Queensland’s iconic pineapple industry shines in NQ
After 14 years in the horticulture industry, I feel qualified enough to say that no other commodity comes together quite like the Australian pineapple industry. Last week I once again had the privilege of spending time with this iconic Queensland industry in sunny North Queensland attending the annual Pineapple Field Days.
This mainstay on the horticulture calendar is the industry’s opportunity to come together to showcase current research investments and learn more about market development opportunities and advocacy happening across the industry.
The pineapple industry, like horticulture generally over the past 12 months has dealt with its fair share of challenges. While most might naturally feel deflated, these challenges have fuelled a collective shift towards production practices that gain efficiencies, add value, and generally improve the financial and environmental sustainability of the industry.
From long-term breeding and reselection work, to monitoring on-farm water quality, reducing nematode and phytophthora damage, alternative herbicides and understanding consumer sensory preferences when it comes to their pineapple eating experience - this year’s Field Days packed in a lot.
It’s enjoyable hearing what inspiration industry takes away from events like these with this year’s clear themes emerging in the areas of alternative new pineapple varieties and soil health.
Of course, no event is complete without the opportunity to come together to celebrate those who have dedicated their life to the industry and those who are just starting on their journey.
Inducted into the hall of fame this year were Dale and Peter Sherriff from Tanby in Central Queensland. The brothers were the joint recipients of the Col Scott Award recognising their contributions to the industry over many years.
In celebrating the future of the industry, Joe Polsoni from Polsoni Pines on the Sunshine Coast, was awarded the Rudy Wassman Award. Also recognised at the dinner were Eloise Martin from DAF and James Tattersall from Golden Circle for their continued support of the Australian pineapple industry.
Doing their part for charity too, an industry raffle and two auctions raised a collective $5,135 to be donated to the Royal Flying Doctor Service and Brave Brothers in support of men’s mental and physical health initiatives.
A big thank you goes out to our hosts Pace Farming and Accorsini Farms and to the QFVG and DAF teams on yet another hugely successful event. We look forward to seeing everyone again next year in the heart of pineapple country on the Sunshine Coast.
