The 2023 Australian macadamia crop is predicted to reach 60,000 tonnes in-shell @ 3.5% moisture (64,400 tonnes in-shell @ 10% moisture), according to a climate-based forecast produced using scientific modelling developed by the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.*
This is an increase from last year’s crop of 52,974 tonnes in-shell @ 3.5% moisture (56,800 tonnes in-shell @ 10% moisture).
Australian Macadamia Society CEO Clare Hamilton-Bate says, “We are seeing some regional variation in the forecast, with the Bundaberg region continuing to increase as a large number of new plantings come into bearing whilst Northern Rivers production remains consistent with prior years, pre-flood.”
“However, it’s still very early days, and there is a degree of uncertainty about the 2023 crop, including the impact varied weather conditions during flowering may have on crop size in different regions,” said Ms Hamilton-Bate.
“It is also likely that the 2023 Australian macadamia harvest will be impacted by current economic pressures on growers and the wider industry.”
This model-based forecast is an early estimate and will be further refined as the harvest gets underway in the coming months.
A mid-season crop report will be provided in May/June 2023.
*The project ‘Macadamia Crop Forecasting’ has been funded by Hort Innovation using the macadamia industry levy and funds from the Australian Government.