update WA CITRUS

As the year wound down, we took a moment to reflect and connect. The final quarter of 2025 brought valuable opportunities for growers, packers, and industry leaders to step away from the orchard and engage in learning and networking.

Words Joseph Ling, Committee Chair, WA Citrus

WA Horticulture Update: Insights and inspiration

IN October, the WA Horticulture Update (WAHU) at Mandoon Estate in Caversham provided a vibrant setting for growers and industry members to come together. The one-day event featured panels, speakers, and trade displays, sparking meaningful conversations and fresh ideas.

Joseph Ling, Chair of WA Citrus and AgriFresh grower/ packer, highlighted the value of the session:

“Grant Dusting’s presentation on stats and demographics was a standout, offering deep insights into shifting consumer behaviours and generational trends.”

National Connections: Citrus Australia visits WA

December saw a visit from Citrus Australia’s leadership team, including CEO Nathan Hancock, Chair Richard Byllardt, and Deputy Chair Ryan Arnold. For Ryan, a third-generation farmer and first-generation citrus grower from Loxton, South Australia, it was his first time in WA.

The team toured key production areas from West Midlands to Harvey, meeting with growers and exploring packsheds. Ryan shared insights from his own experience at Pyap Produce, a 120-hectare orchard growing navels, afourers, blood oranges, and more. Their orchard is on sandy loam soil and irrigated by the Murray River.

His passion for learning and sharing was evident: “I’ve travelled to study Huang long Bing (HLB) and Asian citrus psyllid (ACP)-infected orchards and recently explored afourer mandarin management globally. It was great to connect with WA growers and have a chat.”

Lastly, registrations are now open for the Australian Citrus Congress 2026. It will be held from 2–4 March at the Adelaide Convention Centre. Visit the Citrus Australia website for more information.

Training for Growth: FarmElevate and Workforce Workshops

WA growers also embraced training aimed at enhancing business and workforce performance.

The FarmElevate Program, focused on economic, environmental, and personal well-being, offered practical tools for strategy, risk management, and cost savings, to name a few.

Bronwyn Walsh shared her experience:

“The ‘Waste Walk’ was a great tool to identify areas for savings and cost control. Definitely food for thought.”

The program has been extended for another 3–6 months. Interested growers and industry members can contact Bronwyn at industrymanager@wacitrus.com.au or call 0400 873 875.

In a similar vein, a hands-on workshop in Mildura, facilitated by Simon Drum from PSVC Advisory, helped grower-packers improve seasonal workforce management. Topics included forecasting, training, supervision, and performance.

If you’d like a workshop held in your region, reach out to chloe.betts@citrusaustralia.com.au.

Wishing everyone a refreshing holiday and summer season.