Queensland avocados shine on world stage

Queensland avocados have attracted attention from industry representatives at the World Avocado Congress. The congress took place in Auckland from 2–5 April and representatives from the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) were in attendance.

The representatives were part of the congress line-up and gave a presentation about the department’s high-quality supply chain research, development and extension work in avocado farming.

The congress and associated field trips provided an opportunity to speak and collaborate with growers to benefit the Queensland avocado industry.

“It’s a chance to share knowledge with industry about processes and practices, all while promoting Queensland avos,” said Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries Mark Furner.

As part of the six-strong Queensland delegation at the congress, DAF Principal Supply chain Horticulturalist Noel Ainsworth led the presentation.

“I’ve just completed a four-year avocado quality benchmarking project and am about to start another one for the coming three-and-a-half years,” he said.

A major focus of the delegation is on fact-finding to continue improving fruit quality and boosting Queensland avocado exports. Despite challenges faced in recent years, the Queensland avocado industry has experienced an average growth rate of 11% over five years. 

“I have set up meetings with staff from NZ Avocado to share insights on quality management programs focused on both domestic and export markets,” Ainsworth said.

“It’s also a unique and valuable opportunity to learn about international research developments that could boost Queensland’s avocado industry,” Furner added.

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