National Horticultural Research Network - Horticulture Industry ...

National Horticultural Research Network
Nut Sector RD&E Framework September 2010
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4.2.3.1 Production and locations
Chestnuts. Production increased in the last three years. The major production State is Vic, with
around 75% of the national crop. Production growth of 33% is forecasted over the next 3 years.
Pecan. Production increased in the last 3 years. The major producer is NSW with 85% of national
production on one large farm at Moree (Stahmann Farms). Stahmann Farms provide processing for
the whole industry at Toowoomba, Qld. A small growth in production forecast for the next three years
due to lack of irrigation water.
Pistachio. Production increased in the last 3 years along the Murray in Vic and NSW. The major
processing facility is at Robinvale in Victoria. A production growth of 20% is forecasted over the next
3 years.
Hazelnuts. Production has been stable over the last three years although ANIC data shows an
increase of 100% in the area planted to hazelnuts in the same period. Production should increase as
these young plantings start to produce. Major production states are Vic and NSW.
Walnuts. Production has increased dramatically in the last three years. Major production regions are
the east coast of Tas, the Goulburn Valley and along the Murray in Vic and the NSW Riverina.
Webster Limited dominates national production with 620ha in Tas and 1615 ha in the NSW Riverina.
These plantings have the potential to produce 11,000 t (nut in shell) - nearly 10 times the current
national crop. Production growth over the next three years forecast at over 400% - indicating that
many of the plantings are currently immature.
4.2.3.2 Industry Outlook and Drivers
Chestnuts. Product quality (eating quality and nut size) through evaluation of new imported varieties.
Value adding opportunities for fresh and frozen products - particularly for export. Market access.
Biosecurity with respect to import of exotic pests and diseases that are significant problems in other
production countries. A pest free status in Australia allows production without pesticides.
Pecan. Climate change - particularly as it relates to the availability of irrigation water is preventing
expansion in traditional areas. Orchard productivity - yield increase via pruning/canopy management.
Product differentiation by understanding the human health properties of pecans. Biosecurity with
respect to exotic diseases.
Pistachio. Pistachios are a hardy, drought resistant crop, tolerant of poor soils, with few pest and
disease threats. Production is fully mechanised. Australian demand is high as 60% of national
consumption is imported. Main R&D drivers are increased productivity (yield increases) and reducing
the time for the trees to come into production.
Hazelnuts. Current Australian production is around 2% of domestic consumption allowing plenty of
room for import replacement. Current plantings are 200ha. ANIC suggests that 1500-2000ha are
needed to supply Australia‟s current requirements. Australian product is perceived by the market as
superior due to better flavour and freshness. As hazelnuts have previously been a “lifestyle” crop,
there is need for research evaluating varieties by production region, agronomic research and
postharvest research.
Walnuts. Climate change - particularly as it relates to the availability of irrigation water is preventing
expansion, especially along the Murray. DPIV has developed new agronomy packages for walnuts
that allow utilisation of poorer soils, earlier production and higher yields. Productivity increases and
product diversification via importation and evaluation of overseas varieties
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