WA Citrus: From the industry

WRITING this article is one of my first activities in the role, and I would like to begin by sincerely thanking Joseph Ling from Agrifresh for his contribution to the industry as Chair of the Committee for more than five years. During that time, Joseph helped guide the industry through a period of considerable disruption, including COVID-19, international uncertainty and WA participating in national Hort Innovation projects. His leadership and commitment have been greatly appreciated.

Change in industry community
In mid-July, family and friends and members of the Bindoon community farewelled Ernie Parkinson, a passionate citrus grower for more than 50 years. His family reflected fondly on the many hours they spent at the orchard and the Bindoon show, while Shane Kay talked about the innovation and change Ernie made in his orchard over the decades. Some familiar citrus grower faces from the district joined the memorial, including Shane and Helen Martin; Bruce Wharton and the Kay family …. Bridgette, Shane, Michael and Tania.

Change in pests
The last quarter has included workshops and resources related to the Polyphagous shothole borer; if you’re not already across this pest and how it may affect your orchard or property, I recommend looking at www.dpird.wa.gov.au/businesses/pests-weeds-and-diseases/animal-pests-diseases/pest-insects/polyphagous-shot-hole-borer. For this pest, it was determined to be not feasible to eradicate and so its status has changed to ‘transition to management’.

From the

INDUSTRY