A significant drop in the mango crop across the Whitsundays this year has seen farmers struggling with a small yield and large production costs, while consumers are paying more at the supermarket counter.
Ben Martin from Marto’s Mangoes in Bowen says, however, that this years’ crop is not all doom and gloom, in fact it does have some positives.
He believes the smaller crop has in fact increased demand and brought prices back to a pre-Covid rate which is where it needs to be in order to ensure the longevity of the industry.
“The last few years we’ve seen extremely low prices and the consumers have got used to it,” he explained.
“When you look at the price point this year, realistically that’s where it needs to be on a normal year to build a sustainable business.”
Local farmers are unsure as to the exact reason for the small crop, in fact Ben says that “if we knew that, we’d be billionaires!”, but the general consensus is that the warmer winter meant less pollination.
“The lack of cold weather throughout the winter hasn’t produced as many flowers,” he said.
“While no one knows for sure, that’s the general consensus.”
And while consumers are seeing a price rise at the grocery stores, Ben assures the community, this increase does not mean farmers are better off.
“There is a misconception that mango growers are having a terrific year,” he shared.
“But a lot of farmers won’t even break even this year, the crop is down almost 50 per cent but they still need to cover operating costs – everything from insurance to fertilisers.”
Chief Executive Officer of the Bowen Gumlu Growers Association, Ry Collins, said that a tray of Bowen mangoes is selling for between $30 and $40 this year, compared to reaching an extremely low price of $10 last year.
There are six large growers in Bowen and a further six that operate commercially, while others are running smaller operations.
Each farmer is feeling the pinch this year, so bear that in mind when you are purchasing some delicious mangoes at your local fruit shop.
Ben, Ash-lei, Bernadette, and Gary Martin. Photo supplied
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