The 2022 Australian macadamia crop is predicted to reach 54,930 tonnes in-shell @ 3.5% moisture (58,900 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 51,500 tonnes in-shell @ 3.5% moisture (55,200 tonnes in-shell @ 10% moisture).
Australian Macadamia Society CEO Jolyon Burnett says despite some regional weather variations leading into harvest, overall early indications for the 2022 crop are positive.
“The largest producing region of Bundaberg experienced excellent flowering and good falls of timely rain. Harvest is now underway in this region and nut size is looking good.
“On the flip side, the recent extended period of wet weather in NSW growing regions is likely to cause some challenges for pre-harvest orchard management.”
Mr. Burnett added that in many regions, younger orchards are bearing earlier than expected, contributing to the increased crop forecast.
The 2022 harvest will commence in all other growing regions in the coming weeks, ending in August/September.
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 2022.
*The project ‘Macadamia Crop Forecasting’ has been funded by Hort Innovation using the macadamia industry levy and funds from the Australian Government.
