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Big chill slashes apricot, grape crops
15 Oct 2003
A severe frost hit areas of south-east Australia on September 28, with a chill following the next day. Goulburn Valley orchardists have lost $10-$12 million, about 16 per cent of turnover. Peaches, apricots and nectarines were badly hit, as were wine grapes in southern NSW and, to a lesser extent, in Victoria. Nearly all apricot growers lost 100 per cent of their crops, and some nectarine and peach crops were badly damaged.
The Northern Victorian Fruitgrowers Association said apricot losses amounted to 8.5 per cent of turnover, with growers losing a further 7.5 per cent in turnover from peach and nectarine damage. It's expected the losses will rise as more damage comes to light. In addition, there will be indirect losses, as horticulture plays a key role in the region.
Grape growers north of Swan Hill lost 2-3 per cent of early-maturing varieties such as chardonnay, colombard and sultana. Riverina losses were more serious, with a 10 per cent cut expected. Chardonnay, the region's third biggest variety, was down 20 per cent, while other early grapes such as colombard, ruby cabernet and traminer were also damaged.
The frosts also hit grain crops, particularly barley, in the Manangatang, Patchewollock and Murrayville areas.
Weekly Times, 15/10/03, page 4.
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