Partnership between the Northern Territory government and Gurra Downs Date Company highlights potential for large-scale date production in the region
A new variety of date palms at Australia’s Arid Zone Research Institute has produced fruit for the first time.
Northern Territory minister for agriculture and fisheries Gerard Maley said the milestone highlighted the potential for large-scale date production in the region, reinforcing the Northern Territory’s position as a leader in agricultural research and development.
“This is an impressive milestone for Northern Territory agriculture, clearly demonstrating how these new date palm varieties are well-suited to thrive in central Australia’s unique conditions,” he said.
“With these new varieties bearing fruit, we’re opening doors to industry growth, increased investment, and more jobs – all while boosting the Northern Territory’s reputation for agricultural innovation.”
The first fruiting stems from a 2013 research project that introduced multiple novel date palm cultivars to central Australia, in partnership with Gurra Downs Date Company.
The date palm collection, established in 1989, now hosts the largest date palm collection in the southern hemisphere.
“By working with industry experts, our government has developed and tested these cultivars to ensure they perform well in our harsh environment,” said Maley.
The partnership between the Northern Territory government and Gurra Downs Date Company has supported industry-driven research and development, including studies on pollination, water use, and pest control.
Gurra Downs Date Company managing director Dave Reilly said: “I am delighted to see the first fruit on this internationally acclaimed collection of date palm genetics. This work will provide industry stakeholders with commercially vital knowledge to help drive industry growth”.
Further evaluation of these cultivars will be conducted over the coming years, with findings set to inform future industry development and commercial opportunities.
