Mitchell McNab with his gala apples. Photos: Rechelle Zammit.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
As apple season nears, Victorian growers are preparing for a bumper harvest.
Victoria’s apple industry is positioning itself for the 2026 harvest, with growers focused on orchard management and fruit development as the main picking period approaches.
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“For apples, the focus right now is very much on orchard management and fruit development, setting the crop up for a strong harvest when the season begins,” Fruit Growers Victoria chair and Ardmona orchardist Mitchell McNab said.
Weather conditions to date have been relatively benign, with limited impacts on orchards.
Mitchell said the season had been fairly dry overall, although there was a minor hail event earlier in the season.
“We did see a small, patchy hail event, but it was very localised and hasn’t caused any damage to fruit,” he said.
“For most growers, weather impacts have been minimal so far.”
Pest pressure has remained within expected levels for this time of year, with growers actively managing issues as they arise.
Queensland fruit fly continues to be a significant challenge for the industry, but Mitchell said recent funding support was a positive development.
“Queensland fruit fly always remains an ongoing challenge, but it’s encouraging that we’ve recently received funding to help growers manage this pest more effectively,” he said.
Water availability is also front of mind for growers, particularly given rising input costs. However, Mitchell said access to water had generally been adequate so far.
“Water availability remains a key consideration, but most growers have been able to access the water they need at this stage,” he said.
Weather conditions have been favourable, with minimal impact.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
On the market front, Mitchell said prices were currently strong, underpinned by lower supply from last season and expectations of a smaller crop ahead.
“Prices are relatively strong on the back of lower supply, and we’re optimistic that pricing should remain high through the coming season,” he said.
Processing demand has been softer, with feedback from growers suggesting SPC is taking less fruit than in previous years.
“Processing remains an important outlet for growers, and we continue to engage with industry and processors on the impacts this has across the supply chain,” Mitchell said.
Despite ongoing cost pressures and seasonal challenges, he said growers remained focused on quality and efficiency.
“Growers have put in a huge amount of work leading into this harvest, and we’re optimistic about the season ahead,” he said.
“Fruit Growers Victoria remains committed to supporting growers through advocacy and practical support across the state.”
Growers are managing pest pressures and water availability, while prices are strong.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
