruit passing through the commercial market system, not being recorded. Fruit production and availability varies depending on seasonal influences as do the resultant whole sale prices.

The value of the industry has been calculated based on a number of assumptions (Table 6).

These assumptions include:

• The tree number data collected is a true reflection of what exists; • All trees accounted for in the survey are productive at the average yields indicated or will be productive in the near future. The yield used are conservative in nature; • The average price per kg indicated is realised in the market place. The prices used for the calculation are conservative in nature.

The tropical exotic fruit industry is valued at $16.03M with the Queensland produced component, valued at $9.51M and the NT produced component, valued at $6.52M.

Table 6 Assumed value of tropical exotic fruits produced in the NT and Queensland Tree Numbers

Gross Total Average Average Value Total Tree Production Yield Price Crop Qld NT $M Number (T) kg/tree $/kg

Dragon Fruit 15950 34150 2.25 50100 751.5 15 3

Rambutan 19995 5087 3.76 25082 627.1 25 6

Mangosteen 11606 163 1.77 11769 176.5 15 10

Jack Fruit 2031 7240 2.60 9271 741.7 80 3.5

Pomelo 1245 4100 0.96 5345 320.7 60 3

Durian 1888 3107 0.48 4995 59.9 12 8

Guava 525 3290 0.46 3815 114.5 30 4

Carambola 2202 1149 1.21 3351 150.8 45 8

Soursop 2440 59 0.30 2499 50.0 20 6

Achacha 17000 0 1.53 17000 255.0 15 6

Others 5000 4000 0.72 9000 90.0 10 8

TOTAL 79882 62345 $16.03 142227

Cyclone Risk and Avoidance Strategies

Introduction

Tropical cyclones pose a considerable risk to tropical exotic fruit and crop production regions in far north Queensland and the Northern Territory.

In north Queensland the primary production region for tropical exotic fruit ranges from Cooktown (15o 46’S) to Murray Upper (18o 04’S) with the bulk of production being produced along the coastal strip within a 100km radius of Cairns (Figure 1). Production of tropical fruits which are well adapted to the sub tropics such dragon fruit, carambola, black sapote occurs in the western regions of the Tablelands and as far south as the Sunshine coast rural area, north of Brisbane.

Cooktown 15o46’S

Murray Upper 18o04’S

Figure 1 Map of far north Queensland indicating the main coastal zone for the production of tropical exotic fruit

In the Northern Territory the bulk of tropical exotic fruit production occurs within a 100 kilometre radius of south of Darwin with the bulk of production within 50 km of the NT capital (Figure 2).

Darwin 12oS

Figure 2 Map of regional areas surrounding Darwin in the NT indicating the main production area for tropical exotic fruit

Cyclone Ratings and History

Cyclones are internationally rated in strength from Category 1 to Category 5 (Table7).

Table 7 Cyclone rating as per the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) Category Sustained Strongest gusts Typical effects at centre wind speeds (km/hour) (km/hour)

1 63-88 < 125 Negligible house damage, Damage to some crops, trees and caravans. 2 89-117 125-164 Minor house damage, Significant damage to signs, trees and caravans Heavy damage to some crops. 3 118-159 165-224 Some roof and structural damage, Some caravans destroyed and blown away Power failure likely. 4 160-199 225-279 Significant roofing loss and structural damage, Many caravans destroyed and blown away, Dangerous airborne debris, Widespread power failure. 5 >200 >280 Extremely dangerous and widespread destruction.

The effect of increasing wind strength is exponential, not linear. For example a Category 5 cyclone can cause up to 250 times the damage of a category 3 cyclone (BOM website).

Table 8 indicates the number and names of cyclones, from 1980 to 2006, which crossed the coast within 100 km of Cairns and Darwin (BOM website, 2010). The assumption made is that the potential for damage may have occurred in a growing region. Where possible the level of damage as reported by tropical fruit growers is indicated.

Table 8 Tropical Cyclones (TC) which passed within 100 km of Cairns and Darwin from 1980 to 2006 Cyclone Cairns Darwin

1 TC Vernon; Jan1986 TC Max; Mar 1981

2 TC Winifred; Feb 1986** TC Amelia; Dec 1981

3 TC Felicity; Dec 1989 TC (unnamed); Dec 1981

4 TC Ivor; Mar 1990 TC Ferdinand; Mar 1984

5 TC Justin; Mar 1997 TC Gretel; Apr 1985

6 TC Rona; Feb 1999* TC Sam; Jan 1990

7 TC Steve; Mar 2000* TC Bobby; Feb 1995

8 TC Abigail; Mar 2001 TC Vance; Mar 1999

9 TC Larry; Mar 2006*** TC Craig; Mar 2003

10 TC Yasi, February 2011*** TC Monica; Apr 2006*

* - indicates level of damage reported by tropical exotic fruit growers * - minor, ** - moderate, *** - severe

The tracks of the cyclones listed in Table 8 (excluding TC Yasi) are shown in Figure 3. This information is readily available from the cyclone data base on the BOM website (http://reg.bom.gov.au/cgi-bin/silo/cyclones.cgi) and offers an interesting historical perspective on cyclone activity in northern Australia.

a. b.

Figure 3 Cyclones which crossed the coast within 100 km of Cairns and Darwin between 1980 and 2006

Cyclone Larry

A recent example of a destructive cyclone, severely effecting production is Cyclone Larry which made landfall in the vicinity of Innisfail on the early hours of Monday 20 March 2006.

Extreme orchard damage occurred within a radius of approximately 30 km from Innisfail and includes orchards from Josephine Falls in the north, Mena Creek to the south west and Silkwood to the south of Innisfail. In this area up to 90% of the established rambutan, mangosteen and durian orchards were badly damaged. Substantial damage to orchards and or

net infrastructure occurred from Bellenden Ker in the north to East Feluga in the south. Damage to young trees and net infrastructure occurred on the fringes of cyclone affected areas such as Murray Upper and Fishery Falls to White Rock (southern Cairns). A profile of damage and the estimated value is shown in Table 9.

Table 9 A profile of tree damage, loss of crop and infrastructure damage due to Cyclone Larry Rambutan Mangosteen Durian Lychee Other Total

Average Tree Age 10.87 11.86 11.31 10.78 10.17 11.00

Trees beyond recovery 5839 878 1047 810 1702 10276

Trees partially damaged 2340 5628 204 226 2142 10540

Total Number of trees in orchard 12034 10193 1210 1942 5041 30420

Value ($) of crop lost $2,400,010 $1,241,705 $273,650 $0 $381,495 $4,296,860

Value of net infrastructure damaged $43,980 $0 $0 $6,000 $18,020 $68,000

Other loss (e.g. Packaging, shed etc.) $305,900 $5,500 $10,000 $20,000 $41,500 $382,900

Estimated cost ($) of recovery action (chain sawing time, stakes, rope, labour) $280,900 $86,200 $10,500 $40,850 $71,625 $490,075

TOTAL $5,237,835

The effect of Larry went beyond the immediate damage and destruction which occurred due to the cyclone (Figure 4). Industry moral was extremely affected and the long road to financial recovery is still underway.

Uprooted rambutan orchard Rambutan partly uprooted

Damage to windbreak trees Uprooted rambutan

Mangosteen orchard – windbreak damage Snapped trunk – Albizzia falcarta

Rambutan orchard damage to nets Durian tree snapped Figure 4 Images of orchard damage following tropical cyclone Larry in March 2006

Cyclone Yasi

Following completion of the draft of this report in January 2011, tropical cyclone Yasi crossed the north Queensland coastline in the vicinity of South Mission Beach between midnight and 1am early on Thursday 3rd February. Yasi maintained a strong core with damaging winds and heavy rain, tracking westwards across northern Queensland and finally weakened to a tropical low near Mount Isa around 10pm on 3rd February.

Extensive damage occurred to tropical tree crops in a 50-60 km radius of Mission Beach/Tully.

In the main damage area from El Arish to Kennedy there are an estimated 18,000 tropical exotic trees representing 20 species. Estimated tree losses in this area range from 60 to 80% depending on location and species. In the Mena Creek/South Johnstone/Innisfail region there are an estimated 26,000 trees with approximately 20 to 30% tree loss. In the Woopen Creek region there are approximately 4,000 trees with approximately 20% tree loss. In the Bartle Frere to Bellenden Ker region there are approximately 5,000 trees with approximately 20% tree loss. The bulk of the species affected are rambutan, mangosteen and durian.

There have also been reports of tree loss on farms in the Cape Tribulation and Weienbel valley area north of Mossman.

The other species adversely affected is lychee. Lychees are grown along the east coast from Cooktown to Coffs Harbour. A significant proportion of the industry is located on the Atherton Tablelands which escaped damage from Cyclone Yasi. There are also a number of farms along the wet tropical coast, with approximately 20,000 trees located in the region south of Tully to Townsville with centers of production in the Murray Upper, Kennedy and Rollingstone areas. One farm in the Murray Upper region with 6,500 trees lost 6,000 of these trees. Total lychee loss in the region is estimated at 8,000 trees or 40% of the total.

The effects of Cyclone Yasi have left the Queensland tropical tree fruit industry in tatters. Most growers have not maintained their membership status with TEFA. A number of growers have abandoned their farming pursuits and are concentrating on earning an income outside of farming. Key industry members are concentrating on recovery, consolidating what they grow and pursuing production methods which may improve the chances of tree survival when the next cyclone strikes.

Cyclone damage mitigation

Cyclones can be particularly destructive to orchards, infrastructure and buildings. Damage mitigation strategies are limited in the face of a category 5 cyclone as demonstrated by tropical cyclone Larry.

The industry as a whole is partly protected by the geographical separation of growing regions (the top-end of the Northern Territory and far north Queensland) although it is acknowledged that both these regions are in a high risk cyclone zones. The chance of severe damage being inflicted simultaneously is unlikely.

Observations from tropical cyclones Larry and Yasi include:

• Tall trees (particularly rambutan) were very susceptible to being uprooted or snapping • Little difference in the level of damage between grafted and marcotted rambutan; • Uprooted grafted rambutans often showed signs of root restriction due to being pot bound • A number of trees which survived the initial onslaught of the cyclone slowly died 3 to 4 months after the event. This was particularly evident in rambutan • Trees with a full crop and drape netted were particularly susceptible to damage • A lot of damage in orchards was caused by windbreak trees which failed to cope with the severe winds o Windbreak trees to avoid include Caribbean Pine, Monterey Pine(Pinus radiata) and Albizia Albizia falcarta) o Windbreaks with mixed performance include jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) and Acacia (Acacia mangeum) o Windbreaks which were tolerant included black sapote (Diospyros digyna) and Queensland Maple (Flindersia brayleana) • Mature durian (Durio zebethinus) trees were particularly susceptible to snapping.

Observations by industry members and Department of Primary Industry officers indicate that there are a number of areas where potential changes in production systems and associated infrastructure may assist in reducing damage.

Potential areas for improvement include the following;

• Growers to program tree pruning with the aim of maintaining trees at a height below 4.5 m o This should be undertaken with knowledge of the potential negative effects of pruning on terminal flowering trees such as rambutan, longan and lychee. • Ensuring trees are produced with a sound root system. Traditional propagation practices need to be amended to avoid root balling while seedlings are maintained in pots. Grower/propagators are referred to information on alternative propagation techniques which may be worth further examination o the “mini-tree” propagation and seedling techniques pioneered by John Maurice (Verheij and Lovenstein, 2004). o use of cuttings as a propagation techniques as pioneered by Goren and Gazit (2005) for the production of lychee in Israel. • Planting wind resistant windbreaks o such as Black Sapote or Queensland Maple. • The development of netting systems (for protecting fruits from winged vertebrate pests) which can be rapidly removed and stored prior to the arrival of a cyclone.

A number of growers are investigating production techniques which combine the benefits of high density planting and trellising. Trellised tropical fruit trees planted following Cyclone Larry, on one major innovative farm, withstood the full force of Cyclone Yasi in February 2011. The recovery of trees, trellised or free standing, following defoliation caused by cyclonic winds, appears to be an important issue for some species. The ability of trellised trees to resist very destructive winds will depend on the trellis age, strength of the trellis structure and associated trellis wires as well as factors such as, wind direction, canopy cover, crop load and the presence or absence of netting.

It is likely that despite the high risks associated with growing tree crops in cyclone prone zones the production of tropical exotic fruit will continue into the future due to the enthusiasm and tenacity of growers who seek the challenge of producing tropical exotic fruit.

A recent report released by the Queensland Government (Anon www.climatechange.qld.gov.au/pdf/regionsummary-fnq.pdf) with modelling input from CSIRO and the Bureau of Meteorology suggests that due to the complex nature of cyclones linked to global climate patterns and sea surface temperatures cyclone frequency is difficult to predict. Never the less the report predicts a 10 percent increase in cyclone intensity and frequency. Hence there is no doubt that cyclones will impact negatively on industry development and profitability in the future.

Strategic Plans

Industry direction plan

A number of meetings were held with growers in north Queensland and the Northern Territory to discuss the future of the industry and a need for an industry strategic plan.

Grower enthusiasm for planning is currently not high for a range of reasons.

• In north Queensland o Grower morale is still low following cyclone Larry. The 2009/10 season was the first in which growers started to produce following the cyclone o The tropical exotic fruit industry is highly competitive and for financial viability many growers are retreating to their farms and are reluctant to engage in open exchange o The innovators who developed the industry in the late 1970’s and 1980’s are aging and starting to leave the industry.

• In the Northern Territory o There has been a shift in the ethnicity of growers over the last decade with new growers from SE Asia less likely to engage in public forums and industry associations o The viability of the industry has declined as more produce is available on the market o The innovators who developed the industry in the late 1970’s and 1980’s are aging and starting to leave the industry.

As a result, the current organisation is not overly active and operates at a low input level. However, there are active attempts to rehabilitate TEFA which currently appear promising.

A major industry strategic planning work shop attended by 32 growers was held in March 2010. Those present debated the merits of having an industry organisation.

Important directions for the immediate future of the organisation include.

1. Communication with growers and affiliated bodies (newsletter & website) 2. Dealing with industry issues (e.g. chemical registrations, winged vertebrate pests, import applications, etc.) 3. Product promotion, with particular reference to promoting product to the food services community (Restaurants and Providores) 4. Supporting and developing projects which assist in product promotion and new crop opportunities.

The meeting proposed that the TEFA board consider the following management proposal and objectives (Figure 5).

RIRDC - Federal Coordinating Agency TEFA Research Providers – eg DEEDI, Tropical Exotic Fruit Australia CSIRO, Universities

NT regional grower group for Qld regional grower group for Independent Secretariat networking and interaction networking and interaction

Other State NTHA TEFA Committee producers Growcom • regional grower Queensland horticulture 28 Northern Territory Horticultural 3 Qld growers group for industry peak lobby group Association, industry peak lobby group • 2 NT growers networking and • President – Qld based interaction • Secretary – NT based

Objectives 1. Communication with growers and affiliated bodies (newsletter & website) 2. Deal with industry issues (eg Chemical registration, winged vertebrate pests, etc) 3. Product promotion

Figure 5 Proposed TEFA organisational chart and objectives

Update of Existing Tropical Fruit Strategic Plans

The tropical exotic fruit industry has three existing crop strategic plans which although still valid are due for updating; • Durian (2001-2006) • Mangosteen - 1997 • Rambutan – 2003 The plans are a reflection of the enthusiasm of the day. Many of the key issues and resulting actions plans have not transpired due to a lack of industry and government support, agency funding and, most importantly, capacity within the industry to drive the agenda. At two grower meetings (north Queensland and the Northern Territory) growers were asked reflect on the above crop strategic plans and identify key areas that they would like to see resourced for further investigation. All growers (47) considered that the overarching industry plan was a priority and the future of TEFA needed to be secured prior to updating individual crop strategic plans.

Durian

Key industry issues raised and selected in the 1999 and updated 2002 durian strategic plan are presented in Table 10.

Table 10 Issues that have had considerable R&D effort expended on them Sustainable Farm Management Future Industry Direction Marketing Structure

Reliable Varieties Industry Infrastructure Promotion Clonal genepool introduction Industry size Unique product image Clonal genepool evaluation Tropical Tree Crop Research Pest and Disease Control Liaison Phytophthora, Pythium and other Information transfer diseases

Nutrition Requirements Industry standards

Industry participants were asked to nominate areas in which they required more information or perceived that further R&D should occur to solve problems (Table 11).

Key areas identified included:

• Variety introduction and evaluation.

• Pollination and fruit set.

Growers are referred to key research publications which cover these areas (Lim 1997, Zappala et al 2002). Other key publications covering durian key industry sustainable farm management issues include phytophthora management (Drenth and Guest (eds), 2004) and nutrition management (Diczbalis and Westerhuis, 2005) and general production information (Chay et al. 2005).

Table 11 Durian R&D issues and the percentage of grower priority selections in 2010 Grower Grower R&D Issue selection R&D Issue selection Variety introduction and evaluation 57.1% Fertiliser management 28.6% Variety ID 42.9% Irrigation management 28.6% Rootstock/scion interactions 42.9% ID of fruit quality faults 42.9% Disease resistance 42.9% Pruning Management 42.9% Disease management 28.6% Pollination and fruit set 57.1%

Key issues for the durian industry for 2010 to 2015 include

Sustainable Farm Management

1. Varieties

a. Develop protocols for access to private germplasm collections.

b. Continue to collect and share information on variety performance among industry members.

2. Pest and Disease Control

a. Ensure growers are aware of current disease management recommendations and associated research literature.

3. Nutrition requirements and management

a. Ensure growers are aware of current nutrition management recommendations and associated research literature.

4. General production information

a. Ensure growers are aware of current production recommendations.

b. Publish information in the industry publication/website.

Marketing and Promotion

1. Ensure Australian produced durians are highlighted at tropical exotic fruit promotional events.

Table 12 Durian industry key issues identified by industry and researchers in 1999 and updated in 2002 Sustainable Farm Management Future Industry Direction Marketing Structure Reliable Varieties Industry Infrastructure Maturity Standards Clonal genepool introduction Industry size Development of guidelines Clonal genepool evaluation Industry growers associations Post-harvest treatments Seedling evaluation Industry planning Identification of inferior fruit

Rootstocks-scion interactions Industry R&D funding Promotion Species and clonal identification and confirmation AQIS liaison and plant health Market survey Nursery Supplies Economic analysis Unique product image Planting stock Production costs Industry funding Cross crop technology Farm Design and Management QHI tropical fruit R&D&E Transport Site selection Product compatibility Tree life Tropical Tree Crop Research Liaison Crop phenology Research priorities Packaging Cultural practices Recommended clonal list Packaging design Pollination Lack of production information New technology patent loss Lack of registered chemicals

31 Pruning Loss of registered chemicals Marketing Organic production Marketing systems Cyclone susceptibility Shared research resources Information transfer Consumer focus Pest and Disease Control Local market Phytophthora, Pythium and other diseases International Co-operation Domestic market Insect pests Joint research Market returns Durian PFF/Q Fly certification/exemption Variety identification Import replacement AQIS liaison Nutrition Requirements Industry standards Export Potential Application rates and timing Off-season production

Irrigation Export market Indonesian production Plant requirements and timing Fertigation Value Adding

Harvest Maturity Minimal processed products Grower training By-products Harvesting index and Existing production Uneven fruit ripeness and wet core

Mangosteen

Key issues identified in the 1997 Australian Mangosteen Strategic Plan included at Table 13.

Table 13 Mangosteen industry key issues identified by industry and researchers in 1999 Sustainable farm Marketing Future organisational management direction

Inferior Fruit Quality Fruit Quality Standards Imports/Quarantine Crop Management Packaging Organisational Structure Long Juvenile Period Safe Food Quality Industry Position Shelf Life (Small Investment Accreditation Business Management Big Return) Unidentified Market Environmental Concerns Floral Manipulation Long Juvenile Stage Herbicides Industry Expansion IPM - Diseases/Pests

Priority areas identified out of the above key issues include: • Inferior fruit quality. • Nutrition and irrigation. • IPM pests and diseases.

Industry participants were asked to nominate key areas in which they required more information or perceived that further R&D should occur to solve problems Key areas identified are at Table 14.

Table 14 Mangosteen R&D issues and the percentage of grower priority selections R&D Issue Grower R&D Issue Grower Selection Selection Variety ID 36.4% Irrigation management 45.5% Length of Juvenile 45.5% ID internal fruit quality faults 27.3% phase Investigate grafting 36.4% Pruning Management 45.5% Disease management 27.3% Flowering management 63.6% Fertiliser management 36.4%

The top four issues are as follows:

• Flower management (63.6%).

• Pruning management (45.5%).

• Irrigation management (45.5%).

• Length of juvenile period (45.5%).

Mangosteen nutrition survey work was conducted and reported on in 2005 (Diczbalis and Westerhuis, 2005) since its identification as a priority issue in 1999. General mangosteen production technology recommendations were published (Chay et al. 2005).

Key issues for the mangosteen industry for 2010 to 2015 include the following:

Sustainable Farm Management

1. Identification of interior fruit quality

a. Develop a project proposal to study techniques which will aid in the identification of internal fruit quality defects.

2. Nutrition and irrigation

a. Ensure growers are aware of current nutrition and irrigation management recommendations and associated research literature.

3. Flower management

a. Ensure growers are aware of the current research understanding and technologies associated with managing flowering in mangosteen.

b. Develop and instigate a research project proposal specific to flower management in mangosteen.

4. IPM pest and disease management

a. Ensure growers are aware of current pest and disease management recommendations and associated research literature.

5. General production information

a. Ensure growers are aware of current production recommendations.

b. Publish information in the industry publication/website.

Marketing and Promotion

1. Ensure Australian produced mangosteens are highlighted at tropical exotic fruit promotional events.

Rambutan

Key industry issues raised in the 1999 and updated 2003 rambutan strategic plan are presented in Table 15. Table 15 Rambutan industry key issues identified by industry and researchers in 1999 and updated in 2003 Sustainable Farm Management Future Industry Direction Marketing Structure Bird And Bat Management Imports Fruit Quality Standards Grower And Exporter Nutrition And Irrigation Quarantine Registration Management Organisational Structure New Market Opportunities Canopy Management Strategies Industry Position Packaging IPM - Pests /Diseases Business Management Minimal Processing Post-Harvest Shelf Life Clean Green Environmental and other Safe Food Quality Post-Harvest Dis-Infestation Management Issues Accreditation Treatments Industry Expansion

Herbicide

Varietal Selections

A number of these issues have been the subject of industry and RIRDC funded research projects. Key research and development areas have been:

• Nutrition and irrigation management (Diczbalis, 2002).

• Canopy management (Diczbalis and Drinnan, 2007).

• Post-harvest disinfestation treatments (Leach, 2004).

• Rambutan Development of Integrated Pest management – Insect identification, monitoring and insecticide evaluation (Astridge, 2006).

• General rambutan production recommendations (Chay, et al. 2005).

Industry participants were asked to nominate areas in which they required more information or perceived that further R&D should occur to solve problems. Key areas identified include variety introduction (83%), propagation techniques (75.0%), flowering and fruit set management (66.7%) and pruning management (66.7%) (Table 16).

Table 16 Rambutan R&D issues and the percentage of grower priority selections R&D Issue Grower R&D Issue Grower Selection Selection Variety Introduction 83.3% Irrigation management 33.3%

Variety ID 58.3% ID internal fruit quality 16.7% faults Length of Juvenile 8.3% Pruning Management 66.7% Phase Propagation 75% Flowering management 66.7% techniques Disease management 25% Fruit Set issues 66.7%

Fertiliser management 41.7%

Other issues raised at the industry forums included out of season flowering, reducing seed size, higher flesh to seed ratio, seedless fruit and market access.

Key issues for the rambutan industry for 2010 to 2015 include:

Sustainable Farm Management

1. New rambutan variety introductions

a. Develop a project proposal to introduce new rambutan varieties.

2. Propagation techniques

a. Develop a project to examine the use of shoot cuttings as an alternative propagation technique.

3. Flower and fruit set management

a. Ensure growers are aware of the current research understanding and technologies associated with managing flowering in mangosteen.

4. Pruning management

a. Ensure growers are aware of pruning management recommendations and associated research literature.

5. General production information

a. Ensure growers are aware of current production recommendations.

b. Publish information in the industry publication/website.

Marketing and Promotion

1. Ensure Australian produced rambutan are highlighted at tropical exotic fruit promotional events.

Results

Industry stocktake and industry value

A comprehensive stocktake for the industry has been undertaken in this project. The responses from the industry survey in the financial year 2009/10 provided the basis for the stocktake. There are a total of 142,000 trees in the tropical exotic fruit category in northern Australia. The bulk of production is in north Queensland with 79,900 trees. The top five species in terms of tree numbers are dragon fruit (50,100), rambutan (25,100), mangosteen (11,800), jackfruit (9,300) and pomelo (5,300). There are a further eight species with more than a 1,000 trees and another 5 species in which tree numbers range from 380 to 900 trees.

The potential industry value of the industry, assuming cropping and average price is $16.03 million.

This report profiles 20 exotic fruit species.

Industry Survey

The survey of industry participants indicates that 76% of participants consider themselves as commercial producers with the majority (42%) indicating that their business is dependent on off farm income. The bulk of producers (27%) are in the 41 to 50 age bracket with a further 45% over 50 years of age.

Major issues impacting on the business include climate, reliability of fruit production, product price and demand.

Survey respondents indicated that TEFA should concentrate funding on a few economic crops yet there was still strong interest in “new” crop opportunities.

There was a strong call for more information on tropical exotic fruit production.

Cyclone Risk and Avoidance Strategies

The report identifies that cyclones are a major risk faced by the industry and lists cyclone which have impacted on growing areas in the northern territory and north Queensland since 1980. A report on damage caused by cyclone Larry (2006) is included. Damage mitigation strategies are discussed. The diversified growing locations (NT and north Queensland) provide the best protection to the industry, with the chance of severe damage being inflicted in both regions in the same season considered to be extremely rare.

Strategic Plans

Crop specific strategic plans were reviewed by industry members. Existing plans for durian, mangosteen and rambutan are very comprehensive and overly optimistic and a reflection of the enthusiasm of the day. Many of the key issues and resulting action plans have not been acted on, due

to a lack of industry and government support agency funding and a lack of capacity within the industry to drive the issues raised in previous plans. The report details areas of work which have been undertaken since the previous plans were developed. Strategic plans for the period 2010 to 2015 were limited to 5 key points per crop.

An industry plan was developed by industry members during a one day workshop in March 2010. The workshop was facilitated by Mr Tony Biggs (Cardinal Horticultural Services). The industry which is still recovering, following severe economic loss caused by cyclone Larry in north Queensland, discussed the importance of a representative body such as TEFA and how it may operate in the future. Important directions for the immediate future of the organisation include:

• Communication with growers and affiliated bodies (newsletter & website); • Deal with industry issues (e.g. Chemical registration, winged vertebrate pests, imports applications, etc); • Product promotion, with particular reference to promoting product to the food services community (Restaurants and Providores).

Implications

The work carried out in this project allows the industry to regroup and reform following the devastation caused by cyclone Larry to industry production and morale.

The tropical exotic fruit industry can claim to be an important industry providing income diversification opportunities in northern Australian rural communities.

Recommendations

• There is an opportunity to disseminate information relevant and useful to commercial growers through the TEFA website and newsletters.

• Existing plans for durian, mangosteen and rambutan need to be updated.

References

Anon. Climate change in the Far North Queensland Region. Towards Q20 - Tomorrow’s Queensland, Queensland Government. http://www.climatechange.qld.gov.au/pdf/regionsummary- fnq.pdf.

Astridge, D.P. (2006).Rambutan, Development of Integrated Pest Management – Insect identification, monitoring and insecticide evaluation. Publication Number 05/187 - Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation.

Benson, A. (1914). Fruits of Queensland. Intelligence and Tourist Bureau – Queensland Government. Guttenberg EBook #26552

Chay, P., Diczbalis, Y., Vawdrey, L., Astridge, D. and Blair, A. (2005). Growing guide: Tropical fruit grower’s handbook . Queensland Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries.

Diczbalis, Y. and Drinnan, J. (2007). Floral manipulation and canopy management in longan and rambutan. Publication Number 07/031 - Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation.

Diczbalis, Y. and Westerhuis, D. (2005). Durian and Mangosteen Orchards – north Queensland nutrition survey. Publication Number 05/163 - Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation.

Drenth, A. and Guest, D.I.(eds) (2004). Diversity and management of Phytophthora in Southeast Asia. ACIAR Report.

Goren, M. and Gazit, S. (2005). Rooting of Lychee and Longan cuttings under mist -A commercial effective method. Acta Hort. (ISHS) 665:297-300. http://www.actahort.org/books/665/665_36.htm

Leach, P. (2004). Evaluation of Caltex petroleum oils as a disinfestation measure against external pests of rambutans. Project.FRO2014. Horticulture Australia Limited.

Lim, T.K. (1997). Boosting Durian Productivity. Project DNT-13A. Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation.

O’Connor, P. and Diczbalis, Y. (2003). Exotic Crop Review Workshop: - Summary of proceedings and outcomes of a workshop held at South Johnstone, 12-13 February 2003. Publication Number 03/103 - Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation.

Ross, P. (1997). Opportunities for commercially under-exploited Tropical Fruits, Vegetables and Nuts; Methodology and outcomes of a workshop held in Cairns in July 1997. Publication Number 97/80 - Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation.

Verheij, E. and Lovenstein, H. (2004). A nurseryman and his trees – The work of John Morris. Agromisa Foundation, Wageningen.

Zappala, G. Zappala, A. and Diczbalis, Y. (2002). Durian Germplasm Evaluation – for Tropical Australia, Phase 1. Publication Number 02/091 - Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation.

Appendix 1 - Industry Survey Results

Section 1 - Industry Survey Results

Q1. Do you consider yourself a “commercial” producer? (Yes/No)

76% of respondents consider themselves as commercial producers. 18.3% did not answer and 5.65% stated that they were not commercial producers.

Q2. Why are you involved in growing tropical fruits?

This was an open question inviting a range of responses. The responses were then categorised as (a) business, (b) lifestyle or (c) other. The bulk of respondents considered they were involved in tropical fruit production for business or income generation (57.7%). 9.8% of respondents were involved for lifestyle reasons and the same number gave “other” reasons for being involved. 22.55% of respondents did not answer the question.

Q3. Have you enjoyed the experience of being a tropical exotic fruit producer? (Yes/No)

The bulk of respondents (74.6%) have enjoyed the journey while 21.1% did not answer and 4.2% said they had not enjoyed the experience.

Q4. Would you become a tropical fruit grower if you could wind back the clock? (Yes/No)

Only 56.3% of respondents would enter the industry with the benefit of hind site. A sizeable proportion of respondents (22.5%) would not while 21.1% of respondents did not answer the question.

Q5. Is your tropical fruit business dependent on the support of outside income? (Yes/No)

The majority of respondents (42.2%) indicated they were dependent on off-farm income. A further 36.6% stated “No” while 21.1% did not answer the question.

Q6. Age range of respondents (20-30, 31-40, 41-50, 51-60, 60+)

Some 19.7% of respondents did not answer the question. The age profile of the community was younger then expected with 26.7% in the 41-50 age bracket. A further 19.7% were in the 51-60% and 25.3% of respondents indicated they were 60+. There were no respondents in the 20-30 age bracket.

Section 2 - Industry Survey Results

Issues impacting on the tropical exotic fruit business.

The following list of potential “issues” was prefaced by the following question: “What issues have a major impact on your tropical exotic business?” Yes/No (Table 1).

Table 1 Response to issues having a major impact on grower’s tropical fruit business

% of respondents Question/Topic Nil Response Yes No Climate 25.4% 66.2% 8.4% Water Availability 25.4% 35.2% 39.4% Reliability of fruit production 26.8% 66.2% 7% Consumer knowledge 25.4% 50.7% 23.9% Price 25.4% 63.4% 11.3% Pest and Disease 25.4% 49.3% 25.4% Freight Charges 25.4% 50.7% 23.9% Post harvest life of product 25.4% 50.7% 23.9% Business - income positive 25.4% 46.5% 28.2% Market demand 25.4% 54.9% 19.7% Distance to markets 25.4% 50.7% 23.9%

A quarter of the respondents (25.4%) did not answer the questions posed. Major issues which “impact on business” identified by the remaining participants were climate (66.2%), reliability of fruit production (66.2%), product price (63.4%) and market demand (54.9%). Issues such as consumer knowledge of product, freight charges, post harvest life of product, and distance to market were viewed as important by 50.7% of respondents. The business being income positive was seen as an issue by 46.5% of respondents. Water availability was the least important issue with only 35.2% of respondents suggesting it may impact on their business.

Section 3 - Industry Survey Results

Strategic planning workshops, their impact and community willingness to be involved in future workshops

The survey had the following statement about workshops prior to asking questions 1 and 2 for this section.

With the support of RIRDC, the Queensland Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries and the Northern Territory Department of Resources, the tropical fruit industry has held two future planning workshops in the last 12 years.

• 1997- Opportunities for commercially under-exploited tropical fruits, vegetables and nuts. • 2003 - Exotic Crop Review workshop.

The 1997 workshop led to the development of crop specific strategy plans for durian, rambutan and mangosteen. (These plans were widely distributed and available on request).

Q1. Rate the influence of the workshops, their outcomes and publications on your business? (Please circle)

1 2 3 4 5 No influence Low Medium Moderate High influence

A quarter of the respondents did not answer and 52.1% of respondents suggested that the outcomes of the past strategic planning workshops and resulting crop specific strategic plans and associated publications did not have any influence on their business (Figure 1). Approximately 18% of respondents suggested that the past strategic planning sessions had a medium or above, influence on their business.

Q18 - Influence of RIRDC workshops

80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 No No Low Medium Moderate High answ er

Figure 1 Respondent’s reply to the influence of past strategic planning workshops on their business

Q2. Would you like to be a participant in any future industry strategic direction workshops? (Yes/No).

39.4% of respondents confirmed that they would like to be involved in future industry strategic direction workshops. A similar amount (35.2%) did not wish to be involved and 25.4% of respondents did not answer the question.

Section 4 - Industry Survey Results

RIRDC Tropical Crops Information

The next series of questions aimed to quantify how many growers had accessed the RIRDC web site to download or order reports and if so how many reports have been accessed. If the site had not been accessed why?

Q1. Have you ever used the www.rirdc.gov.au site to download or order printed reports? (Yes/No)

The bulk of respondents (61.9%) had not accessed the RIRDC web site. Only 12.7% of respondents suggested that they had accessed the site and a quarter of respondents did not answer the question.

Q2. If you used the site how many reports have you accesses. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or more (Circle appropriate answer).

Only 4.2% of respondents had accessed 5 or more reports, 4.2% of respondents had accessed one or two reports respectively, while 1.4% had accessed three reports.

Table 2 Responses to reasons why the RIRDC website had not been accessed

Q3: If you have not utilised the RIRDC % respondents website Why?

Nil Response Yes No No computer? 26.8% 23.9% 49.3% No internet connection? 26.8% 26.8% 46.5% Did not know about it? 26.8% 57.8% 15.5% Don’t need extra information 26.8% 9.9% 63.4%

Over half of the growers (57.8%) suggested that they did not know of the RIRDC website with a further 23.9% confirming they did not have a computer. 26.8% did not have an internet connection while 9.9% stated that they did not need any further information.

Section 5 - Industry Survey Results

Industry Strategic Direction Objectives

Growers were asked a series of questions which requested their opinion on the most important future directions for TEFA. 67% of participants responded to this question.

Overall Question: What in your opinion are the most important future directions for TEFA?

Q1. “TEFA” should concentrate on funding research on a few economic crops (Yes/No)

46.5% of respondents agreed that TEFA should limit itself to funding a few economic crops.

Q2. “TEFA” should explore opportunities for new industries (Yes/No)

46.5% agreed with the above sentiment while 19.7% disagreed.

• Q2a. “new opportunities” – alternative fruits with niche markets (eg. Bunchosia, Salak, Duku etc). (Yes/No) - 38% agreed with the above statement and 28.25% disagreed

• Q2b. “new opportunities” – complementary crops to fruit production (eg. bamboo shoots, alternative banana varieties such as Red Dacca, medicinal crops such as Noni or Kava). 40.8% agreed with the above statement and 25.4% disagreed.

Question 3 TEFA should improve information availability on: Yes No

3a. Tropical exotic fruit production 56.3 % 9.9% 3b. Soil health 46.5% 19.7% 3c. General nutrition management 54.9% 11.3% 3d. Marketing 46.5% 21.1% 3e. Supply chain alternatives to wholesale markets 52.1% 15.5%

Responses to the above question suggested there was a clear interest in obtaining more information on tropical exotic fruit production (56.3%), tropical crop production (56.3%), general nutrition management (54.9%) and supply chain alternatives to the whole sale market (52.1%). Marketing and soil health were also seen as important with 46.5% of respondents suggesting they are important information topics.

Q4. Tropical Crop Production

56.3% agreed with the above statement and 11.3% disagreed

Appendix 2 - TEFA Exotic Fruit Growers Industry Survey Booklet

TEFA 2009 Exotic Fruit Growers Industry Survey Booklet Your inputs in completion of this survey will assist in the development of a strategic (business) direction plan for our industry for the next 5 years. As growers of tropical exotic fruits and crops your inputs are crucial to guiding the TEFA executive in developing an organisation that is relevant to you. This exotic fruit growers survey booklet has been developed by the TEFA committee to assist in the collection of data on grower feedback as to the relevance of TEFA as well as conducting a stocktake of tree species and numbers which underpin the financial value of our industry.

This project has been jointly funded by TEFA members, and the Federal Gov- ernment Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC). It is being undertaken by a partnership between Queensland Primary Industries & Fisheries (QPIF) and TEFA industry representatives in QLD and the NT. The information gathered in this survey and during a series of grower meetings is critical to developing a profile of the industry which the TEFA executive can take to government at the Local, State and Federal level. The initial results from the survey will be discussed and voted on at a grower forum and supply chain workshop scheduled for late 2009 or early 2010. Without an industry strategic plan (or business plan) government at all levels will not engage with industry hence severely limiting industry access to funds for research and development as well as natural disaster funding. Please participate in helping to progress our industry, if you feel that you would not like to put your name to this form due to privacy issues we understand but please complete the remaining parts of this booklet and tick in which state your property is located. Thank you for your time and if you have any suggestions or comments regard- ing the booklet please contact any of the committee. (Contact information is located inside front cover). Once again thank you for the time involved completing this document

Mark Gray Tropical Fruit Grower

Contact Information for project committee

Yan Diczbalis 0407 120779 [email protected]

Mark Gray 0448 167813 [email protected]

John McCormack 0429 671541 [email protected]

Ken Lake 0427 967198 [email protected]

Kerry Eupene [email protected]

Rob Doyle [email protected]

Instructions: Please use a pen to complete booklet. The committee will contact each grower to arrange for collection of information booklets over the next month.

We envisage that we would have all forms collected and data compiled be- fore December 09.

If you would like some assistance to complete the booklet please contact one of the committee members.

As a general rule if you can please circle the applicable answer to questions

Grower Name/s: ______

Property Address: ______

QLD NT

Contact No: ______

Email: ______

1. Do you consider you are a “Commercial” Producer? Yes / No 2. Why are you involved in growing tropical fruits? ______3. Have you enjoyed the experience? Yes / No 4. Would you become a tropical exotic fruit grower if you could wind the clock back? Yes / No 5. Is your tropical fruit business dependent on the support of outside income Yes / No 6. Can you please circle your age range . 20-30 30-40 40-50 50-60 60+

What issues have a major impact on your tropical exotic fruit business?

Climate Yes / No Freight Charges Yes / No Water Availability Yes / No Post harvest life of product Yes / No Reliability of fruit production Are you returning positive income Yes / No Yes / No Consumer knowledge Yes / No Market Demand Yes / No Price Yes / No Distance to markets Yes / No Pest and Diseases Yes / No Other:

Strategic Planning Workshops

With the support of RIRDC, Queensland Primary Industries and Fisheries and the NT DPI the tropical fruit industry has held two future planning workshops in the last 12 years.  1997-Opportunities for the commercially under-exploited tropical fruits, vegetables and nuts.  2003-Exotic crop Review workshop

The 1997 workshop lead to the development of crop specific strategis plans for durian rambutan and mangosteen. (These plans are available on request). 1. Rate the influence of the workshops, there outcomes and publications on your business? (Please circle)

1 2 3 4 5

No influence at all High Influence

2. Would you like to be a participant in any future industry strategic direction workshops? Yes/No

RIRDC Tropical crops information

1. Have you ever used the www.rirdc.gov.au site to download or order printed reports? Yes/No 2. If you have used the sites how many reports has you accessed? (Please circle) 1 2 3 4 5 or more 3. If you have not utilized the RIRDC web site, Why?

 No computer  No internet connection  Did not know about it  Don’t need extra information

Industry strategic direction objectives

What, in your opinion are the most important future directions for TEFA? 1. Concentrate on funding research on a few economic crops Yes/No 2. Explore opportunities for new industries Yes/No a. Many alternative fruits with niche markets (e.g Bunchosia, Salak, Duku etc) Yes/No b. Complementary crops to fruit production (e.g Bamboo shoots, alternative banama varieties such as Red Dacca, medicinal crops such as Noni or Kava) Yes/No

3. Improve information availability on: a. Tropical exotic fruit production Yes/No b. Soil Health Yes/No c. General nutrition management Yes/No d. Marketing Yes/No e. Supply chain workshops exploring alternatives to the traditional wholesale markets Yes/No

4. Tropical Crop Production Yes/No

5. Other…………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Confidentiality Please be assured that your answers and tree number and production data will remain confidential. If you wish to be assured of the security of your data you have two options; 1. Do not fill in your grower name 2.Contact Yan Diczbalis at Queensland Primary Industries and Fisheries, Centre for Wet Tropics Agriculture and request that he fill in the form with the data you provide. Yan’s contact details are Ph. 07-40641128, Mob. 0407 120779, Email [email protected] Yan will be happy to phone you back to ensure that you do not incur the phone bill for the form filling discussion.

Industry Stocktake

The data you provide here will be used to profile the industry diversity and to attach a gross value of production ($/annum). Please include all tree fruits and or exotic crops that you produce on a commercial scale (local markets, domestic wholesale etc).

Please fill out a single page per fruit or crop. Please tick the appropriate commercial crop. If you are growing something other than the fruits specified in the table below please tick in the box marked “other” and specify the crop.

Fruits crops grown Rambutan Mangosteen Carambola Jackfruit (Jakfruit) Durian Soursop Dragon fruit Rollinia Pomelo Abiu Other: (Please specify)

Tree Numbers and production. Note Qld growers are asked to supply a pre Larry tree count and production data for 2005/2006 season. Which unit of production are you using ⁪ Kg or ⁪ cartons. If cartons indicate weight per carton (…………… kg/carton). Note if providing information on a crop such as Taro or Yam bean please indicate area of production (eg 1.2 ha) in the Tree number column.

Tree Age Tree Production Production Production Pre Larry production Number (08/09) (07/08) (06/07) Tree Num- Production Kg/cartons Kg/cartons Kg/cartons bers Kg/cartons 0-1 2-4 5-10 11 -19 20+ TOTAL