Situation update

Conditions following (former) Tropical Cyclone Jasper making landfall continued to deteriorate over the weekend with the slow-moving system dumping record-breaking rain over Far North Queensland, including in banana growing regions.

The cyclone itself severely impacted a handful of farms, but the effects of ongoing flooding will be more widespread, with potential issues including supply and quality. As it stands, many roads and farm access points are inaccessible. Daily rainfall totals of up to 450mm are being recorded in the area and the weather situation is constantly evolving.

While the extent of impact is not yet known, and will be different across farms and growing regions, the Australian Banana Growers’ Council has written to major retailers to advise them of the current state of play. In addition to alerting them to potential supply and quality issues, ABGC has urged them to keep in close contact with their suppliers and to continue supporting industry during this uncertain time for many growers.

Consumers will be advised that some lacklustre/dull fruit will enter the market in a few weeks, but this won’t affect what’s under the peel.

To growers in the affected regions, we hope you and your families stay safe throughout this unprecedented weather event. 

Reporting damage

Queensland growers can report damage directly to DAF via this survey link: https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/a65512900348401a812e57d743e4c104

Amendment to ICA-06 operational procedure 

Biosecurity Queensland, in consultation with Queensland’s interstate trading partners, successfully negotiated an amendment to the ICA operational procedure Hard Green Conditions of Bananas [ICA-06].

This arrangement provides for fruit that are in hard green condition and free from broken skin to be harvested from fallen plants within 14 days of a cyclone or disaster event, that being until 27 December 2023 following cyclone Jasper. 

The amendment to ICA-06 will be applicable in the future should the banana industry be subject to natural disasters.  

Accredited businesses do not need to do anything to be eligible for these arrangements. 

The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries has made amendment to the ICA-06 operational procedure and is providing advice to all ICA-06 accredited businesses. 

Please note, it is a good idea for your own business – and the industry more broadly – to speak with your agent/wholesaler before sending fruit (as always).

Please find here the full media release

Other links

• Panama TR4 and cyclones – info here
• http://www.bom.gov.au/qld/warnings/
• www.betterbananas.com.au