Australia: Strong potential for horticultural growth in Mid West
VegetablesWA chief executive John Shannon said the report was good news for growers, shining a light on the current and potential value of production in the Geraldton/Greenough/Irwin region and providing a way forward for growers, government and industry bodies.
“Our research shows the value of the Geraldton fruit and vegetable growing industry could grow from $21.2 million in 2017 to $73 million in 2027 and create another 312 jobs,” Mr Shannon said.
“Local growers were consulted as part of the process to gauge their interest in expansion and growth via mechanisms such as tunnel houses, seasonal access to water, access to export markets, and property purchases.”
DPIRD Project Manager Ken Littlewood said: “The study provided valuable insight into local production aspirations and constraints for horticultural expansion and development in the Geraldton region.”
The key constraints to current production and future expansion highlighted by growers included access to markets, labour and importantly water access and availability.
The report examines four scenarios for expansion; grower based expansion, which would require an additional 1.3GL water per annum; growth at Bootenal Flats from Geraldton Airport to Walkaway, which would require access to 1.2GL of water; Greenough Flats expansion, requiring around 1.8GL of water; and growth into the Irwin Valley.
The report found there is an opportunity for industry and government to investigate the development of a purpose-built irrigation scheme. There is also potential for growers to pursue alternative water supplies such as recycled water, desalination technology and more flexible contract arrangements with Water Corporation to aid in expansion.
“The report highlights an opportunity for industry and government to investigate the feasibility of potential irrigation schemes so that growers in the region can deliver on their potential for growth,” Mr Littlewood said.
CEO of the Mid West Development Commission Gavin Treasure welcomed the report. “Unlocking these constraints and providing opportunity for jobs and growth is a key focus of the Mid West Development Commission,” he said.
Geraldton is emerging as a significant irrigated production area in Western Australia, with a change in production over the past 10 years from field-based tomato cropping to intensive tunnel house production of vegetables, such as cucumbers and capsicums.
The region also has a climatic advantage, being able to supply produce during winter when southern production areas are unable to supply.
To read the report in full, go to vegetableswa.com.au