Significant rainfall and flooding could reflect damage seen from previous cyclones
Banana growers in North Queensland have borne the brunt on more than 600ml of rain falling in a matter of days, with the extent of the damage still being assessed.
The extreme weather has caused significant flooding across the key production region flattening crops and affecting major freight routes.
In an update released on 3 February, the Australian Banana Growers Council (ABGC) said while it was too early to estimate the extent of any damage or cost to industry, it was clear that there will be damage
“Growers around Tully south are currently most affected, though this could change quickly. Many are unable to access their farms so it will take time to understand just what this means for each property,” the update said.
“ABGC is also aware of a significant flash flood on Friday night that flattened crops due to the speed at which water was moving in the Tully River.
“A clear, immediate concern is transport and major freight routes. Growers across Far North Queensland – and those they supply around the country – will need swift action to ensure produce can get through safely.”
Speaking with the ABC, ABGC chairman Leon Collins said growers rushed to harvest and ship fruit out before the rain started, but managing the aftermath would be difficult.
“We had a wall of water come down the river, something we haven’t seen since cyclone Winifred [in 1986],” said Collins.
“It’s going to be an ongoing juggling act just to keep things going.”
