Victoria’s apple industry is positioning itself for the 2026 harvest, with growers focused on orchard management and fruit development as the main picking period approaches next year.

While apples are still some months away from harvest, Fruit Growers Victoria chair and Ardmona orchardist Mitchell McNab said most growers were currently occupied with cherry and stonefruit picking, which was well under way across key growing regions.

“For apples, the focus right now is very much on orchard management and fruit development, setting the crop up for a strong harvest when the season begins,” he said.

Weather conditions to date have been relatively benign, with limited impacts on orchards. Mr McNab said the season has been fairly dry overall, although there was a minor hail event earlier in the season.

“We did see a small, patchy hail event, but it was very localised and hasn’t caused any damage to fruit,” he said.

“For most growers, weather impacts have been minimal so far.”

Pest pressure has remained within expected levels for this time of year, with growers actively managing issues as they arise.

Queensland fruit fly continues to be a significant challenge for the industry, but Mr McNab said recent funding support was a positive development.

“Queensland fruit fly always remains an ongoing challenge, but it’s encouraging that we’ve recently received funding to help growers manage this pest more effectively,” he said.

Water availability is also front of mind for growers, particularly given rising input costs. However, Mr McNab said access to water had generally been adequate so far.

“Water availability remains a key consideration, but most growers have been able to access the water they need at this stage,” he said.

On the market front, Mr McNab said prices were currently strong, underpinned by lower supply from last season and expectations of a smaller crop ahead.

“Prices are relatively strong on the back of lower supply, and we’re optimistic that pricing should remain high through the coming season,” he said.

Processing demand has been softer, with feedback from growers suggesting SPC is taking less fruit than in previous years.

“Processing remains an important outlet for growers, and we continue to engage with industry and processors on the impacts this has across the supply chain,” Mr McNab said.

Despite ongoing cost pressures and seasonal challenges, Mr McNab said growers remained focused on quality and efficiency.

“Growers have put in a huge amount of work leading into this harvest, and we’re optimistic about the season ahead,” he said.

“Fruit Growers Victoria remains committed to supporting growers through advocacy and practical support across the state.”

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Sunday, 29th March 2026

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