First boxes of Tasmanian cherries are now available across the state as exporters prepare for international sales
To celebrate the beginning of Tasmania’s cherry season, minister for primary industries and water, Jane Howlett and Fruit Growers Tasmania chief executive, Peter Cornish have toured some of the state’s retailers to sample the early season offering.
“Every summer, locals and visitors look forward to enjoying Tasmanian cherries, and we’re excited that they are now available across the state for everyone to enjoy,” Cornish said.
While the peak of the cherry season comes in January, aligning with Lunar New Year celebrations in Asia, Tasmanian growers have been investing in newer varieties, many of which are grown to supply local pre-Christmas demand.
“We are so lucky to be the first to get our hands on the world’s best cherries, nowhere else in the world gets them fresh from the tree like we do,” Cornish said.
Tony Coad, marketing manager for Tasmanian cherry grower-marketer Reid Fruits said he was expecting a good season.
“It’s an exciting time of year for us at Reid Fruits with another cherry harvest getting underway and our cherries now available,” he said.
“The crop is looking excellent and we’re anticipating a 15 per cent increase in volume this season compared to last year. We are expecting good size, colour and sweetness as the different varieties ripen and are ready to harvest throughout the season.”
According to Cornish, it’s Tasmania’s cool maritime climate that allows the cherries to mature fully, enhancing the size, sweetness and intense natural flavour Tasmanian cherries are famous for.
This high-quality and flavour has helped Tasmania become a leading producer of cherries in Australia, supplying more than half of the nation’s cherry exports, valued at A$48mn annually.
With over 20 international export markets, including Hong Kong, Taiwan, Vietnam, China, Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand, Tasmanian cherries are also in high demand globally.
“Our cherries are enjoyed around the world, but Tasmanians are lucky enough to get the first taste” Cornish said.
