2020... a season like no other - JUNE 2021 / VOLUME FORTY-FOUR - Biosecurity-Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed - NET
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JUNE 2021 / VOLUME FORTY-FOUR
2020...
a season
like no
other
PAGE 12
Biosecurity—Emergency
Plant Pest Response Deed
PAGE 18
Season in review
PAGE 20
Mango industry aims high
with high-density plantings
E R
SU E
PAGE 22
IS INT
W
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CONTENTS
4 CEO & CHAIRMAN REPORTS
6 DIRECTOR REPORTS
8 AMIA & INDUSTRY NEWS
Executive team update
AMIA AGM
AG Visa announced
Export information
AMIA now a member of
Irrigation Australia
Increase to minimum wage and
other updates
ATO Resources
QFF updates
Major drought reform for
Queensland producers
New research identifies 12 PR & MARKETING
best mango pollinators 2020...a season like no other
18 BIOSECURITY,
A wide range of insects visit mango RESEARCH & POLICY
flowers, but new research has identified Biosecurity—Emergency Plant
Pest Response Deed
which of those are the most effective
Biosecurity—National Fruit Fly
pollinators. Symposium calls for national
strategy committment
MORE ON PAGE 24 Season in review
Mango industry aims high with
high-density plantings
New research identifies best
mango pollinators
Dicarboxylic acids have no
effect on sunburn two years in
a row
28 PEOPLE & EVENTS
Australian Mango Industry Association (AMIA) Contact Details Mango industry magnates
Office Address: Unit 2, The Fresh Centre, Brisbane Markets recognised
Postal Address: PO Box 376, Brisbane Markets QLD 4106
Phone: 07 3278 3755 Fax: 07 3278 4761 Qld water efficiency field days
Email: com@mangoes.net.au
Australian Mangoes: www.mangoes.net.au AMIA: www.industry.mangoes.net.au FNQ Growers Gala Dinner
Mango Matters has been funded by Hort Innovation, using the mango research and returns in 2021
development levy and contributions from the Australian Government. Hort Innovation is the
grower-owned, not-for-profit research and development corporation for Australian horticulture. Congratulations Razor Rock
Farm
Disclaimer: This publication is produced upon the understanding that no responsibility is accepted by AMIA,
its directors and officers and the editor for any opinions, claims or statements made and views expressed in
any edition of Mango Matters and associated material (for example Conference Proceedings, Industry Reports).
Readers should rely on their own enquiries when making decisions concerning their interests. All material in the
magazine is copyright. Reproduction in whole or part is not permitted without the written permission of the editor.
WINTER 2021 PAGE 3
CEO’S
REPORT
Brett Kelly
Chief Executive Officer, AMIA
Email: ceo@mangoes.net.au
Mob: 0437 435 363
I have now been in the role for four months
and believe even more in the opportunities
ahead in the mango industry if we are
highly organised, united and have a
plan. The new Strategic Investment Plan
(SIP), developed in conjunction with
Hort Innovation, will drive the Australian
Mango Industry’s activity for the next five
years. Thank you to all mango industry
Brett has recently attended Northern Australia Food Futures Conference and Hort Connections (pictured here).
stakeholders for your feedback on the
draft. Your thoughts and views are greatly
appreciated by all.
I am also working on an internal strategic for cashflow, capital investment and It is not that people ‘plan to fail’ but more
plan for the AMIA which I hope to have sustainability, having a contract in place so ‘fail to plan’. Always engage good
completed for the Board to review shortly. can be of great advantage. A contract also legal and accounting advice to help you
Once finalised I can share this with all forms part of a tangible asset in terms of achieve the best outcome. The first step
members. securing your business model ongoing. though is to sit down and work out exactly
Some points to look for when negotiating a what you want to achieve and an action
I have had the opportunity to meet a
contract should include: plan to achieve your business objectives.
number of our growers in Darwin when
A clear strategy, business plan, cash flow
I attended the Northern Australia Food • Term (how long does the contract run and budget should then be formed, which
Futures Conference. I have also just for and what is the renewal process and will help you identify what you want in a
completed grower visits in northern conditions). contract with your retailer. Remember you
Queensland around Mareeba. I am • Compliance requirements/expectation don’t get ‘what you deserve’ in business
planning on getting to the Bowen/Burdekin and costs from the customer/ retailer/ but ‘what you negotiate’. A good mutually
region next to meet more growers and industry. agreed contract takes time and is beneficial
get further feedback on challenges and • Volume requirement. to both parties for ongoing sustainability of
opportunities in the industry. Thank you to
• Supply chain definition and process your business.
all I have met so far for your very informative
(taking into account seasonality and
feedback. We have so much knowledge in I look forward to meeting more of you over
time frame to market).
this industry that we can further harness, the coming weeks and please feel free to
in order to get a more collective front and • Pricing mechanism (this should be tied contact me if I can be of any assistance.
better outcomes for our growers, members to compliance/quality requirement;
and others involved in the industry. price should be reflective of the product
quality achieved on farm).
I would like to take this opportunity to • Forecasting and communication
talk about some other aspects of being a process.
farmer/grower in business, in this edition • Branding profile and market positioning
and over the next few editions of Mango (where exactly is your consumer
Matters. channel).
One of the first topics I wanted to touch • Marketing and promotional plan where
on is from my past experience in having required.
contracts in place with your retailer where • Termination and/or breach of contract
possible. In order to achieve planning remedies and process.
PAGE 4 MANGO MATTERS
CHAIRMAN’S
REPORT
“Minister Hinchliffe is a great supporter of innovation in
Queensland, and during our discussions I reiterated the need to
support growers who are adopting new technologies into their
businesses, to help reduce their reliance on seasonal workforces.”
- Ben Martin
Ben Martin
Chairman, AMIA
Email: ben@martosmangoes.com.au
Mob: 0400 125 928
The past three months has been extremely both KP’s and R2E2’s. With cooler weather I also discussed this and several other
busy—with the recruitment process started forecast for the coming weeks we should items, including labour and market
for a number of positions, meetings see widespread panicle emergence in the access with the Federal Minister for
with government ministers and industry region. Agriculture, Drought and Emergency
meetings. Management, Hon. David Littleproud
Water security has been raised with
and George Christensen MP. We are
The development of the new five year Queensland Minister for Regional
currently waiting for the finer details on
Strategic Investment Plan (SIP) for the Development and Manufacturing and
how the Ag Visa will work, that Minister
mango industry has commenced and I Minister for Water, Hon. Glenn Butcher.
Littleproud has announced. We will keep
would like to thank all industry stakeholders Water security is extremely important for
our industry stakeholders updated on
that participated in the development of mango growers, and it was refreshing to
these outcomes. I would also like to thank
our industries future pathways document. hear the minister’s views on this matter
George Christensen, who will not be
The collective input from our industry compared to some of the feedback I have
running for re-election at the next federal
stakeholders will draw on past experience received in the past.
election. He has been a great supporter of
and knowledge to form a strong base for
I have also had the chance to discuss Australia’s mango industry and has been
the SIP.
innovation with Queensland Minister only too happy to help whenever requested.
The AMIA Board and executive team for Tourism Industry Development and His retirement will be a big loss for the
have put a lot of time into developing this Innovation and Minister for Sport, Hon. industry and region, and I wish George
document and providing feedback to Stirling Hinchliffe. Minister Hinchliffe and his family best wishes for their future
Hort Innovation on the draft SIP that was is a great supporter of innovation in endeavours. Hopefully his replacement
circulated for comment in June. We look Queensland, and during our discussion I will have the same drive and passion for
forward to reviewing the revised draft from reiterated the need to support growers who horticulture that he did.
Hort Innovation shortly. are adopting new technologies into their
businesses, to help reduce their reliance on
Flowering has started in the region with
seasonal workforces.
reports of seeing panicle emergence in
Looking for workers?
We can help.
1800 062 332
www.harvesttrail.gov.au
WINTER 2021 PAGE 5
DIRECTOR
REPORTS
NORTHERN TERRITORY
& NORTHERN WESTERN
AUSTRALIA
contact your Australian Mango
Arminio (Nino) Niceforo Industry Association (AMIA) Industry
M: 0417 834 185 Development Officer, Sarah or Marine
E: nino67@live.com for guidance and templates, as well as Hopefully this will be over by peak
We have seen a good start to the your local farming industry bodies and flowering.
production year with lower temperatures government bodies.
Other challenges facing growers this
inducing solid flowering. I look forward to seeing great results from season will be sufficient workers, transport,
The wet season has finished well with NT all for the coming season. and access to markets. We will need to
water resources returning to full water address these challenges as they arise.
allocations.
I take this opportunity to wish all growers a
The labour supply challenges caused by rewarding and profitable season.
COVID-19 are still apparent across all
sectors, not just agriculture. The challenge
before us is to ensure that our labour
requirements are met well before this year’s
harvest.
As mentioned in my last report, NT
quarantine arrangements are seeing some
changes, with the first of the on-farm Geoff Warnock
quarantine approvals for a farm in the M: 0438 884 842
Darwin region. Should you wish to utilise an E: gullivers@wn.com.au
on-farm quarantine arrangement, please
liaise with NT Farmers. Leo Skliros
This wet season was not typical of the past M: 0407 919 942
With flowering underway we must all three years (thank goodness). Rain was E: sklirosleo@gmail.com
continue our focus on tree health and pest received in big downpours of 150mls or
control. The work we do now will determine more creating more run-off than soaking At the time of writing (mid-June) the Darwin
the quality fruit result we are all working rains. The heaviest incident this season region is running a little later than expected,
toward. may have been a 120ml storm, but most with many orchards seeing around 30%
storms were in the vicinity of 20-60mls of open flower. Our late flush hardened off
Other housekeeping to keep in mind as the good soaking rain and the whole region with a persistent stubborn approach to
next season approaches, include: benefited with ground water supplies being flowering; the remaining 70% of flowering
• Freshcare and HARPS preparations replenished, resulting in everything growing is expected to occur in around two weeks,
should be underway in preparation for nice and lush. Flowering is very strong in being optimistic. Caterpillars and thrips
audits this year. patches at present and looks as though it have also been more aggressive than usual
• SEDEX self-assessment preparations will peak shortly. on early flowering.
should also be underway. Although this growth is an upside, the Fantastic news, with the announcement of
• Don’t forget to update your COVID-19 downside is a prolific growth of grass— the Ag Visa for Australian farmers. Northern
management plans. I expect that which has meant that farmers are doing a Territory Mango Industry Association
businesses will all be inspected. If lot of burning, creating thick smoke, which
you need further information, please is a deterrent for the natural pollinators. Continued page 7
PAGE 6 MANGO MATTERS
Continued from page 6
(NTMIA) have been pushing for this since Growers also need to focus carefully on growers to note, that although AMIA can
2013 with tremendous drive from Ian which export markets they intend to target, recommend and lobby Hort Innovation
Quin, Tou Saramat Ruchkaew and myself. as concerns about the Hong Kong/China to invest in projects and activities, it is
NT Farmers staff, Paul Burke and Aisla market grows ultimately Hort Innovation that decides
Connolly have also worked hard on this where industry funds will be spent.
Here’s hoping for good flowering, followed
over the past few years. Hopefully the
by good fruit set, for all during the coming The board take the creation and
structure will be user friendly!
season. development of the SIP very seriously as it
Mango Madness Festival, achieved gives us an agreed position to refer to when
significant promotion for the mango negotiating with Hort Innovation on where
industry last year. Run by NTMIA and funds should be spent. If you have provided
supported by Australian Mango Industry feedback or participated in the SIP process,
Association (AMIA) and Hort Innovation, I thank you for your input. It is vital that
media coverage of the event saw the industry participants know how important
largest media coverage result for last this document is and provide feedback.
season. With the expected later season this
The upcoming season will see the industry
year, we have moved the event date from
facing many challenges. A return to
the 24 October to 6 November.
‘normal’ export conditions are some years
away and we are facing major workforce
John Nucifora
shortages. It is vital that we have a strong
M: 0418 193 885
plan moving forward and a good plan for
E: flossndeb@bigpond.com
what could be a challenging future.
At the moment, many in Mareeba are in
FAR NORTH QUEENSLAND the middle of conducting winter pruning
and flowering is about to start for another
& NORTH QUEENSLAND
season. Trees are looking ready, and the
weather is very favourable for flowering. I SOUTHERN WESTERN
am sure all farmers are getting ready for the
AUSTRALIA
up-and-coming season.
I am also hearing a lot of growers around
the area are tying up loose ends and
getting prepared for the end of the financial
year and tax time.
At present, a great deal of work is going
into the Strategic Investment Plan (SIP).
We hope the outputs from this plan have a
John Nardi big positive impact on the industry over the
M: 0408 334 266 next five years. David Morcombe
E: johnn@favcoqld.com.au M: 0414 240 709
After a reasonable wet season, we are E: dw.morcombe@gmail.com
starting to see some colder weather just SOUTHERN QUEENSLAND
Winter in the south is not that exciting for
about to set in, at the time of writing. Most & NEW SOUTH WALES mango growers. The trees do not like the
growers will be well into their winter pruning cold wet weather and it is those conditions
programs and will be watching the trees that allow fungal and bacterial pathogens
closely as it gets colder, over the coming into our crops. If we do not keep up the
months. With some recent rain and warmer protective sprays, come springtime the
weather (before the cold), some growers trees will tell the story.
saw some flush trying to push out, but we
are hopeful instead the trees settle and By the time this is published I expect the
switch into flowering mode. Hopefully we new five-year Strategic Investment Plan
do not see the late frosts and hailstorms (SIP) will have been published by Hort
that affected the area last year. Innovation. I would like to thank everyone
Karl Gygar who provided input to this plan, particularly
As everyone is aware, finding staff for Ben Martin our chairman, who has put a
M: 0481 591 470
the past season was a battle while in the lot of effort into attempting to ensure the
E: kgygar@gmail.com
midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. It is very strategy generates maximum return to the
likely that this will be the case again for the growers who contribute the levies—which
As stated in my last report, Hort Innovation
coming season and I encourage growers will be spent in line with the strategies
in conjunction with the Australian Mango
to plan well ahead to try and secure staff outlined in the five-year plan.
Industry, have been developing the next
numbers. I think it would be fair to assume
Strategic Investment Plan (SIP) for the The new season is almost here, and I hope
that we will go through the season with a
mango industry. This document is vitally all goes well for the first starters in the
high turnover of staff as well, due to the
important as it drives the strategic direction Northern Territory. The rest of us have a little
demand for labour in all industries, which
of where Hort Innovation will allow industry more time to get ready.
will make any staff available very fluid and
levies to be invested. It is important for
prone to moving around as it suits them.
WINTER 2021 PAGE 7
AMIA &
INDUSTRY NEWS
Excutive team AG Visa announced
update The Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency
It is with regret that we announce our Management, David Littleproud announced in June, that a new
Industry Development Officer (NT/WA),
Sarah Hain, is leaving at the end of July to agriculture visa will be available.
take up another role within agriculture. The
AMIA team will miss Sarah tremendously
and thank her for all her hard work over the Minister Littleproud said the announcement “Like the Seasonal Worker Programme, the
past three years. of a new seasonal agriculture worker visa new visa arrangement will have protections
will come as huge relief to the agriculture to ensure workers are protected, not
Due to Sarah leaving we are looking to fill industry that has been crying out for a subject to exploitation and that the visa is
her position, as well as a part-time Industry secure workforce. not misused.
Development Officer (QLD), to support
Marine this coming season. “As part of the give and take of negotiations “Pay and conditions, health, and work
with the UK over the FTA, UK backpackers and safety will also be in line with similar
If you are interested in applying for either will no longer be required to fulfil a period requirements and protections under the
position, or know someone else that would of time working in the agriculture sector,” Seasonal Worker Programme.
be, please contact Brett Kelly on Minister Littleproud said.
M: 0437 435 363 or “The new visa will also set up the industry
E: ceo@mangoes.net.au. “As a result, the Nationals demanded and for the future and will address a key brake
secured this new agriculture visa to fill the for many of agriculture industries – the
gap that would create and more. availability of labour.”
“This visa will be extended to all ten The Australian Government will work to
ASEAN countries in view of our close and have the new visa in place before the end
AMIA AGM
longstanding economic ties with the region. of the year.
“The new seasonal agricultural worker visa AMIA is looking forward to seeing the finer
would mirror the existing Seasonal Worker details of this announcement.
Following the AMIA Annual General
Programme and will add to the pool of
Meeting (AGM) in late May, John
workers available to work on Australian
Nucifora, David Morcombe and Geoff
farms.
Warnock have all been re-elected
unopposed. Thanks to those that “Pacific worker programs have and will
attended the AGM. continue to play a critical role in our
agriculture sector and the new visa
arrangement will build on the success of
these arrangements.
PROCESSING
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PAGE 8 MANGO MATTERS
Export information
Export registrations for the 2021/22 mango If you missed the export information If you have any questions or require any
season for international protocol markets session, please visit our website or further information, please contact:
are now open. YouTube channel to view a recording of • (NT/WA) Sarah: sarah@mangoes.net.
this session. au / 0457 555 939
If you are considering export this season,
please click here for further details about Growers and Packhouses should note • (QLD/NNSW) Marine: marine@
what is required or sign into the export that online registration closes shortly mangoes.net.au / 0457 555 838.
application website directly here. on 23 July 2021.
WHO WHAT KEY DATE RELEVANT
MARKETS
ALL An online information Completed (recording above) China, Korea
session will be held by and USA
AMIA
Growers and Apply online to register 23 July 2021 China, Korea
Packhouses orchards/packhouses for and USA
relevant export markets
Crop Monitors Complete crop monitor Before flowering (budburst) when crop monitoring needs to China, Korea
training start and USA
Growers and Prepare for audit, For new or previously non-compliant businesses: China, Korea
Packhouses conducted by DAWE • Pre-season audits: w/c 23 August 2021 and USA
• For accredited and compliant businesses (from last season):
• In-season audits: TBC during the season
AMIA now
a member MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS
of Irrigation 5. Conference & Tradeshow Discounts 11. International Representation
Australia
Member discounts on attending and exhibiting Be part of the global irrigation community
at the Irrigation Australia Biennial International and gain access to international contacts via
Conference & Exhibition. the Irrigation membership of the International
Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID).
6. Members Only Portal
Gain access to the members only 12. Discounts on Waterwise endorsement
AMIA is now a member of Irrigation portal on the Irrigation Australia
website. Through the portal
Receive significant member discounts on the
Waterwise endorsement programs, relevant
Australia Ltd (IAL), and AMIA members 1. Irrigation Journal Copies you can manage your Irrigation
Australia membership, register
for domestic irrigation contractors, installers,
landscapers and retailers.
Distributed quarterly in digital format, Irrigation
can also receive the benefits of this Australia’s signature publication, the Journal, your staff/employees for Benefit from Waterwise
contains valuable industry information about training, access members only marketing and merchandise
membership (see below). new projects, technologies and techniques for documents, presentation and to promote yourself as
Agriculture, Landscape & Domestic Irrigation. other materials. a Waterwise irrigation
professional to the
IAL was founded in 2007 and is Australia’s community.
peak national organisation representing
See www.waterwiseprograms.com.au
the Australian Irrigation Industry. IAL is also 7. Access to eKnowledge
Irrigation Australia eKnowledge repository
for more information.
the Australian representative body of the has significant resources of technical papers,
conference papers, Irrigation Journals and
International Commission on Irrigation and FAQ’s available only for Members.
Additional Membership Benefits
Drainage. 8. Discounts on Publications
and Merchandise (EXCLUDES PRIMARY PRODUCERS, INDIVIDUALS
2. Access to the National Irrigation Directory Irrigation Australia offers a wide range of books, & RETIRED MEMBERSHIP CATEGORY)
The only national and comprehensive digital eBooks and other merchandise through its online
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List your business for free with
9. Invitations to Regional digital copies reaching the wider
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Receive significant member discounts on
nationally accredited irrigation training and across Australia. This is a great opportunity
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To Become a Member of Join online by visiting www.irrigationaustralia.com.au or contact us at
Irrigation Australia 1300 949 891 or email membership@irrigation.org.au
WINTER 2021 PAGE 9
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT T 1300 949 891 | E info@irrigation.org.au | W www.irrigationaustralia.com.au |
IRRIGATION AUSTRALIA ON: QLD: Unit 11/58 Metroplex Avenue, Murarrie, QLD 4172 | PO Box 13, Cannon Hill QLD 4170
Increase to minimum wage and ATO
other updates Resources
Increase to minimum wage Free trade agreement between The ATO have developed a range of
Following the Annual Wage Review 2021, the UK and Australia resources to help agricultural workers
the Fair Work Commission has announced this tax time. It’s important that everyone
The free trade agreement between the UK
a 2.5% increase to the national minimum understands what they can and can’t
and Australia was announced on June 15.
wage. For anyone not covered by an claim at tax time and how to best prepare
award or an agreement, the new national There are no details yet as to exactly when and lodge their returns, especially after a
minimum wage will be $772.60 per week or this comes into effect, but it does mean challenging year.
$20.33 per hour. British backpackers will no longer be
Resources include:
obligated to work 88 days in agriculture.
Find out more here. Find more information here. 1. Agricultural Workers Occupation Guide
– providing helpful information about
Seasonal Worker Programme Temporary relaxation of working what can and can’t be claimed at tax
(SWP) and the Pacific Labour hours for Student Visa Holders time. You can also access a link to a one-
Scheme (PLS) In response to workforce shortages, page poster summarising the information
In the recent Queensland budget, $2.6 student visa holders can work beyond which can be downloaded, printed and
million was allocated to improving the their usual work limitations in a number of shared.
implementation of SWP/PLS to help meet industries including agriculture. While these 2. If you have been impacted by drought,
seasonal workforce gaps in regional areas. measures are in place, the Department of the ATO offers a range of assistance
A review of the programs is under way, Home Affairs and Australian Border Force for individuals, businesses, and primary
seeking input on how to streamline and will not take any adverse action against producers. Click here and here to find
improve processes. You can find out more student visa holders or employers with out more.
about the review here. respect to students working in excess of 40
hours each fortnight. You can find out more
here.
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PAGE 10 MANGO MATTERSQFF updates
$75,000 grants for farmers impacted by
recent floods and cyclones
The Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) has
welcomed the activation of Category D assistance
for farmers beginning the recovery process following
damage caused by recent floods and cyclones.
Farmers in the Goondiwindi, Cairns, Cassowary
Coast, Hinchinbrook, Mareeba and Tablelands local
government areas are eligible for grants of up to $75,000,
in addition to the freight subsidies, concessional loans
and grants already available, through the jointly funded
Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding
Arrangements (DRFA).
The Category D recovery grants are available from QRIDA
at qrida.qld.gov.au or by calling 1800 623 946.
View the full statement here.
QFF welcomes drought-proofing funding for
farmers
Farmers are encouraged to apply for funding for drought-
proofing works after the state and federal governments
partnered to extend the On-farm Emergency Water
Infrastructure Rebate Scheme.
Head to www.agriculture.gov.au/water/national/on-farm-
infrastructure-rebate to find out more.
Mango growers,
don’t gamble
Major drought reform Extreme temperature
for Queensland ranges are here to stay.
producers That means managing frost risk
A major reform to Queensland’s drought assistance
Calculate the R.O.I. by installing
will help Queensland primary producers improve their
management of future droughts. A range of proactive
measures including tailored training, grants and loans FROSTBOSS C49.
will be open to primary producers without needing a
drought declaration across a broad range of agricultural
industries.
The new drought assistance will be available for
application from late 2021 through the Queensland Rural
bossthefrost.com.au
and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA).
The Queensland Government’s Drought Relief Assistance
Scheme (DRAS) will continue for this current drought. Ian Mason
Drought-declared producers can continue accessing
M +61 448 111 384 P 1800 797 629
DRAS support or move to the new measures. DRAS will
be phased out as local government areas come out of E info@aussiefrostfans.com.au
drought. aussiefrostfans.com.au
Keep an eye out for regional forums explaining the new
drought assistance later this year. Some of the new
drought assistance measures are jointly funded through
the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund.
FRF 1045
For more information visit daf.qld.gov.au/drought or
phone 13 25 23.
WINTER 2021 PAGE 11PR &
MARKETING
2020…
a season like
no other
The 2020 mango crop produced the
lowest volume in seven years, defined by
a later start, no real peaks, less product
being exported, and the constant dance
with COVID-19.
Despite a slightly later start, the beginning They bought on average 31 mangoes In 2020, our lowest volume year, we
of the season was filled with the promise of and spent on average $66.89 across the achieved the highest number of mango
a big crop, with weekly volumes tracking in season. ‘Wedded Buyers’ love Australian print media advertisements ever (483)
line with the previous two seasons through mangoes, will pay more for the experience, and retained the highest share of voice
to the end of September. As we moved and will proudly tell the world. They are (SOV) score—ranking mangoes number
into October and November the volume quite simply our greatest advocates, and one in the fruit category, an exceptional
collapsed and didn’t rise again through we must retain and grow them. result.
Christmas and the second half of summer,
Over the past seven years we have worked I extend my sincere congratulations to all
culminating in -23% volume versus 2019.
together breathing life into our marketing of you—the passionate and committed
A total of 8.2 M trays were harvested in
plan, illustrated by the ‘Wheel of Velocity individuals, the amazing teams, and the
2020.
and Momentum’. During this time, we have great businesses who have created this
The steep decline in production volume witnessed, again and again, that no two extraordinary industry. Over the past seven
led to a significant reduction in the number seasons are ever the same, and yet the years, you have each contributed much
of mangoes available for sale through the ‘recipe for success’ never changes. to the success of Australian mangoes,
domestic retail channel, reflected in the and now, with the 2021 season fast
Our mantra of “Impulse is King, and
year-on-year (YOY) volume decline approaching I wish you every success for
quality is Queen” continues to be the
of -21.7%. The lower volume resulted in the future.
primary motivation for why consumers buy
less households buying mangoes -7.2%,
mangoes. Accurate forecasting provides
they purchased less frequently -8.9%, For more information please contact
a clear vision of what’s coming and when,
and they bought less mangoes on each Treena Welch, Australian Mangoes
allowing retailers to adjust their marketing
shopping occasion -7.4%. However, Marketing Manager on
and promotional plans to sync with the
with all stakeholders working together to P: 0417 001 253 or
rhythm of the crop. Having highly visible,
deliver an excellent consumer experience, E: marketing@mangoes.net.au
large, luscious displays of beautiful, quality
shoppers were happy to pay a higher
mangoes that look fresh and vibrant, and
average retail price and the decline in
are packed with that unique mango flavour
value was minimised at -6.1%.
is the cornerstone for building sustainable
Bringing new buyers into the mango profitable growth.
category and moving them up the ‘Ladder
The job of marketing is to shape consumer
of Love’ has always been our long-term
behaviour maximising short-term sales, and
game plan. Ultimately, we want to grow
long-term brand value. Over the past seven
the ‘Wedded Buyer’ segment and for good
years we have given our retailers good
reason. During the 2020 season, 22%
reason to move away from simply selling
of mango buying households were
mangoes at a price, to the current position Continued page 13
‘Wedded Buyers’—they were responsible
of selling the provenance, inspiration, and
for purchasing 50% of volume and
value associated with Australian mangoes.
represented 51% of spending.
PAGE 12 MANGO MATTERSContinued from page 12
Lowest supply season in 7 years Drop in supply October/November
SEASON TRENDS - SUPPLY SEASON TRENDS - SUPPLY
Levy data - 7kg tray equivalents
14
12
10
Trays (million)
8
6
4
2
0 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38
2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
2018 Season 2019 Season 2020 Season
Season # Trays # Weeks # Weeks # Weeks # Weeks Season Profile Supply
(Millions) >100k >250k >500k >750k
2014 9.4 18 15 8 2 High volume & peaks, moderately compressed season
2015 8.7 25 15 5 0 Longer, flatter, less compressed season
2016 8.6 20 15 7 3 Lower volume, highly compressed season
2017 12 25 19 12 3 Highest volume to date, with long less compressed season
2018 10.9 21 17 10 5 High volume. More compressed season than 2017
2019 10.6 23 20 4 1 High volume. Less compressed season
2020 8.2(est) 22 17 3 0 Lowest volume season. Less compressed season
Source (trays): Levy Data 2020 is estimated as June data is yet to be included. Source (weeks): AMIA grower crop flow data. This is used to create a view of the season and how that compares
to other seasons.
Due to lower volume all consumer metrics were down except price
AUS Average Price
$2.09
-21.7% unit decline
$1.80
$1.74
-6.1% value decline
INCREASE
19.8%
2018 Season 2019 Season 2020 Season
Average Occasions Average Units per Occasion Buying Households
6.0 6.32 2.59
5.8 2.5
2.4
2018 Season 2019 Season 2020 Season 2018 Season 2019 Season 2020 Season 2018 Season 2019 Season 2020 Season
DECLINE DECLINE
DECLINE
-8.9% -7.4% -7.2%
5.7 million less occasions 421k less households
Data Source: Nielsen Homescan Mango Database Continued page 14
WINTER 2021 PAGE 13Continued from page 13
During the 2020 season, 22% of mango buying households were Wedded Buyers
LADDER OF LOVE
Wedded Buyers
WEDDED BUYERS Purchased Mangoes and
Wedded Buyers 9.2%
22.2% accounted for 50% of trips
less PAY MOST
per mango Engaged Buyers
Purchased Mangoes and
Engaged Buyers 20.3% 6.5%
accounted for 24% of trips
less
Dating Buyers
5.6% Purchased Mangoes and
Dating Buyers 12.8%
less accounted for 10% of trips
First Kiss Buyers
First Kiss Buyers 5.9% Purchased Mangoes and
17.2% less accounted for 9% of trips
FLIRTING BUYERS
PAY LEAST Flirting Buyers
Flirting Buyers 7.5% per mango Purchased Mangoes and
27.5% less accounted for 7% of trips
WEDDED BUYERS WEDDED BUYERS WEDDED BUYERS WEDDED BUYERS
22% of Shoppers Purchased on average Purchase less per occasion
but purchase more POSITIVE AWOP* $ growth.
50% of Units 13.0 times
frequently Avg. SPEND ~ $67.00
in 2020 season,
51% of Value Approx. 31 mangoes per season.
The highest growth of any segment.
13.9 times in 2019 sesaon.
*AWOP - Average weight of purchase.
Data Source: Nielsen Homescan Mango Database
Average occasions were down for each of the buyer groups
PURCHASE FREQUENCY BY SEGMENT
Average Occasions by Buyer Group
13.9 2018
13.3 13.0
2019
2020
7.5
7.1
6.8
5.8 AUS avg. 2020
4.7 5.0
4.5
3.1 3.3
3.0
1.6
1.5 1.5
Flirting Buyers First Kiss Buyers Dating Buyers Engaged Buyers Wedded Buyers
Data Source: Nielsen Homescan Mango Database Continued page 15
PAGE 14 MANGO MATTERSContinued from page 14
Wedded Buyers purchase less per occasion but purchase more frequently. The decrease
has not been as large as other segments.
UNITS PER OCCASION BY SEGMENT
Average Price by Buyer Group
2.70 2.72
2.67 2.65
2.60
2.58
2.55
2.50 2.49 2.50
2.46
2.39 2.43
2.40 2.40 AUS avg. 2020
2.38
Flirting Buyers First Kiss Buyers Dating Buyers Engaged Buyers Wedded Buyers
Wedded Buyers PAY MORE per mango
MANGOES AVERAGE PRICE PER SEGMENT
Average Price by Buyer Group
$2.17
$1.98 $2.01
$2.10 $1.92 $2.09 AUS avg. 2020
$1.90 $1.85
$1.80
$1.69 $1.65 $1.66 $1.65 $1.70 $1.68
$1.61
2018
2019
2020
Flirting Buyers First Kiss Buyers Dating Buyers Engaged Buyers Wedded Buyers
WEDDED BUYERS did not have the highest price increase however these buyers will pay
more for mangoes and this translated to AWOP.
Wedded Buyers had the lowest decline in total mangoes purchased
MANGOES PURCHASED (AWOP) BY SEGMENT
Mangoes Purchased (AWOP) buy Buyer Group
34.9
32.7 2018
30.9
2019
2020
20.5
18.9
16.3
13.6 13.8 AUS avg. 2020
11.9 10.9
8.3 8.6
7.2
3.9 4.2
3.7
Flirting Buyers First Kiss Buyers Dating Buyers Engaged Buyers Wedded Buyers
WEDDED BUYERS purchase less per occasion but purchase more frequently.
Average ~31 Mangoes/Season.
Data Source (all above): Nielsen Homescan Mango Database Continued page 16
WINTER 2021 PAGE 15Continued from page 15
WEDDED BUYERS had positive AWOP growth.
Only FLIRTING BUYERS had the same growth however off a very low base
MANGOES $ PURCHASED ($AWOP) BY SEGMENT
Mangoes $ Purchased (AWOP) buy Buyer Group
2018
$66.89 2019
$64.32
$62.57
2020
$34.18 $34.13
$31.85
$28.85 AUS avg. 2020
$21.12 $22.23 $21.63
$13.58 $14.28 $14.12
$6.69 $6.89
$6.45
Flirting Buyers First Kiss Buyers Dating Buyers Engaged Buyers Wedded Buyers
WEDDED BUYERS pay MORE per mango
Data Source: Nielsen Homescan Mango Database
Mangoes had the highest increase in share of fruit adverts.
NUMBER OF ADS SHARE OF ADVERTS 2020
Cumulative # of Mango Adverts by Season Weeks 9 to 34, Media dates 26 Aug to 23 Feb
500
Mangoes 13%
400
Pears 3%
Avocados 3% Nectarines
300 12%
Cherries 3%
Plums 3%
200 Watermelon 3%
Mandarins 3% Grapes
11%
100 Pineapples 4%
Apples 4%
Peaches
Rasberries 4% 9%
0 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 Strawberries 5% Blueberries
8%
2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
MANGOES MANGOES
achieved more ads achieved highest share
later in the season. of fruit adverts ever.
Data Source: Numerator Print Media Database Continued page 17
PAGE 16 MANGO MATTERSContinued from page 16
Mangoes increased Share of Voice (SOV) total fruit
SHARE OF VOICE SHARE OF VOICE 2020
Cumulative SOV Score for Mango Adverts by Season Weeks 9 to 34, Media dates 26 Aug to 23 Feb
600,000
Avocados 2%
Mangoes 21%
Apples 2%
500,000
Watermelon 3%
Mandarins 4%
400,000
Raspberries
4%
300,000
Cherries
5%
Blueberries
200,000 Grapes 17%
6%
100,000 Peaches
7%
Nectarines
Strawberries 9% 11%
0 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34
2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
MANGOES MANGOES
Highest SOV score EVER. #1 SOV for 2020.
Data Source: Numerator Print Media Database
Mangoes increased Share of Voice (SOV) total fruit
PRINT MEDIA - MANGOES
Number of Adverts by Variety
Weeks 9 to 34, Media dates 26 Aug to 23 Feb
Keitt
2%
175
R2E2
143 146 8%
Other
9%
KP
86 36%
71 Honey
Gold
43 41 34 42
15%
12
7 8
Calypso
KP Calypso Honey Gold R2E2 Keitt Other
30%
2019 2020
Data Source: Numerator Print Media Database
WINTER 2021 PAGE 17BIOSECURITY,
RESEARCH & POLICY
Biosecurity—Emergency Plant Pest
Response Deed
As part of our commitment
to represent the biosecurity
interests of the Australian
mango industry, Australian
Mangoes (AMIA) provide
information about biosecurity,
pests, and diseases.
This edition, we look at
the Emergency Plant Pest
Response Deed (EPPRD).
Information has been
prepared by Plant Health
Australia.
WHAT IS THE EPPRD?
The Emergency Plant Pest Response PHA’s training team Lucy Aukett and Matt Chifley delivering EPPRD awareness and Industry Liaison training in
Deed (EPPRD) is a formal legally binding Darwin at the end of last month. The training was attended by industry and local government representatives
agreement between Plant Health Australia, and covered the role of an Industry Liaison officer in an emergency.
the Australian Government, all state and
territory governments and national plant
industry body signatories (which includes impacts on public health, environment,
Australian Mango Industry Association)
HOW TO REPORT A
regional and national economics, trade and
covering the management and funding SUSPECTED PEST
market access and control or production
of responses to Emergency Plant Pests costs. This categorisation determines the If you suspect an EPP, contact the Exotic
(EPPs). Plant Health Australia is the government/industry funding ratio for the Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881. If the
custodian of the EPPRD. cost of the response. pest is identified as likely to be an EPP, it
The EPPRD formalises the shared role in will trigger a formal series of events via the
EPP response decision making between HOW ARE INCURSIONS state or territory Department of Primary
government and industry, outlines the MANAGED? Industry under the direction of the local
cost sharing arrangements of approved Chief Plant Health Manager.
responses and provides a framework for The Australian Emergency Plant Pest
owner reimbursement costs. Response Plan (PLANTPLAN) provides MORE INFORMATION
nationally endorsed, best practice
operational guidelines for EPP incursion For further information visit: https://
WHAT IS AN EMERGENCY www.planthealthaustralia.com.au/
responses. It outlines the phases of
PLANT PEST? an incursion, and the key roles and biosecurity/emergency-plant-pest-
responsibilities of industry and government response-deed/.
The EPPRD is only activated for the
eradication of plant pests with nationally during each of the phases. Any response
significant economic or environmental to a pest under the EPPRD must be run in
impact that are also one of the following: accordance with PLANTPLAN.
• a known exotic plant pest OWNER REIMBURSEMENT
• a variant form of a plant pest already
COSTS
established in Australia
• a previously unknown pest Owners of crops or properties damaged
• an officially controlled pest. or destroyed as a direct result of a
requirement under an approved Response
EPPs are assigned to one of four Plan may be eligible for reimbursement
categories based on their potential payments under the EPPRD.
PAGE 18 MANGO MATTERSBiosecurity—National
Fruit Fly symposium
calls for national strategy
commitment
Implementing the National Fruit Fly Strategy 2020-2025 via a
sustainable funding model was the resounding conclusion from
those who devoted their time to attend the National Fruit Fly
symposium held in May.
Over 420 participants from a range of in November 2020 largely remained
Christina Cook, Manager, National Fruit Fly Council
backgrounds including industry leaders, unfunded. (NFFC).
government representatives, researchers
Department of Agriculture Water and
and growers took part in the symposium,
Environment’s Chief Plant Protection
where the discussions were around
Officer Gabrielle Vivian-Smith talked of the
Building Future National Success. Progressing these issues will be the focus
Department’s commitment to ensuring
The three-day online event hosted by the borders were secure and there was for Council in the coming months.
National Fruit Fly Council (NFFC), Hort adequate preparedness to be able to deal NFFC chairman Lloyd Klumpp was
Innovation and Plant Health Australia was with exotic fruit fly detections. excited by the enthusiasm and maturity of
aimed at progressing discussion on critical discussions at the symposium. He believed
“We need to not lose sight of real and
fruit fly issues and identifying ways to build the national strategy required coordination,
present threats in the north; to ensure that
a cohesive national framework. collaboration, communication, and
we’re prepared to respond as a country
NFFC member and Nutrano Produce group in the event of an outbreak or detection commitment from all stakeholders to deliver
technical manager, Steve Burdette said onshore of oriental fruit flies,” she said. the goal of contemporary, viable and
the national strategy provides international cost-effective national approach to fruit fly
Hort Innovation General Manager Research management that Australia has set.
and interstate trading partners confidence
and Development Alison Anderson said
that Australia’s horticulture industries are Mr Klumpp said the Council was ready
when it came to the implementation of a
working hard to manage fruit fly. to take on the issues raised at the
national fruit fly strategy, there was a need
Mr Burdette said a critical element for for a coordinated national, state, regional symposium by seeking those four “Cs”
successful control of fruit fly was to ensure and on-farm approach, and clarity around from stakeholder participation in think
alignment of on-farm production practices who was responsible for what, when and tanks designed to deliver solutions and
with effective policies to ensure market how. commitment to action.
access and trade. Plant Health Australia’s CEO Sarah
Dr Anderson noted the importance of a
Cherry Growers Australia president Tom strong research and development program Corcoran noted that the NFFC is an
Eastlake identified international trade, a to support the needs of growers to ensure important forum of governments, research
theme of discussion at the symposium, as they remained viable and maintained providers and industries to provide
critical. One of his key concerns was that access to markets. leadership and advice on national fruit fly
the National Fruit Fly Strategy launched issues.
National Fruit Fly Council manager Christina
Cook identified trade as “the central driving In reflecting on the success of the
force to managing fruit fly.” symposium in meeting these goals, Ms
Corcoran said, “we note the success that
“We need workable protocols and council have achieved to date and look
treatments to access markets. We need forward to building on those successes
modern and effective on-farm management and being able to achieve the nationally
tools and access to information about responsive and integrated system that’s
those,” she said. supported by all.”
Farmers were good at managing fruit fly For further information visit: https://
on-farm but needed support to manage preventfruitfly.com.au/national-fruit-
the off-farm risks, and the things outside of fly-council/.
their control, she said.
Ms Cook listed some examples of off-farm
challenges such as abandoned orchards,
the availability of effective chemicals,
building and maintaining area wide
management in communities, and using
SIT (sterile insect technology) as part of
Queensland Fruit Fly. a strong national approach in Australia.
WINTER 2021 PAGE 19Season in review
WEATHER CONDITIONS– picking around the Gingin region. Poor early flowering events were recorded
Both the NT (Darwin and Katherine in all three states, particularly for trees of
TEMPERATURE, RAINFALL,
regions), Kununurra and Queensland the Kensington Pride (KP) variety and Keitt
WIND, FROST ETC. (QLD) battled isolated showers and storms (QLD only).
Most mango growing regions experienced late in the picking season. Far North QLD
warm winter flowering periods with strong regions experienced some frosts, but there FRUIT QUANTITY AND
winds and rain late into the harvest was less damage than previous seasons. QUALITY
period. At the beginning of the 2020/2021 Northern Australian regions recorded good
average rainfall for the 2020/2021 wet This season was the lowest volume
season, the Northern Territory (NT) had
season. recorded in the AMIA crop forecast,
just experienced another hot and dry
which has been collecting data since
wet season. Bureau of Meteorology
FLOWERING the 2014/2015 season, seven years ago.
(BOM) recorded daytime and overnight
Nationally, fruit was generally smaller in
temperatures that were ranked as the The 2020 mango flowering season kicked size, and many growers experienced
second highest on record for most of the off in May for the Darwin region but some reduced volumes, particularly with KP fruit.
state and across the territory, rainfall was in the region had to wait until later in June For many regions, harvest finished quicker
below the long-term average by 20%. and July for a larger flowering event. than expected resulting in low volume
BOM also recorded a warm and dry winter Producers in the NT recorded multiple weeks in the peak of the season. Many
for Western Australia (WA). They battled flowerings spread across the three-month growers also reported less internal fruit
extreme conditions with a hot and windy cool period. Those in WA, particularly in the on their trees than usual. There were only
winter in Kununurra, damaging floods and north, found that flowering mostly occurred three weeks of the entire season where
heat waves that resulted in large sunburn late in the cool period, which did not more than 500,000 trays were dispatched—
losses in Carnarvon, and bushfires close to allow conducive pollination temperatures. further to this we did not see more than
Continued page 21
Snapshots from the 2020/2021 season.
PAGE 20 MANGO MATTERSContinued from page 20
CHALLENGES
Export volumes totalled approximately 4,320
The mango season is always challenging
tonnes for the season, down 44% and 47% on 2020 but the 2020/2021 season brought a new
and 2019 seasons respectively. challenge: COVID-19. The pandemic had
many impacts, expected and unexpected.
Impacts for growers and the supply chain
750,000 trays dispatched in any given EXPORT included lack of skilled and unskilled labour,
week. additional WHS requirements, worker
Export volumes totalled approximately
Rain late into the picking period did result quarantine, border closures, reduced
4,320 tonnes for the season, down 44%
in downgrading of small amounts of fruit airfreight and difficulty sourcing inputs and
and 47% on 2020 and 2019 seasons
for some NT and QLD growers, as well as other materials.
respectively. Despite this, there was
rub marks from strong winter winds during still good demand from international Outside of COVID-19, mango growers
the fruit development period. Carnarvon customers. The top five export reported a number of other challenges,
growers reported up to 70% fruit loss destinations for the season were New such as; increasing compliance and
around Christmas from sunburn due to Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, the regulation, reduced chemical options and
two separate days of extreme heat with no United Arab Emirates, and the Republic long withholding periods, and access to
wind. of Korea. land and water.
**Disclaimer: this report is a compilation of qualitative and quantitative data that was sourced from many stakeholders across the industry, including growers and Australian
Mangoes staff across the national industry and throughout the supply chain. Some generalisations in this report may or may not reflect individuals’ circumstances during the
2020/2021 mango season.
WINTER 2021 PAGE 21Mango industry aims high with
high-density plantings
‘Transforming orchards to high-density plantings produces higher yields
and income…’
That’s the advice from the Transforming (CRCNA), the project team, DAF, Manbulloo “While the adoption of high-density slim
Mango Futures project team which Ltd, Marto’s Mangoes and the Australian hedge and trellised planting requires
spent three years studying grower and Mango Industry Association (AMIA), trialled a higher level of investment during
experimental mango orchards, examining high-density planting across three sites in establishment and over the first 10 years
whether high-density orchards would Queensland and the Northern Territory. than conventional lower density planting
produce more fruit, more economically, systems, this is rapidly recouped by the
“To move from 200 to 600, or even 1,200
than low-density plantings. higher revenues achieved by increased
trees per hectare requires us to do the
yield per hectare,” Dr Dickinson said.
The project’s final economic case study equivalent of what architects do in inner
was launched in May at the Northern cities – that is maximise the efficient use The Australian-first research, modelling
Australia Food Futures conference in of space. We are doing that by growing input costs and revenues from real data,
Darwin. shorter, thinner mango trees and minimising reveals that high-density trellised orchards
the width of inter-rows for use by narrower punch above their weight in yield and
Project lead, Dr Geoff Dickinson from the
tractors and equipment,” Dr Dickinson income generation.
Department of Agriculture and Fisheries
explained.
(DAF) Queensland said the industry has Modelling suggests, at their peak, these
long been interested in transforming “In terms of mangoes, this intensification new high-density and trellised orchards
from low-yielding, low- density orchards involves managing trees as slim hedges could:
into high-yielding, high-density orchard or by training trees on trellises which sees
• Produce up to 66 tonnes per ha / per
systems. them get great support, great light and
year – over 3.5 times more than existing
maximum canopy leaf area to produce
“The Department of Agriculture and low-density plantings
more fruit. Short, narrow trees mean
Fisheries, Queensland (DAF) have been • Improve on-farm efficiency of mango
sprayers and harvesters can work more
working on this challenge since 2013, and growing, spraying, and picking costs
efficiently, reducing pesticide use and
this project builds on this work,” he said. • Reduce annual fruit production costs
opening opportunities for new technologies
Funded by the Cooperative Research including robotic harvesting. (per kg/fruit) by approximately 20%
Centre for Developing Northern Australia • Improve long-term grower and industry
profitability.
Dr Dickinson said transitioning from low-
density plantings to higher density plantings
also generated a range of environmental
and efficiency-related co-benefits.
“There are also a range of co-benefits
of adopting our ‘intensification’ model
including reduced water and fertiliser
inputs, increased harvesting efficiencies,
increased suitability to the introduction
of mechanisation and robotics, and
greater pest and disease management
efficiencies,” Dr Dickinson explained.
CRCNA CEO, Anne Stünzner said she
is confident the study will assist farmers
become more productive in the long-term.
“The team and the industry, recognise that
growers have genuine concerns about
transitioning from tried-and-true systems
to new ones, particularly when there are
significant set up costs.
‘We hope this study will assist growers
when establishing new mango plantings
to help them select which orchard
management design is most suitable for
them,” she said.
Continued page 23
Geoff Dickinson.
PAGE 22 MANGO MATTERSYou can also read
