Pear growers in Australia’s Goulburn Valley have been rocked by a second significant hailstorm in the region within the last five weeks.
While the extent of the damage from the storm on 12 November is not yet known, Apple and Pear Australia (APAL) chief executive John Dollisson said the weather event was a devastating blow for the local industry, which is still recovering from a similar event in October.
“APAL would like to extend any support that we can to pear growers affected by this second hailstorm,” Dollisson said. “It is heart-breaking to hear about this additional damage.”
Fruit Growers Victoria (FGV) is currently undertaking an assessment of the additional damage.
Meanwhile, Dollisson has contacted the Victorian Minister for Agriculture the Hon Jaala Pulford and is awaiting an appointment time to discuss the matter and what more can be done for growers. FGV are also preparing a submission to the Victorian Government for hail net subsidies.
