Blueberries – Another week of increases in volumes, but we’re significantly behind last year at the same point. As per last week, the additional volume is coming mostly out of Far North QLD. With the clear weather and great growing conditions, we have finally seen fruit come on from the farm. Northern NSW has also seen additional volume, but this is very infrequent and still being harvested in the early parts of the week. We are also starting to see some improved demand at the lower price points (below $8), and we expect retail price to be between $5-5.50 with prices coming back.
Far North QLD—The weather in FNQ continues to look good for at least the next week; there is some overcast days forecasted mid-week and some warm minimum temperatures (between19-20), and if the forecast is correct, I would expect a significant jump from Far North QLD in the next 2-3 weeks. Maximum temperatures will be in the mid to late 20’s.
Coffs Coast—The Coffs Coast region is forecasted for another week of good weather. Minimum temperatures are much warmer than last week, with most days bottoming out at 10-12 degrees.
Quality from the region continues to be a concern, with most consignments having issues upon arrival at our 3rd party warehouses, and retailers are on alert for mould and dehydration.
Strawberries—As per last week, we are well ahead of last year in the same week, but the market is not picking up with the large jumps in volume that we would expect to see at this point (given that planting went in on time). Wanneroo/Perth fruit is now taking over the bulk of production in WA; however, they are currently sitting between the first flush of their second-year plants and the arrival of the first-year plants. This year, they don’t seem to be too far behind the East Coast for their production.
Raspberries—Northern NSW / Southeast QLD growers saw a jump in volume 10 days ago which shows in the latest read of the data. Since this point, we have had some cold weather, and we have seen volume come back significantly. Many of the Coffs Coast Growers are in their final couple of weeks. Retail prices saw an upward movement last week, and we expect this to continue this week. However, we do need to watch how Raspberry sales will be impacted with other berries becoming cheaper in comparison. Quality across the board continues to be pretty good.
Blackberries—Production has dropped again week on week and is the lowest we have seen since September 2023. We aren’t expecting a significant jump in volume in the coming week.
